The March Small Business Economic Trends report sees a three-point decline in small business optimism, while the new Employment Index fell in tandem. The Uncertainty Index also increased and sits well above its historical average.
WASHINGTON, D.C. (April 14, 2026) – The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index fell 3.0 points in March to 95.8, leaving it below its 52-year average of 98.0. The last time the Optimism Index fell below its historical average was April 2025. The Uncertainty Index rose 4 points from February to 92, well
Small business owners face many daily operational challenges, and elevated inflation adds one more challenge to the list.
Idaho Legislature wisely decided to hold the line on spending in a lean budget year
Montana Legislature did its part to ameliorate a consistent national problem
More pro-small-business legislators in Carson City would help overcome hiring difficulties
Utah Legislature’s lowering of income tax rates helpful in “stabilizing the patient”
Washington Legislature’s recent actions will only make the hiring picture dimmer
If only the California Legislature could be as bold as Congress
WASHINGTON, D.C. (April 2, 2026) – NFIB’s March Jobs Report shows that the Small Business Employment Index fell 1.9 points to 101.6. Despite the decline, the current reading remains above the 2025 average of 101.2 and the historical average of 100.
In March, 32% (seasonally adjusted) of small bu
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