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Index Drops As View of Economy Declines

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Read the Q4 2023 report
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Small Business Index score gauge
Q4 2023 SBI:61.3
The MetLife and U.S. Chamber of Commerce Small Business Index score for Q4 is 61.3. The Q3 Index score was 69.2.
Highlights from the q1 2021 report
50%
of small businesses cite inflation as one of the biggest challenges they are facing right now
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54%
of small businesses who have searched for new talent in 2023 say it is hard to find candidates with the experience they need for the job
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68%
of small businesses say they plan to offer more flexible working hours in the next year
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50%
of small businesses cite inflation as one of the biggest challenges they are facing right now
Learn More
54%
of small businesses who have searched for new talent in 2023 say it is hard to find candidates with the experience they need for the job
Learn More
68%
of small businesses say they plan to offer more flexible working hours in the next year
Learn More

The Data Explorer

Use the Data Explorer to browse and analyze years of data from the Small Business Index.

The Data Explorer contains data going back to 2017 (when the Index began) on the 10 big survey questions covering views of the economy, hiring, investment and other key economic indicators.

Explore Past Reports

A woman taking an order over the phone
Q4 2024 SBI 69.1

Despite inflation concerns, small businesses remain optimistic

Half say that licensing, certifications, and permits make it harder to grow
A man standing in front of a series of screens holding a laptop while reviewing data
Q3 2024 SBI 71.2

Index Steady As Optimism Over Future Hiring and Revenue Stay High

Small business leaders want elected representatives to focus on economy and inflation
A man standing in front of a series of screens holding a laptop while reviewing data
Q2 2024 SBI 69.5

Index Moves Up As Optimism About the Future Grows

Majority believe AI will save them time, money in the long run
A woman taking an order over the phone
Q4 2024 SBI 69.1

Despite inflation concerns, small businesses remain optimistic

Half say that licensing, certifications, and permits make it harder to grow
A man standing in front of a series of screens holding a laptop while reviewing data
Q3 2024 SBI 71.2

Index Steady As Optimism Over Future Hiring and Revenue Stay High

Small business leaders want elected representatives to focus on economy and inflation
A man standing in front of a series of screens holding a laptop while reviewing data
Q2 2024 SBI 69.5

Index Moves Up As Optimism About the Future Grows

Majority believe AI will save them time, money in the long run