Fiverr International Ltd. recently released findings from a survey examining small business owners’ sentiments post-2024 U.S. General Election. The research, which involved 1,001 U.S. small business owners, highlights the evolving challenges and opportunities businesses face in 2025, focusing on economic concerns, access to talent, and the rising trend toward freelancing as companies strive for flexibility.
- General Optimism for Business Growth
- Despite concerns, nearly 90% of surveyed small business owners expressed optimism about their organizations’ future.
- Sectors like education (92%), finance (89%), and retail (89%) show the highest optimism.
- The majority (85%) believe the new president will improve the economic situation for small businesses, with higher optimism in larger businesses (89%).
- Economic Concerns Dominate
- Rising costs remain the primary concern for 55% of small business owners, with over 38% fearing an economic recession.
- Inflation is a particularly pressing issue for industries like manufacturing (64%), healthcare (62%), and retail (59%).
- Political instability is also a concern for both Baby Boomers and Gen-Zers (31%).
- Impact of New Administration Policies
- 72% of small businesses expect the administration’s proposed tariffs to impact their daily operations, particularly in HR (87%), retail (80%), and education (80%).
- 84% anticipate changes from the new tax structure, with younger generations (91% of Gen-Zers and 86% of Millennials) most concerned about the impact.
- Challenges in Talent Acquisition
- Access to talent remains a significant challenge for 27% of small businesses as they plan for 2025.
- Labor shortages and filling critical skill gaps are top concerns for 24% of business owners.
- Nearly 39% of owners are prioritizing marketing and growth services, while 33% are looking to adopt AI and automation technologies.
- Freelancing Trends and Future of Work
- As businesses remain agile, the survey highlights a growing shift towards freelancing, with companies leveraging flexible talent solutions to tackle economic uncertainty.
- The integration of freelance professionals into small businesses’ plans will play a key role in navigating the challenges of 2025.
Fiverr’s survey underscores both optimism and concern among small business owners as they prepare for 2025. While the economic outlook remains uncertain, especially with rising costs and labor shortages, businesses are adapting by focusing on growth, innovation, and leveraging freelance talent. As the landscape evolves, the synergy between small businesses and freelancers will be key to overcoming challenges and seizing new opportunities.
