Small Business Index Q3 2026

The Justworks and U.S. Chamber of Commerce Small Business Index is designed to take the temperature of the sector, see where small business owners are confident, and where they are experiencing challenges. The quarterly Index elevates the voice of America’s small business owners and highlights the important role they play in the nation’s economy.

Q3 2026: 70.5

The Justworks and U.S. Chamber of Commerce Small Business Index is 70.5 this quarter, an increase from last quarter’s Index score of 66.5

Top Highlights

• 54%

  of small business owners mark inflation as their biggest challenge right now

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• 72%

  of small businesses are comfortable with their current cash flow

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• 27%

  of small businesses say the U.S. economy is in good health

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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 the Data

Explore Past Reports

• Small Business Outlook Holds Steady as Inflation Concerns GrowInflation remains top concern.Q2 2026 • SBI 66.5
• Small Businesses Express More Concern Over The Economy Amid UncertaintyInflation remains top concern.Q1 2026 • SBI 67
• Index Falls as Inflation Concerns PersistInflation remains top concern, supply chain worries impact operations.Q4 2025 • SBI 68.4