Study shows some small-business owners stuck in survival mode

Small-business owners faced a tough year, battling rising costs and tariff policies. KeyBank’s 2025 Small Business Survey found that approximately one in four (23 percent) small-business owners are stuck in survival mode and aren’t focused on long-term planning. Additionally, almost half (46 percent) of small-business owners feel their performance fell short of expectations in 2025. 

Still, 40 percent of small-business owners are cautiously planning ahead for their businesses’ futures. Another 46 percent say they are certain they could cover one month of operating expenses if an emergency arose, down just slightly from KeyBank’s Fall 2024 Small Business Survey (49 percent), suggesting that they are preparing for stability and sustainability despite uncertainties.

Even with an extra cushion of expenses saved, half (50 percent) of small-business owners say their top concern is inflation and rising costs — far outpacing factors like competition (33 percent), cash flow (25 percent) and labor shortages and hiring challenges (22 percent). In fact, a quarter (25 percent) of small-business owners are increasing prices for customers in light of recent tariffs and rising costs. Cybersecurity also remains a key issue for small-business owners, with 41 percent citing payment fraud as their top concern, followed by phishing and email scams (27 percent) and identity theft (26 percent).

With federal legislation changes likely coming in the last few months of 2025, 72 percent of small-business owners are very concerned these changes will have an impact on their operations. But good news: 80 percent feel confident to make key, informed decisions amid today’s economic and policy uncertainty — though they do admit they might be second-guessing at times.

“Navigating the current economic environment has proven to be no small feat for small-business owners,” said Mike Walters, president of business banking at KeyBank. “It’s reassuring to see small-business owners’ passion and perseverance, despite the challenges that have come their way. Their ability to adapt — whether through tightening expenses, finding new ways to serve customers, or preparing for regulatory shifts — shows the grit and creativity at the heart of the small-business community. It’s that determination that allows them to build the foundation needed for long-term growth.”

Looking ahead to 2026, business owners are prioritizing the strategies, resources and self-care that will help shape their resilience.

Seeking professional advice: 21 percent of small-business owners agree they’d feel more secure by having regular conversations with their business bankers, with many looking for guidance on cash flow (33 percent), financial planning (33 percent), and tax strategy (31 percent).

Maintaining personal resilience: 30 percent of small-business owners say they feel more resilient with a good night’s sleep — ensuring they balance daily self-care needs with long-term business planning.

“Small-business owners are proving that resilience is more than just surviving challenges; it’s about planning ahead, leaning on trusted advisors, and making sure they have the clarity and confidence to move forward,” Walters said.