This week, we shift from planning to the real-world pressures owners are navigating every day. Rising costs, supply chain challenges, and labor shortages are shaping how small businesses operate and make decisions, and the latest data gives us a clearer picture of what this means for the year ahead.

These concerns provide the backdrop for the operational pressures owners are navigating today.

The concerns shaping operational decisions

According to the 2025 Bank of America Business Owner Report, the top issues business owners see over the next 12 months include inflation (70%), tariff policy (64%), the US political environment (64%), interest rates (58%), and recession concerns (57%). These concerns influence pricing, vendor selection, cash flow decisions, and borrowing behavior. They also help explain why so many owners are reviewing operations more closely as they plan for 2026.

Costs and cash flow are under pressure

Seventy-seven percent of business owners say their costs increased over the last 12 months, with an average rise of 18%. During the same period, prices increased by only 12%. This gap signals margin pressure for many small businesses and highlights the need to keep a close eye on costs, pricing decisions, and cash flow needs. Owners are responding by reviewing expenses, tightening spending, and revisiting how they price products and services.

Supply chain instability continues

Seventy-five percent of business owners report that they are still experiencing supply chain issues. Among those affected, 52% raised prices to offset the impact, and 32% are having difficulty sourcing products or supplies. These realities often lead to changes in vendor relationships, inventory planning, and customer communication. For many small businesses, refining procurement strategies and building more resilient supply chains can help reduce operational risk.

Labor challenges are shaping staffing decisions

Labor shortages remain a real constraint. Sixty-one percent of owners say they are impacted, and half are working more hours to fill the gaps. Others are offering higher wages or investing in tools that make the team’s work more efficient. Simple digital tools and workflow improvements can support productivity without adding headcount.

As you review your own plans for 2026, reflect on which of these pressures you are experiencing the most. In the next article in the series, we will explore the strategic decisions business owners are prioritizing for long-term growth.

Let’s Strengthen Your Next Stage of Growth
Preparing for 2026 requires a clear strategy and strong financial readiness.

We help business owners stay lender-ready, improve operational stability, and position their companies for sustainable growth. If you are planning your next stage of growth, let’s connect.

The post Operational Pressures Shaping Small Business Decisions in 2026 appeared first on Strategic Thinktank, Inc. | Your SMB Experts | Consulting services for small and mid-sized businesses.

The bank is deploying up to $10 billion in direct capital investments to help companies enhance growth, spur innovation, and accelerate strategic manufacturing across four key areas: Supply Chain and Advanced Manufacturing, Defense and Aerospace, Energy Independence and Resilience, and Frontier and Strategic Technologies.

This capital deployment spans 27 specific sub-sectors, from critical minerals and robotics to semiconductors and cybersecurity.

Why It Matters

For small and mid-sized businesses, this represents a potential opportunity.

The initiative targets companies of all sizes and development stages, offering financing, advice, and, in some cases, equity investment. Companies receiving this capital will be positioned to grow. Whether you are a prime supplier, subsupplier, or service provider, one of these 27 sub-sectors likely aligns with what you already do well.

What You Should Do Now

Start by mapping your current business capabilities against the four key areas and 27 sub-sectors. Which one or two represent your strongest competitive advantage?

Next, create or update your capability statement to explicitly align with these key areas. Companies seeking suppliers and partners in these sectors will be looking for clear evidence of relevant experience and capacity.

Finally, research companies already operating in your target sub-sector. Companies in these sectors will likely be scaling operations and seeking reliable partners. An updated and well-crafted capability statement becomes an essential tool for effective engagement.

Ready to Position Your Business for These Opportunities?

We work with SMBs to prepare them for opportunities like these. Whether you need to clarify where you fit in these 27 sub-sectors, develop a growth strategy, or position your business for investment readiness, we can help.

Connect with us to discuss how to capitalize on this moment.

The post JPMorgan Chase’s $10 Billion Capital Opportunity for Your Business appeared first on Strategic Thinktank, Inc. | Your SMB Experts | Consulting services for small and mid-sized businesses.