U.S. small-business confidence improved modestly in August, though ongoing labor challenges continue to weigh on owners' outlook. According to the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), the Small Business Optimism Index rose slightly to 100.8, marking a modest uptick from previous months. While the improvement reflects growing optimism among owners, labor quality and hiring difficulties remain the most pressing concerns.
As reported by NFIB, small-business owners highlighted persistent struggles in attracting and retaining qualified employees. "Finding skilled workers continues to be the primary barrier to growth," an NFIB spokesperson said. The survey found that many businesses are willing to invest and expand but are constrained by the availability of qualified labor, especially in sectors such as construction, hospitality, and professional services.
