The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index rose 2.4 points in July to 99.8, the highest level since August 2025.
The National Federation of Independent Business, which advocates on behalf of America’s small and independent business owners, said Aug. 14 that its monthly index rose above its 52-year average of 98.
In NFIB’s Optimism Index, eight of its 10 components, including hiring and capital expenditure plans, increased.
A seasonally adjusted 20% of small business owners plan to create new jobs over the next three months, up nine points from June, and 25% plan to make capital investments in the next six months, up 5 points from June and the highest reading since December 2024, the NFIB said.
“Small business optimism rose again in July, with a significant increase in owners expecting to hire, accompanied by an improvement in plans to make capital expenditures,” NFIB Chief Economist Bill Dunkelberg said in a press release. “Although uncertainty is currently elevated, Main Street anticipates that business conditions will continue to improve.”
In Wisconsin, NFIB Wisconsin State Director Luke Bacher said small businesses in the Badger State also have stronger plans to hire and invest.
“Inflation remains a concern,” Bacher said, “but the pressure has eased compared to recent months. The biggest challenge now is finding the workers needed to support growth and meet customer demand.”
