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Rural small businesses face greater challenges to economic recovery and are less optimistic about the future compared to their non-rural counterparts, according to new survey data from SCORE.

Rural small businesses face greater challenges to economic recovery and are less optimistic about the future compared to their non-rural counterparts, according to new survey data from SCORE.

Getting customers remains the top challenge for small business owners but cash flow, inflation and supply chain disruptions are growing concerns. 30.5% list inflation as a top concern and another 62.5% are generally concerned as they keep an eye on rising prices.

SCORE surveyed small business owners how they’re managing profits, sales and expenses in the current economy, and their response to business challenges to stay profitable. Many report rising prices to compensate.

While many businesses still need help for recovery, there is optimism despite COVID-19 challenges. Most businesses are planning to hire in 2021 even though attracting applicants is a continuing struggle.

The number of unfilled jobs is growing rapidly with finding qualified talent being the greatest challenge.

The massive migration from office to remote work during the pandemic has had a profound impact on how people think about their jobs. The result is a societal shift in what workers now consider the career status quo.

Take a deeper look at how the Covid-19 pandemic impacted small business marketing tactics.

This infographic highlights the findings of part three of “The Megaphone Of Main Street: Unsung Entrepreneurs” data report. For this report, SCORE surveyed more than 3,000 entrepreneurs nationwide. 

This infographic highlights the findings of part two of “The Megaphone Of Main Street: Unsung Entrepreneurs” data report. For this report, SCORE surveyed more than 3,000 entrepreneurs nationwide. 

SCORE's latest infographic highlights the findings of part one of “The Megaphone Of Main Street: Unsung Entrepreneurs” data report.

Volunteering has a positive impact on the U.S. economy as a whole and small business recovery. See the rewards that you can receive from volunteering according to statistics gathered by SCORE.