The spark that ignites the entrepreneurial spirit to start a business, to be economically independent and truly own something, remains the cornerstone of the American dream that helped lay the foundation of America itself.
America’s economy was built by small businesses. The farms and shops of early America grew an economy that’s now the largest in the world. It’s not a coincidence, even in today’s polarizing world, that small business retains its positive reputation. It’s a fundamental part of the nation’s DNA.
Even as the economic foundation has shifted over the years from an economy of independent small businesses to modern corporations, that small business DNA never went away. Every year more people than ever made the courageous decision to strike out on their own.
Since 2012, OutboundEngine has helped almost 30,000 SMBs thrive with better marketing. Every small business has a unique story, but time and time again we heard two themes:
1) It’s Hard
In our recent survey of small businesses, 62% of owners told us they feel more or as stressed about their business this year than they did last year.
Starting, operating, and marketing a business is incredibly time-consuming and complex. 66% of SMB owners are personally responsible for three or more of the following areas of their business: operations, finance, sales, marketing, human resources, customer service, product development, or IT. The majority of business owners are not marketers or accountants or IT specialists by trade. They are pursuing a dream, passion or a practical skill they’re exceedingly good at. Despite the odds being stacked against small business owners, their passion doesn’t waiver.
2) It’s Worth It
There is still no greater fulfillment of the American dream than the opportunity of starting a small business brings. The independence that comes with being your own boss gives people control over their lives in a way nothing else can.
Consider this:
- Small businesses make up 99.9% of all businesses and employ nearly 50% of all US workers
- Small business remains the primary driver of new job creation.
- Over 33% of small businesses are owned by women
- Over 25% of small businesses are minority-owned
At OutboundEngine, we do our part to make sure small businesses never fail because they don’t have access to great marketing. This Small Business Week, we want to say thank you for taking the leap and having the courage to run your own business. To all of our customers, thank you for trusting us with your marketing, and we are proud to help you power the American economy.
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