Small businesses are navigating a sharp squeeze on Main Street, according to Small Business Majority’s latest Voice of Main Street poll released on March 25, 2026. Most entrepreneurs report rising expenses alongside falling revenues, with costs driven by tariffs, healthcare premiums, utilities, and supplies. At the same time, many say weak consumer demand, difficulty meeting payroll, and concerns about corporate consolidation are limiting growth and forcing tough choices—from raising prices to delaying hiring and investment.

This multifaceted study that examines how small businesses adopted new digital technologies during and after the pandemic. While many small businesses have adopted new tools to support their growth, the report also reveals that challenges remain, especially for businesses with less revenue. For this report we surveyed small business owners on several distinct topics, such as general digital literacy and broadband access, online presence, accounting, finance and point-of-sale technology, customer relationship management systems, human resources, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence.

The COVID-19 pandemic completely altered consumer behavior and how entrepreneurs operate their businesses in order to successfully reach customers. In our latest survey on small business digital transformation in the wake of the pandemic, we explored various opportunities, challenges and concerns surrounding how they use digital accounting software and digital point of sale systems to manage their business’ finances. 

The COVID-19 pandemic completely altered consumer behavior and how entrepreneurs operate their businesses in order to successfully reach customers. In an increasingly online world, understanding how businesses build their digital presence and connect with and sell to customers is more important than ever.

In our latest survey on small business digital transformation in the wake of the pandemic, we explored various opportunities, challenges and concerns surrounding small businesses’ website, social media, digital marketing and e-commerce efforts. Underpinning this analysis are economic conditions that are weighing on small businesses in a challenging climate. Although they are largely optimistic, 60% of small businesses report that expenses have increased over the previous three months while revenues and headcount have largely remained flat. 

The coronavirus pandemic has forever changed consumer behavior and how business is done. Tech giants and other large companies were able to capitalize on this seismic shift, leaving vulnerable small businesses behind, particularly those owned by women and entrepreneurs of color. To ensure an equitable recovery and to level the playing field for small businesses, we have launched an in-depth, multifaceted research project to better understand what these businesses need to compete in a radically changed environment. 

This first survey specifically explores small business confidence in implementing digital tools and technologies, their digital literacy and their access to broadband. Additionally, the survey reveals the current state of small business growth and how this may impact their digital transformation.