In 2025, small businesses are ready to take on new challenges and opportunities. A recent survey of over 1,000 small business owners shows that 91% feel confident about growing their companies. Younger generations are leading the way in investing in technology and digital strategies.
Millennial and Gen Z entrepreneurs are more likely than older generations to increase spending on financial platforms (52% vs. 39%) and digital tools to attract new customers (51% vs. 45%).
Social media is a key part of their plans. 71% of younger business owners want their company to go viral on social platforms. 74% get business ideas from social media.
They are also more likely to change how they do business based on social trends (67% vs. 48%). Top priorities for Millennial and Gen Z small businesses in 2025 are:
– Growing their staff (32% vs.
small businesses leveraging digital growth
22% for Gen X and Baby Boomers)
– Launching new products or services (26% vs. 21%)
– Expanding their physical locations (25% vs.
18%)
Artificial intelligence (AI) is helping businesses grow faster and stay competitive. Half of companies using AI expect to hire more employees, compared to just 36% of those not using AI. Businesses with AI are much more focused than others on:
– Upgrading their technology (38% vs.
22%)
– Increasing market share (30% vs. 20%)
– Launching new offerings (29% vs. 16%)
More younger business owners have adopted AI (68% vs.
45% of older owners) and plan to invest more in AI in 2025 (46% vs. 36%). As small businesses head into 2025, most feel optimistic and ready for the future.
92% say they are prepared to adapt to what’s ahead. Technology, social media, and AI are helping drive growth and innovation for companies led by younger generations.
