The latest National Federation of Independent Business jobs report shows small businesses continue to face challenges finding workers.
NFIB says its Small Business Employment Index rose nearly one point in February to 103.5, indicating continued tightness in the labor market. The index now sits above both the 2025 average and the long-term historical average.
Thirty-three percent of small business owners reported job openings they could not fill, up two points from January and well above the historical average of 24 percent. Twenty-eight percent reported openings for skilled workers, while 10 percent had openings for unskilled labor.
NFIB Chief Economist Bill Dunkelberg says the data shows employers still need more skilled workers to meet demand.
NFIB Iowa State Director Logan Shine says Iowa reflects the national trend, noting that about a third of small business owners have positions they cannot fill and many report few or no qualified applicants.
Despite the hiring challenges, 12 percent of owners plan to create new jobs over the next three months.
