Small business confidence ticked higher at the end of the year, according to a new report from the National Federation of Independent Business.
The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index rose half a point in December to 99.5, remaining above its 52-year average. The increase was driven largely by more owners expecting better business conditions, while uncertainty fell to its lowest level since last June.
NFIB Chief Economist Bill Dunkelberg says business owners are still concerned about taxes but are increasingly optimistic heading into 2026 as cost pressures ease and investment activity picks up.
In Iowa, taxes remain the top concern. NFIB Iowa State Director Logan Shine says property taxes, in particular, continue to strain small businesses and calls on lawmakers to prioritize tax and regulatory relief.
