Q1 2026 Business Formation Intelligence Index (BFII)
Composite BFII reached 152.5 in Q1 2026, remaining elevated on a trailing basis. Momentum showed signs of moderation, while underlying formation measures continued to diverge.
Rising SMB Failures Haven’t Slowed New Business Formation
The expectation would be that new business formation slows in response. It hasn't. New business formations are still growing +9.5% YoY, continuing a multi-year trend of elevated startup activity.
Construction and Manufacturing Drive Small Business Hiring, But Labor Challenges Persist
This month’s Bank of America Small Business Checkpoint offers an interesting hiring snapshot: while overall economic pressures remain high, some sectors are charging ahead with payroll expansion.
Small-Biz Bankruptcies Jump 30% & Tariffs Could Accelerate the Shockwave
New data shows small business bankruptcies jumped 30% in July vs. last year, and the pressures are stacking up: high interest rates, inflation, debt, and now... tariffs.
Recession Worries? Small Business Data Tells a Different Story
This week’s GDP headlines are certain to stir up a bit of 𝘢𝘯𝘹𝘪𝘦𝘵𝘺. Q1 showed a 0.5% contraction - a second dip could trigger the dreaded “R” word and memories of 2008. But here’s some good [Read More]
SMB Hiring Pressure Remains High – Despite a Slowing Market
National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB)'s June Jobs report shows small businesses still struggling to find the talent they need. AND THEY ARE WILLING TO PAY FOR IT! Hiring and Labor Stats: 36% report open [Read More]
New Small Biz Survey Exposes Gaps – and Growth
U.S. Bank's latest Small Business Perspective survey shows small business owners facing familiar pain points, but also embracing new to tools to adapt. Stressors are Still Heavy: ➡️ 98% worry about the uncertainty of the [Read More]
New Fed Budget Bill Has Big Opportunities for Your Small Business Clients (and You!)
Regardless of opinion, the new tax bill offers significant, permanent benefits for newly formed and growing small business – great news for your B2B marketing efforts! Key client advantages: Boosted Cash Flow and Investment: 23% Permanent [Read More]