GoDaddy Survey: U.S. Small Businesses Show Resilience Amid Economic Uncertainty
Amid ongoing global economic volatility—driven by trade disputes, rising tariffs, and persistent supply chain disruptions—many U.S. small businesses, particularly those dependent on international markets, continue to face mounting pressures. However, new research from the GoDaddy Small Business Research Lab indicates a different reality for locally oriented microbusinesses.
GoDaddy’s July 2025 survey of approximately 1,400 U.S. small and microbusinesses—most employing fewer than nine people and including a substantial number of solo entrepreneurs—highlights their relative insulation from global turbulence. Nearly 70% reported no reliance on international supply chains, while 45% source over half of their materials within their own city or state. Furthermore, 65% serve primarily local or state-based customers. This localized approach provides a natural buffer against global trade shocks and tariff-related uncertainty.
Entrepreneurial Confidence Remains Strong
Despite broader instability, business owners remain upbeat:
GoDaddy’s July 2025 survey of approximately 1,400 U.S. small and microbusinesses—most employing fewer than nine people and including a substantial number of solo entrepreneurs—highlights their relative insulation from global turbulence. Nearly 70% reported no reliance on international supply chains, while 45% source over half of their materials within their own city or state. Furthermore, 65% serve primarily local or state-based customers. This localized approach provides a natural buffer against global trade shocks and tariff-related uncertainty.
Entrepreneurial Confidence Remains Strong
Despite broader instability, business owners remain upbeat:
- 72% expect their revenues to either grow or remain steady in the next six months.
- 45% believe the U.S. economy will stabilize or improve within that timeframe.
As Gourav Pani, GoDaddy’s Chief Business Officer, noted, “Entrepreneurs are aware of the challenges but remain pragmatic and adaptive. Their resilience mirrors what we observed during the pandemic, with owners once again placing trust in their own capabilities.”
Measured Growth Ambitions
Business owners’ long-term goals reflect pragmatism rather than unchecked ambition:
Measured Growth Ambitions
Business owners’ long-term goals reflect pragmatism rather than unchecked ambition:
- 40% intend to remain solo operators.
- 42% plan for modest expansion into small or mid-sized enterprises.
- Only 9% aspire to aggressive, large-scale growth.
Small Businesses as Economic Pillars
For many, entrepreneurship is not simply a side venture but the foundation of household stability. Survey results reveal:
For many, entrepreneurship is not simply a side venture but the foundation of household stability. Survey results reveal:
- 65% of owners who depend on their businesses for primary income also serve as the chief earners in their households.
- 40% earn annual revenues exceeding $60,000, while more than 20% surpass $120,000.
- 65% report steady or rising revenues—up significantly from 57% in April 2025.
At the community level, the benefits are equally profound. GoDaddy’s analysis indicates that a mere 1% rise in the number of small businesses correlates with a 6% increase in median household income. Moreover, each new entrepreneur generates an estimated eight direct or indirect jobs locally.
Technology as a Force Multiplier
Digital infrastructure and emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, are enabling entrepreneurs to achieve greater output with fewer resources. Reliable internet access provides the foundation for establishing an online presence, while advanced tools such as GoDaddy Airo enhance websites, optimize operations, and elevate customer experiences.
By automating repetitive tasks and introducing innovative ways to attract and engage customers, AI empowers small businesses to remain agile, confront challenges proactively, and build lasting resilience.
A Clear Takeaway
While global economic instability continues to dominate headlines, GoDaddy’s findings underscore a critical point: U.S. small business owners remain steadfast. Anchored by local supply chains, pragmatic growth strategies, and the adoption of digital tools, they are navigating uncertainty with confidence—building sustainable businesses on their own terms.
Click here to know more.
Technology as a Force Multiplier
Digital infrastructure and emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, are enabling entrepreneurs to achieve greater output with fewer resources. Reliable internet access provides the foundation for establishing an online presence, while advanced tools such as GoDaddy Airo enhance websites, optimize operations, and elevate customer experiences.
By automating repetitive tasks and introducing innovative ways to attract and engage customers, AI empowers small businesses to remain agile, confront challenges proactively, and build lasting resilience.
A Clear Takeaway
While global economic instability continues to dominate headlines, GoDaddy’s findings underscore a critical point: U.S. small business owners remain steadfast. Anchored by local supply chains, pragmatic growth strategies, and the adoption of digital tools, they are navigating uncertainty with confidence—building sustainable businesses on their own terms.
Click here to know more.
Companies