Fact Check: Small businesses are a significant part of the U.S. economy.

Fact Check: "Small businesses are a significant part of the U.S. economy."

What We Know

Small businesses play a crucial role in the U.S. economy. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there were approximately 5.52 million small firms with 1 to 499 employees in 2022, marking an increase from 5.38 million in 2021. Furthermore, small businesses represent 55.7% of all employer establishments, which indicates that a majority of businesses in the U.S. are small entities. The Census Bureau also reports that there were nearly 29.8 million nonemployer businesses (businesses without paid employees) in 2022, up from 28.5 million in 2021, highlighting the extensive presence of small businesses across various sectors, including retail and services.

The Small Business Administration (SBA) emphasizes that small businesses are vital for job creation, accounting for about 64% of new jobs created in the U.S. Additionally, small businesses contribute significantly to the economy through innovation and competition. The SBA also notes that women-owned businesses are on the rise, with 42.7% of nonemployer businesses owned by women, generating substantial revenue.

Analysis

The evidence overwhelmingly supports the claim that small businesses are a significant part of the U.S. economy. The data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the SBA provides a comprehensive view of the landscape of small businesses, illustrating their prevalence and economic impact. The fact that small businesses employ millions of Americans and contribute to job creation underscores their importance.

However, it is essential to consider the reliability of the sources. The U.S. Census Bureau is a reputable government agency that provides data based on extensive research and surveys, making its information highly credible. The SBA, another government entity, focuses on supporting small businesses and offers valuable insights into their economic contributions. Both sources are objective and data-driven, which enhances their reliability.

While some private sector reports also provide insights into small business trends and statistics, they may carry biases based on their objectives or target audiences. For instance, reports from organizations like the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and various entrepreneurial platforms may emphasize certain aspects of small business performance to promote specific agendas or services.

Conclusion

The claim that "small businesses are a significant part of the U.S. economy" is True. The substantial number of small businesses, their contribution to job creation, and their overall impact on the economy are well-documented through credible sources such as the U.S. Census Bureau and the SBA. The data illustrates that small businesses are not only prevalent but also vital to the economic health of the nation.

Sources

1. Small Business Week 2025: Recognizing Big Drivers of U.S. Economy
2. 2025 Small Business Profiles for the States, Territories, and Nation
3. 5 Small Business Trends for 2025 | U.S. Small Business Administration
4. Small Business | U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA)
5. Small Business Data Center - U.S. Chamber of Commerce
6. What U.S. Small Business Stats Reveal for Startups in 2025
7. Small Business Statistics 2025 Report: Growth, Revenue & Trends
8. Essential Small Business Statistics to Know in 2025