Great news for any small business looking to get ahead: Salesforce Research has just released the Third Edition Small & Medium Business Trends Report, sharing data and observations from more than 2,000 small and medium business (SMB) owners and leaders from around the world. The research report digs into the challenges and goals of SMB executives, analyzes how demographics shape the SMB experience, and covers the role of technology in satisfying customer expectations.
Which challenges are daunting for small business leaders? How do SMBs use technology to meet customer expectations? Here are three small business statistics we found especially telling. Read the full Small & Medium Business Trends Report to find out more.
Women still have a harder time raising capital
The data shows women still have a harder time raising venture funds than men: 62% of women report that access to funding is one of the biggest obstacles they face (versus 57% of men). Female SMB leaders indicate accessing capital is their most prominent challenge, while male leaders say their leading challenge is hiring the right talent.
Business motivations change with age
Also of note: The top reason SMB leaders start a business is that they want to be their own boss (55%). However, the reasons for starting a business tend to align with age. Compared with baby Boomers and traditionalists, millennials and Gen Zers are more likely to start businesses so they can pursue an idea they’re passionate about, earn supplemental income, or escape a hostile work environment.
Artificial intelligence is increasingly popular
How do small businesses feel about artificial intelligence (AI)? Our research indicates that AI has truly become a competitive advantage for growing companies in 2019. Nearly half (46%) the SMB owners surveyed believe their businesses are ready to use AI. Perhaps the positive sentiment signifies these small businesses both see the benefits and are less daunted by the growing software trend.
Bottom line: If you’re looking to grow a business (or just trying to gather new data to unseat that new Jeopardy phenom), you’ve got to check out the Small & Medium Business Trends Report. Find out about the new technology trends sweeping the business world and see what factors help set your small business up for growth.
Article contributed by Laura Norman, Director of Marketing at Salesforce for SMB.
