Small Businesses Show Resilience and Growth Expectation in 2026
Small Businesses Show Resilience and Growth Expectation in 2026
A new report from OnDeck, a leader in small business lending, reveals that a remarkable 93% of small business owners expect growth in 2026. This optimism is accompanied by a noticeable surge in artificial intelligence (AI) usage within their operations, highlighting a shift in how these businesses manage resources and drive growth.
Key Insights from the Report
The latest Small Business Cash Flow Trend Report, conducted in partnership with Ocrolus, an AI workflow analytics platform, sheds light on the mindset of small business owners amid evolving economic landscapes. The findings illustrate:
1. Growth Expectations: A staggering 32% of small businesses anticipate significant growth, making this the highest figure recorded in the survey's history.
2. Top Challenges: Cash flow is now the foremost worry for small business owners, reported by 31% of respondents. This concern has overtaken inflation, previously the main issue for owners.
3. Lender Preference: Over 76% of small businesses are now opting to bypass traditional banks for financing, indicating a marked trend towards alternative lending solutions.
4. Strategic Planning for 2026: Access to credit (46%) is identified as the primary factor shaping business strategies, followed closely by consumer spending (42%) and interest rates (35%). Meanwhile, concerns over macroeconomic risks, like trade policy (14%), are currently receiving less attention.
5. AI Adoption on the Rise: More than 58% of small business owners report utilizing AI to enhance their operations. Notably, 89% of those leveraging AI claim to have experienced positive impacts on their business.
The Future is Bright
Cory Kampfer, Co-President of Small Business Lending at Enova, expressed confidence in the resilience of small businesses, stating, “They are not slowing down—their focus is on future planning, investment in growth, and finding innovative operational efficiencies.” This sentiment reflects a broader trend in the business landscape, emphasizing the importance of adaptability in the face of changing financial conditions.
David Snitkof, General Manager of Small Business at Ocrolus, echoed these sentiments, noting how businesses are proactively engaging with financial data to make informed decisions. Whether it’s re-evaluating pricing strategies, identifying new suppliers, or integrating AI tools, business owners are making calculated moves supported by advanced analytics and financial insights.
Survey Methodology
The report is backed by insights from 651 small businesses that have taken out working capital loans and the analysis of more than 3.69 million applications for financing over the past 15 months. Conducted between March 4–10, 2026, the nationwide survey aims to reflect the pulse of small business health and strategy.
For further insights, visit ondeck.com/small-business-trends.
About OnDeck
OnDeck has established itself as a cornerstone in online lending, focusing on transparent and responsible solutions for small businesses. Founded in 2006, OnDeck has innovated the lending process through data analytics, enabling real-time decisions and quick capital delivery to a diverse array of industries.
About Enova
Enova International (NYSE ENVA) specializes in online financial services catered to both small businesses and underserved consumers, with a remarkable $70 billion in loans issued over the past 20 years.
About Ocrolus
Ocrolus stands at the forefront of AI-driven analytics in lending, refining how financial institutions evaluate credit applications. Through superior accuracy in processing financial documents, Ocrolus assists lenders in making swift, confident decisions.
Topics General Business）
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