# Small Business Optimism Grows as Hiring Rebounds Rebounding job openings bring hope to business owners - **Source:** [Small Business Trends](https://brifing.si/source/127319f9-9cc5-40fc-8c5a-f524915e7611) - **Published:** 2026-07-19 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/26ce25d0-35ca-4472-92b6-ae44f4839c76 ## Optimism Index on the Rise The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index rose 2.1 points in June to 97.4, signaling growing hope among business owners. However, high interest rates and inflation concerns persist, creating a mixed economic outlook for small enterprises. ## Labor Market Shows Signs of Life 32% of small businesses report unfilled job openings, a 3-point increase from May. 11% plan to hire in the next three months, indicating cautious optimism about labor market recovery despite ongoing challenges. ## Inflation Remains Top Concern 21% of owners cite inflation as their biggest problem - the highest level since October 2024. 38% raised prices last month, marking the fourth consecutive monthly increase in selling prices. ## Price Increases Show Signs of Cooling Only 32% of businesses plan price hikes in coming months, down 2 points from May. This potential cooling trend could provide relief for both consumers and businesses struggling with inflationary pressures. ## Investment Intentions Strengthen 20% of small businesses plan capital expenditures in coming months - a 4-point increase from May and the highest level this year. This suggests growing confidence despite economic uncertainties. ## Cautious Optimism Prevails Borrowing activity remains below historical averages as businesses remain financially cautious. However, improving sales expectations and hiring plans offer promising signs for long-term recovery in the small business sector. ## Sources covering this story - https://smallbiztrends.com/small-business-optimism-rises-as-job-openings-rebound-in-june/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._