This National Small Business Month is a perfect opportunity to reflect on all that Utah’s small business community has accomplished in the past few years. There’s no doubt that times have been tough, and those of us who managed to keep our heads above water are thankful every day.

We owe this thanks in part to the digital tools and services that allowed us to adapt to pandemic restrictions and cast a wider net as our customers were forced to tighten their belts amid rising inflation. In many cases, these tools made the difference between continuing to serve our community and being forced to close our doors. In fact, these affordable and easy-to-use tools stimulated close to $10 billion in economic activity here in Utah in 2022 alone.

These tools will continue to be essential. In fact, according to the World Economic Forum, 50% of the workforce will need to reskill by 2025 — yet one in three American workers have very limited or no digital skills, even though the economy is rapidly becoming more digital. Thankfully, American tech companies have created innovative partnerships and programs — like the Amazon Technical Academy and Grow With Google — that small businesses can take advantage of to carry their business models into the future.

Utahns are great at thinking on our feet, and I know that we’ll be prepared for whatever comes our way. To celebrate our successes and to get excited about the future, make sure to stop in at your favorite local establishment this month. It’ll do a world of good in your own backyard.

Matt Barnard, Payson

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