Small businesses are taking bold steps into 2026, choosing to increase their marketing budgets even amid economic uncertainty. A recent report from Constant Contact reveals that 68% of small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) expect to boost their marketing expenditures to combat looming inflation, highlighting a resilient mindset in a challenging economic landscape.
Amidst ongoing concerns about rising costs—cited as the primary worry by 41% of small business owners—the data suggests a strategic pivot. Instead of retreating from marketing efforts, these entrepreneurs are gearing up to seize new opportunities. “Small business owners are entering 2026 with a clear directive: do more, but do it smarter,” said Smita Wadhawan, Chief Marketing Officer at Constant Contact. This insight underlines a collective shift in thinking about marketing as an essential investment rather than a discretionary expense.
The report shows that 74% of small business owners plan to invest more time in marketing strategies in 2026. With apprehension about economic pressures, the focus is on maximizing the effectiveness of both financial resources and time spent.
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