6 min read Semi-Annual Small Business Needs Index: Strength and Optitill Preivail

The previous year was unprecedented for small businesses due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to worldwide stay-at-home orders and subsequent shutdowns. Along with the usual challenges of adapting to changing customer needs, many small businesses also had to digitally transform in order to survive. Even now, over a year later, many continue to operate online or with limited in-person capacity.

However, amidst these difficulties, we have witnessed the strength and resilience of small businesses and entrepreneurs. They are rebuilding and finding new ways to reach their customers. People are still creating, and most importantly, there is hope for recovery.

Every day, millions of small business owners from all over the world search for the services they need on onegigs. By analyzing their search terms and preferences, we can predict what is important, trending, and what lies ahead for small businesses. After examining services that have experienced a significant increase in searches over the past six months, we have identified five major global themes. These areas represent where small businesses and entrepreneurs are directing their efforts to rebuild, pivot, and even start fresh.

Here are the five major themes that emerged:

1. Choosing Your Digital Storefront – Small businesses are looking to create and optimize their digital presence on platforms like Amazon, Shopify, and Wordpress.

2. How to Recover and Build Back – Building back is at the top of mind for businesses one year into the pandemic. This includes focusing on stronger finances and higher profits.

3. Creativity Becomes Cash – Many individuals are turning their creativity into businesses, particularly in the field of fashion. This could be pursuing a passion or finding new ways to earn extra income.

4. Starting Something New – Being stuck at home has sparked entrepreneurialism and innovation, leading to increased searches for services related to starting a new business.

5. Up and Coming Technologies – Business owners are embracing both new and old technologies to support their workflows and business processes.

By understanding these trends and areas of focus, we can better serve and support small businesses and entrepreneurs as they navigate the challenges and opportunities of the current business landscape.