2025 Business Trends: How Businesses Are Navigating Growth, Cash Flow, and Technology
Business owners across the country have entered 2025 with a mix of cautious optimism and strategic planning. According to Fora Financial's 2025 Business Insights Trends Report, entrepreneurs are forging ahead, despite persistent inflation, rising operating costs, and economic uncertainty.
Drawing from a survey of 351 Fora Financial customers, the report reveals how small businesses are responding to today's challenges and preparing for what's next. The results highlight a landscape defined by adaptability, smart decision-making, and a drive for growth.
Growth on the Horizon, But Not Without Challenges
More than three-quarters of business owners expect revenue to grow in the year ahead, with 21% anticipating significant increases. Yet, over half (54%) still report cash flow concerns, highlighting a reality many businesses face: growth doesn't come without pressure.
The top challenge identified was cash flow management, with inflation cited as a major contributor. Nearly 80% of respondents said inflation has affected their business, and for one-third, the impact has been significant.
Inflation Response: Strategic Moves Over Standing Still
To counter rising costs, business owners are making proactive changes. The most common actions include cutting operating expenses (54%), raising prices (54%), and applying for additional funding (37%). These strategies reflect a clear intent to protect margins and maintain operational stability.
"Today's business owners are combining resilience with forward-thinking strategy," said Jared Feldman, CEO of Fora Financial. "They're managing through inflation and cash flow challenges, but they're also laying the groundwork for expansion. That dual focus is shaping the business landscape in 2025."
Borrowing Behavior: More Caution, More Strategy
While 73% of respondents say they're more cautious about borrowing in today's environment, they haven't pulled back completely. Instead, they're being more selective, shifting toward alternative financing, scaling borrowing to meet specific needs, and timing capital more intentionally.
"We're seeing owners take a more measured approach to capital," said Andrew Gutman, CFO of Fora Financial. "They want financing that aligns with their cash flow and long-term plans—not just quick access, but smart access."
Technology Is Accelerating Efficiency
A key theme in the report: technology adoption is rising fast. Sixty-four percent of businesses have increased their use of tech over the past two years, especially in operations (59%) and customer engagement (57%). Tools like CRMs, inventory management systems, and digital payment platforms are helping businesses improve efficiency and reduce friction.
"Technology is no longer a future investment, it's a present-day priority," said Elissa Feldman, CMO of Fora Financial. "We're seeing more customers use financing to invest in tech that enables better service, streamlined operations, and long-term resilience."
Financing with Purpose: Growth Is the Goal
Perhaps the most encouraging insight from the report: business owners aren't just seeking capital to fill gaps, they're using it to fuel growth. Business expansion was cited as the #1 reason for borrowing in 2025, underscoring a shift in how financing is viewed, from a reactive tool to a proactive enabler.
Final Thoughts
Businesses in 2025 are acting with purpose. They're navigating inflation, managing cash flow, embracing technology, and using financing strategically, not just to stay afloat, but to build stronger futures.
Since 2008, Fora Financial has distributed $4 billion to 55,000 businesses. Click here or call (877) 419-3568 for more information on how Fora Financial's working capital solutions can help your business thrive.
