In a recent “Business Leaders Outlook (PDF)” survey by Chase Bank, small business owners expressed optimism for their own business but were less confident about their local economies.

General optimism of small business owners

63% | Small business owners optimistic about their  own business
55% | Small business owners optimistic businesses in their industry
49% | Optimistic about their local economy
55% | Optimistic about the national economy

More optimism by small businesses for holiday & year end

59% | Expect more holiday online shopping purchases this holiday season over last year.
46% | Expect an increase in customer spending
40% | Expect the shopping season to start earlier
33% | Plan to keep longer hours

Financing and borrowing plans

59% | plan to borrow this year, up from 52% in 2015
37% (of those borrowing) | planning on turning to banks/credit unions/traditional lenders or using business credit cards.
42% | plan to increase full-time employees and
63% | plan to increase part-time employees

Where do small business owners find help?

45% | In networking organizations
37% ] Banking experts
26% | Trade and industry associations

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