With a new year comes big plans. For many, that includes starting a small business, and it may be that 2026 is just the right time to do so. It's an interesting moment as industries are being shaken up both by technology and by shifting consumer expectations. While some businesses struggle to adapt, there are opportunities for new players to make a mark. A lot of workers are also interested in becoming their own boss, which is one of the most attractive parts of starting a business.
"From freelance gigs to digital shops, more people than ever are building small businesses to gain flexibility, purpose, and a financial backup plan," says Andrea Chavez at Startup Wars.* "Whether you’re a student looking to build experience, a parent craving more time at home, or someone tired of sending job applications into the void, this trend is calling your name. And the numbers back it up. According to recent data, nearly 70% of new entrepreneurs in 2025 say they started a business for flexibility, not money. That’s huge. The goal isn’t just to get rich, it’s to get free."
Embrace the Technology
Some may find the rapid evolution of technology (namely artificial intelligence) intimidating, but there's no question that it is creating numerous opportunities for businesses of all sizes. There's no reason this can't include solopreneurs and
businesses just starting out. AI is frequently embraced mostly because it can
make operations more efficient and automate a lot of tasks. What could be more helpful to a small business without the resources to hire many employees? If you're serious about starting a business this coming year, familiarize yourself
with how AI is being used in your industry and come up with a plan on how to
utilize it to make your life easier as you start out.
Growing Industries
Perhaps you already have a clear idea of the type of business you want to start. If you're still trying to figure it out, consider what industries are poised to thrive in 2026 and beyond.
"As the North American economy continues to adapt to post-pandemic consumer habits, one clear trend stands out: Service-based local businesses are thriving," writes Fahim Ludin at Entrepreneur.** "Homeowners, pet owners and health-conscious consumers are spending more than ever on convenience and quality. At the same time, technology and AI are reshaping how local entrepreneurs attract customers and operate efficiently."
Ludin says the following five sectors are poised for "explosive growth" across North America in 2026:
- Home improvement and renovation services
- Pet care and mobile grooming services
- Smart-home installation and tech-support
services - Wellness and in-home recovery services
- Senior home-maintenance and “age-in-place”
services
Have a Plan
No matter what industry you plan to enter, make sure you have a solid business plan and vision. Your idea must solve a problem or meet a genuine demand. Validate your concept through market research, competitor research, online surveys, and market trend analysis. The better you know what your potential customers want, the better chance you'll have of a successful start.
Your plan should include your value proposition, revenue model, target market, competitive advantages, cost structure, and launch timeline. It should also help guide your early decisions and make it easier to pivot if need be.
Finance Your Business
If you’re looking to finance your business, Nevada State Bank is here to help. Schedule an appointment with a banker today to discuss your options.
* https://www.startupwars.com/how-to-start-a-small-business-in-2026/
