Five ways to improve your small business this year

While 2025 brought significant change and uncertainty to the small business landscape, the new year offers an opportunity to set fresh goals and refocus priorities as you navigate ongoing shifts impacting the small business community. To help you continue forward, here are five ways to improve your small business this year.

1. Update your business plan

While most entrepreneurs understand the importance of having a business plan, keeping it up to date is essential for setting new objectives and achieving them. An updated plan helps you assess which goals you’ve met and identify areas that need adjustment as your business evolves. Keep your plan current by tracking progress, removing outdated goals and setting new ones that are attainable and aligned with your company’s needs. Explore our business plan resources and Intuit QuickBooks’ 2026 business plan template and tips for further guidance.

2. Leverage mentorship and community

As a small business owner or solo entrepreneur, you’re probably no stranger to handling things on your own. This year, improve your business by leveraging mentorship and community support. By signing up for a SCORE mentor or a 1:1 coaching session through The Acceleration Project, you can gain expert advice and feedback on your business ideas while developing strategies to grow your business. You can also read our blogs to learn how to make the most of your mentorship experience and network effectively as a small business owner.

3. Strengthen your benefit offerings

Improving your benefit offerings is a great way to attract and retain talent while ensuring your workforce is well supported. By strategically selecting new benefits and updating existing ones, you can care for your team while staying within your budget. Access these benefit resources and ADP’s small business benefits guide to discover new options and actionable ideas for enhancing your current offerings. Additionally, staying up to date on state-run programs, such as paid leave and retirement savings, can help you further strengthen your benefits.

4. Increase your knowledge with small business courses

Take your skills to the next level this year by enrolling in small business courses offered by trustworthy experts and reliable organizations. Explore key topics in digital marketing, financial management and more through our small business courses on Venturize and Verizon’s Small Business Digital Ready program.

5. Stay up to date and remain adaptable

While setting goals is important, changes and shifts are inevitable this year. Stay informed on the latest updates and new business resources by subscribing to our Venturize newsletter. Adopting a flexible and adaptive mindset throughout the year will also help you navigate any challenges or changes that come your way.