By: This blog post was prepared by the Business Consultants at The University of Scranton Small Business Development Center. Change has become a constant for small businesses. Shifts in customer behavior, rising costs, workforce challenges, and ongoing economic uncertainty can make planning ahead feel overwhelming. But change also creates opportunity. It allows you to reassess […] The post Practical Tips to Keep Your Business Moving Forward in 2026 appeared first on University of Scranton Small Business Development Center ( SBDC ).
By: This blog post was prepared by the Business Consultants at The University of Scranton Small Business Development Center.
Change has become a constant for small businesses. Shifts in customer behavior, rising costs, workforce challenges, and ongoing economic uncertainty can make planning ahead feel overwhelming. But change also creates opportunity. It allows you to reassess what’s working, refine what’s not, and move your business forward with intention.
As you head into 2026, here are three practical steps to help keep your business moving forward in 2026:
1. Reassess What’s Working
Before setting new goals, take a step back and look at what’s already working. Your priorities may look different than they did a year ago, and that’s okay. Updating your goals to reflect where your business is today, not where it used to be, can help you move forward more intentionally.
Review your 2025 data and identify trends. Which products or services continue to resonate with customers? Pay attention to what customers are choosing most often, asking questions about, or returning for, as these signals can help guide where to focus your time and resources.
It can also be helpful to consider what may no longer be serving your business. Letting go of underperforming offerings can create space for new opportunities and help keep your business adaptable.
2. Revisit Your Pricing & Costs
Many businesses are continuing to see increases in expenses such as labor, insurance, shipping, and utilities, while pricing often stays the same year after year. Taking time to review pricing on a regular basis can help ensure your margins continue to support your business goals.
As you review, consider using current cost information rather than older estimates, so you have a clear picture of where things stand today.
3. Strengthen Online Accuracy & Visibility
When customers can easily find your business online and see accurate information, they are more likely to choose you. Keeping this information updated is simple, but it’s often easy to fall behind.
Take time to confirm that your hours, contact details, products or services, menus, and pricing are current across your website, social media platforms, and Google Business Profile.
A quick review to fix any incorrect or outdated details can go a long way in helping customers find and choose your business.
Looking Ahead to 2026
The start of a new year is a natural time to pause, reflect, and make intentional decisions about where your business is headed. You do not need to overhaul everything to move forward. Small, thoughtful adjustments can create momentum that lasts all year.
The University of Scranton Small Business Development Center is here to help walk you through these steps. Our confidential consulting services are offered at no cost and are designed to meet you where your business is today. Request consulting at www.pasbdc.org/scranton.
The post Practical Tips to Keep Your Business Moving Forward in 2026 appeared first on University of Scranton Small Business Development Center ( SBDC ).
