Research
Still Worth It: A Clearer Story of Small Business Value

Our most recent research study confirms that small business solutions still provide tremendous value in today’s competitive landscape. But it also shows what institutions and service providers must do differently to help businesses scale effectively.
The research
We surveyed over 500 small business owners and entrepreneurs across various industries to understand their pain points, success factors, and the value they derive from solutions and services. The results challenge many assumptions about the small business market.
Key findings
- 90% of small businesses believe access to enterprise-level tools and expertise significantly impacts their growth trajectory.
- 78% cite scaling challenges as their primary barrier to growth, particularly around technology and talent.
- 65% would pay for specialized solutions that help them compete with larger enterprises, but feel priced out of the market.
- Owner dedication remains the most critical success factor, more so than access to capital.
What this means
Small businesses don’t need watered-down versions of enterprise solutions. They need access to the same quality of tools, expertise, and support that larger organizations receive, tailored to their specific needs, budgets, and growth stages.
Service providers that recognize this shift and position themselves as true partners in small business success will win. It’s not about selling more features; it’s about understanding the unique challenges of scaling businesses and providing genuine value.
The path forward
This research validates what we’ve believed from day one at ThisCom: small businesses deserve access to the best solutions and expertise. That’s why we’ve built our approach around providing enterprise-quality development, strategy, and support to startups and small businesses.
ThisCom Team
Digital Marketing & Technology
ThisCom is an employee-owned, full-service digital marketing and technology partner for small and medium businesses, based in Los Altos, CA.
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