A recent New York Times article titled “Small Businesses Face a ‘Tornado’ of Challenges: Cuts, Freezes and Now Tariffs” highlights just how serious the situation is. Read it here NYT Article

If you’re a small business owner, you probably don’t need a headline to tell you what you’re already experiencing—economic pressures are mounting.

From tariffs and delayed permits to staffing challenges and shrinking access to credit, the business environment is becoming more complex and unpredictable. These stressors are testing even the most resilient business models.

One guiding company in Colorado, featured in the article, is struggling with permit delays, canceled customer bookings, and higher operating costs. Their story is familiar: lower consumer confidence and rising expenses are forcing business owners to make tough choices.

And these pressures are not confined to one region or industry. They’re showing up in manufacturing, hospitality, retail, and even professional services. At the same time, traditional safety nets—like federal loans, government contracts, and local economic development programs—are shrinking or disappearing altogether.

What This Means for Business Owners

Economic turbulence isn’t new, but what’s different today is the convergence of multiple forces at once. When interest rates go up, and cash flow tightens, businesses often rely on short-term credit to fill the gap. But as the Times article notes, many small businesses have already run up their credit limits—and now face higher interest payments with fewer revenue streams.

In my work advising business owners, I’ve seen how quickly a solvable problem can become a crisis simply because help wasn’t sought early enough. Cash flow challenges are part of doing business, but when they’re compounded by macroeconomic shifts, the right approach isn’t to hope for a rebound—it’s to make a plan.

If you’re feeling the strain, here are a few steps you can take now:

• Assess your debt obligations. Which payments are flexible? Which are putting the most pressure on your cash flow?

• Talk to your vendors and creditors. Many are open to negotiation, but communication is key.

• Review your funding options. Traditional loans aren’t the only route—there are creative, nontraditional financing models that might better suit your situation.

• Look at the whole picture. Restructuring may be suitable for long-term viability.

The businesses that weather challenging times tend to be the ones that seek out advice early, evaluate their options, and have the willingness to adapt.

If you’re navigating financial pressures and would benefit from a conversation about your options, we offer a complimentary, confidential call to help you better understand what paths might be available. There’s no obligation—just a chance to talk through your current landscape with someone who’s helped other business owners do the same.

Learn more or schedule a time to connect at dominguezadvisors.com

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Juan Dominguez is the founder of Dominguez Advisory Group, specializing in helping businesses restructure financial obligations and regain control of their cash flow.

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