Fora Financial Survey Finds 73% of Businesses Affected by Tariffs, 76% Still Expect Growth

April 29, 2026
Fora Financial’s 2026 Business Insights Trends Report shows that most businesses are feeling the impact of tariffs and cash flow pressures, yet remain optimistic about revenue growth. The survey also highlights a growing divide between companies that use AI and those that do not.

Fora Financial announced in a press release that 73 percent of businesses report being affected by tariffs and trade policies, while 76 percent still expect revenue growth over the next year. The findings are part of the company’s 2026 Business Insights Trends Report, which examines the challenges and expectations of business owners across the United States.

According to the report, 66 percent of respondents cited higher supply costs from tariffs, 41 percent reported reduced profit margins, and 40 percent raised prices to offset these pressures. Cash flow remains the top concern for the second consecutive year, listed by 55 percent of business owners.

Thirty-eight percent of respondents sought additional financing to manage inflation and seasonal cash flow needs. Despite these financial strains, business optimism remains steady compared to the previous year.

The report also identifies a growing divide in AI adoption. Thirty-nine percent of business owners currently use AI, mainly for marketing content creation, data analysis, and customer service. Those expecting strong growth are more than three times as likely to use AI tools compared to businesses anticipating a decline.

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