This week, we’re excited to share results from our second annual Small Business Marketing Trends Report, along with tips to help you make the most of your 2026 marketing planning, based on our findings.

What are small businesses planning for 2026?

We’ve got the data to fill you in! We surveyed over 300 small businesses on everything from their current marketing investments, their biggest challenges, how they’re using AI, and what they’re planning for 2026. Some of the results just might surprise you...for example:

• Social media marketing is the most popular channel for SMBs (followed by social ads)
• 66% of SMBs say economic uncertainty will be their biggest challenge for 2026
• Customer referrals is the top source for new leads for SMBs (but getting new leads is their second-biggest challenge)

There’s plenty more where that came from! Use this data to stay ahead of the pack and plan for the best year yet.

Get all the data and insights >>

Want a quick look at the report? Download it directly here >>

What should you know about tariffs?

As mentioned, our report found that the economy is the top perceived challenge for SMBs in 2026. The introduction of tariffs earlier this year might be one factor influencing this challenge. So we’re breaking down everything you need to know, including how SMBs feel tariffs may impact them and what to do to mitigate risks.

Get the low down here >>

Need help generating leads? We’ve got (41!) ideas for that

Generating leads was another top challenge SMBs noted in our report. While customer referrals were the top source for new leads, that tactic only allows so much room for growth. To help you simplify this challenge, we’re sharing a huge handful of lead generation ideas you just have to try.

Start generating leads fast >>

Stretch your budget with these free and creative marketing ideas

Unsurprisingly, small businesses have relatively small budgets, meaning they have to do more with less. To help you maximize your budget, we’re sharing free and creative marketing ideas that can help you reach your audience and grow with ease.

Pick your faves to try now >>

Everything to know about social ads

Social media advertising was a hot topic in our report—nearly 60% of SMBs are running social ads in 2025, up from 47% in 2024. And nearly half of SMBs running social ads are planning to invest more in them next year.

Learn everything you need to know about social ads to see how this strategy can be a perfect fit for your 2026 marketing plan.

Get the social ads deets here >>

Stephanie Heitman Associate Director of Content LocaliQ