ProSight Financial Association Releases Small Business Banking Outlook

New research indicates digital expectations are increasing and relationships are key drivers for small business owners

CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--ProSight Financial Association has released the 2026 ProSight Small Business Banking Outlook, offering new insights into the priorities, challenges and banking behaviors shaping the small business market. Based on a survey of 600 U.S. small business owners, the research reveals that businesses remain focused on growth despite a more cautious outlook for the year ahead.

“Small business owners are navigating a more complex environment where growth ambitions are tempered by economic uncertainty,” said Mark Riddle, Director, Research Intelligence Expert at ProSight. “They are looking for partners who understand their evolving needs and can provide both stability and flexibility. For financial service organizations, this means rethinking how they support small businesses in a changing landscape.”

Growth emerged as a top business challenge for 2026, cited by 50% of respondents, followed by operational efficiency (38%) and cash flow management (34%). At the same time, business owners reported lower levels of optimism about their financial and economic outlooks compared to last year, suggesting a more measured approach to business planning and investment.

The research found that relationships remain a critical component of small business banking. 87% of respondents use the same provider for both personal and business banking. However, loyalty is not guaranteed. Nearly half of small business owners indicated they could consider changing providers within the next six months, with lower fees, stronger reputations and better rates cited as the leading reasons to switch.

Digital capabilities are important in retaining small business relationships. More than 60% of small businesses with annual sales above $1 million said they would consider switching providers for superior digital banking experiences.

Looking ahead, business owners expect 54% of their banking activities to occur through digital and self-service channels by 2029, although branches remain the preferred channel for more complex interactions such as lending, problem resolution and financial advice.

The outlook also highlighted growing awareness of emerging payment technologies. Among business owners familiar with stablecoin, almost 50% of small businesses with annual sales from $5 million to $20 million anticipate using it for faster customer payments and international transactions, signaling a potential shift in how businesses approach future payment strategies.

“This year we are seeing and hearing the projected use of stablecoins increase steadily, even in small businesses with annual sales less than $1 million,” said Isio Nelson, Managing Director of Research & Thought Leadership at ProSight. “It’s no longer a question of if small businesses will be adopting stablecoin, rather how much will move outside of the traditional banking ecosystem to facilitate faster cross-border settlements.”

To learn more about the findings and what they mean for financial service providers, watch the full complimentary Small Business 2026 Banking Trends webinar.

About ProSight Financial Association

ProSight Financial Association empowers financial services leaders to act with confidence to strengthen and advance the industry. ProSight was formed through the merger of BAI and RMA, both trusted organizations with rich histories and deep expertise in risk, compliance, fraud, retail and commercial banking. ProSight supports leaders during times of great change, providing insights, tools, and analytics leading to new opportunities for growth. Our work creates positive ripple effects throughout organizations and the industry, ultimately helping consumers, businesses, and communities thrive. Learn more at prosightfa.org.