lately, 2025 will still be a challenging year for many of the area’s small businesses. Inflation remains sticky, interest rates are high, labor is tight, the regulatory environment is uncertain, and tariffs are looming.Revisit utility usageMost big utility companies offer help for small businesses to manage their energy consumption more efficiently.
For example, Peco’sincludes an energy analysis with recommendations — and financial incentives — for installing more efficient HVAC, water heating, lighting, vending, refrigeration, and kitchen equipment. “Our small-business solutions program is directed at small-business customers that may typically lack the time or financial resources necessary to investigate and pursue energy efficiency upgrades,” said Shannon Christie, a senior energy efficiency program manager at Peco. “Our customers see a direct benefit through reduced energy use and bill savings.”Finding good talent is still a major issue for small business. To get the most out of the existing workforce and compensation costs, business owners can focus on providing training. “By investing in training programs, you can enhance employee skills and productivity, which may lead to increased customer satisfaction and sales,” says Ralph V. Estep, president of , a financial advisory firm in Middletown, Del. “Well-trained employees are also more likely to stay with your company longer, reducing turnover costs.”in Claymont, Del., said many clients consider doing so for “noncore business functions.” “Outsourcing remains a very cost-effective strategy for managing tasks that do not require in-house expertise, thereby reducing overall labor costs,” Abbas said. She also recommends considering part-time roles or flexible hours. “This approach includes cross-training employees to work in multiple roles, allowing for a more versatile workforce deployment,” she sai