The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) released its latest Jobs Report, showing that the Small Business Employment Index rose nearly one point to 103.5. This figure is 2.3 points higher than the 2025 average and 3.5 points above the historical average.
Ronda Wiggers, NFIB Montana State Director, commented on the report and recent developments in Montana’s political landscape. “Policy matters in a big way with economies, always has, always will. I want to add my praise to that of NFIB President Brad Close of Sen. Steve Daines on his retirement,” said Wiggers. “I join him in praising Senator Daines for the work he has done on behalf of small business.”
NFIB President Brad Close also acknowledged Senator Daines’ contributions: “NFIB is grateful for Senator Steve Daines and his consistent leadership on behalf of small business owners nationwide. His leadership was instrumental in the landmark victory of stopping a massive tax hike on Main Street and making the 20% Small Business Deduction permanent. Senator Daines has been a strong, dependable voice for the small and independent business owners that NFIB represents, and we commend him for his steadfast leadership and support for small business during his 13 years of service in the U.S. House and Senate.”
The Jobs Report is based on a national survey of NFIB-member small-business owners and does not provide state-level breakdowns. The Small Business Employment Index combines actual and planned changes in employment and employee compensation into one measure to reflect labor market conditions.
Bill Dunkelberg, NFIB Chief Economist, provided insight into current trends: “February’s numbers show a growing tightness in the small business labor market. While the overall market remains in balance, employers need more skilled workers to fill open positions.”
Key findings from February include a seasonally adjusted net 12% of owners planning to create new jobs over the next three months—a decrease from January but close to historical averages. Labor quality was cited as the most important problem by 15% of respondents, continuing a four-month decline to its lowest level since April 2020. Labor costs remained steady as a top concern at 9%. Additionally, a net 34% reported raising compensation—up two points from January—and this is the highest level since March 2025.
NFIB continues its advocacy efforts for small businesses across all states as it has done since its founding in 1943.
