WASHINGTON (Gray DC) - On Small Business Saturday 2025, the support of buyers is more critical than ever as many are still reeling from a year full of high operating costs and concerned consumers.

As the mad dash of holiday shopping picks up steam, the only thing on many small businesses’ wish lists is to be prepared for whatever comes next.

William Stern has seen the mindset of business owners firsthand. His company, Cardiff , specializes in small business lending, working with thousands of small businesses across the U.S.

He says owners have taken a more conservative approach this year following a series of challenges that left things uncertain.

“Small business funding has reached a fever pitch,” Stern said, citing both “defensive” funding as businesses keep dry powder on hand, a

See Full Page