TC Chamber Looks At Challenges Facing Small Businesses

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Sonora, CA — A recent survey asked local businesses about the challenges related to the local business environment.

The Tuolumne County Chamber of Commerce reports that the survey was conducted between August 28 – September 11 and received responses from 105 businesses across the county. The Valley Sierra Small Business Development Center also assisted in reviewing the data and findings, providing an outside perspective.

Some of the most pertinent issues identified were workforce shortages, rising operational costs, and “brain drain.”

The TC Chamber highlights the key findings below:

• Brain Drain: A notable 61.5% of respondents expressed concern over the loss of skilled workers, particularly in professional services, trade, and industrial sectors. This signals an urgent need to focus on talent retention strategies within the county.
• Rising Utility Costs: 57% of respondents, especially in retail, food & beverage, and trade,
  reported that high utility costs were impacting their bottom line, alongside other barriers like
  insurance costs and limited infrastructure.
• Collaboration Opportunities: 71% of businesses currently engage in some form of B2B
  collaboration, but nearly 30% of respondents reported limited or no collaboration, suggesting
  untapped opportunities for partnerships across industries.
• Vacant Storefronts: 76% of respondents are concerned about vacant storefronts in the county,
  with high rental costs and outdated facilities identified as the biggest barriers to filling these
  spaces.

You can find the survey results, here.