The American small business landscape is facing a significant shift as wage growth slows down. The competitive labor market has made it difficult for small businesses to match the salaries of larger corporations. As of September 2023, businesses with one to nine employees accounted for around 21% of job openings, a 20% increase from the previous year. This indicates their readiness to capitalize on market opportunities, despite their struggle to fill them. The COVID-19 pandemic has also led to a surge in new small businesses, particularly in the meal and drink delivery sectors. The slowing wage growth could herald a new era of prosperity for small businesses, as it could open up more opportunities to attract talent and ease inflation. The current economic climate presents a potential boon for small businesses, enabling them to attract and hire talent more effectively, potentially sparking a new wave of growth and opportunity in the small business sector.