Small Businesses That Still Matter in Today’s Tech Age
by Mashum Mollah Business Planning & Opportunities Published on: 17 March 2017 Last Updated on: 17 June 2025
We might be heading towards a more automated world but there are some things a robot will struggle to replace and that includes anyone with a skilled trade, a flair for business and, a great customer service ethos.
If you needed further proof, you only have to look at how skilled tradesmen are as much in demand as ever before.
Here is an overview of the business opportunities that come with a skilled trade, together with a look at the facts and figures that support the option, and some tips on which trades are expected to remain in demand.
Understanding the Current Landscape for Small Businesses in the US in 2025
In this 2025 business landscape, the experts are characterizing the small business sector as a mixture of growth opportunities and challenges. The small businesses are facing an uncertain economic climate.
Reasons? The rising costs of operations, major concerns about inflation, as well and strong regulatory changes.
Amid the challenges, the experts are also optimistic about the growth if the firms can have the right planning.
In addition to that, technology, especially AI and automation is acting as a catalyst for the small businesses.
With better chosen technologies, the small businesses are being able to compete and further improve their efficiency.
Not enough talent to go round:
If you are looking for an incentive to learn a skilled trade and start a business, you should be encouraged by the various surveys and reports that all point to a major talent shortage, which is causing issues for employers looking for skilled workers and means that tradesmen are in high demand.
It seems that enrollment in skilled trades has been steadily declining over the last couple of decades and that means that with a high percentage of tradesmen aged 45 or older, there is genuine concern that there will not be enough people to plug the gap when the current generation hang up their tools and retire.
All of this means that there is a clear opportunity for anyone who wants to learn a skilled trade and then turn those newly acquired skills into a viable business opportunity.
Plenty of good reasons:
In addition to the fact that there is a skills shortage and demand for your services should remain consistently high for the foreseeable future, there are a number of other good reasons why learning a trade could be a good career move.
Another positive point to consider is that once you have acquired your qualifications and have a skilled trade behind you, the startup costs for getting your business up and running are relatively low in comparison to some other options.
You can normally start your business from home so you won’t have to worry about the cost of business premises in the early days of trading. You should also be able to get a good deal on a vehicle like a RAM truck 2500 and the tools you need shouldn’t cost you a fortune either.
Which trade is best?
There is a general demand for most skilled trades so you could virtually pick what you have an interest and existing aptitude for if you want, or you could pick one of the following trades where there is a proven demand for more people entering the profession.
For example, the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics has projected that demand for electricians is expected to grow at an annual rate of 14% for the next seven years at least. This is a considerably higher rate than most other occupations, which makes becoming an electrician a perfect career choice and excellent business opportunity.
Demand for plumbers is also expected to follow the same path and it seems you are unlikely to be short of work if you have these skills to offer the market. Other skilled trades that are expected to be in demand into the future include HVAC technicians, masons, and welders.
Whatever skilled trade you manage to learn, it should open up the door to a great business opportunity.
The Top 20 Small Businesses That Still Matter In This Technological Era!
We’re in an era where computers can write books, drones deliver packages, and apps can order food or get you a date.
But with all that new technology, small businesses are doing just great, and there are good reasons why!
There are certain things that technology cannot substitute, like human touch, personal service, creativity, and the familiarity of things we know best.
That is when small businesses fill the void. If you are considering opening a business or want to support your local favorites, these are 20 small businesses that remain relevant today.
1. Coffee Shops
Yes, you can make coffee at home, but can you make a heart-shaped foam latte? Local coffee shops do more than just dispense caffeine—they provide a sense of community, pleasant conversation, and a sense of warmth that you cannot obtain from a coffee machine.
2. Barbershops and Hair Salons
Haircuts, color, and styling still require human effort. No computer program can give you the exact trim you want while you chat about your weekend plans. These places are about expertise, talking to other humans, and maintaining oneself.
3. Pet Sitting & Pet Grooming
We love our pets as family, and we would prefer genuine people to love and care for them. Small pet grooming stores provide the affection and attention no robotic groomer can.
4. Local Bakeries
Homemade cookies, freshly baked croissants, fresh bread—oh yes, please! Love is in every bite of neighborhood bakeries. You can’t bake Grandma’s banana bread using an app.
5. Florists
It is easy to buy flowers online, but it cannot compare to walking into a flower shop and picking out the ideal bouquet with the assistance of someone who really knows what they are doing.
6. Yoga Studios and Fitness Instructors
Virtual workouts are great, but studio classes offer energy, motivation, and accountability. Trainers and instructors can give you immediate feedback and encouragement that’s hard to get through a screen.
7. Car Repair Shop
If your vehicle is making an unusual sound, you don’t call a robot. Trustworthy, honest mechanics remain the safest choice for service and repairs.
8. Tutoring & Learning Centers
Individualized learning support is highly critical today. Local tutors help the children build confidence and ability in a manner that a web-based system cannot accomplish.
9. Lawn Mowing and Gardening Services
Nice lawns and flowered gardens still require personal attention. Whether it is mowing grass, planting flowers, or laying out designs, local landscapers beautify your outdoor area.
10. Home Cleaning Services
No robot vacuum can replace a good cleaning team. Local cleaning businesses assist busy individuals in keeping their homes tidy and cozy by paying close attention to details.
11. Tailoring and Alteration Services
Fit is crucial, and local seamstresses understand how to make clothes fit. It is always requested to have them repair zippers or hem pant legs.
12. Bookshops
Yes, you can purchase books on the Internet—but there is magic in browsing shelves, receiving personal suggestions from a real, live person, and supporting local writers. Independent bookstores are where book enthusiasts can unwind.
13. Craft and Hobby Shops
The community is returning to handicraft pastimes such as knitting, painting, and woodwork. Local craft shops provide materials, instruction, and inspiration that chain stores do not.
14. Photographers
Selfies are acceptable, but a professional one is best. Small photography companies assist us in taking pictures of life’s special moments, such as weddings and family photos.
15. Farm Stands and Produce Stands
Local, fresh, and seasonal food is always in vogue. Purchase from neighboring farmers and enjoy superior food and a more robust local economy.
16. Repair Services
When something is broken at home, you call a handyman in the neighborhood, not a drone. Handymen are very important, and you can rely on them.
17. Local Restaurants
Food delivery apps are fine, but they all rely on actual kitchens. Local restaurants offer flavors, histories, and experiences no chain can match.
18. Childcare Services
No technology can substitute for the human care and responsibility of childcare. Daycares, babysitters, and nannies offer security and comfort to young children—and peace of mind to parents.
19. Craft Shops and Artisans
From custom jewelry to homemade candles, craft businesses combine skill with imagination. They give us a sense of individuality and personality that mass production is incapable of offering.
20. Event Planners
Planning a wedding, party, or corporate function involves more than a checklist of applications. Your local party planners bring your ideas to life and take care of the details so you can have fun.
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