The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) released its latest monthly Jobs Report, showing that the Small Business Employment Index increased by 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.
Tray Abney, NFIB Nevada State Director, commented on the report’s findings: “The thing I look for first in our Jobs and Optimism Index reports is for any slippage back below their historical average, and it’s good to see the latest Jobs Report remaining above it. With a noisy and tumultuous election year upon us, small businesses will need some reliable anchors to weather the storm.”
The NFIB Jobs Report surveys small-business owners who are members of NFIB nationwide but does not break down results by state. The Small Business Employment Index measures both actual and planned changes in employment and compensation among small businesses.
Bill Dunkelberg, Chief Economist at NFIB, said: “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.”
According to the report, a seasonally adjusted net 12% of owners plan to create new jobs within three months—a decrease of four points from January and marking the lowest level since May 2025. However, this hiring outlook remains close to its long-term average.
Labor quality was cited as the most important problem by 15% of small business owners in February, a one-point drop from January and continuing a four-month decline; this percentage has not been this low since April 2020. Labor costs remained unchanged as the main concern for 9% of respondents.
Additionally, a seasonally adjusted net 34% of owners reported raising compensation in February—up two points from January and reaching its highest level since March 2025. Plans to increase compensation over the next three months held steady at a net 22%.
NFIB has represented small and independent business owners across America for over eight decades as a nonprofit association focused on advocacy at both federal and state levels.
For ongoing updates about Nevada’s small business community, visit www.nfib.com or follow NFIB on X @NFIB_NV.
