Every other month, CFIB members lend their opinions to 'Your Voice,' a survey exploring a variety of current topics. The latest takeaways are showcased in a series of informative charts that summarize these findings.
Your Voice Highlights
June 2026
The June 2026 Your Voice survey of 1,422 small business owners shows SMEs focused on managing cost pressures and economic uncertainty. Tax relief, especially lower corporate income taxes, is the top priority to improve cash flow and profitability. Businesses are making cautious investments in equipment, hiring, and technology, while most favour a strong CUSMA agreement that delivers long-term trade stability, even if it takes longer to negotiate.
Tax relief is a key lever to ease cost pressures
If governments at all levels were to reduce taxes, business owners would prioritize corporate income tax relief above all other tax reductions, followed by personal income tax relief and gasoline and fuel tax relief. The results suggest that SMEs continue to look for measures that improve cash flow, support profitability, and ease ongoing operating cost pressures.
SMEs are taking a measured approach to investment, balancing moderate growth with operational stability.
Over the next two years, investment plans are concentrated in equipment and machinery, hiring, and technology, with most businesses pursuing moderate growth or maintaining current operations. Investments are primarily driven by revenue generation, productivity improvements, and cost reduction. However, more than one in four businesses have no investment plans or remain uncertain, as high operating costs and economic uncertainty continue to constrain investment decisions.
Business owners favour a strong CUSMA agreement over a quick resolution
Most business owners prefer taking the time needed to secure the best possible CUSMA agreement, even if it means continued short-term uncertainty. The results suggest that SMEs are prioritizing the long-term stability and predictability of North American trade over a faster, but potentially less advantageous, outcome.
Mandate vote
Businesses shared their views on key advocacy issues through our Mandate Vote supported by short, neutral backgrounders.
WCB surplus return: A majority of businesses support the introduction of legislation requiring Workers' Compensation Boards to return surplus funds to employers when they exceed their funding limits.
Tolls on critical interprovincial routes: A majority of businesses oppose tolls on nationally significant transportation routes that serve as the only practical road connection between provinces.
Explore survey findings across sectors, provinces, business sizes, and years in business.
Explore more June 2026 insights and our extensive survey collection below.
Share Article
Print Article
