Primary sources first
Our default sources are the U.S. Census Bureau, Small Business Administration, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Federal Reserve, IRS, BEA, SEC, FDIC, USPTO, state agencies, public filings, and original datasets. We link to the named release, table, or file whenever one is available.
Survey evidence
For surveys we identify who conducted and funded the work, the sample size, target population, field dates, recruitment method, weighting, and known commercial interest. Convenience samples are described as convenience samples.
Definitions before comparisons
Business, establishment, application, formation, startup, employer, and small business are not interchangeable terms. We use the definition from the cited dataset and tell readers when two sources measure different units.
Links and citations
Source links should resolve to the named release, table, report, or dataset—not merely an organization home page. Citations appear near the claims they support and are repeated in a structured source list on substantial pages.
Current core datasets
The first BizFacts release uses Census Business Formation Statistics for EIN applications and projected employer formations; SBA Office of Advocacy FAQs for national small-business counts; BLS Business Employment Dynamics for establishment births, survival, and gross job flows; and Federal Reserve Small Business Credit Survey reports for financing and expectations.
When no good number exists
We would rather say that reliable national data could not be found than publish a precise-looking number built from weak assumptions. Estimates and projections keep those labels.
Primary dataset directory
- Census Business Formation Statistics — monthly applications and projected employer formations.
- SBA Office of Advocacy 2026 FAQ — national small-business, employer, nonemployer, and employment facts.
- BLS Business Employment Dynamics — establishment births, deaths, expansions, contractions, and job flows.
- Federal Reserve Small Business Credit Survey — financing, performance, expectations, and operational challenges.
- Census Statistics of U.S. Businesses — employer firms and establishments by industry, geography, and size.