Meanwhile, the fate of the estate tax could affect small businesses for years to come.

Infrastructure will continue to be an issue in 2018 and beyond.

Housing market, inflation rates and the upcoming midterm election will influence the economy in 2018.

Amazon is doing well, though a volatile political climate threatens small businesses’ growth.

Energy independence, anti-dumping laws aid slow return to power.

Meanwhile, stock market volatility remains very low.

Job openings are going unfilled in the trades, creating opportunities for workers.

The success of Amazon is changing the way people shop for goods and services.

The stigma attached to trade professions is waning as job demand grows.

One-third of small businesses are increasing pay to maintain needed staff.