Editor’s note: In late spring, the Whatcom Business Alliance sent out a Business Confidence Survey to all WBA members — business owners and leaders in our community. The questions asked were designed to explore how the local economy and businesses are affected by recent tax increases, tariffs and threats of an impending recession.*

If you want to understand how the business community in Whatcom County feels about the economy in 2025, the results of the Whatcom Business Alliance’s latest Business Confidence Survey are a great place to start. The results are clear, and while there are threads of optimism locally, the national mood is one of cautious skepticism.

According to the survey, nearly 58% of respondents conduct business locally or regionally, with 57% of businesses operating on a national or international scale. Over 91% surveyed are concerned about their business as we move into 2026. That’s a pretty stark perspective on the national economic climate — and it mirrors what other economic surveys, including data from recent economic analyses, have shown.

But when it comes to the local economy, caution gives way to optimism. More than 85% of Whatcom County businesses are stable or growing, and less than 5% report they are struggling. Nearly 61% expect to invest in their business in the next 12 months, with only 22% unlikely to invest in equipment, expanding their facilities or launching projects — and that reflects local resiliency.

“Local businesses understand the national economy is facing headwinds, from inflation to labor shortages to regulatory uncertainty,” said Barbara Chase, executive director of the WBA. “But Whatcom County has proven time and again that it can weather national storms with strong community ties, responsible leadership and a work ethic that doesn’t quit.”

For the full story, complete with charts and graphs showing results from this important business survey, please click here and turn to Page 16 in the online magazine.