Challenges and opportunities for small businesses

©The Arizona Republic

The U.S. Small Business Administration's Office of Advocacy, the federal agency's research arm, has released a report on the biggest challenges and opportunities for small-business owners during the next presidential administration.

The challenges include strengthening the overall economy, limiting taxes and regulation, maintaining health-care costs, attracting a skilled workforce and dealing with global competition.

On the opportunity front, the agency lists increasing investments in technology and innovation, fostering economic support for businesses at the local level, pursuing overseas markets, promoting entrepreneurship among women and minority groups, and advancing education and training.