Entrepreneurs are likely to face a number of concerns as they start off on their business venture, but new research suggests small business cash flow is their main source of worry.
The American Express OPEN Small Business Monitor found that although cash flow anxieties are now at pre-recession levels, there are still widespread concerns about conditions in the economy.
Just short of half (49 per cent) of those polled said they are worried about business finance, which is down from the 66 per cent registered in 2011.
Further to this, small business owner optimism has remained constant, as 54 per cent of respondents believe the future looks bright, which is unchanged from the same time last year.
President of American Express OPEN Denise Pickett said: "The recession's silver lining is that small business owners have become more adept at navigating an uncertain economy, gaining valuable experience and putting it into practice along the way.
"While they remain optimistic and confident in their ability to manage their businesses, entrepreneurs are realistic that challenges may arise and look beyond themselves - recognising the importance of community and networking - understanding they do not have to go it alone."
Of the businesses polled, 72 per cent said they plan to grow their operations over the next six months, while 55 per cent have their sights set on making capital investments.
This could spell good news for the employment landscape, as three-quarters of business owners said they will need to hire more staff as their company expands.
Earlier this month, the SME Confidence Report from Commonwealth Bank found that small and medium-sized enterprises are becoming increasingly worried about their cash flow.
Respondents were asked to identify the major barriers to growth this year and cash flow management ranked in second place with 58 per cent of the vote.
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