What This Month’s Small Business Earnings Surge Means for Creatives Like Me

This week’s Biz2Credit small business report caught my attention — and honestly, lit a fire under me.

In July 2025, U.S. small business' average monthly earnings jumped to an average of $92,900, a nearly 50% increase from June’s $62,300. Gross revenues climbed too, from $614,200 in June to $643,300 in July, while expenses stayed flat. For many firms, this marks the strongest summer earnings streak since the start of the year.

For me, the numbers tell an inspiring story about vision and discipline, and how we, as creative entrepreneurs, can ride the momentum while preparing for what comes next.

The Tariff Effect on Creatives Who Make Physical Products

The report also notes a looming challenge: new tariffs went into effect on August 7. For business owners who rely on imported materials — from lumber to tech equipment — tariffs mean higher costs and tighter margins. That’s why July’s flat expenses are significant: many business owners held off on big purchases earlier this year to avoid getting swamped when tariffs kicked in.

If you’re a creative with a physical product line, you’ve likely already done the following:

• Audit Your Supply Chain: Identify which materials are tariff-sensitive and see if you can source locally or regionally.

• Diversify Offerings: Add a digital or service-based element to your business — consulting, or subscription-based element to empower and steward your current loyal customer base.

• Negotiate With Suppliers: Many are willing to work with you to maintain loyalty during unpredictable cost cycles.

Kudos if you’ve already implemented any of these. The tariff pressure will cause a short-term crunch, however, this pressure will bring out diamond levels of resilience and strategy. 

Resilience at Artsy-Preneur

While Artsy-Preneur.com doesn’t import materials in bulk, the tariff conversation resonates. It’s a reminder to think about where our biggest costs and vulnerabilities lie — and how to create clarity and flexibility in my business model.

This summer has been an absolute joy creatively. I’ve loved building our brand’s feel, voice, and message. But the biggest shift has been focusing on monetization with clarity:

• Preparing for creative cohorts — peer coaching and development spaces, including our upcoming Business Launch Course.

• Lasering in on core offerings so our audience knows exactly what we offer.

• Developing a revenue generation model that fits my busy life as a mom.

• Building our newsletter community as an intentional point of connection.

  
  

Navigating Forward Creatively

Have you had your strongest month yet or are you still pushing toward it? Wherever you are, continue to strengthen your foundation, to be flexible yet consistent, and to deepen engagement with your community and customers. 

Artsy-Preneur.com is here to help your team navigate your next season. Join the newsletter community if you haven’t already and let's keep making it happen.

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