Family businesses are a cornerstone of the U.S. economy, contributing an impressive $12.9 trillion to the GDP and accounting for 62% of employment and 78% of new job creation. In the U.S., there are approximately 32.4 million family businesses, with a significant presence in Missouri, where 32.6% of businesses are family-owned and 90% of farms are family-operated. Dr. Edward Crowley, an assistant professor at Southeast Missouri State University, emphasizes that family businesses not only drive economic growth but also score higher on worker motivation and leadership compared to non-family firms. However, these businesses face significant challenges, particularly regarding succession planning. Only 30% of family businesses survive to the second generation, and a mere 12% make it to the third generation. Alarmingly, 47% of family business owners expecting to retire in the next five years do not have a successor in place. This highlights the critical need for good governance and strategic planning to ensure the longevity of family enterprises [70bc0684].
In Central and Eastern Europe (CEE), family businesses represent close to 70% of private sector employment and contribute significantly to the region's economy. Recent data shows that 83% of family businesses in CEE report growth, compared to 73% globally, with only 5% reporting falling sales. These businesses are vital for job creation, innovation, and maintaining the social fabric of local communities. Recognizing and supporting family businesses is essential for fostering a robust economic landscape in CEE [26da7b51].
Pat Soldano, President of Family Enterprise USA, recently highlighted the importance of family businesses during events in upstate New York. He presented findings indicating that multi-generational family-owned businesses contribute $7.7 trillion annually to the U.S. GDP. The events aimed to educate audiences on the challenges family businesses face and the need for advocacy on Capitol Hill. Soldano emphasized that family businesses are the largest private employers in the U.S., employing 83.3 million people [cfc4bbf4].
The bipartisan Congressional Family Business Caucus, which has gained support from 35 members of Congress, aims to raise awareness about the importance of family businesses and address issues such as unfair taxation and workforce development. The next meeting of the caucus is scheduled for March 12, 2024 [914a7ade].
Additionally, a recent webcast hosted by Family Enterprise USA featured senior trust experts discussing innovative trust designs that can benefit family businesses. This webcast highlighted the importance of new family trust planning strategies to address uncertainties such as family transitions and economic shifts. The discussions emphasized the need for trusts to provide flexibility and customization to meet each family's unique needs [6bf1e97e].
Pine Creek Seed Farm, recognized as the U.S. Small Business Administrationās family-owned small business of the year for Eastern Pennsylvania, exemplifies the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of family businesses. Small businesses are crucial for the U.S. economy, employing nearly half of the American workforce [8196f266].