Nebraska For Us, experts lead discussion on rising costs hurting local small businesses

Local coalition holds “Small Business Voices on Rising Prices” virtual roundtable

OMAHA, Nebraska (May 27, 2026)—To mark the end of Small Business Month, Nebraska For Us welcomed local business owners and policy experts for our “Small Business Voices on Rising Prices” virtual roundtable discussion. Small business owners across Nebraska are facing rising costs that are making it harder to keep their businesses running and support their communities.

This moderated conversation featured a discussion on the real impacts of rising prices, tariffs, health care costs, and other economic pressures affecting businesses and working families across Nebraska.

“Rising costs are showing up for owners across all industries, from raw materials to packaging,” Economic and Procurement Strategy Advisor April Hibbler said. “Labor costs are also increasing significantly along with operational expenses. These are not theoretical issues. They are leading to reduced staffing hours and delayed growth plans.”

“It is not always about making a profit, I just want to pay the bills,” Sheelytown Market Owner and Operator Amelia Rosser said. “Over the years, the amount of people buying plants is dwindling. I have experienced a lot of financial stress, and there have been some really scary times in addition to the great times.”

“I went through SBA financing to acquire my business here in Omaha after retiring from the Army,” Parking Area Maintenance Owner Victoria Mbachu said. “Understanding cash flow, bookkeeping, filing taxes, knowing profit margins and other forms of preparation are crucial in operating a successful business. Materials, fuel, insurance, equipment and labor costs have all significantly increased in the last year. Everything has essentially gone up.”

For the last year, Nebraska For Us has called on Congressmen Don Bacon and Mike Flood to put an end to tariffs and now refund working Nebraskans who have been paying higher prices due to the erratic import taxes. In addition, it is crucial that our federal delegation prioritizes other policies that lower costs for hardworking Nebraskans.

“Small business owners are the backbone of our local communities,” Nebraska For Us State Director Angie Lauritsen said. “They are some of the largest employers in our communities and keep our economy running. Reps. Bacon and Flood should focus on policies that help these businesses not only stay afloat but thrive.”