by Veronica Cardinal Ellinger, CEO of Murphy Business Sales
As 2025 draws to a close, a significant trend is clear: rather than just launching new startups, more Americans are turning to buying established businesses as their chosen path to entrepreneurship.
The November 2025 Small Business Startup Sentiment Index™ from FranchiseInsights.com reports 89.3% planning to start a business in the next 12 months, and 58.9% aiming to do so within three months. Also, 73.2% say they’re now more likely to start a business than three months ago, indicating a surge in short-term entrepreneurial intent.
This data confirms a growing entrepreneurial spirit. However, more are choosing business acquisition over starting from scratch as the preferred route to ownership.
Starting from scratch still appeals to some. Today, new entrepreneurs face clear obstacles:
In response, business ownership through acquisition is now seen by many as the most promising path. Buying an existing company offers instant revenue, a customer base, and a proven model, sharply reducing the risks associated with startups.
The 2025 Startup Sentiment Index shows that while intent remains high, 64.3% cite funding as their top concern, followed by the economy and tax law. These factors steer founders toward businesses with a track record over new ventures.
There are four key reasons why acquisition is appealing to entrepreneurs right now:
An existing business already has:
This setup lowers risk compared to a new launch, especially during volatile times.
Launching takes months or years to profit. Buying means instant revenue, faster ROI, and lower personal risk.
Many aspiring owners work with business brokers or franchise systems, which provide:
Structured support helps first-time owners handle acquisition complexities, ensuring a smoother transition and greater odds of long-term success.
The November 2025 survey shows 50% expect business conditions to stay stable over the next three months, while 44.6% expect improvement in early 2026. This optimism, plus strong application numbers, suggests a robust market for buyers and sellers.
Business brokers are increasingly critical in today’s market because they:
As people increasingly choose to buy rather than build businesses, brokers facilitate most acquisitions—reducing uncertainty and helping new owners enter the market with confidence.
With entrepreneurial intent near a record high and acquisition activity accelerating, early 2026 is set to become one of the strongest periods for new business ownership in years. Aspiring entrepreneurs are eager, informed, and prepared to act—and brokers and franchise systems stand ready to meet that demand.
The takeaway: in today’s climate, buying an established business is the fastest, safest route to entrepreneurship for most people with high intent and the right support.
The landscape is shifting. Many leverage existing businesses to reduce risk, grow faster, and gain financial independence.
2026 is the time to explore acquisitions and find a business broker to guide you. With confidence high and activity rising, the next wave of entrepreneurs is moving—and those who act now will benefit.
If you’re considering owning a business in 2026, start by downloading our free guide: Buying a Business: Where Do You Start?.
This guide walks you through the essential steps to find, evaluate, and purchase the right business, giving you the knowledge and confidence to take the next step toward ownership.