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Small Business Center

9 Unexpected Challenges New Small Business Owners Face — and How To Handle Them

July 30, 2025

Launching a small business is often far more demanding than expected. From managing cash flow and time to navigating hiring, regulations and a fast-changing market, entrepreneurs face a steep learning curve in their first few years. For Startup Nation, Levi King, co-founder and chairman of Nav.com, breaks down common early-stage hurdles and offers tips to build resilience, delegate effectively and grow sustainably. One of his lessons learned: Resilience and adaptability are more important than a perfect plan.

Discover all of King’s tips to overcoming the unexpected hurdles of entrepreneurship.

By Rebecca Meiser

Contributor, Commerce + Communities Today and Small Business Center

Small Business Center

ICSC champions small and emerging businesses in getting from business plan to brick-and-mortar.

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