Small businesses are often seen as the heart of a community. Many people, including government leaders, want to see more of them. However, starting a small business isn’t easy. When I launched mine in 2016, I poured in my life savings and worked long hours without pay for over a year. I was aware that nearly half of small businesses don’t survive past five years.
Recently, I faced a shocking jump in health insurance costs. In 2026, my premium for my wife and me rose to $2,886 from $953 in 2025. That’s a staggering increase of almost $2,000 per month. How can anyone afford that?
This surge in costs hits small business owners the hardest and seems to favor larger corporations. It’s a daunting thought: do we want our local shops to vanish, leaving behind only massive companies from other states? Sadly, this is becoming a reality as small businesses in places like Anchorage struggle to keep their doors open due to rising healthcare expenses.
Even if you’re not directly affected by insurance price hikes, the impact on our community is significant. Small businesses contribute to local culture, create jobs, and provide unique services. Losing them means losing a part of what makes our neighborhoods vibrant.
According to a study by the Small Business Administration, local businesses create about 1.9 million jobs annually. They are more likely to hire local people and keep money circulating within the community. This is why supporting local small businesses is crucial for maintaining a healthy economy.
If you care about the future of small businesses, consider reaching out to local leaders like Sen. Lisa Murkowski or Gov. Mike Dunleavy. Let them know you value our community’s lifeline.
— Mark Robokoff, owner of AK Bark in Anchorage
For more insights on the importance of small businesses in your community, you can check reports from the U.S. Small Business Administration and recent studies on local economic impact.
