Majority of entrepreneurs are not feeling the supposed positive effects of the improving economy. According to the exclusive CNNMoney-Manta survey, more than one third of the business owners said that although the U.S. economy is now in better shape, customers aren’t spending freely.

“Business is too unstable,” said one respondent. “I can’t afford to hire anyone else at this point.” Most (65.6%) aren’t seeking additional financing either.

Among the many reasons why small business owners are still having a hard time growing their own venture is the increasing costs of doing business.

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