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1.2.6 Total Small Businesses (Establishments with 0-9 Employees) and as a Share of All Businesses
Why is this important?
The size of a firm is defined by the number of people it employs. Firms of various sizes behave differently from each other within an economy, and so each will affect it in their own way. Usually, a very small firm, say one with less than 10 on the payroll, has less ability to pay health benefits and will spend more per employee to comply with federal and state regulations than larger firms. In other words, their capability for capital accumulation is likely to be more limited than those of larger firms. On the other hand, very small firms will more likely be locally owned than mid-sized and large firms.
For these reasons, it is important to track the share of firms that fall within the various size ranges. Along with data on the total number of firms, economic developers, planners, and local governments can benefit from knowing these firm size statistics.
This indicator measures the total number of small businesses (0-9 employees) and their share of all businesses in Walla Walla County. Washington State is offered as a benchmark.
Where are we?
During 2023 in Walla Walla County, there were a total of 1,241 small businesses (0-9 employees), decreasing from 1,819, or by 3.2% since 2003.
During 2023, the share of all businesses that were small businesses in:
- Walla Walla County was 75.1%, decreasing from 83.7% in 2003.
- Washington State was 74.9%, decreasing from 82.4% in 2003.
Data Sources
Washington State Employment Security Department: Establishment Size
- Under “Report Library”, select the appropriate year, then select the offered report.
- Sum the number of establishments that have 1-4 employees and 5-9 employees.
Note: The share of firms with 0-9 employees is compiled on a quarterly basis and can be accessed from the data source. This indicator reflects the data for the first quarter of the year.