Nearly two-thirds of small business owners are now confident about the current economy, compared to last year, according to a new survey.

Confidence in the economy has risen from 45 per cent in August 2009 to 63 per cent today, found the Staples Canada survey.

"Small businesses are a vital part of the Canadian economy, and their economic outlook plays a large role in the overall economy," said Steve Matyas, president, Staples Canada.

Even though many owners and executives feel confident, and 92 per cent believe their business will improve or stay the same over the next six months, four in five are making changes to their businesses due to current economic conditions. Most common coping method is operational cost cutting and deferred spending.

Angus Reid Public Opinion conducted the Staples study with small business (up to 50 full-time employees) owners and executives.

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