Passion and realism sustain American small business owners.

As the economy continues to get back on its feet, America's small business owners have dealt with a series of setbacks, including reduced demand and uncertain business conditions. At the same time, a new Citi-sponsored survey shows that U.S. entrepreneurs are as passionate as ever about their businesses, despite concerns of continued economic difficulties.

The survey found that though the vast majority of small business owners (86 percent) are concerned that the economy may experience a double-dip recession, 81 percent of them say they like or love running their own business, and 75 percent say they would start their business again even if they knew then what they know now about the challenges they would face. And, 59 percent said they would recommend entrepreneurship as a career to their children.

That's good news for today--and tomorrow.

Along with their passion, America's small business owners are facing the future with their feet planted firmly on the ground. Seventy-five percent of survey respondents say they are very or somewhat prepared for another downturn, signaling that many entrepreneurs have adjusted their businesses and finances to get through any additional economic stumbles.

Top concerns of small business owners include higher taxes (48 percent), declining demand for their products and services (43 percent), tighter business regulations (40 percent), and the rising cost of health insurance (40 percent).

Those that are successfully weathering the recession seem to be doing it with tried-and-true methods. When asked what factors allowed them to weather the recession, 62 percent of small business owners listed their long-term client base and relationships, effectively managing expenses (57 percent), and offering recession-proof products or services (35 percent) as keys to success.

It seems that no matter what the economy throws at them, business owners remain passionate about their businesses and resolute about their choice of career. Our survey continues to reveal that the unique spirit, passion and commitment that entrepreneurs bring to their businesses and the communities they serve is alive and well.

About the Survey

This Citibank poll was conducted via telephone by Abt SRBI from July 19 to August 18 among a national random sample of 521 small businesses, with revenue over $100,000 and no more than 100 employees. The margin of error is approximately +/- 5 percentage points at the 95% confidence interval. Surveys are subject to other error sources as well, including sampling coverage error, recording error and respondent error.