The Conference Board Report Highlights Diverging American Views on Capitalism and Free Enterprise
A new report from The Conference Board reveals a growing ideological divide in the United States regarding economic systems. While support for capitalism has declined from 61% in 2010 to 55% in 2026, Americans maintain high levels of support for free enterprise (77%) and small businesses (95%). The report distinguishes between capitalism—often viewed with skepticism regarding equitable access—and free enterprise, which remains a core principle associated with economic freedom. The findings suggest that while the desire for entrepreneurship remains high, concerns about accessibility could threaten long-term US competitiveness. Decreasing optimism regarding business opportunities and the achievability of the American Dream may impact workforce development and innovation. To mitigate these risks, the report recommends expanding entrepreneurship education, increasing access to capital, and strengthening mentorship programs to ensure broader participation in the economy.
Topics: capitalism vs free enterprise economic sentiment entrepreneurship small business support US competitiveness