Ever since the pandemic first broke out, small businesses and their welfare have become some of the most talked-about subjects.

After all, many had no choice but to shut down; and while some did so only temporarily, others closed permanently. Yet, new ones have already begun to pop up—at a rate higher than ever before.

To better understand their importance in the post-pandemic world, we have compiled a not-so-small list of small business facts, some of which are sure to astound you.