Small businesses are the foundation of America. These businesses measure how the economy is doing and tell us what direction we're headed. Mom-and-pop shops have been hit hardest by the ailing economy. In particular, 2010 has been a difficult year for small businesses. During the 2008 economic downturn, people became much more cautious about spending money. Despite economic analysts' claims the U.S. is no longer in recession, small business owners are still feeling negative consequences despite cautious hope 2011 will be a little better.

Reach contributor Kristie Hang here.