Small business spending has "perked up" as has optimism about the economy:

U.S. small business owners in September grew slightly more optimistic about the economy improving in the months ahead, a survey released on Tuesday showed.

The National Federation of Independent Business said its small business index for last month rose 1 point to 97.3, but has stayed below its base year value of 100 all year, reflecting the sub-par growth the economy has experienced.

Source: Reuters