Asure50 Keynote Warns of Retention Crisis for SMBs Amid Labor…

Event summary

Asure Software's 2026 Asure50 Awards keynote on September 3, 2026, will focus on employee retention as a critical growth strategy for SMBs.
U.S. labor force has declined by 1.3 million workers over the past year, with foreign-born labor force down by 550,000.
Asure50 Awards recognize 50 organizations across 13 industries, 20 U.S. states, and one Canadian province.
Honorees average 41 employees, with 75% employing fewer than 50 people.

The big picture

Asure Software's emphasis on employee retention highlights a broader industry shift where labor constraints are turning HR metrics into economic advantages. With the U.S. economy growing but job creation lagging, SMBs face a critical challenge in retaining talent to sustain operations and expansion. The Asure50 Awards recognize companies that have successfully navigated these dynamics, setting a benchmark for others in the HR technology and payroll services sectors.

What we're watching

Retention as Growth Lever: How SMBs will adapt retention strategies to address labor shortages and economic growth.
Cultural Differentiation: Whether companies can create unique workplace cultures that make them more competitive in attracting and retaining talent.
Demographic Constraints: The pace at which demographic shifts will force employers to prioritize retention over recruitment.