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What Middle Market Leaders Say About Climate and Resilience
A growing number of business leaders across the U.S. middle market are turning their attention to an increasingly urgent issue: climate and resilience. According to findings from the latest Middle Market Indicator (MMI), climate-related disruptions—especially those tied to extreme weather—are now top of mind for many executives.
The report, based on a December 2024 survey of 1,000 CEOs, CFOs, and financial decision-makers from companies with annual revenues between $10 million and $1 billion, offers a snapshot of how businesses are experiencing and responding to climate change.
Climate Risks Are Reshaping Business Decisions
One of the most striking insights from the report is that nearly one-third (30%) of surveyed companies say climate risks are actively influencing where they manufacture, distribute, and market their products across North America. This signals a meaningful shift: climate conditions are no longer just an environmental concern—they’re a critical factor in core business operations.
This trend reveals how extreme weather events and other climate-related factors are beginning to reshape supply chains and logistical strategies. Companies must weigh not only the cost and efficiency of a location, but also its vulnerability to climate disruptions such as hurricanes, wildfires, droughts, and flooding.
Rising Levels of Concern about Climate and Resilience
Executives are clearly paying attention. Nearly half (45%) of respondents reported being extremely or very concerned about the impact of climate change on their business. An additional 36% expressed mild concern, suggesting that an overwhelming majority of leaders are aware, to some degree, of the threat climate poses to their operations and growth potential.
While levels of concern vary, the data make one thing clear: climate change is on the radar of the middle market.
A Call for Proactive Resilience
Although some companies are already taking proactive steps to address climate threats, such as adapting infrastructure, relocating facilities, or reevaluating supply chain partners, the report underscores that more widespread and coordinated action is needed. Building resilience is not just about managing risks as they arise; it involves long-term planning and investment.
Communities and states that invest in understanding their near- and long-term physical climate risks will be in a better position to attract and retain capital investment. Businesses increasingly recognize that climate resilience is not only a matter of environmental responsibility but a foundation for long-term operational success.
By identifying evolving climate-related risks, organizations and local governments can make informed decisions to adapt, mitigate, and plan for a future where extreme weather events may be more frequent and more severe.
Final Thoughts on Climate and Resilience
The findings from the MMI survey offer a timely reminder: resilience in the face of climate change is no longer optional—it’s a competitive advantage. As middle-market companies begin to shift strategies and assess vulnerabilities, those that prioritize risk mitigation and long-term climate adaptation will be best positioned for sustainable growth in an unpredictable world.
Community climate resilience is becoming a critical factor for long-term business success. If your growth strategy hasn’t yet addressed climate risks, now is the time to act. By proactively including climate reliance and mitigating factors in your business growth strategy, we can protect infrastructure and drive strategic growth.
Let’s collaborate to identify communities that are magnets for resilient businesses.
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