The Government must take concrete steps in 2020 to ensure promised economic growth is delivered according to the Small Firms Association (SFA).
It is calling for the immediate launch of the new national SME and Entrepreneurship Strategy, promised by Government before the end of 2019.
In his end of year statement, SFA Chairman, Graham Byrne, said two thirds of small businesses plan to recruit in 2020 and the economy is set to grow strongly.
But he warned that without concrete steps being taken in 2020, this potential may not be realised.
"2019 has been a challenging but successful year for small businesses," he said.
"Brexit, difficulties in attracting talent and a slowing economy are the main obstacles for small businesses in Ireland."
"However, as the decade draws to a close, feedback from members shows our still healthy economy continues to fuel ambition for the year ahead."
Domestic growth this year is set to be close to 5.9%, he said, and SFA members see this as the biggest opportunity for their business in the coming year, despite the external backdrop.
Mr Byrne said the organisation expects the new SME strategy to focus on driving productivity and innovation and introducing a comprehensive tax policy that is conducive to small firms.
It also wants it to achieve a step-up in financial skills, whilst also supporting the "often forgotten" group of established businesses of between 10 and 50 employees that are the back-bone of our economy.
