Trade professionals are the backbone of our homes and communities, providing essential services that keep everything running smoothly. Yet, behind their technical expertise lies a set of challenges that can hinder their ability to grow and succeed.

At Kraftworks, we’ve listened to trade professionals and are committed to addressing their most pressing needs. Here’s what we’ve learned, backed by industry insights and data:

1. Financial Stability and Support

Fluctuating income is one of the biggest challenges trade professionals face. A 2023 survey revealed that 72% of trade professionals experience inconsistent cash flow due to seasonal demand or delayed payments. Rising costs further compound the issue, with material prices increasing by an average of 10–15% annually in some sectors (National Association of Home Builders, 2021).

What They Need:

• Affordable funding options: Flexible loans to cover equipment, materials, and operating costs during slower periods.
• Financial planning tools: Clear systems to track income and expenses, enabling better cash flow management.
• Payment reliability: Faster payment processing to avoid delays, with 47% of professionals reporting late payments from clients (Angi, 2024).

2. Job Opportunities and Consistent Work

Feast-or-famine cycles are common in the trades, with demand dropping significantly in certain seasons. For example, HVAC professionals often experience downtime during spring and fall, while electricians report peak demand in summer for construction projects. On average, 43% of trade professionals say they struggle to find consistent work throughout the year (Angi, 2024).

What They Need:

• Job boards that work: Access to reliable job opportunities that align with their expertise and schedule.
• Transparent payment terms: Clarity on job scope and compensation to avoid disputes or delays.
• Trust-building tools: Reviews and ratings to showcase their skills and build client confidence.

3. Tools to Build and Market Their Business

Nearly 60% of trade professionals run their businesses independently, handling marketing, scheduling, and client management on top of their core work. Many admit they lack the time or expertise to optimize these tasks, impacting their ability to grow (Angi, 2024).

What They Need:

• Professional profiles: Digital tools to showcase their portfolios and expertise.
• Marketing support: Assistance with customer reviews, social media, and online advertising to attract more clients.
• Time management tools: Automated scheduling and booking systems to streamline operations.

4. Professional Networking and Support

Working independently can feel isolating. Research shows that 35% of self-employed trade professionals value opportunities to connect with peers and gain access to ongoing training. Many also seek guidance on navigating legal, financial, and business challenges (Angi, 2024).

What They Need:

• Professional networks: Online and in-person communities to share advice and support.
• Training resources: Affordable courses to stay current with certifications and new techniques.
• Business support: Resources to handle legal, tax, and compliance issues.

At Kraftworks, We’re Listening

We believe trade professionals deserve tools and resources that help them thrive. By addressing these key pain points, we aim to empower professionals to grow their businesses, manage their finances, and find consistent opportunities.

Did You Know?

• Trade professionals contribute over $600 billion annually to the U.S. economy (Angi, 2024).
• More than 70% of homeowners rely on trade professionals at least once a year, making their services indispensable (Angi, 2024).

Our platform is designed to tackle the challenges trade professionals face, providing tools that make running a business easier.

Join the Conversation

Are you a trade professional? We want to hear from you! Share your biggest challenges and help us shape the future of Kraftworks. Together, we can build a platform that truly supports the people who keep our homes and businesses running smoothly.

Let’s work together to empower trade professionals and transform the industry. Stay tuned for updates and resources built with your needs in mind!

Sources

• Materials Prices Post Record Year-to-Date Increase. National Association of Home Builders. (2021).
• Material Costs Affect Housing Affordability. National Association of Home Builders. (2024).
• Skilled Trades Report 2024. Angi. (2024).