Optimism amongst small business owners in Manitoba is the highest in the country.

That’s according to the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, which released its monthly business barometer survey on Thursday. Manitoba scored 68 out of 100 in the survey, up from 60.6 last month and well above Manitoba’s five-year average of 63.8. A score between 65 and 70 usually reflects an economy growing to its potential, CFIB officials said.

“While a positive sign, it’s too early to determine if this is a long-term trend or a momentary swing,” said Elliot Sims, CFIB’s Manitoba director, in a press release.

The national average is 58.7, with the next most optimistic province being Nova Scotia, at 67.6. Alberta remained last in the survey, scoring only 37.4.