Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a landmark tax reform aimed at simplifying indirect taxation and creating a unified market. For small businesses, GST brought both opportunities (streamlined tax credits, formalization) and challenges (compliance burden, technological adoption). This article reports on a comprehensive study of GST awareness and compliance among small business owners. It examines knowledge levels, attitudes, compliance behavior, barriers to compliance, and practical recommendations to improve GST uptake and compliance in the small business sector. The study examined the level of GST awareness and compliance among small business owners and evaluates the factors influencing their compliance behaviour. Using survey data collected from 200 respondents, the research analyses their knowledge of GST rules, filing practices, invoicing behaviour, and perceived challenges. Statistical tools, including the Friedman Test, were employed to identify differences in the perceived importance of various compliance support mechanisms. The findings reveal that awareness of GST exists at a basic level; however, comprehensive understanding remains limited. Among the factors studied, continuous education and peer learning emerged as the most important driver of compliance, followed by the use of private-sector digital platforms. Digital inclusion support and outreach communication were considered less influential. The study emphasizes the need for targeted training, simplified schemes, and accessible digital tools to enhance GST compliance. The results offer practical insights for policymakers, tax practitioners, and support organizations aiming to strengthen GST adoption among small businesses.