Many small businesses are already using and finding value in artificial intelligence. But a new report from LinkedIn says the new year will be a “defining time” for their use of technology.
“AI has moved from a tool to a strategic asset for small and medium-sized businesses looking to remain resilient and grow in 2026,” said Sharat Raghavan, Economist and Director of Research at LinkedIn. “With AI, companies can streamline operations, reduce costs, speed decision-making, and create space for innovation and relationship building.”
Skills are a “key differentiator” for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). Raghavan said, “The new competitive edge is upskilling in AI literacy, which is emerging as a driving force for small and medium-sized enterprises.”
The report leverages insights from 160 million professionals at over 18 million small businesses on the platform, revealing the 'growth engines' for small businesses in the coming year. Here's an overview:
“AI is lowering the barriers to entrepreneurship”
The report found that half of U.S. small businesses said the rise of AI has led them to consider career paths they had not previously considered, such as entrepreneurship.
Raghavan said AI can automate repetitive tasks and improve efficiency, freeing up time and resources for professionals to focus on creative work. “This change will make entrepreneurship more viable and enable founders to run their businesses leaner and smarter.”
The report also found a 69% increase in people adding “founder” to their LinkedIn profiles.
AI is the “equalizer” for small and medium-sized businesses
Most small and medium-sized businesses in the United States already use some form of AI, whether it's for mundane tasks like composing emails or summarizing notes, or more advanced tasks like data analysis and strategy development. They say AI tools can help them save time, reduce costs, and find new opportunities.
According to the report, 57% of small and medium-sized businesses believe that AI will improve their daily work lives and believe that moving from “experimentation to adoption” of AI is the next step. AI offers opportunities to automate tasks related to customer service, content creation, recruitment, and decision-making.
“This is important because small and medium-sized enterprises represent more than 90% of all businesses and employ half of the world's workforce, so expanding AI adoption could have a significant economic impact,” Raghavan said.
Small business leaders believe AI can help their companies compete and “outperform themselves,” the report said. More small and medium-sized businesses are investing in AI tools and skills and seeking opportunities to upskill themselves and their teams.
For small and medium-sized businesses looking to remain resilient and grow in 2026, AI has moved from a tool to a strategic asset.
Sharat Raghavan, Economist and Research Director, LinkedIn
Reliability is important in the AI era
While many small business owners are leveraging AI to create content, they also believe that the “real human voice” is still important, and that having human voices and perspectives at the forefront builds trust.
Many small businesses plan to invest in community-driven content created by employees, customers, or third-party industry leaders and experts. The report found that nearly 75% agreed that “today's audiences don't just take information at face value; they also double-check it with people they trust.”
Embracing authentic voices increases your company's credibility and builds lasting relationships with your community and customers.
“Networking is the key to growth”
Small business owners recognize that relationships are more important than ever in the age of AI. They continue to seek advice from family, friends, and professional networks. Small business owners say their networks help them find new customers, make hiring decisions, provide trusted guidance, and plan for customer growth in the new year.
“To win in 2026, SMEs will need to upskill their teams, leverage AI and leverage technology, while focusing on gaining trust and strengthening relationships,” Raghavan said.
CO— aims to provide inspiration from leading and respected experts. However, before making any business decisions, you should consult a professional who can advise you based on your personal circumstances.
CO – is committed to helping small businesses start, operate and grow. Learn more about the benefits of small business membership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. here.
issued
