The use of AI in small and medium-sized businesses is rapidly increasing to improve day-to-day efficiency.

U.S. Chamber of Commerce Technology Engagement Center Report, Empowering Small Businesses: The Impact of Technology on U.S. Small Businessesexamines the pivotal role that various technology platforms play in helping small and medium-sized businesses operate and compete.

Introduced in 2022, this national analysis of U.S. small businesses continues to examine the different types and applications of technology used by small businesses, how these factors have changed over time, and the impact these trends have on these businesses and the economy as a whole.

The latest edition of this report focuses on the real rise of artificial intelligence (“AI”) and other emerging technologies, such as cryptocurrencies, in the market, as well as the growing interest in and use of the technology by small and medium-sized enterprises.

• 65%
  

  of small businesses are concerned about the patchwork of state AI laws.

While SMEs continue to express concerns about inflation, supply chains and interest rates, the report reveals that technology offers opportunities for SMEs to save time and resources, while providing more customized and targeted services to compete with larger companies.

As with previous editions, C_TEC partnered with Teneo Research to conduct a national survey of U.S. small businesses to find out:

• How small businesses use different technology platforms.

• How the use of technology impacts business operations and key business metrics.

• How technology adoption can prepare small businesses for future success.

• How U.S. small businesses are adopting AI.

• How the current and future regulatory landscape surrounding issues such as AI and data privacy may impact small business interests and future technology adoption.

• What do small and medium-sized businesses think about virtual currencies?

• 58%
  

  of small businesses say they use generative AI

• 82%
  

  Percentage of small businesses that used AI to increase their workforce in the past year

Similar to previous versions of the report, the results show that different technology platforms play a key role in helping small businesses overcome challenges, and that small businesses that fully leverage technology outperform their peers and are more optimistic about the future.

Companies are also adding new technologies, such as AI, to their digital tools to compete and grow their businesses.

In this new version of the report, we found:

• Nearly all small businesses use at least one technology platform, and many more employ multiple types of technology.

• 58% of SMBs identify themselves as using generative AI, up from 40% in 2024 and more than double compared to 2023 (23%).

• Despite concerns about AI and jobs, 82% of small businesses use AI increased Number of employees over the past year.

• 84% of small businesses plan to increase their use of technology platforms.

• 96% of small business owners plan to implement emerging technologies such as AI and cryptocurrencies.

• Although more small business owners are understanding the benefits of AI, barriers to adoption remain.

• 77% of small businesses using AI report that technology limitations have a negative impact on growth, operations, and revenue.

• Small business owners are increasingly optimistic about the health of their businesses and the overall economy.

• High-tech companies continue to outperform low-tech small businesses in terms of sales and profit growth.

• Eight out of 10 small business owners credit technology with helping them combat inflation, supply chain disruptions and improve access to capital.

• 7 out of 10 small business owners are highly interested in using cryptocurrencies and stablecoins as part of their future business.