Insights reveal practical AI applications that increase efficiency and drive growth
Dallas, December 16, 2025–(BUSINESS WIRE)–With AI at the forefront of modern business innovation, small business experts at Thryv, Inc. (NASDAQ:THRY) share their predictions about the trends poised to transform how small businesses compete and succeed in 2026.
AI is rapidly accelerating digital transformation for small and medium-sized businesses
When business owners use AI-powered automation for everything from marketing to invoicing and scheduling to customer communications, small businesses can dramatically increase productivity. Additionally, the insights these automations generate, once only available to enterprises, create opportunities to make data-driven decisions and anticipate business demands in ways not previously possible. According to a recent Thryv study, more than half of small businesses are using AI, with most using it every day and 58% reporting saving more than 20 hours per month. I feel that the digital transformation of small and medium-sized enterprises is accelerating towards the second half of the year. Joe Walsh, Thryv CEO
No more “man versus machine”
We are fully in “human + AI” mode. While predictive analytics can help businesses proactively prevent customer issues before they turn into negative reviews online, human interaction will still be expected and valued. This is a huge advantage for small businesses. These business owners don't just run companies; they're part of the community, running local fundraisers and sponsoring youth sports teams. AI can provide data insights that allow employees the freedom to bring empathy. These work together to create the kind of experience your customers value. Grant Freeman, President of Thryv
AI acts as our all-purpose assistant
AI will make the way we work more efficient. It may seem futuristic to some, but in the near future you won't need three apps to do one thing. Simply ask AI like ChatGPT or Claude to handle your tasks, and through integrations with tools like CRMs and appointment schedulers, your requests will be handled within the same conversation. For example, say, “ChatGPT, please schedule a call with your recent sales representative to review your quote and discuss next steps.” No extra clicks. There is no toggle tool. Just an action. This is what we are aiming for. AI as a universal assistant. Sean Wechter, CTO, Thryv
Small businesses can benefit from the insights of large companies
With the increased use of chatbots, small businesses can easily access and leverage data about their purchase history, preferences, and browsing habits to provide tailored recommendations and customized solutions, just like big brands. We are already seeing this dynamic unfold with AI-driven personalized automation. This is another example of how accessible technology levels the playing field for small businesses. Sarah Madden, Head of Customer Experience, Thryv
