AI and Automation Are Changing the Game for Small Businesses

How AI and Automation Are Changing the Game for Small Businesses

AI and automation aren’t just for big corporations. Small and mid-sized businesses are jumping in, using smart tools to sharpen their marketing, sales, and day-to-day operations.

AI Adoption Among Small Businesses

A recent Salesforce study found that 75% of small businesses are experimenting with AI, and that number jumps to 83% among fast-growing companies [1].

Financial business users back this trend. A survey revealed 73% of financial decision-makers in small businesses already use AI in their operations, with 83% planning to expand its use [2].

AI in Action: Speed, Savings, Focus

Marketing is a prime application. A Talker Research survey reports 77% of users say AI boosts their confidence in their work, and 75% believe it helps them compete with larger firms [3]. Many teams report saving up to 14 hours and $5,000 per month from automation [3].

Another study shows 61% of small businesses use AI to automate daily tasks, 53% use it to improve process reliability, and 46% apply it to product or service quality [4].

AI and simple automation help small teams by:
- Saving time on routine tasks like data cleanup, reporting, or lead outreach
- Improving marketing quality and targeting
- Freeing up staff to focus on strategic growth and customer relationships

Smart Steps to Get Started

1. Pick a low-cost AI tool—a chatbot, email responder, or analytics tool.
2. Track time saved and costs reduced after one month.
3. Scale up to more tasks once the wins start adding up.

The Takeaway

Small businesses can use AI and automation to save time, boost confidence, and compete smarter. The future isn’t just for big players. When used well, these tools offer real advantages to any growing business.

References

[1] Salesforce. SMBs and AI Trends 2025. https://www.salesforce.com/news/stories/smbs-ai-trends-2025/

[2] BILL. How SMBs Are Leveraging AI. https://www.bill.com/blog/smbs-are-leveraging-ai

[3] NYPost via Talker Research. AI Confidence and Time Savings. https://nypost.com/2025/07/15/tech/most-believe-ai-helps-small-businesses-compete-with-larger-firms/

[4] PYMNTS Intelligence. AI Usage in Small Businesses. https://www.pymnts.com/artificial-intelligence-2/2024/61percent-of-smbs-that-use-ai-deploy-it-to-automate-daily-tasks/