Small Businesses Increasingly Adopt Artificial Intelligence

A new survey finds most small business owners are now leveraging AI tools to drive productivity and marketing efforts.

Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Artificial Intelligence

Isometric editorial illustration of a sculptural wooden desk lamp, evoking the modern integration of technology into small business operations. — A recent Goldman Sachs survey of over 2,400 business owners reveals that small businesses across the U.S. are increasingly adopting artificial intelligence to boost productivity. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do you plan to increase your small business investment in AI tools this year?

Goldman Sachs surveyed 2,474 small business owners to assess current trends in artificial intelligence integration across the United States. The findings highlight widespread adoption for routine tasks like note-taking, email drafting, and content generation.

Why it matters

The high rate of adoption suggests that AI tools are becoming a standard component of small business operations nationwide. This shift demonstrates that advanced technology is increasingly accessible and affordable for firms managing tight monthly budgets.

A survey of 2,474 small business owners shows 86% of graduates use AI for workplace tasks. Additionally, 73% of these businesses maintain their AI infrastructure with a monthly spend of $100 or less.

The players

Goldman Sachs

Goldman Sachs is a leading global investment banking, securities, and investment management firm that provides a wide range of financial services.

The details

Small firms are primarily utilizing these tools for administrative productivity and generating written marketing content. Regional integration remains high, with 88% of businesses in the Washington, D.C. area, 86% in Texas, and 93% of graduates in Florida having fully integrated AI.

Goldman Sachs released these survey results in October 2026.

The Tech Race

The widespread integration of AI tools signals a replacement of traditional, manual administrative workflows with automated software solutions. This trajectory mirrors the rapid adoption of cloud-based services by small businesses, positioning companies that embrace these platforms against competitors still relying on legacy processes.

Small business owners can utilize these accessible AI tools to significantly reduce time spent on emails, notes, and marketing content. With 73% of businesses spending $100 or less monthly, many firms can adopt these technologies without incurring major new costs.

The takeaway

Small businesses are proving that digital transformation is not just for large enterprises with massive IT budgets. Owners should focus on identifying specific, high-frequency tasks like writing emails or marketing copy to maximize the return on their monthly AI investment.