NEWS | NSBA Highlights New Data on AI Adoption, Trends in Small Businesses
- NSBA
- Jun 12
- 2 min read
NSBA remains dedicated to supporting small business as AI and technology continue to reshape realities for America's most important economic community.
JUNE 12, 2025 | This week, a new survey on small business and AI adoption was released by Reimagine Main Street, a project of the Public Private Strategies Institute.
The survey, AI Adoption Trends and Strategic Insights: Survey of Small Businesses, was fielded in partnership with NSBA and several other business organizations, as well as PayPal.
NSBA’s member input was significant on the survey of nearly 1,000 small business owners, which found that AI adoption is no longer a future concept. It’s happening now and it’s affecting business owners across the country.
Among the findings:
76 percent of small businesses are either actively using AI or exploring its use, indicating that adoption is already widespread and could accelerate.
1 in 4 small businesses use AI in day-to-day operations.
AI Explorers (51 percent of small business owners) are at the cusp of adoption — but they haven’t seen enough value to make AI worth the time — yet.
Only about 5 percent of small businesses are opposed to AI.
Most current AI users are eager to automate business functions and want tools that drive growth by forecasting cash flow, spotting customer trends, and guiding resource decisions.
From marketing automation to cash flow forecasting, small businesses are seeing AI's real benefits — saving time, boosting productivity, and helping them stay competitive.
However, many still need support to overcome implementation hurdles and realize AI’s full potential.
The key needs when it comes to AI adoption for small business include:
Simpler, more secure tools are critical for broader adoption
Small businesses want to see clear value before they commit
Trusted partners and practical training will accelerate this shift
