Adoption numbers depend on the question asked. Some surveys count any AI use; others count regular use of paid tools. These figures are third-party research for context, not a prediction of what any single business will see.
Why the numbers differ
- Definitions of use vary by survey.
- Business size and industry differ across samples.
- Adoption is changing month to month.
Where to find credible figures
- Government tracking of business technology use.
- Academic and institutional research.
- Industry trend reports.
For tracking, see the Census Bureau's BTOS and McKinsey's State of AI; Pew Research surveys public attitudes too. These figures are third-party research for context, not a prediction of what any single business will see.
What percentage of small businesses use AI? +
Estimates vary widely by survey and definition. Use government and research sources for the most credible figures.
Is small business AI adoption growing? +
Credible sources show adoption rising, though the pace and baseline differ by study.
Can I trust AI adoption statistics? +
Treat them as directional context and read the source's method before quoting a number.
See more research context in our blog.