Survey: Small Businesses Embrace AI But Need Training and Support to Fully Harness It

Ninety-three percent report positive business impact, yet only 14% have fully integrated AI into core operations

Seventy-three percent say more training and resources would help them successfully implement AI

WASHINGTON, D.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Small businesses across the country are rapidly adopting Artificial Intelligence (AI) and already seeing meaningful benefits, but most remain in early stages and say additional support is needed to unlock AI’s full potential, according to a new survey of small business owners from Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Voices.

More than three-quarters of small businesses (76%) report currently using AI, with the majority stating that results have been overwhelmingly positive. Ninety-three percent of those using AI say it has had a positive impact on their business, and 84% cite increased efficiency and productivity as the primary benefit.

Looking ahead, small business owners are bullish on AI’s role in their growth: 67% expect AI to increase revenue and they largely see it as a tool to enhance their workforce. Eighty-seven percent say AI augments rather than replaces employees.

Yet a significant gap remains between adoption and full integration. Only 14% say AI is fully embedded in their core operations.

“AI is already helping small businesses compete, save time, and better serve customers — but many of us are still figuring out how to use it effectively,” said Khari Parker, co-founder of Connie’s Chicken and Waffles in Baltimore. “With the right guidance and training, AI can be transformational for Main Street.”

Many cite barriers to deeper integration, such as lack of technical expertise, difficulty choosing tools, and data privacy concerns. As a result, small businesses say they need help: 73% say they would benefit from additional access to training and implementation resources.

There is also strong support for expanding access to AI education and training. Eighty-five percent said they support the AI for Main Street Act, which directs the Small Business Administration and Small Business Development Centers to help small businesses learn how to adopt AI by providing training and outreach. The bipartisan AI for Main Street Act, introduced by Congressman Mark Alford (R-MO) and Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (D-MI), passed the U.S. House of Representatives earlier this year. The companion bill in the U.S. Senate has been introduced by Senator Todd Young (R-IN) and Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA).

“Our bill will provide training, guidance, and support to ensure more American small businesses are equipped with the tools needed to compete in today’s evolving digital economy,” said Young.

Survey of 1,256 Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses participants conducted by Babson College and David Binder Research from January 27– February 4, 2026. The survey included small business owners from all 50 states, DC, and Puerto Rico.

About 10,000 Small Businesses Voices
Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Voices, which in April will mark its six-year anniversary, builds on Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses and organizes program participants to advocate for policies that matter to them. Learn more at www.gs.com/10ksb-voices

About Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses
Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses is an investment to help entrepreneurs create jobs and economic opportunity by providing a comprehensive business education program and access to capital and business support services. To date, 10,000 Small Businesses has served over 18,000 small businesses across the United States. The program has reached businesses from all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and Washington, D.C. Learn more at www.gs.com/10ksb.

About Goldman Sachs
The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. is a leading global financial institution that delivers a broad range of financial services to a large and diversified client base that includes corporations, financial institutions, governments and individuals. Founded in 1869, the firm is headquartered in New York and maintains offices in all major financial centers around the world.