Small businesses are going all-in on generative AI
Generative AI is quickly becoming a game-changer for small businesses in the US—58% are using it as of August 2025, up from 40% earlier in 2024.
Owners like Mike Salvatore at Heritage Hospitality Group are using tools like ChatGPT to crunch numbers and NotebookLM to create quick podcast recaps of their business performance.
What are they actually doing with AI?
From restaurants automating shift schedules to event planners sorting out seating charts and quotes, AI is handling the busywork.
Apparel brands like Thread Logic use it to update websites without hiring developers, while The Story of Ramen cooking school now lets AI answer almost all customer emails.
Even construction firms are mapping job sites and estimating costs with a little help from AI.
Is this helping small businesses grow?
Absolutely. Instead of cutting jobs, many small businesses using AI say they've actually optimized their operations in recent times.
As these tools get more affordable, expect even more local shops and services to level up how they work—and what they can offer you.