Artificial intelligence isn't just for big tech firms anymore. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, nearly 60% of American small businesses report using AI in their operations, a figure that has more than doubled since 2023. As economic uncertainty continues and competition intensifies, entrepreneurs are turning to AI for a strategic edge. National surveys show that this shift is not isolated to any one region: over 75% of small businesses across the U.S. are either actively using or exploring AI tools, signaling a broader transformation.
Nationwide Trends in AI Adoption
From curiosity to necessity. In a 2025 Reimagine Main Street survey, about 25% of small businesses had already integrated AI into their daily workflows, and just over half were still testing or exploring. Only 24% said they had no plans to adopt AI. Similarly, a PayPal-backed study found 82% of small-business owners believe AI is essential for staying competitive, yet only 25% have implemented it while over 50% are still exploring how to do so.
Diverse applications drive adoption. ServiceDirect's 2025 Small Business AI Report revealed that 77% of small businesses have adopted AI in some form, using it primarily for marketing (53%), sales (49%) and customer support (46%). Adoption isn't just about automation: 87% of AI users report higher productivity, 86% improved effectiveness and 86% business growth. In PayPal's survey, 77% of active users said AI for marketing and customer engagement would have the greatest impact, and 84% want to automate content creation.
Barriers persist. Despite widespread interest, many entrepreneurs still face hurdles. Lack of understanding about AI's benefits (62%) and lack of in-house resources (60%) are the top reasons non-adopters cite. Even among users, 72% report challenges integrating AI and 70% worry about data privacy. The OECD notes that SME AI adoption remains lower than that of larger firms, emphasizing the need for better infrastructure, skills and finance.
Why Local Intelligence Matters
While national adoption rates are rising, the experience of using AI can vary dramatically. Regulations, permit requirements, economic conditions and customer preferences differ from city to city. Generic AI tools lack the ability to contextualize advice at the community level. That's where ThoughtPartnr differentiates itself.
ThoughtPartnr leverages a Local Language Model that supercharges the latest cutting-edge AI by training it on private data in partnership with Chambers of Commerce, municipalities, Economic Development organizations and community businesses. This intelligence layer acts as a local knowledge graph that prioritizes local data for more relevant responses such as permits, licensing information and market trends. This architecture enables the platform to deliver context-specific guidance, whether you're opening a restaurant in Phoenix, starting a consulting firm in St. Louis or expanding a retail shop in Seattle.
When automated answers aren't enough, the Coach Matching Engine suggests verified local and national experts to provide human coaching and help entrepreneurs bridge the "time and trust gap."
How ThoughtPartnr Supports Adoption
Scalable partnerships. ThoughtPartnr is rolling out its platform through a licensing model with Chambers of Commerce and business organizations across the country. Once licensed at the organization level, all of their members get access to an enterprise-level AI platform they can immediately begin leveraging to optimize productivity and generate revenue. Our pilot with the Westport-Weston Chamber of Commerce recently launched and shows how the platform can be trained on local data to serve chamber members.
Hybrid AI + human support. Entrepreneurs don't just need software; they need coaching. ThoughtPartnr offers access to local and national coaches combined with a small business minded AI agent that provides practical, step-by-step guidance on tasks like forming an LLC, obtaining permits or launching marketing campaigns. This blend of technology and human expertise helps businesses move from exploration to implementation.
Mission-driven approach. ThoughtPartnr's mission is to empower small business owners to realize & achieve their true potential by providing them with the guidance, tools and confidence to thrive in the age of AI.
What Entrepreneurs, Business Organizations & Chambers Can Do Now
- Embrace education. Attend webinars and workshops that demystify AI and provide examples from industries like retail, hospitality and professional services.
- Invest in the right tools. Encourage small businesses to experiment and adopt AI solutions that match their scale and sector. Platforms like ThoughtPartnr integrate with popular CRMs and marketing software while adding the missing layer of local intelligence and human coaching.
- Build communities of practice. Chambers and business associations should connect early adopters with peers who are still exploring. Peer learning is a powerful way to overcome barriers to adoption and share best practices.
- Advocate for supportive policies. Partner with local and national policymakers to improve broadband connectivity, offer digital-skills training and ensure that AI regulations are clear and consistent.
Conclusion
The data are clear: AI adoption among U.S. small businesses has reached a tipping point, with most entrepreneurs either using AI or actively exploring it. Yet significant barriers—knowledge gaps, resource constraints and integration challenges—still prevent many from realizing the technology's full potential. By combining national reach with local intelligence and human coaching, ThoughtPartnr offers a scalable way to turn curiosity into capability. Whether you operate in a big city or a rural town, AI can help your business grow fearless—and ThoughtPartnr is here to guide you.
Ready to see how localized AI can accelerate your business? Schedule a demo or join an upcoming webinar.