ICIC (Initiative for a Competitive Inner City) has published a report titled AI in Business: How Small Business Owners Are Learning, Using, and Navigating Challenges with AI Tools, examining AI adoption among small businesses. Based on a survey of over 3,700 small business owners and five focus groups, the research finds that nearly 89% of surveyed small businesses are already using AI tools for everyday tasks such as drafting emails, creating marketing content, and analyzing data. More than 60% report increased productivity and improved employee job satisfaction as a result of AI adoption.

Despite widespread usage, the report highlights persistent knowledge gaps, implementation challenges, and concerns about responsible AI adoption. Small business owners express a strong preference for hands-on, flexible learning formats — including online courses, podcasts, and peer learning groups — to build AI confidence. The report offers targeted recommendations: educational programs should reflect the diverse needs of small business owners, employees should be included in technology decision-making, and greater transparency about AI's benefits and risks is needed to promote responsible use.

The research is particularly notable for its focus on under-resourced communities, aligning with ICIC's mission to drive inclusive economic prosperity. By identifying where AI education and training can have the greatest impact, the report aims to help policymakers, educators, and business support organizations ensure that AI adoption is both effective and equitable across the small business landscape.