1、The AI Opportunity for Small BusinessMay 2025Foreword 3Dr Christopher Sims,Chief Commercial Officer,BT Business 3Michelle Ovens CBE,Founder,Small Business Britain 4Executive Summary 6Chapter 1:The State of AI in Small Business 9Chapter 2:The Potential Business Impact of AI 13Chapter 3:Barriers to AI

2、 Adoption 18Chapter 4:AI for Inclusion:Empowering Marginalised Entrepreneurs 22Chapter 5:Next Steps for Small Business AI Adoption 27Methodology 32Contents2The AI Opportunity for Small BusinessSmall Business Britain Small businesses are the beating heart of the UK economy.They are the innovators,the

3、 job creators,and the driving force behind local communities and national growth.As we stand on the cusp of a new digital era,Artificial Intelligence(AI)represents a game-changing opportunity for these businesses;not in the distant future,but right now.At BT Business,we have seen first-hand how AI c

4、an empower businesses of every size to do more with less:to streamline operations,personalise customer service,and unlock new ideas.But we also know that for many small businesses,the leap into AI can feel daunting.Thats why were proud to have partnered with Small Business Britain on this groundbrea

5、king research to truly understand what small businesses need,what they fear,and what can be done to make AI work for everyone.This report lays bare both the promise and the challenge.It highlights an urgent need for accessible training,affordable tools,and clear,inclusive pathways to adoption.It als

6、o shines a light on the voices of underrepresented entrepreneurs,whose experience and expertise must help shape the AI tools of tomorrow.Our mission is to help businesses grow with confidence in a digital world.With the right support,AI can be a powerful force for levelling the playing field,boostin