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Utah small businesses are not waiting for the future. They are already using AI to shape it.
Small Business Month served as a celebration of Utah's entrepreneurs, highlighting that artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a vital tool. AI helps these businesses overcome daily challenges and efficiently drive their operations forward.
Many small business owners act as CEO, marketer, accountant, and more, facing significant time constraints. AI offers a practical solution by automating various tasks, thereby easing their workload and allowing them to focus on core business growth.
A 2026 survey by the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Council revealed that 82% of small business employers have invested in an average of five AI tools for areas like customer engagement and content creation. A significant 93% plan to continue their AI investments.
Utah is proactive in integrating AI into its economic future, launching a 'Pro-Human AI initiative' and expanding AI workforce credentials in higher education. This forward-thinking approach has positioned Provo-Orem as a notable mid-sized AI job market.
The United States is engaged in a critical global competition to lead the next generation of AI development. If America lags behind countries like China, which has made AI a national priority, the consequences could extend beyond technology hubs to local economies nationwide.
Dependence on digital tools means American small businesses could face increased risks to customer data, intellectual property, and competitiveness if leading AI systems are developed by authoritarian rivals. This underscores the importance of domestic AI leadership.
Lawmakers must carefully consider the potential unintended consequences of AI policies on small businesses. Overly restrictive regulations could impose substantial costs on these businesses, which typically lack extensive legal or compliance teams.
To thrive with AI, small businesses need clear regulatory guidelines, consistent access to advanced AI tools, a skilled workforce capable of utilizing AI, and a robust national strategy that champions American innovation in this field.
Utah's small businesses are already demonstrating leadership in adopting AI to shape their future. It is now crucial for policymakers to ensure that the broader future of AI development and implementation remains firmly rooted in America.