{"id":9763,"date":"2025-06-12T07:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-06-12T14:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/?p=9763"},"modified":"2025-07-25T11:54:22","modified_gmt":"2025-07-25T03:54:22","slug":"small-business-trends","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/small-business-trends\/","title":{"rendered":"Top Small Business Trends For 2026: Smart Tech You Need to Know"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: All statistics mentioned in this article are sourced from the 6th edition of Salesforce\u2019s <\/strong><\/em><strong><em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/resources\/research-reports\/smb-trends\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Small and Medium Business Trends Report<\/a><\/em><\/strong><em><strong>.<\/strong><\/em><strong><br><\/strong><br>Every year, hundreds of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/small-business\/what-is-an-smb\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">small and medium businesses (SMBs)<\/a>, just like yours, start with high hopes of making it in a tough market, despite facing many challenges. And, every year, we\u2019re here at Salesforce helping you stay up to date with the latest trends. It\u2019s one of our favourite things to do \u2014 support small businesses.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We surveyed 3,350 small business leaders worldwide to learn insights on technology, AI, and the future of business in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/resources\/research-reports\/smb-trends\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Small and Medium Business Trends Report<\/a>. The results were very clear \u2014 technology is advancing rapidly. In fact, 76% of small businesses that are jumping on smart technology trends are growing. It\u2019s a clear sign that <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/artificial-intelligence\/what-is-ai\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">artificial intelligence (AI)<\/a> technology is key to small business success. We\u2019re going to tackle the key takeaways from the report, plus some tips and strategies for you to stay ahead.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What we\u2019ll cover:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"#h-the-future-of-small-business-is-looking-bright-in-2026\">The future of small business is looking bright in 2026<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#h-top-5-trends-contributing-to-small-business-success\">Top 5 trends contributing to small business success<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#h-get-more-small-business-trends\">Get more small business trends<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-the-future-of-small-business-is-looking-bright-in-2026\">The future of small business is looking bright in 2026<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Our research shows that small businesses are thriving, not just surviving. In fact, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/resources\/research-reports\/smb-trends\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">81% of SMB leaders feel good about the future<\/a>. Small businesses are increasingly turning to AI, automation, and CRM tools to improve efficiency and enhance customer experiences \u2014 which means time is back in their pockets, so daily operations can run smoothly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-top-5-trends-contributing-to-small-business-success\">Top 5 trends contributing to small business success<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>SMBs and startups are focused on getting new customers and improving the customer experience. Our research shows that growing SMBs put customer satisfaction first, and this means <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/small-business\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">investing in AI-backed technology<\/a> to meet their expectations. On the other hand, stagnant or declining businesses are cutting costs and focusing only on getting new customers. This shows that keeping customers happy and upgrading your tools with AI is key to growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-cluster-content-section-alt has-white-background-color has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"alignfull wp-block-salesforce-blog-section-heading\">\n\t<h2 class=\"wp-block-salesforce-blog-section-heading__title\">\n\t\t\t\tStart with SMB Basics\t<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-style-default is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:50%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-8cf370e7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/resources\/research-reports\/smb-trends\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/10\/small-business-trends-smb-research-1.jpg?w=500\" alt=\"Astro holds a Small and Medium Business Trends report\" class=\"wp-image-9151\" style=\"width:500px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2020\/10\/small-business-trends-smb-research-1.jpg 500w, https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2020\/10\/small-business-trends-smb-research-1.jpg?w=300&amp;h=169 300w, https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2020\/10\/small-business-trends-smb-research-1.jpg?w=150&amp;h=84 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-small-and-medium-business-trends-report\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/resources\/research-reports\/smb-trends\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Small and Medium Business Trends Report<\/a><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:50%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-cluster-content-card is-content-justification-center is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-94bc23d7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/ai-tools-for-small-business\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"576\" width=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/10\/AI-Tools-for-SMB.png?w=1500\" alt=\"Illustration showcasing artificial intelligence (AI) tools for small businesses.\" class=\"wp-image-9152\" style=\"width:178px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2024\/10\/AI-Tools-for-SMB.png 1500w, https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2024\/10\/AI-Tools-for-SMB.png?w=300&amp;h=169 300w, https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2024\/10\/AI-Tools-for-SMB.png?w=768&amp;h=432 768w, https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2024\/10\/AI-Tools-for-SMB.png?w=1024&amp;h=576 1024w, https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2024\/10\/AI-Tools-for-SMB.png?w=150&amp;h=84 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-ai-for-small-business-how-to-choose-your-tech-stack\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/ai-tools-for-small-business\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">AI for Small Business: How to Choose Your Tech Stack<\/a><\/h4>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-cluster-content-card is-content-justification-center is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-94bc23d7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/form\/small-business\/ai-guide-for-smbs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/content\/dam\/web\/en_us\/www\/images\/form\/smb\/misc\/Form-page-768x432.png\" alt=\"\" style=\"width:183px;height:auto\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-your-guide-to-ai-for-small-business\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/form\/small-business\/ai-guide-for-smbs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Your Guide to AI for Small Business<\/a><\/h4>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-cluster-content-card is-content-justification-center is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-94bc23d7 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/small-marketing-team-deliver-big-results-2\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/10\/small-marketing-team-deliver-big-results.jpg?w=768&amp;h=432\" alt=\"\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-5-small-business-marketing-tools-to-generate-more-leads\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/small-marketing-team-deliver-big-results-2\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">5 Small Business Marketing Tools To Generate More Leads<\/a><\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-smb-customer-service-confidence-is-rising\">1. SMB customer service confidence is rising<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Growing businesses are using <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/crm\/ai-crm\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">AI customer relationship management (CRM) tools<\/a> to improve how they connect with customers across all channels. At the same time, they\u2019re using integrated tech solutions to make their operations smoother. With <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/resources\/research-reports\/smb-trends\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">54% of SMB leaders feeling confident they can adapt to market changes<\/a>, these businesses are ready to respond quickly to customer needs and new opportunities. This shows that SMBs are using AI-backed CRMs to improve customer connections and stay ready for new opportunities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/resources\/research-reports\/smb-trends\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\" noreferrer noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1500\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/12\/image-2.png?strip=all&#038;quality=95\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-9757\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2024\/12\/image-2.png 1500w, https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2024\/12\/image-2.png?w=300&amp;h=160 300w, https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2024\/12\/image-2.png?w=768&amp;h=410 768w, https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2024\/12\/image-2.png?w=1024&amp;h=546 1024w, https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2024\/12\/image-2.png?w=150&amp;h=80 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The takeaway:<\/strong> Invest in a trust AI-powered technology to focus on better customer experiences. Staying up-to-date with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/artificial-intelligence\/ai-automation\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">automation<\/a> helps SMBs boost efficiency, strengthen customer relationships, and compete \u2014 even with bigger companies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"layout-six wp-block-salesforce-blog-offer\">\n\t<div class=\"wp-block-offer__wrapper\">\n\n\t\t<div class=\"wp-block-offer__content\">\n\t\t\t<h2 class=\"wp-block-offer__title\">Just get started.<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"wp-block-offer__description\">No matter where you are on your journey as a small business owner, you can get started with Starter Suite \u2014 the all-in-one AI CRM your SMB needs.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"wp-block-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"wp-block-button__link\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/form\/signup\/freetrial-salesforce-starter\/?d=bcta\">Start it up<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t<div class=\"wp-block-offer__media\">\n\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"448\" height=\"280\" src=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2025\/06\/starter-cta.webp\" class=\"attachment-full size-full\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2025\/06\/starter-cta.webp 448w, https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2025\/06\/starter-cta.webp?w=300&amp;h=188 300w, https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2025\/06\/starter-cta.webp?w=150&amp;h=94 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 448px) 100vw, 448px\" \/>\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\t\n\t<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. AI-backed tech investments matter<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Investments in technology are at the very heart of small business growth. According to our latest report, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/resources\/research-reports\/smb-trends\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">76% of SMBs that increased their tech spending over the past year show a solid commitment<\/a>. They\u2019re using digital tools to simplify tasks, helping them connect with customers in an increasingly digital world. We found that SMBs are investing in automated marketing campaigns, AI-assisted sales, and self-service chatbots for customer support \u2014 all powered by smart intelligence.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/resources\/research-reports\/smb-trends\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\" noreferrer noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1500\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/12\/image-3.png?strip=all&#038;quality=95\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-9758\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2024\/12\/image-3.png 1500w, https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2024\/12\/image-3.png?w=300&amp;h=160 300w, https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2024\/12\/image-3.png?w=768&amp;h=410 768w, https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2024\/12\/image-3.png?w=1024&amp;h=546 1024w, https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2024\/12\/image-3.png?w=150&amp;h=80 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This shows that investing in AI now, rather than later, will only help your goals as a business owner for a larger ROI in the future.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The takeaway:<\/strong> To fuel growth, small businesses are prioritising tech investments and putting the money upfront because they\u2019re seeing results. By using digital tools to simplify tasks and engage customers, they\u2019re winning \u200cin the digital landscape. Key investment areas include <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/agentforce\/ai-agents\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">AI agents<\/a> like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/agentforce\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Agentforce<\/a>, and trusted security like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/data\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Data Cloud<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Smart technology is fueling growth<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/resources\/research-reports\/smb-trends\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">75% of SMBs are investing in AI, and 78% of SMB leaders believe it will be a game-changer for their businesses<\/a>. While CRM is a key player in tech investments, small businesses are also exploring cloud computing, ecommerce platforms, and cybersecurity. These technologies help SMBs grow and stay flexible in meeting customer needs. In fact, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/resources\/research-reports\/smb-trends\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">73% of SMB leaders believe their tech investments help them keep up with or even outpace competitors<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you still think AI is just for big business, think again. AI has become the differentiating features for SMBs looking to level up. Business owners are looking for trusted tools and productivity features that will move their business (with or without them micromanaging it).&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/resources\/research-reports\/smb-trends\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\" noreferrer noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1500\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/12\/image-4.png?strip=all&#038;quality=95\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-9759\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2024\/12\/image-4.png 1500w, https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2024\/12\/image-4.png?w=300&amp;h=160 300w, https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2024\/12\/image-4.png?w=768&amp;h=410 768w, https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2024\/12\/image-4.png?w=1024&amp;h=546 1024w, https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2024\/12\/image-4.png?w=150&amp;h=80 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This shows that SMBs are investing in smart, integrated technologies like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/crm\/crm-for-small-business\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">AI CRM<\/a>, cloud computing, and top-tier cybersecurity to meet business standards and customer needs better.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The takeaway<\/strong>: Investing in smart technology is essential \u2014 not just to run daily operations smoothly, but to stay competitive long-term. Small businesses using scalable tools like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/small-business\/collaboration\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Slack<\/a> for team collaboration, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/agentforce\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Agentforce<\/a> for AI-powered support, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/crm\/foundations\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Foundations<\/a> to build on their CRM capabilities are better equipped to grow. These tools help streamline workflows, unlock insights, and future-proof your business in a fast-changing market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;69d6519b0ab23&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"69d6519b0ab23\" class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-lightbox-container\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"432\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/06\/4937215.jpg?strip=all&#038;quality=95\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-9760\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2025\/06\/4937215.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2025\/06\/4937215.jpg?w=300&amp;h=169 300w, https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2025\/06\/4937215.jpg?w=150&amp;h=84 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\taria-label=\"Enlarge\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/form\/events\/webinars\/form-rss\/4937215\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Watch the webinar: Become AI Ready: How Small Businesses Can Use AI to Work Smarter and Grow Faster<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. AI is providing a competitive advantage&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>AI isn&#8217;t just tech talk anymore \u2014 it&#8217;s the secret weapon helping small business owners like you get more done with less stress. Instead of spending hours crafting individual marketing emails, AI helps you create personalised content in minutes. Instead of your team getting bogged down with routine service tasks, AI handles the repetitive stuff so they can focus on what really matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This isn\u2019t just optimism. It\u2019s a strategy in action. In fact,<a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/resources\/research-reports\/smb-trends\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> 91% of SMBs using AI report a boost in revenue, and growing businesses are nearly twice as likely to invest in AI compared to those in decline<\/a>. The difference isn\u2019t luck \u2014 it comes down to smart, intentional tech adoption. And you don&#8217;t even need a huge budget or a tech team to get started. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/crm\/ai-crm\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Smart CRM<\/a> tools make AI accessible to small teams, helping you understand your prospects better, create campaigns that\u200c work, and stay ahead of the competition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/resources\/research-reports\/smb-trends\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\" noreferrer noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1500\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/12\/image-5.png?strip=all&#038;quality=95\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-9761\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2024\/12\/image-5.png 1500w, https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2024\/12\/image-5.png?w=300&amp;h=160 300w, https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2024\/12\/image-5.png?w=768&amp;h=410 768w, https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2024\/12\/image-5.png?w=1024&amp;h=546 1024w, https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2024\/12\/image-5.png?w=150&amp;h=80 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The takeaway<\/strong>: AI helps small businesses punch above their weight. Smart tools can make a big difference in customer support, marketing, and analytics. When your experiences feel smooth and personal, people notice \u2014 and that\u2019s how you build loyalty that lasts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"What Is Agentforce? | Salesforce\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/irdNqlytsLc?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. A new priority for SMBs is data management<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/resources\/research-reports\/smb-trends\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">66% of SMBs are increasing their investment in data management<\/a>. This reflects a growing understanding of how important data is for driving growth. If you\u2019re not using a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/crm\/crm-for-small-business\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CRM<\/a> to keep all your data in one place, you might be missing out on valuable insights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/resources\/research-reports\/smb-trends\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">84% of SMB leaders say complete and accurate data is becoming increasingly important for business success<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This shift shows that businesses are recognising how essential centralised, clean data is for growth. The right tools help SMBs <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/data\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">organise, secure, and analyse data<\/a> more effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This not only helps simplify operations, but also supports better decision-making and more relevant customer interactions. For growing businesses, strong data practices are becoming non-negotiable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/resources\/research-reports\/smb-trends\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\" noreferrer noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1500\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/12\/image-6.png?strip=all&#038;quality=95\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-9762\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2024\/12\/image-6.png 1500w, https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2024\/12\/image-6.png?w=300&amp;h=160 300w, https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2024\/12\/image-6.png?w=768&amp;h=410 768w, https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2024\/12\/image-6.png?w=1024&amp;h=546 1024w, https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/8\/2024\/12\/image-6.png?w=150&amp;h=80 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>SMBs are sharpening their focus on data quality and security \u2014 a key foundation for future growth. AI plays a major role in this evolution \u2014 helping unify, analyse, and act on customer data in real time. Smart tools can spot behaviour patterns, group audiences, and personalise interactions automatically. Pairing AI with CRM unlocks deeper insights and makes every customer touchpoint more meaningful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/agentforce\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Agentforce<\/a>, Salesforce\u2019s AI-powered support platform, brings this to life by generating summaries, suggesting replies, and streamlining case management. Smaller teams are able to deliver faster, more personalised support \u2014 without added overhead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>SMBs are increasingly building centralised systems to help teams access and use customer data easily. This not only improves customer interactions but also provides clear insights that guide smarter strategies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That combination of CRM, AI, and intelligent tools like Agentforce gives SMBs the edge they need to compete in a fast-changing market and build lasting relationships.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>SMBs can now centralise customer data, making it easy for teams to collaborate. This gives businesses the insights they need to fine-tune their strategies. This shows that by embracing <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/blog\/small-business-statistics\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CRM, AI, and data strategies<\/a>, SMBs can stay competitive and build lasting customer relationships.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The takeaway:<\/strong> Having <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/blog\/smb-clean-data\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">clean and organised data<\/a> is like having a crystal-clear roadmap, you see the path ahead without distractions. When your data is in good shape, you can spot opportunities before your competitors and make decisions with confidence. AI tools like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/agentforce\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Agentforce<\/a> help small businesses turn data into action \u2014 delivering faster support and truly personalised experiences. It\u2019s not just about managing data \u2014 it\u2019s about using it to lead the way forward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/agentforce\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/12\/Agentforce-2.png?strip=all&#038;quality=95\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-103377\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-get-more-small-business-trends\">Get more small business trends<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>This isn\u2019t even half of the insightful tips in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/resources\/research-reports\/smb-trends\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">6th Edition Small and Medium Trends Report<\/a>. Get your free download, and put this data into action. And we&#8217;ve got your complete small business suite set up, any time you&#8217;re ready.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Start your journey with a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/form\/signup\/freetrial-salesforce-starter\/?d=bcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">free trial of Starter Suite<\/a> today. Looking for more customisation? <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/small-business\/pro-suite\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Explore Pro Suite<\/a>. Already a Salesforce customer? <a href=\"https:\/\/www.salesforce.com\/ap\/crm\/foundations\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Activate Foundations<\/a> today to try Agentforce.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>AI supported the writers and editors who created this article.<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>From AI to customer experience \u2014 explore the top small business trends that will define 2026 from our latest research.  <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":130,"featured_media":9756,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"sf_justforyou_enable_alt":true,"optimizely_content_id":"330ae46cfbb840d6b4db4c3cAP","post_meta_title":"","ai_synopsis":"","_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"sf_topic":[24,214,26,401],"sf_content_type":[],"coauthors":[613],"class_list":["post-9763","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","sf_topic-future-of-work","sf_topic-startups","sf_topic-small-business","sf_topic-ai"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.2 (Yoast SEO v27.2) - 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