A growing number of small and medium businesses are turning to AI-powered tools to automate customer service, bookkeeping, and marketing tasks, according to a recent survey of local startups. Business owners say the shift has helped reduce operational costs while improving response times to customer queries.

Many companies have adopted AI chatbots to handle routine customer inquiries, freeing up staff to focus on more complex tasks. Others are using automated accounting software to simplify tax filing and inventory tracking, cutting down on manual errors.

Industry experts say the trend reflects a broader digital transformation among small businesses seeking to stay competitive without significantly increasing headcount. Training programs on AI tool adoption have also seen rising enrollment from entrepreneurs eager to upskill.

However, some business owners voiced concerns about data privacy and the learning curve associated with new software. Technology consultants recommend starting with simple, well-tested tools before scaling up to more advanced AI systems.

Local business associations are now exploring partnerships with technology providers to offer subsidized AI tool access for small enterprises, aiming to accelerate digital adoption across the wider business community.