Why AI Can’t Be Left for ‘Later’: A Wake-Up Call for SME Owners
You might have seen the recent survey in Global Banking & Finance Review – it revealed that 55% of SMEs plan to expand this year, despite rising costs and economic uncertainty. That’s a clear sign of ambition, resilience, and optimism across the small business world.
But here’s what caught my eye: there’s very little talk about how AI fits into that growth.
And that’s a concern.
Because while many SMEs are gearing up for growth, not all are thinking about how to scale smartly – and that means making the most of what’s available to us today. Chief among those tools is Artificial Intelligence.
AI isn’t the future – it’s right now
We’re seeing AI transform how businesses manage everything from customer service and marketing to internal admin, analytics, and decision-making. Large businesses are already embedding AI across their operations – and reaping the rewards.
If you’re an SME owner and you’re not thinking about where AI fits in your business, you’re effectively choosing to compete on uneven ground.
Let me be clear: this isn’t about turning your business into a tech company. It’s about making sure someone in your business is responsible for understanding and introducing AI where it makes sense.
Not an IT contractor, not something tagged onto someone else’s already-busy role – a clear responsibility, owned by someone who has the headspace to think it through and lead it.
No AI strategy = risk of being left behind
If you’ve not already done it, ask yourself:
- Who in your business is keeping an eye on AI developments?
- Do they have the authority to explore new tools and processes?
- Is AI being discussed in your strategy meetings at all?
Because here’s the truth: AI is moving faster than most SMEs are. And the ones that are leaning into it now – experimenting, learning, and adapting – will pull away from those that wait.
Getting started doesn’t have to be overwhelming
If this feels daunting, you’re not alone. Many business owners I work with say, “I don’t even know where to start.” That’s completely normal.
You don’t need a full AI department. But you do need:
- Someone taking ownership of AI across the business
- A commitment to test one or two practical tools in the next 90 days
- A willingness to build AI into your growth strategy, not bolt it on as an afterthought
Growth comes from working smarter, not just harder
The Global Banking & Finance article is a brilliant sign that ambition is alive and well among UK SMEs. But ambition alone isn’t enough.
The SMEs that grow – sustainably and profitably – in this next phase will be the ones who use every tool available to them. And that includes AI.
If you’re not already having this conversation inside your business, now’s the time to start.
Reference:
“Awful April? Bring it on: 55% of SMEs plan to expand in the new tax year” – Global Banking & Finance Review