Small and mid-sized businesses are rapidly expanding their use of digital tools to drive growth and efficiency, according to Verizon’s 2025 State of Small Business Survey. Nearly half of SMBs upgraded cybersecurity systems in the past year, and 38% now actively use AI across key business functions like marketing, customer service, and communications. More than half believe AI can also support workforce challenges, from managing reduced headcounts to helping retain staff. These investments reflect a strategic shift to future-proof operations and improve decision-making with fewer resources.
Social media continues to be a core part of this shift, with 76% of business leaders saying it positively impacts performance. Yet staying current on trends and content creation remains a challenge for many. Platforms like TikTok are gaining traction, but 54% of SMBs report difficulty keeping content fresh. With more than three in five businesses increasing their investment in content creation, it's clear that technology, from AI to social, is now central to how small businesses attract customers, operate more efficiently, and stay competitive in a rapidly digitizing marketplace.
