ActiveCampaign’s latest research reveals that AI is revolutionizing marketing for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), enabling them to compete with larger enterprises. By saving 13 hours weekly and $4,739 monthly, AI empowers SMBs to enhance efficiency and drive innovation in marketing strategies.
AI saves SMB marketers 13 hours weekly, nearly a third of their workweek.
75% of SMBs say AI boosts competitiveness with larger companies.
82% of SMBs use AI for marketing, with 47% using it daily.
AI "Power Users" save 57% more time and 36% more costs.
97% of marketers say AI has reshaped their approach to work.
Only a 3% gap exists between SMBs and enterprises in valuing AI for marketing tasks.
ActiveCampaign’s 13 Hours Back Each Week report highlights AI’s transformative impact on SMBs. The survey, conducted between May 21 and June 12, 2025, shows that 82% of SMBs utilize AI for marketing, saving an average of 52 hours and $4,739 monthly. "Power Users," who engage AI daily, achieve 57% greater time savings and 36% lower operational costs compared to less frequent users. “Small businesses may work with tighter margins, but their size and agility provide a perfect opportunity for the strategic implementation of AI,” said Jason VandeBoom, Founder and CEO of ActiveCampaign.
The research indicates that 75% of SMBs believe AI makes them more competitive with larger organizations. With SMBs driving nearly half of U.S. GDP, their adoption of AI is pivotal. The survey reveals only a 3% difference between SMBs and enterprises in recognizing AI’s value for critical tasks like lead nurturing, timely follow-ups, and efficiency. This narrow gap underscores AI’s role in leveling the playing field for smaller businesses.
AI is not just a tool but a strategic asset for SMBs. The report notes that 47% of SMBs use AI daily, with 81% applying it to marketing, 78% to design, and 76% to analytics. “With foundational adoption well underway, marketers are entering the next phase of AI maturity, applying more advanced capabilities to forecast market trends, uncover new revenue opportunities, and automate complex workflows,” said Amy Kilpatrick, Chief Marketing Officer of ActiveCampaign. This shift toward advanced AI use fosters sustained market leadership.
AI is reshaping how SMB marketers approach their work, with 97% reporting a change in perspective and 77% feeling more confident when supported by AI. By automating repetitive tasks and providing data-driven insights, AI enables SMBs to focus on creative strategies and customer engagement, driving innovation and measurable gains in efficiency.
ActiveCampaign’s research underscores AI’s role as a game-changer for SMBs, enabling them to rival larger enterprises. By integrating AI strategically, SMBs are enhancing efficiency, reducing costs, and positioning themselves for sustained growth in a competitive market.
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