Small businesses are the backbone of the U.S. economy, representing 99.9% of all firms and 46.6% of GDP. As AI reshapes how businesses operate, its impact on small businesses will be central to U.S. competitiveness and economic resilience. Its effects will vary across the small-business landscape, from Main Street retailers to small manufacturers. This forum will examine how AI can boost productivity, improve operations, and help small businesses compete, while also addressing risks such as workforce disruption, uneven access to capital and technology, and the growing advantage of large incumbents.
