In the heart of the Queen City, where Southern charm meets a tech-savvy spirit, business owners are looking ahead with optimism. We recently chatted with 750 business leaders across Charlotte, NC, to get the scoop on their plans to weave artificial intelligence (AI) into their growth strategies. Spoiler alert: it’s looking bright, and there’s more excitement than a Friday night at a Carolina Panthers game!

What You Need to Know

Most small and medium businesses in Charlotte are already dipping their toes into the AI pool and are eager to dive deeper. Here are some key takeaways from our survey:

1. AI is Already in the Game
Most small and medium businesses (SMBs) in Charlotte are already harnessing the power of AI and believe it will boost their efficiency and creativity. From automating mundane tasks to enhancing customer interactions, these leaders see AI as a trusty sidekick rather than a villainous overlord.

2. Optimism Mixed with Caution
While there’s a buzz of excitement about AI, some business owners expressed concerns over job displacement, safety, and integration challenges. Think of it like trying to convince your grandma to use online banking—there’s promise, but a few roadblocks along the way.

3. Human Touch Still Matters
Interestingly, there seems to be a gap between the current use of AI and its potential. Many respondents found AI useful but aren’t ready to swap human interaction for a chatbot just yet. It’s like choosing between a comforting Southern biscuit and a fast-food substitute; sometimes, you just need the real thing!

Who We Talked To

Our insights come from a blend of verbal interviews with 750 business leaders from 369 SMBs across the U.S. We defined “small and medium-sized” as having 1–500 employees and an annual revenue between $250,000 and $5,000,000. Our participants included those in executive management, finance, and corporate strategy—essentially, the folks making the big decisions.

Small Business Owners Believe AI Will Help Them Grow

The vibe is clear: Charlotte’s small business owners are generally on board with the idea that AI will positively impact their operations, extending beyond just making things run smoother. While not everyone is ready to shout “AI is the best!” from the rooftops, the majority are at least willing to give it a nod.

Three Areas Where AI is Expected to Shine

1. Managing Small Business Finances
Charlotte’s business owners are ready to embrace AI in their banking processes. About 65% think AI chatbots provide solid customer support, while 63% would be more inclined to bank with institutions offering AI-powered services. Just imagine fewer human errors and quicker responses—like a perfectly timed BBQ brisket coming off the grill!

2. Improving Customer Experience
Though many believe AI chatbots can be effective, a similar number still think human representatives hold the crown. This indicates that optimism around AI is often based on future potential rather than current performance. However, as technology evolves, we might see chatbots becoming more intuitive and personable—like having your very own Southern hospitality expert available 24/7.

3. Adapting to Customer Needs
As AI technology advances, expect tools to become more adaptable. Think chatbots that can adjust their tone based on a customer’s mood or visual tools that cater to various accessibility needs. For now, it’s wise for businesses to offer AI interactions as a helpful addition rather than a full-blown replacement for good old-fashioned human interaction.

As Charlotte’s business community gears up for the future, don’t forget to explore the funding solutions that can help make your AI dreams a reality. If you’re ready to fuel your business growth with innovative tools, give Viking Funding a call at 754-812-9181. We’re just a ring away from helping you unlock your business’s potential!