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New Report: 93% of Small Businesses Expect Growth as AI Delivers Measurable Results

PR Newswire•03/11/2026•08:30 ET
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Key Highlights

  • ➤93% of small-business owners expect moderate-to-significant growth over the next year
  • ➤68% of owners are on track to meet or beat their 2026 profit plan
  • ➤75% of small businesses bypassed traditional banks for capital
  • ➤61% of small businesses use AI; 90% of users report measurable positive impact
  • ➤Median fintech loan inflows rose 11% year over year

Expert Statements

Jim Granat, Co-President of Small Business Lending at Enova

“Small business owners are carrying real momentum into the end of the year, and they're keeping their customers at the center of their plans.”

Jim Granat, Co-President of Small Business Lending at Enova

“Seasonal demand and consumer spending are among the biggest factors guiding their strategy, and with confidence holding steady, they're planning ahead for the growth they expect.”

Jim Granat, Co-President of Small Business Lending at Enova

“At OnDeck, we're focused on making it easier for small business owners to say yes to those opportunities, including through the automated approval process we recently launched.”

David Snitkof, General Manager of Small Business at Ocrolus

“The cash flow data shows small businesses operating from a position of strength.”

David Snitkof, General Manager of Small Business at Ocrolus

“Revenue rebounded and kept pace with expenses, and owners continue to look beyond traditional banks as they fund growth.”

New Report: 93% of Small Businesses Expect Growth as AI Delivers Measurable Results PR Newswire

Three in four owners continue to look beyond traditional banks for capital as inflation remains the top concern

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