In an independently produced survey with Amárach, over 350 small businesses nationwide were asked questions related to business costs and business sentiment. Although the percentage of small businesses reporting increased costs are significantly down from last year (84%), businesses are still struggling with an high-cost base with 44 percent of businesses reporting no change in costs in the past year.
The same survey shows that 9 out of 10 small firms surveyed are using artificial intelligence (AI) for one or more business processes. The most popular uses for AI were reported to be automation of simple tasks (66%) and data analytics reporting (44%).
Key Findings
For businesses that have experienced a rise in costs in the past 12 months
Have reported an increase in employment costs
Have reported an increase in business costs
Could not trade for more than 6 months without additional funding, up from 35% reported last year
Lack of technical expertise followed by time pressures and a lack of a clear business strategy.
Use AI tools, mostly for automation and analytical functions
Documents / SFA Small Business & AI Surveys 2025
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