Small Businesses Bet Big on Tech to Stay Ahead in 2026
In 2026, small businesses are gearing up to invest more in technology. A recent study shows that 55% of them plan to spend more on tech, while only a small 5% are looking to cut back. This shift highlights how important technology has become for staying competitive and meeting customer needs.
The Driving Forces Behind the Tech Push
Technology is no longer just an add-on for small businesses; it's a must-have. The study points out that customer expectations are the biggest reason behind this tech push, with 55% of businesses focusing on this. Close behind are the potential returns on investment and cost savings, which matter to 42% of businesses. Keeping up with competitors is also a big deal, driving 37% of these tech decisions.
Top Technologies for Investment
So, what tech are they investing in? Here's the breakdown:
- Web development: 39%
- Mobile app development: 38%
- Software development: 37%
- Artificial intelligence (AI): 32%
AI and automation are seen as key to streamlining workflows and boosting productivity.
Challenges and Solutions
But it's not all smooth sailing. Many small businesses struggle with tech execution. Limited in-house tech skills, rising costs, and economic uncertainty are major hurdles. To tackle these challenges, businesses are turning to external experts. Here's how they're dividing their tech support:
- Internal teams only: 45%
- Mix of in-house and outsourced help: 21%
- External partners only: 13%
When choosing external help, quality of work and cost are the top priorities. This shows that small businesses are looking for reliable partners to help them implement technology effectively and stay competitive.
