Small businesses across the U.S. are quickly adopting Artificial Intelligence. A new Goldman Sachs survey found that 76% of small businesses now use AI — and 93% say it has helped them. But there’s a big problem: most owners don’t know how to fully use AI. They lack training, support, and guidance. This blog looks at what the data says, why AI training programs matter more than ever, and how the AI CERTs Authorized Training Partner (ATP) Program is helping fill this gap. If you’re a training provider, educator, or business leader, this is your chance to become a partner and be part of the AI revolution.

The AI Boom Is Real — And Small Businesses Are Joining In 

Artificial Intelligence is no longer just for big tech companies. Small businesses are using it every day — for customer service, marketing, scheduling, and more. 

A March 2026 Goldman Sachs survey of 1,256 small business owners found that 76% currently use AI, and 93% of those users say it has had a positive impact on their business. Additionally, 84% say their main benefit is increased efficiency and productivity. 

The numbers keep climbing. Investment in AI among small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) jumped to 57% in 2025, up from 42% in 2024 and 36% in 2023 — a 58% rise in just two years. 

AI is not a trend anymore. It is quickly becoming a basic business tool, just like email or a website. Generative AI chatbots have climbed to second place (44%) among the most-used tech tools by small businesses — up from fifth place in 2024. 

Small business owners are also thinking long-term. Sixty-seven percent expect AI to increase their revenue, and 87% say AI helps their employees do better work rather than replacing them. 

The Big Problem: Adoption Without Understanding 

Here is the issue: most small business owners are using AI, but they don’t fully understand it. 

Only 14% of small businesses say AI is fully embedded in their core operations. That means the other 86% are using AI in a limited or scattered way. They are missing out on its real power. 

Why? The biggest reasons are lack of technical skills, trouble choosing the right tools, and concerns about data privacy. As a result, 73% of small business owners say they would benefit from better access to training and resources to help them implement AI successfully. 

This gap is not just an individual problem — it’s a national issue. Business leaders across the country have pointed out that if we don’t act now, the gap between businesses that can afford AI training and those that can’t will only grow wider. 

The good news? People know what the solution is. Eighty-five percent of small business owners support the AI for Main Street Act, a bipartisan bill that directs the Small Business Administration to help small businesses adopt AI through training and outreach. 

The message is clear: AI training programs are the missing piece. 

Why AI Training Programs Are the Answer 

Think about it this way: You wouldn’t hand someone a car and expect them to drive without lessons. AI is the same. Just having the tool is not enough. You need to know how to use it safely and effectively. 

Structured AI training programs give businesses the skills they need. They help employees understand how AI works, how to apply it in real situations, and how to avoid common mistakes. They also build trust — people are more likely to use AI tools when they feel confident about them. 

Women entrepreneurs, minority business owners, and solo operators are among those who most need access to tailored AI support, training, and resources — yet they are often the least likely to receive it. 

This is where certified, structured training makes a real difference. And it’s where the AI CERTs Authorized Training Partner (ATP) Program comes in. 

What Is the AI CERTs Authorized Training Partner (ATP) Program? 

AI CERTs is a globally recognized AI certification and education platform. It offers industry-aligned certifications and training programs that help individuals and businesses build real AI skills. 

The AI CERTs Authorized Training Partner (ATP) Program allows training providers, institutions, and educators to deliver AI CERTs courses and certifications under their own brand — backed by AI CERTs’ trusted curriculum and support. 

As an authorized training partner, you get access to world-class AI course content, marketing support, co-branding opportunities, and a global network of learners and employers who trust the AI CERTs name. 

Whether you’re a corporate training company, a university, a bootcamp, or an independent educator — the ATP program is designed to help you grow your AI education business while making a real impact. 

Ready to explore the ATP Program?  

Become an Authorized Training Partner 

How to Become a Partner with AI CERTs 

AI CERTs offers multiple partnership tracks based on your goals and background. Here’s what’s available: 

Authorized Academic Partner If you’re a school, college, or university, the Academic Partner program lets you bring certified AI education into your classrooms. Help students graduate with skills that employers actually want.  

 Explore the Academic Partner Program 

Association Partner Are you part of a professional association, trade group, or industry body? Partner with AI CERTs to offer AI training as a benefit to your members and advance your community’s readiness for AI.  

Explore the Association Partner Program 

Affiliate Partner If you’re an individual consultant, influencer, content creator, or business advisor, the Affiliate Partner program lets you earn while helping others access AI training. Refer learners and earn commissions.  

 Explore the Affiliate Partner Program 

No matter your background, there’s a path to become a partner that fits your goals. When you join the AI CERTs network, you’re not just selling courses — you’re helping people and businesses thrive in an AI-driven world. 

7. The Opportunity Is Now 

The data is clear. Small businesses want AI. They need training. And they are actively looking for trusted sources to help them learn. 

Seventy-three percent of small business owners say they would benefit from better access to training and implementation resources for AI. That’s a massive, underserved market. And it’s growing every day. 

Training providers, educators, and coaches who step up now will be the ones who lead the next wave of AI education. The demand is already there. What’s needed are trusted, certified, structured AI training programs that businesses can rely on. 

The AI CERTs Authorized Training Partner (ATP) Program gives you the tools, the credentials, and the support to be exactly that. 

Don’t wait for the market to pass you by. Whether you want to become a partner as a training center, an academic institution, a professional association, or an affiliate — now is the best time to act. 

Start here: AI CERTs Authorized Training Partner

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