How I'd Use AI in a Small Business in 2026
Everyone says use AI, nobody says where to start. The four things I'd set up in any small business from zero — what they cost, what they replace, and the one thing I'd never let AI near.
The short version
- Start with one paid AI chat account for the owner — around £20 a month, and it drafts everything you've been putting off
- Switch on AI in the tools you already pay for, but only one or two seats at first
- Automatic meeting notes is the biggest time-win for anyone who runs their week on calls
- Never let AI run payroll, send final quotes unchecked, or touch customer data in free tools