SMB Study Shows Small Banks Leading AI Adoption

CARY, N.C., Sept. 25, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- SAS, a global leader in data and AI, has released findings from a recent study that reveals small banks and credit unions are leading the charge in AI adoption among small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs).

The research highlights that financial institutions are at the forefront of AI deployment, with 64% of small banks and credit unions using AI in IT. This figure is significantly higher than in other industries, such as finance and risk (47%), marketing (44%), customer service (42%), and product development (39%). However, the study also points out that while AI use is growing, broader deployment faces several challenges.

Infrastructure constraints are a major bottleneck. Approximately 39% of respondents cited infrastructure as either not ready or too costly for wider AI implementation. Security, privacy, and compliance concerns are the top barriers to scaling AI, with 40% of small financial institutions expressing these worries. Additionally, fragmentation in data, analytics, and AI platforms poses another significant challenge, with 33% of respondents identifying it as a hurdle.

Despite these challenges, the study reveals that small banks and credit unions are making progress in integrating AI into their operations. Chris Marshall, Vice President of Financial Services at IDC, emphasized the importance of focusing internal resources where they create the most value and leveraging technology and implementation partners to extend their capabilities.

The near-term AI priorities for banking respondents include automating and streamlining core business processes, reducing costs through efficiency and automation, improving data quality and integration, and increasing product and service innovation. These priorities reflect a focus on practical, value-adding applications rather than cutting-edge, novelty-driven projects.

Alex Kwiatkowski, Director of Global Financial Services at SAS, noted that AI pilots often become isolated initiatives, with each team working in silos.

Expanding AI adoption beyond IT into areas such as finance and risk, marketing, customer service, and product development can lead to more significant, institution-wide benefits. Strengthening fraud and risk management, enhancing customer experience, and driving product innovation are among the potential outcomes.

SAS will host a webinar on October 16 to further explore these issues, focusing on practical, responsible strategies for turning AI ambition into business impact. The webinar will be available to all interested parties, providing a platform for deeper discussion and knowledge sharing.

The study underscores the importance of a holistic approach to AI implementation, addressing infrastructure, governance, and data challenges to unlock the full potential of AI in financial institutions. As SAS continues to support the AI journey of SMBs, the focus remains on practical, responsible strategies that drive meaningful impact.