Small and medium enterprises aren’t just “going digital” – they’re figuring out how to run with AI in 2025, manage too many tools, keep up with new privacy rules, measure growth without cookies, and defend themselves against cyber risks.

The businesses that will thrive are the ones that adopt AI in a structured way, cut wasted tools, protect customer trust, collect their own data and build security into everyday habits.

Here’s how to do that:

1) Make AI work for your business, not the other way around AI is no longer a test toy – 68% of SMBs already use it for content, customer service, or bookkeeping. But many lack the skills to scale it safely. Without structure, it can cause more chaos than value, now limiting growth as much as budget does.

What you can do:

Choose 2-3 aspects connected to revenue (sales follow-ups, customer support, invoicing) and define strict success metrics (time saved, conversion lift, customer satisfaction score). Write a short “AI use policy”: which tools are allowed, who owns them, how data is used. Before scaling, first test AI tools for accuracy, bias, latency, cost per action. Start by implementing AI or automation for 1 process, then slowly build from there to incorporate longer or more complex processes.

2) Too many tools, too little control

Post-pandemic buying left many teams with overlapping apps and shadow AI tools, and now many pay for overlapping tools they barely use – while exposing themselves to more risks.

What you can do:

List all apps you use, who owns them, and what they cost. Cut or merge tools that overlap (one chat system, one file storage, etc.). Approve new tools carefully to avoid hidden risks.

3) Privacy and email rules got stricter

Customers care more about privacy, and regulators are catching up. Email platforms (like Gmail and Outlook) also now punish bulk senders who don’t follow rules – so unverified emails land in spam, impacting B2B/B2C email growth and marketing campaigns for anyone sending at volume.

What you can do:

Map where your customer data is stored and make sure it’s handled safely. Implement one-click unsubscribe buttons and monitor complaint rates. Be transparent about how you use AI features with customer data.

4) Measuring growth without cookies

Even though Google scrapped plans to fully kill third-party cookies in Chrome, cross-site tracking is unreliable, and businesses that depend only on old methods will see gaps in their marketing.

What you can do:

Focus on the data your customers share directly with you (email sign-ups, accounts, surveys). Use new tools that measure results without cookies.

5) Cyber risk in the AI era

AI is a double-edged sword: it can stop attacks faster, but it also creates new risks if left unmanaged. Breaches are still costly – often millions of dollars in damages.

What you can do:

Set rules for AI tools: limit access keys, check plugins, log activity. Train staff to recognize AI-assisted scams, like deepfake voices and videos.

6) Growing on LinkedIn means sparking conversation

Algorithms now reward posts that share knowledge and invite comments – not just promotional links.

What you can do:

Share one useful tip, a tool you have created, or a review of a tool each week. Use 3-5 specific hashtags. End posts with a question that invites replies and for people to engage with you to receive the tool in question.

How is AI helping your business, and where is it still a challenge? Share your experience and business insights in the comments below.

#SME #Growth #AI #Privacy #Cybersecurity