AI adoption shape SMB priorities for 2026: report

LinkedIn identifies skills gaps and uneven uptake.

Small businesses in Singapore are entering 2026 with a focus on technology adoption, brand credibility and professional networks, according to LinkedIn’s Work Change Report.

The research identifies these three areas as key factors shaping how small businesses scale and compete, whilst highlighting persistent gaps in AI adoption and literacy.

AI is increasingly used to support automation, data-led decision-making and marketing execution. However, only 26% of professionals use AI for advanced tasks such as strategy or data analysis, whilst fewer than half apply it consistently in daily work.

AI literacy skills amongst employees at firms with 11–50 staff rose 67% year on year (YoY), compared with 99% growth at companies with more than 1,001 employees. Whilst 49% of SMB employees said they are learning AI with employer support, 50% remain unsure which skills to prioritise. Demand for applied learning remains strong, with interest in real-life projects, on-the-job application and virtual training.

Although 80% of SMB marketers said AI enables faster content creation, 73% believe human voices are becoming more important. Small businesses placed greater emphasis on community-driven content, with 76.6% prioritising authenticity compared with 60% at larger firms.

Professionals at companies with 50 employees or fewer expanded their networks by 11% year on year, compared with 9% at large enterprises, supporting activities such as lead generation and hiring.

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