AI Adoption Surging Among US Businesses, But Startups and Tech Hubs Pushing the Pace

Only 6% of US businesses used AI technologies in 2018, but adoption was higher among large firms and in AI hubs like Silicon Valley.

AI adoption has risen significantly since 2018 according to surveys, with 79% exposed to generative AI and 22% using it regularly.

Early AI adoption was concentrated in California, Nashville, San Antonio, Las Vegas and other cities. This clustering can help ideas flow but risks leaving some areas behind.

Beyond just AI tech, companies are innovating processes, jobs, and skills to implement AI tools in practice. This "nuts and bolts" innovation is key.

Startup founders motivated to bring new ideas and give back to communities strongly correlate with AI adoption, suggesting startups are pushing the pace and direction of change.