New research from the Heldrich Center, with funding from the New Jersey State Policy Lab, explores how public AI initiatives can better support small businesses in New Jersey. The blog post by Sofia Cacchione, a Graduate Research Assistant at the Heldrich Center, examines the opportunities AI presents for improving efficiency, customer engagement, innovation, and decision-making, while also highlighting persistent barriers such as limited financial resources, technology skills gaps, infrastructure challenges, and concerns about privacy and bias. The research also underscores the need for targeted investments and inclusive policies to ensure women- and minority-owned businesses can fully benefit from AI adoption.