AI And Digital Technology: Catalysts for Sustainable Business Practices Among Small and Medium Business

This study investigates the role of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies in advancing sustainable business practices (SBP) among small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The research adopts bibliometric analysis on data collected from the Scopus and Web of Science databases, covering publications from 2010–2024. Using the Biblioshiny (Bibliometrix R package) tool, an initial dataset of 586 documents was filtered resulting in 341 relevant documents for analysis. The findings reveal that the future of SBP lies in the adoption of AI and digital technologies. AI and digitalization enhance sustainable practices by improving resource utilisation, enabling decision-making based on data, and supporting predictive maintenance and waste reduction. However, SMEs face several hurdles to adoption, such as high costs of implementation, lack of technical expertise, shortage of skilled personnel and regulatory concerns. Some strategies suggested include better capacity building, phased technology adaptation, collaboration with stakeholders and partners, government incentives, and improved data infrastructure to facilitate adoption. The study lists some AI tools that is used by organisations globally in context of SBP. Future research may explore specific adoption models and collaborative digital ecosystems that enable SMEs to integrate AI and digital technologies, ensuring inclusive and scalable progress toward sustainable business development.