News & Media

NC Ranks 9th Nationally In Business Using AI. Here’s Why

North Carolina is emerging as a leader in AI adoption, with over 22% of its businesses utilizing the technology, ranking ninth nationwide.

By Meghan Bragg, WCNC 

North Carolina is becoming a leader in artificial intelligence adoption among businesses, ranking ninth in the nation, according to a new LendingTree report. Over 22% of businesses in the state already utilize AI, with many more planning to incorporate it in the near future.

Matt Schulz, chief consumer finance analyst at LendingTree, attributed this high adoption rate to North Carolina’s status as a tech-forward state with a strong presence of financial institutions.

“I’m not surprised at all that North Carolina ranks high on the list in part because it’s a tech-forward state,” Schulz said. “There is a lot of financial institutions in that state and no one should be surprised that NC is on the cutting edge with using AI in businesses.”

In Charlotte, AI adoption statistics are even more impressive. Nearly one in four businesses reports utilizing AI, positioning the city ahead of major metropolitan areas like New York, Dallas and Atlanta in AI usage.

Schulz expressed confidence that AI adoption in Charlotte will continue to increase, citing the city’s rapid growth and its tech-friendly environment.

“I think AI adoption in Charlotte is only going to grow in part because the town is growing rapidly and because it’s so tech-heavy and money-heavy,” he said.

The report also sheds light on the implications of AI for the workforce. Most companies are using the technology for repetitive tasks such as summarizing information, analyzing data, drafting content, or assisting with customer service.

Despite concerns about job displacement, the study found that 95% of businesses using AI reported no changes in their workforce due to the technology.