AI for Small Business Marketing on a Budget 2026
TL;DR: Full marketing department for $33/month with AI tools
Using AI for Small Business Marketing
AI tools have made small business marketing faster, cheaper, and more effective in 2026. This guide shows you exactly how to get started with a step-by-step approach that works for beginners and experienced users alike.
Step 1: Content with ChatGPT ($20/mo)
Blog posts, emails, social media at scale
Step 2: Design with Canva ($13/mo)
Professional graphics without a designer
Step 3: Analytics with free tools
Google Analytics + Search Console for insights
Key Takeaways
- Start with free AI tools before investing in paid subscriptions
- AI produces first drafts — always review and customize the output
- Combine multiple AI tools for the best results
- Track your time savings to measure ROI
FAQ
Do I need technical skills?
No. Modern AI tools are designed for non-technical users. If you can type a question, you can use AI for small business marketing.
What’s the best free option?
ChatGPT Free is the best starting point for most small business marketing tasks. Add free tiers of specialized tools as needed.
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