VCs predict strong enterprise AI adoption next year — again (techcrunch.com)

Venture capitalists are forecasting a significant shift in enterprise AI adoption by 2026, following three years marked by heightened investment and ongoing skepticism about AI's value in business operations. Despite heavy funding in AI startups since the launch of OpenAI's ChatGPT, a recent MIT survey revealed that an overwhelming 95% of enterprises are not experiencing meaningful returns from their AI investments. The VC consensus suggests that 2026 will be pivotal for enterprises, as they begin to harness AI more effectively and realize its potential benefits. Industry experts predict a transition from experimentation to structured implementation, with a focus on developing custom models, optimizing existing workflows, and leveraging voice AI for enhanced human-computer interaction. Notably, a shift towards AI consulting is anticipated, as some companies evolve from product-based businesses to service-oriented models. As enterprises consolidate their AI investments and streamline vendor relationships, a clearer delineation in budget allocations is expected, favoring proven AI solutions while phasing out less effective tools. This upcoming evolution in enterprise AI could redefine operational efficiencies and catalyze a new wave of innovation across various industries.