How Washington and Hawaii Businesses Are Using Tech in 2025 (+Report)
Washington and Hawaii businesses are embracing AI, automation, and digital tools to stay competitive
Small businesses across the U.S. are rapidly adopting technology to drive growth, streamline operations, and stay resilient in a changing economy. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 “Empowering Small Business” report highlights how digital tools — especially AI — are reshaping the way small businesses operate, hire, and plan for the future.
From increased sales and staffing to rising optimism, the data shows that tech-forward businesses are thriving — particularly in Washington and Hawaii, where adoption rates are among the highest in the country.
As we observe Cybersecurity Awareness Month, it’s also a timely reminder that with more tech comes more responsibility. At Pacific IT Support, we’re breaking down the report and spotlighting trends in the communities we serve to help businesses stay informed, secure, and ahead of the curve.
Tech Is the New Business Backbone
Nearly 99% of small businesses nationwide now use at least one technology platform to run their operations. From accounting software to customer relationship tools, tech is helping owners save time, reduce errors, and stay organized.
Businesses using four or more platforms are seeing stronger growth in revenue, profits, and hiring. In fact, 84% of high-tech adopters reported sales growth, compared to just 77% of low-tech adopters.
What this means for you:
If your business is still juggling spreadsheets and sticky notes, it might be time to explore smarter tools. The right tech stack can make your life easier — and your business more profitable.
Read also: Cybersecurity Basics Every SMB Should Know
AI Is No Longer Just for the Big Guys
AI adoption has exploded. In 2025, 58% of small businesses are using generative AI tools like ChatGPT, Copilot, and others — more than double the rate from 2023. And it’s not just tech companies. Construction, healthcare, and manufacturing firms are using AI to automate tasks, improve customer service, and generate marketing content.
- 82% of AI users hired more staff last year.
- 85% saw increased sales.
- 84% reported higher profits.
What this means for you:
AI isn’t a buzzword — it’s a business booster. Whether it’s automating emails, analyzing data, or helping with customer support, AI can save time and money. And you don’t need a data science team to get started — many tools are plug-and-play.
Read also: What Great IT Should Really Do for Your Business
Spotlight on Washington
Washington’s small businesses are leaning into tech in a big way:
- 63% currently use an AI platform.
- 48% use generative AI chatbots.
- 80% believe AI will help their business in the future.
- 33% already use a cryptocurrency or stablecoin platform.
- 57% are concerned that a patchwork of state-level tech policies could drive up legal and compliance costs.
What this means for you:
Washington businesses are optimistic about AI, but they’re also wary of regulatory complexity. Having a trusted IT partner can help you stay compliant while making the most of emerging tech.
Spotlight on Hawaii
Hawaii’s small business community is also embracing innovation:
- 66% currently use an AI platform.
- 42% use generative AI chatbots.
- 66% believe AI will help their business in the future.
- 38% use a cryptocurrency or stablecoin platform.
- 86% are concerned about rising legal and compliance costs due to inconsistent tech regulations.
What this means for you:
Hawaii’s businesses are ahead of the curve in AI and crypto adoption, but they’re also facing serious concerns about policy fragmentation. Staying informed and supported is key to navigating this evolving landscape.
Tech = Confidence
Tech-savvy business owners are feeling optimistic.
84% say technology helps them grow, and 83% believe it helps them compete with larger companies. That’s a big deal in a world where agility and speed matter more than size.
What this means for you:
Tech levels the playing field. With the right tools, small businesses can punch above their weight — offering better service, faster response times, and smarter operations than ever before.
Read also: The MSP Checklist: What You Should Be Getting from Your IT Provider (But Might Not Be)
Upskilling for the Future
As AI becomes more common, businesses are investing in their teams to keep up. Among AI users:
- 41% provide AI tools and let employees learn by doing.
- 39% offer on-the-job training.
- 36% are hiring people with AI skills already in their toolkit.
What this means for you:
Training your team on new tech doesn’t have to be complicated. Even simple workshops or guided practice can go a long way. And if you’re hiring, tech-savvy candidates are more valuable than ever.
Read also: Smart IT Solutions for Businesses with Multiple Locations
Crypto Curiosity Is Growing
Digital payments are evolving, and small businesses are paying attention.
- 70% are interested in using cryptocurrency or stablecoins.
- 84% say they’d adopt it if it were easier to implement.
What this means for you:
While crypto isn’t mainstream yet, it’s worth keeping an eye on. As payment options expand, businesses that stay flexible will have an edge.
Cybersecurity Awareness Month Reminder
With all this tech adoption, cybersecurity is more important than ever. Now is a great time to ask:
- Are your systems protected from phishing and ransomware?
- Is your team trained to spot suspicious links?
- Do you have backups in place (and know where they are)?
- Are you prepared for compliance changes in your state?
What this means for you:
Cybersecurity isn’t just an IT issue — it’s a business survival issue. The more tech you use, the more you need to protect it.
Read also: How to Choose the Right IT Partner for Your Company
How Pacific IT Support Can Help
Whether you’re in Bellingham, Maui, or beyond, this report confirms what many small and mid-sized businesses already know: technology is essential — but navigating it can be overwhelming.
At Pacific IT Support, we partner with businesses across industries like construction, healthcare, education, nonprofits, real estate, hospitality, and manufacturing to deliver reliable, scalable, and secure IT solutions.
We help you:
- ✅ Choose the right tools for your business
- 🔐 Stay secure and compliant with evolving regulations
- 📚 Train your team to use tech confidently
- 🚫 Avoid costly mistakes and downtime
Whether you’re looking for IT support, a long-term IT partner, or help modernizing your infrastructure, we’re here to make technology work for you — simply and strategically.
👉 Let’s chat about how we can support your goals with smart, tailored IT solutions.
Contact Pacific IT Support Today
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