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Survey: Is AI replacing insurance agents for entrepreneurs?
Entrepreneurs are using AI tools for insurance research at rates comparable to insurance agents and peer networks, according to a new ERGO NEXT survey of small business owners.
Of those who have used AI, most trust the information they receive, signaling that entrepreneurs are becoming more comfortable using digital tools to navigate complex business topics that have traditionally required human expertise.
However, the data does not point to a future where AI replaces advisors altogether.
Instead, entrepreneurs appear to be using AI as a complement to human expertise, combining the speed and accessibility of technology with the judgment and experience of trusted advisors.
Key findings
Our survey of 501 small business owners reveals:
- 36% of entrepreneurs have used an AI chatbot or search tool to explore business insurance options.
- 94% of entrepreneurs who have used AI for business insurance advice trust the information provided.
- 31% of entrepreneurs who have used AI for business insurance advice trust the information provided more than other sources.
Continue reading to learn more about how small business owners are using AI and other sources to learn about and purchase business insurance.
AI is now part of the business insurance decision process
Over a third of entrepreneurs (36%) have used an AI chatbot or search tool like ChatGPT or Claude to explore business insurance options. That’s surpassing 33% who have consulted other business owners and 31% who have consulted an insurance agent.
That parity is significant. It suggests that business owners are increasingly comfortable turning to AI, but they’re not abandoning human advisors. The future of AI in insurance is likely to be collaborative, with technology supporting, not replacing, professional guidance.
ERGO NEXT
With AI trust high, adoption could climb
As more business owners turn to AI tools for insurance research, confidence in the information these platforms provide is remarkably high. The survey findings suggest that trust is becoming a key driver of AI adoption in insurance-related decision-making.
Among entrepreneurs who have used AI for business insurance advice, 94% say they trust the information they receive. Nearly one-third (31%) trust AI tools more than other sources, while 63% trust them about the same. Only 7% say they trust AI less than traditional sources of information.
For many entrepreneurs, AI tools provide a fast, accessible way to learn about coverage options, understand industry terminology and prepare for conversations with agents or insurers.
ERGO NEXT
Insurance agents will play a more strategic role as AI plays a greater role in insurance advice
Today, 64% of small businesses that have insurance are underinsured.
In the coming years, growing AI adoption may help close that gap by making insurance information more accessible and easier to understand.
And as entrepreneurs gain access to more information and a clearer understanding of their options, agents have an opportunity to focus less on explaining the basics and more on providing tailored guidance.
Methodology
ERGO NEXT Insurance surveyed 501 U.S. small business owners, founders and sole proprietors about their business risk profiles. The respondent pool consisted of 250 entrepreneurs in their first year of business and 251 entrepreneurs in their first two to five years of business. The survey was conducted from April 29 to May 12, 2026.
Frequently asked questions about small business insurance research
How is AI being used in insurance today?
AI is increasingly being used in insurance research to help consumers understand coverage options, compare policies, comprehend insurance terminology and identify potential risks. According to ERGO NEXT research, 36% of small business owners have already used an AI chatbot or search tool to explore business insurance options.
Is AI changing the insurance industry?
Yes, AI is transforming how consumers research, purchase and manage their coverage. While insurance agents remain important advisors in this process, AI tools are becoming a trusted source of information, helping business owners make more informed decisions.
Do small business owners trust AI for insurance information?
Among small business owners who have used AI tools, 94% say they trust the information from those tools the same as or more than other sources, according to a 2026 survey from ERGO NEXT.
Do small businesses use insurance agents?
Yes, 31% of small business owners say they’ve consulted an insurance agent when researching the right type of insurance for their business, according to a 2026 survey from ERGO NEXT.
This story was produced by ERGO NEXT and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
