10 Key AI Statistics for 2025
In 2025, artificial intelligence (AI) is a commercial reality reshaping industries. For Quebec SMEs, understanding this shift is essential to remain competitive. Beyond the buzz around tools like ChatGPT, AI’s true potential lies in optimizing operations and driving strategic growth. These 10 key AI statistics decode global and local trends for your business.
What is AI?
Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to a computer system’s ability to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence, such as speech recognition, decision-making, or data analysis. It encompasses several technologies, including machine learning and generative AI, which enable machines to learn and improve from experience.
The global AI market will reach US$244 billion in 2025
The AI market is growing rapidly. Statista forecasts it will reach US$244 billion in 2025 and exceed US$826 billion by 2030. This expansion across all sectors means that competitors of Quebec businesses are investing heavily.
This growth is driven by the convergence of three factors: massive data availability (Big Data), increased computing power, and more sophisticated algorithms.
Only 12.2% of Canadian businesses use AI
Canada is lagging behind. According to Statistics Canada, only 12.2% of Canadian businesses had adopted AI in the second quarter of 2025. That represents a significant opportunity for Quebec SMEs to act now and get ahead of 88% of their competitors.
The challenge lies in the practical application of these new technologies, especially for companies that sometimes lack the resources or expertise to launch their digital transformation.
78% of organizations worldwide have adopted AI
The contrast with Canadian data is striking. Globally, 78% of organizations were already using AI in 2024, up from 55% in 2023. This key AI statistic for Quebec highlights the urgency for local businesses to take action without delay.
Adoption is particularly strong in marketing, customer service and operations departments. This shows that AI is no longer an R&D project but an operational tool that delivers value day to day.
71% of companies use generative AI
Generative AI is driving this adoption. A McKinsey study found that 71% of companies were using generative AI tools in 2024, an increase of nearly 40% in one year. Tools like ChatGPT have become allies for content creation and data analysis, offering an accessible entry point for SMEs.
For these companies, generative AI’s appeal lies in its low learning curve and immediate productivity gains. It automates time-consuming tasks without requiring large upfront investments, democratizing access to artificial intelligence.
AI could add US$15.7 trillion to the global economy
The economic impact potential of AI is enormous. PwC estimates that AI could contribute up to US$15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030, driven largely by productivity gains and improved products. This is an economic wave Quebec businesses cannot ignore.
This value doesn’t come only from automation. It’s also generated by AI’s ability to create hyper-personalized customer experiences, optimize supply chains in real time, and accelerate the discovery of new products and services.
In Quebec, 18% of the workforce is vulnerable to automation
AI’s impact is felt locally. The Institut du Québec estimates that 18% of jobs in Quebec are vulnerable to automation. This does not necessarily mean widespread job losses, but rather a deep transformation of tasks that will require training for teams to work alongside AI.
“Vulnerable” does not mean “doomed.” It indicates that routine tasks within these jobs will likely be automated, freeing up time for employees to focus on distinctly human skills such as critical thinking, creativity, emotional intelligence and strategy.
AI will create more jobs than it destroys
The global outlook is positive. The World Economic Forum predicts that while AI could displace 85 million jobs by 2030, it could also create 97 million.
These new roles, which barely existed a few years ago, include positions such as “prompt engineer,” “AI trainer” and “AI ethicist.” The key for companies and workers will be investing heavily in continuous training to adapt to this new reality.
US$33.9 billion invested in generative AI in 2024
Investor confidence remains unwavering. Private investments in generative AI reached US$33.9 billion in 2024, an 18.7% increase year over year. In Quebec, this momentum is supported by a strong innovation ecosystem such as IVADO.
This influx of capital fuels a race to innovate, developing more powerful models and attracting specialized talent. For Quebec businesses, the local innovation ecosystem is a major asset to stay competitive and fund their AI projects.
A return on investment of +20% in sales and −30% in costs
AI adoption is a profitable strategy. Case studies show that AI in marketing and sales can generate a 20% increase in sales and a 30% reduction in support costs. These figures demonstrate that AI is a powerful growth lever.
Concretely, this ROI is achieved by using AI to analyze customer data and predict buying behaviours, enabling targeted marketing campaigns that convert better. Likewise, intelligent chatbots can instantly handle a large share of customer inquiries, freeing agents to handle more complex cases.
95% of enterprise generative AI projects fail
Here’s a statistic that calls for caution. An MIT report reveals that 95% of generative AI pilots never reach production due to a lack of strategy or skills. This underscores the importance of working with experts like Exolnet to ensure successful implementation.
Failure often stems from treating AI as merely an IT project rather than a strategic business transformation. A successful AI initiative requires a clear vision, quality data, team buy-in and rigorous change management—key elements of expert guidance.
Conclusion: AI is a strategic opportunity for Quebec
These 10 key AI statistics show that the revolution is underway. For Quebec businesses, now is the time to act, and the current adoption gap offers a prime window of opportunity. Integrating AI should be a strategic process aligned with your business objectives to become a powerful catalyst for growth.
Ready to discover how AI could transform your business operations? Contact the experts at Exolnet for a strategic consultation.
FAQ
What are the most important AI statistics for Quebec?
Only 12.2% of Canadian businesses have adopted AI, suggesting a similar lag in Quebec. Additionally, 18% of Quebec’s workforce is in sectors vulnerable to automation, highlighting the urgency to accelerate training.
How can a Quebec SME start using AI?
Start small. Use generative AI tools for concrete tasks (copywriting, marketing). Then identify a repetitive internal process and explore automation solutions with a clear return on investment.
In which main sectors is AI used in Quebec?
Finance and aerospace are pioneering industries. Today, however, AI is also being deployed in retail, healthcare, manufacturing and professional services, among other areas.
Should we fear for our jobs because of AI?
The statistics point to a transformation rather than the disappearance of jobs. AI excels at repetitive tasks, allowing humans to focus on strategy and creativity. The key is to view AI as a collaborator rather than a competitor.
