Community Businesses Need to Show Up in AI Search, Not Just Google

September 15, 2026

Small Black-owned businesses need to adapt to AI-powered search tools, as approximately 45% of customers now use AI for local business searches compared to just 6% the previous year. Business owners should optimize their online presence by maintaining updated Google Business Profiles with Black-owned designation badges, encouraging detailed customer reviews across multiple platforms, and creating conversational website content that answers common questions. The shift from traditional keyword searches to conversational AI queries means businesses must ensure their information is consistent across all digital platforms, from social media to review sites to their main websites.

Who is affected

Black business owners and entrepreneurs operating local small businesses (barbershops, restaurants, nail spas, plumbers, grocery stores, retail establishments)
Black Americans who intentionally seek to support Black-owned businesses
Local customers who conduct business searches (approximately 45% now using AI search tools)
High-intent buyers planning to spend money at local businesses soon

What action is being taken

Customers are using AI tools like ChatGPT, Google Maps, Apple Maps, Siri, Yelp, Instagram, TikTok, and Nextdoor for conversational local business searches
Business owners are updating Google Business Profiles with photos, contact information, and Black-owned business banners
Businesses are encouraging customers to leave reviews on trusted websites

Why it matters

This represents a fundamental shift in how consumers discover local businesses, with AI search adoption jumping from 6% to 45% in one year. For Black-owned businesses specifically, this matters because many Black Americans actively seek to support Black-owned establishments but need reliable ways to find and verify them. Local searches typically indicate high purchase intent, meaning businesses that aren't optimized for AI search are losing immediate revenue opportunities. Additionally, maintaining an updated and consistent online presence serves as proof that a business is still operational and credible, reducing customer hesitation about visiting unfamiliar locations.

What's next

Update Google Business Profiles with current photos, addresses, phone numbers, and Black-owned business banners
Get added to local or industry trade online directory listings
Implement methods to encourage credible customer reviews (QR codes, discounts)
Create or enhance business websites with service descriptions, pricing, about pages, FAQs, and blogs
Audit web presence across all platforms for consistency
Use tools like GetNextNet.ai to monitor company mentions across the web
Create educational content (videos, blog posts) that answers common customer questions

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint