Family-owned enterprises are rapidly integrating artificial intelligence into their operations, but uneven digital investment is leaving many exposed to future risks, according to new research from Deloitte Private.
The study, based on a global survey of 1,587 family businesses, shows that 86% are already using AI in some capacity, signaling a shift from experimentation to widespread adoption.
“Family businesses increasingly recognize that AI is no longer experimental but a requirement to how they compete, operate, and grow,” says Yali Yin, Deloitte Private leader, Deloitte Asia Pacific. “Deloitte Private’s research shows that many are still moving from ad hoc digital initiatives toward more structured, enterprise-wide strategies. How leaders choose to adopt and scale AI today can directly influence near-term performance and long-term competitiveness, especially at a time when the pace of technological change leaves little room for hesitation.”
While AI uptake is high, digital maturity remains inconsistent. Nearly half of respondents—48%—say their current investment in operational technology is only moderate or insufficient to support future needs.
The broader report underscores this divide: 37% of family businesses describe their digital investment as only moderate, while another 11% report minimal progress, highlighting a sector still transitioning toward full-scale transformation.
This gap is raising concern. Just over half of respondents globally view weak technology adoption as a meaningful risk to growth over the next two years, with similar sentiment across North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific.
Despite these shortcomings, most family businesses report tangible gains from their technology investments. Productivity, efficiency, and competitiveness rank among the most frequently cited benefits, with roughly two-thirds of respondents pointing to improvements in these areas.
Employee sentiment is also positive. According to the findings, 94% say technology has made work easier and improved workplace conditions to at least a moderate degree.
The report further notes that technology initiatives are being deployed across a wide range of functions—from operations and finance to cybersecurity and customer engagement—though many implementations remain partial rather than fully integrated.
AI is now embedded across key business functions, particularly in process automation, risk management, and customer relationship management. Each of these areas was cited by roughly four in 10 respondents as a primary use case.
Globally, 44% of family businesses report active use of AI across multiple areas, with another 42% applying it selectively—leaving only a small minority yet to engage with the technology.
This rapid adoption reflects a broader shift in mindset. What was once viewed as an optional upgrade is now seen as central to maintaining competitiveness in a fast-changing business environment.
Even as adoption accelerates, many family businesses are weighing the risks that come with transformation, including financial constraints, cybersecurity concerns, and uncertainty around returns on investment.
“Family businesses often take a long-term view, and technology is now firmly part of that legacy conversation,” says Dr. Rebecca Gooch, Deloitte Private Global Head of Insights, Deloitte Global. “The choices leaders make today around AI and digital transformation can influence not just immediate performance, but the kind of business they ultimately hand over to the next generation. Family businesses are in a period of transition—one where they are making real progress but still navigating the shift from incremental adoption to enterprise-wide digital maturity.”
The findings point to a sector at an inflection point: making meaningful progress in digital transformation but still grappling with how to scale technology investments in a way that ensures long-term resilience.
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