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In 2026, the fastest-growing small businesses for entrepreneurs are in business and the efficient use of AI, healthcare and wellness services, and clean energy. Read this to see which industries have the most opportunities in the next 12 months — and how small business owners are shaping the next phase of the economy.
NEXT’s list of fast-growing small businesses for the year is based on analysis of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Fastest Growing Occupations list, national news, cultural trends and research from the hundreds of types of professions across the country that we serve and protect.
Growing business and technology opportunities for entrepreneurs
Technology is rewriting what small businesses can do — and who can do it. From AI to clean tech, innovation is opening doors for entrepreneurs who help other businesses stay secure and connected.
- AI and machine learning consultants
Companies of all sizes are eager for guidance on how to use AI responsibly and effectively. Employment for computer and information research scientists is projected to grow 20% through 2034.
In particular, job postings for management consultants mentioning AI skills jumped from 0.2% to 12.4% in a year, showing how fast demand is accelerating. Entrepreneurs with backgrounds in computer science, data analysis or software engineering can build AI-focused consulting firms that help businesses automate tasks, analyze data and integrate AI tools.
- Cybersecurity and cloud infrastructure consulting
Cybersecurity has become a must-have for any internet-connected business. And employment of information security analysts is projected to grow 29% through 2034; much faster than average job growth. Gartner projects global spending on security services to grow 15% in 2025. reaching $86 billion, signaling steady demand.
If you’ve got IT or networking experience, this is an ideal space to go solo. Independent IT consultants can offer services like risk assessment, data protection and cloud migration. Most hold a degree in computer science or cybersecurity, alon