AI Tools We Recommend
A short list of AI apps for small business. What each does, what it costs, and how to pick the right one for your task.
You don't need to use every AI tool. Most small businesses only need one or two. Below are the apps we recommend, what each one is best at, and which to try first if you're brand new.
New to AI?
Start with Claude.
It's the easiest to learn and the best place to start for writing emails, drafting documents, and getting answers fast. You can try it in about five minutes.
Recommended tools
Claude
Pick firstHelps you write.
Best for: Emails, proposals, SOPs, job postings, and anything that needs polish
Free / $20 mo
Perplexity
Helps you research.
Best for: Market checks, competitor info, prices, and regulations — with sources
Free / $20 mo
ChatGPT
Helps you think through almost anything.
Best for: Brainstorming, rough drafts, general Q&A, and quick problem-solving
Free / $20 mo
Grammarly
Helps you polish.
Best for: Fixing grammar, catching typos, and tightening tone before you hit send
Free / $12 mo
Canva AI
Helps you design.
Best for: Social posts, flyers, presentations, and simple branded visuals
Free / $15 mo
Zapier
Helps you automate.
Best for: Connecting your apps and cutting hours of copy-paste work each week
Free / $20+ mo
Want a deeper look at how these tools fit together?
AI Tools for Small Business — What to Use and When →Not sure which to pick?
Mostly need to write things?
Try Claude.
Need to research or find current info?
Try Perplexity.
Want to brainstorm or think things through?
Try ChatGPT.
Need to polish writing before sending?
Try Grammarly.
Need to design or create visuals?
Try Canva AI.
Want to automate repeat tasks?
Try Zapier.