Let’s face it — as a small or medium-sized business owner, you’ve likely been inundated with messages about the transformative power of artificial intelligence. The promise of increased efficiency, enhanced customer experiences and data-driven decision-making is alluring. However, the path to implementing AI can seem daunting, especially considering the costs and complexities involved. This is where a strategic approach using AI consulting retainers can be a game-changer for your business.

The big implementation challenge

Traditionally, bringing AI capabilities in-house has been a resource-intensive endeavor. The upfront costs can be staggering, ranging from $500,000 to $1 million for a mid-sized business. This initial investment typically covers infrastructure setup, software licenses and the hiring of specialized AI talent. But the financial commitment doesn’t stop there. Ongoing operational costs — including monthly cloud computing fees, salaries for AI experts and continuous software updates — can easily run between $50,000 to $100,000 per month.

These figures are enough to give any prudent business owner pause. The question then becomes: Is there a way to harness the power of AI without this hefty price tag? The answer lies in a more flexible and cost-effective approach: AI consulting retainers.

Related: Using AI Doesn’t Have to Be Unethical — Build a Values-Driven AI Policy in 3 Steps

What does an AI consulting retainer offer?

AI consulting retainers offer a middle ground between fully outsourcing your AI needs and building an in-house team from scratch. Under this model, you engage an AI consulting firm on an ongoing basis, typically for a fixed monthly fee. This fee, often ranging from $15,000 to $30,000 per month, grants you access to a team of AI experts, cutting-edge technologies and industry best practices.

The key advantage of this approach is its ability to dramatically reduce both upfront and ongoing costs. By leveraging a consulting firm’s existing infrastructure and expertise, you sidestep the need for massive initial investments in hardware, software and personnel. You’re essentially renting not just technology but also the brainpower needed to implement it effectively.

What’s the financial benefit, you ask?

The cost savings of the retainer model extend far beyond the obvious reduction in monthly expenses. Consider the hidden costs you’re avoiding:

• Recruitment and retention of AI talent is a significant challenge in today’s competitive market. By opting for a retainer, you bypass the expensive and time-consuming process of building an in-house AI team. You’re also mitigating the risk of losing key personnel and the knowledge they bring with them.
• Infrastructure setup and maintenance can be a substantial ongoing expense. With a retainer model, these costs are absorbed by the consulting firm. They handle the complexities of cloud computing, data storage, and security, allowing you to focus on your core business.
• Software licensing for enterprise-level AI tools can be prohibitively expensive for many SMBs. Consulting firms, thanks to their scale, can offer access to these tools as part of their service, spreading the cost across multiple clients.

Related: How to Successfully Implement AI into Your Business — Overcoming Challenges and Building a Future-Ready Team

What’s the biggest advantage?

One of the most significant advantages of the retainer model is its flexibility. As your business needs evolve, you can scale your AI capabilities up or down without the constraints of fixed infrastructure or long-term commitments to specialized staff.

This flexibility is particularly valuable in the rapidly changing world of AI. It allows you to experiment with different AI applications, pivot your strategy based on results, and stay agile in response to market changes. You’re not locked into a single approach or technology, which is crucial in a field that’s evolving as quickly as AI.

But, perhaps the most compelling argument for the retainer model is the access it provides to top-tier AI expertise. When you engage a consulting firm, you’re not just getting technology — you’re tapping into a wealth of knowledge and experience.

These firms work across various industries, giving them insights into best practices and innovative applications of AI. They stay current with the latest developments in the field, something that can be challenging for an in-house team focused on day-to-day operations. This breadth of experience can be invaluable in identifying unique opportunities for your business and avoiding common pitfalls.

Implementing AI comes with its share of risks, from data privacy concerns to ethical considerations. Navigating these challenges requires specialized knowledge that many SMBs lack in-house. AI consulting firms are well-versed in these issues and can help ensure your AI initiatives comply with relevant regulations and industry standards.

Moreover, they can guide you through the complex landscape of AI ethics, helping you implement solutions that are not only effective but also responsible and trustworthy. This expertise can be crucial in building customer trust and avoiding potential reputational damage.

So, if you’re ready to explore how AI can benefit your business through a consulting retainer, consider these steps:

1. Assess your AI readiness: Evaluate your current data infrastructure, business processes, and potential areas where AI could add value.
2. Define clear objectives: Identify specific business problems or opportunities where AI could make a significant impact.
3. Research potential partners: Look for AI consulting firms with experience in your industry and a track record of working with SMBs.
4. Request proposals: Reach out to several firms to understand their offerings, expertise and pricing models.
5. Start with a pilot project: Begin with a small, well-defined project to test the waters and demonstrate value before scaling up.
6. Measure and iterate: Continuously evaluate the results of your AI initiatives and be prepared to adjust your strategy based on outcomes.

As we already know, the AI revolution is no longer the exclusive domain of tech giants and large corporations. With the right approach, SMBs can harness the power of AI to drive innovation, improve efficiency and stay competitive in an increasingly digital marketplace. In fact, based on a recent study by Salesforce, SMBs are outpacing enterprises in AI adoption and feeling increasingly confident about it. By considering the AI consulting retainer model, you’re opening the door to cutting-edge technology and expertise without the prohibitive costs and risks of going it alone. And you are making your business far more competitive by utilizing a lean approach.

Remember, the goal is not just to implement AI but to do so in a way that drives real business value. With a thoughtful approach and the right partners, you can position your business at the forefront of the AI revolution, ready to thrive in the digital age.