ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ADOPTION IN STARTUPS VS. CORPORATIONS

Abstract

This paper examines differences in artificial intelligence (AI) adoption between startups and established corporations from a management and business strategy perspective. The purpose of the study is to explore how organizational structure, managerial flexibility, and strategic priorities influence AI adoption decisions across different organizational forms. Using a comparative qualitative approach, the study draws on secondary data analysis and insights from prior empirical research to identify dominant adoption patterns. The findings indicate that startups tend to adopt AI more rapidly and experimentally, driven by agility and fast decision-making processes, whereas corporations approach AI adoption more cautiously due to hierarchical structures, risk management practices, and governance considerations. The paper contributes to the management literature by clarifying how organizational characteristics shape AI-related strategic behavior and offers practical implications for managers seeking to align AI initiatives with business strategy.