THE ROLE OF AI TECHNOLOGIES IN INCREASING STARTUP COMPETITIVENESS

Abstract

Relevance. In the conditions of the digital transformation of the economy and the strengthening of global competition, artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming one of the key factors in the formation of competitive advantages of startups. For innovative enterprises that operate in conditions of limited resources, high uncertainty and dynamic market changes, the use of AI technologies opens up opportunities for accelerated product development, optimization of business processes, personalization of customer experience and reduction of operating costs. The relevance of the study increases in the conditions of geopolitical instability, war challenges and post-war economic recovery, when the ability of startups to quickly adapt, ensure the sustainability of business models and access to new markets is critically important. That is why the study of the role of artificial intelligence in increasing the competitiveness of startups is scientifically and practically significant.

The purpose of the study is to justify the role of artificial intelligence in increasing the competitiveness of startups, to determine the main directions of their application in business models, and to formulate recommendations for the effective integration of innovative solutions into the activities of enterprises in crisis and post-crisis conditions.

Methods. In the research process, the methods of analysis and synthesis (to generalize theoretical approaches to the use of AI in startups), generalization (to highlight the key factors of competitiveness), comparative analysis, and case studies (on the example of Fintech, Agrotech, and IT startups) were used.

Results. The article examines the impact of artificial intelligence on key aspects of startup operations, including sales and marketing, analytics and strategic planning, resource management, team effectiveness, and customer experience. It has been determined that the integration of AI allows startups to improve forecasting accuracy, accelerate management decision-making, reduce transaction costs and ensure scalability of business models. Practical examples of the use of artificial intelligence in the Fintech, Agrotech and IT sectors were analyzed, confirming its universal nature and significant impact on the formation of sustainable competitive advantages. The main challenges of AI implementation have been identified, including the lack of quality data, ethical and legal risks, and the complexity of integration into existing business processes.

Practical value of the study. The obtained research results can be used in the formation of a development strategy, the implementation of AI solutions in business processes, as well as in the development of management and marketing strategies aimed at increasing competitiveness in the digital economy.

Conclusions. Artificial intelligence is one of the key tools for increasing the competitiveness of startups, as it contributes to the optimization of operational processes, personalization of interaction with customers, and the formation of innovative business models. The study found that, despite the existing limitations and risks, the long-term benefits of AI adoption are far outweighed by enabling the sustainable development of startups in a global digital environment.Prospects for further research include an assessment of the impact of AI on the financial results of startups, the development of standards for the ethical use of artificial intelligence, and the adaptation of innovative technologies to the conditions of the national economy.