How Much Does It Cost to Set Up AI for a Small Business?
Setting up AI for a small business ranges from about $1,500 CAD for a single AI worker (like a receptionist or chatbot) to $3,500–$7,500 for a multi-worker system, and $10,000+ for a fully custom app. Most businesses start with the one automation tied to lost revenue and expand once it's paying for itself.
Typical setup costs by scope
You don't need to buy everything at once — most start small.
- Single AI worker (receptionist, chatbot, quote agent): from $1,500 CAD
- Multi-worker system (calls + follow-up + booking): $3,500–$7,500
- Fully custom AI app or internal tool: $10,000+
- Optional ongoing Care Plan: $99/mo for monitoring and tweaks
Where to start for the fastest payback
For most small businesses, the fastest return is stopping lost leads — a missed-call recovery or AI receptionist, or a lead follow-up agent. Start there, measure the recovered revenue, and add the next piece. A short discovery call pinpoints your fastest payback.
Recommended package
AI Starter System
Live in ~5 business days
Fixed price in CAD · USD / AUD / NZD quotes on request. Built remotely for small businesses across Canada, the US, Australia & New Zealand.
One AI worker, live in days.
Get a setup quoteCommon questions
No — most businesses start with one AI worker tied to lost revenue, prove the payback, then expand. It keeps the upfront cost low and the return clear.
Want this built for your business?
Tell us about your setup and we'll send a plan and a fixed quote within one business day.