Free and low-cost AI tools for small businesses

Short version: you can get real value from AI for little or nothing. Start free, prove it, then pay only where the return is obvious.

Free tiers of the big assistants

The main AI assistants have free versions that are plenty for drafting emails, quotes and copy while you learn. Upgrade only when you hit a limit that is costing you time.

What you already pay for

Your accounting software, email and website may already include automations and AI features you have never switched on. The cheapest tool is the one already on your bill, so check there first.

Free automation, within reason

Many automation tools have free tiers that cover a handful of simple jobs, enough to connect a web form to your inbox or flag an overdue invoice.

When paying is worth it

Pay when a tool saves more than it costs, and you can prove it on your own numbers (see how much time AI can save). Not before.

Want a map of what to use free and where paying pays off? A Grafto AI Tools Report lays it out for your business for £59.99.

Questions, or want a tool we don't have yet? Email hello@grafto.co.uk — a real person replies.