More than a third of independent workers, 37%, are already integrating AI into their daily tasks, according to research by MBO Partners. Of those independent workers using AI, 59% employ it across various applications, enabling them to delegate routine tasks and free up time.

In addition, 74% of independent workers are familiar with AI and plan to enhance their AI adoption and skills. And the share of independent workers using AI is expected to reach 73% by 2025.

MBO Partners defines independent workers as freelancers, independent contractors, gig workers and the self-employed.

“As AI becomes table stakes, any enterprise that doesn’t incorporate AI effectively into the business will drastically shrink its competitive footprint,” Miles Everson, CEO of MBO Partners, said in a press release.

“The encouraging aspect is the expansive and burgeoning pool of skilled independents who are not just keeping pace but leading the curve in AI knowledge,” Everson said. “On the flip side, independents who fail to position themselves favorably relative to AI will have a more challenging time securing engagements with enterprise clients.”

Of the 37% of independent workers who are already integrating AI into their daily tasks, uses for the technology include research assistance, use as a marketing partner and use as an IT administrator, 9%.

MBO Partners’ study is based on a survey of 1,132 independent workers and 3,832 workers with traditional jobs. It also included in-depth interviews with 21 independent workers who use AI.