Could ChatGPT Ads Be the Next Big Opportunity for Small Business?

Artificial intelligence is changing the way people search online. Instead of typing keywords into Google, more users are now asking AI tools like ChatGPT direct questions such as:

• “What’s the best café near me?”

• “What accounting software should I use?”

• “Where should I stay in regional NSW?”

  
  

That shift is changing how businesses are discovered online, creating new opportunities to appear in AI-generated recommendations and emerging advertising placements.

Businesses should start paying attention now, while the space is still developing.

Can Businesses Advertise on ChatGPT?

Yes. OpenAI has started testing advertising and sponsored placements within ChatGPT through a beta advertising platform. Early features reportedly include:

• sponsored recommendations

• shopping-style results

• cost per click advertising

• conversion tracking tools

  
  

Access is still limited in some regions, but many experts believe AI advertising will become a major part of digital marketing over the next few years.

Why This Matters for Small Business

While paid advertising is beginning to emerge, AI platforms are also changing how businesses are discovered organically.

Unlike traditional search engines that heavily favour large advertising budgets, AI tools may place more importance on factors such as trust, relevance, reputation and quality information.

This means a small regional business with:

• strong reviews

• a clear website

• helpful content

• accurate business information

could potentially appear alongside much larger competitors in AI-generated recommendations.

For regional businesses, this creates an opportunity to compete in a digital space that has traditionally been dominated by bigger brands.

The Opportunity

Businesses that invest in strong online content now may be better positioned as AI search grows.

Helpful content such as:

• blogs

• FAQs

• local guides

• service information

• customer reviews

is becoming increasingly important because AI systems pull information from publicly available sources.

This also creates opportunities for tourism operators, cafés, accommodation providers, trades and professional services in regional areas where online competition is often lower.

The Risks

While the opportunity is exciting, there are also downsides businesses should understand.

Zero Click Search

One major concern is the rise of “zero click search”, where users receive answers directly inside AI platforms without clicking through to a website.

If customers get the information they need inside AI tools like ChatGPT, businesses could see:

• reduced website traffic

• fewer enquiries

• fewer opportunities to capture leads

  
  

Less Control

Unlike Facebook or Google Ads, businesses currently have less control over how AI systems mention or recommend them.

AI systems can also:

• provide outdated information

• misunderstand locations

• summarise businesses incorrectly

  
  

Because of this, businesses should focus on maintaining accurate and up to date online information.

What Should Businesses Do Now?

Businesses do not need to completely change their marketing overnight. However, there are a few smart steps worth taking now:

• keep your website updated

• strengthen your Google Business profile

• encourage customer reviews

• create useful content

• improve local SEO

• build trust and credibility online

  
  

AI driven search is still evolving, but businesses that build strong digital foundations now will likely be in a much better position moving forward.

The Bottom Line

ChatGPT advertising is still in its early stages, but the shift towards AI powered search and recommendations is already happening.

For small and regional businesses, this presents both opportunities and risks. The businesses that stay informed, build trust online and adapt early may have a significant advantage in the years ahead.

If you need help with your marketing, communications or digital strategy, reach out to SoBo Regional Communications.

We work with regional businesses, councils and organisations to deliver practical, locally driven communications and digital support designed for regional communities.