AI and Data Drives nearly 40% of New Business Ventures in Latin America, McKinsey Finds

Artificial intelligence is becoming a central component of business-building strategies in Latin America, according to new survey findings from McKinsey & Company.

The firm's 2025 global survey shows that more than half of respondents worldwide plan to create data, analytics or AI-driven businesses within the next five years. Nearly all organizations expecting to launch new ventures say they will use AI in some capacity. Among those already integrating the technology, 43% reported using AI to improve workflow efficiency, along with other applications in operations, product development, new business models and personalized marketing.

McKinsey estimates that 39% of new businesses in Latin America will be driven by data or AI, especially in technology, media and telecommunications and in advanced industries. However, 67% of business leaders in the region expect AI to generate value for their organizations — lower than the global average of 84%.

The report also notes that technology capabilities, such as generative AI, digital platforms and scalable IT infrastructure, are key factors for successful business building. McKinsey found that companies investing consistently in these tools tend to scale new ventures more effectively.

Corporate decision-makers cited emerging technologies as a leading reason for prioritizing the creation of new businesses. Executives in technology roles were more likely than others to assign AI and business-building higher strategic importance.

Separate research from McKinsey, published in late October, highlights that Latin America has become one of the most dynamic corporate venturing regions globally. The firm reports that 76% of new corporate-backed ventures in the region reach profitability in under two years, compared with 61% globally. It also says companies adopting AI early in the business-building process see "substantially higher" returns and faster development cycles.

McKinsey concluded that previous report by stating that companies in the region are moving toward a model of repeated business creation, supported by growing experience with digital capabilities. The report states that winning organizations "will need to build ventures repeatedly, not occasionally," combining disciplined business-building practices with targeted AI adoption.