AI is no longer a future bet. In 2026, it is a core operating consideration for manufacturers and industrial organizations. As pressure mounts to demonstrate real ROI, leaders are moving beyond experimentation and asking a harder question:
Where does AI actually create leverage—and where does it fail?
Developed by Fischgrund Consulting, this report cuts through the hype to outline the three AI trends that will shape funding decisions, deployment strategies, and operational outcomes in 2026.
Many organizations are investing heavily in AI—but too often, those investments stall before delivering meaningful results. This report makes the case that success will not come from better models alone, but from disciplined execution, operational clarity, and strong data foundations.
Grounded in real-world insights and industry research, the 2026 AI Industry Trends Report highlights what leaders must do differently to ensure AI drives efficiency, productivity, and measurable business impact.
Inside the report, you’ll explore:
AI as an Operational Requirement
Why competitive advantage increasingly depends on aligning AI to real workflows, frontline pain points, and current-state operations—not isolated pilots.
Efficiency Takes the Gold
How economic pressure is shifting AI investment toward back-office, scheduling, and predictive processes that deliver tangible ROI.
Data Quality as the Core Constraint
Why data integration, governance, and quality—not model capability—remain the biggest barriers to scaling AI successfully.
What Leaders Should Do Differently in 2026
Practical guidance on treating AI as an operating program, tying success to outcomes, and building the foundations required for long-term value.
AI winners in 2026 won’t be defined by who experiments the most—but by who executes with discipline, clarity, and purpose.
Take the first step:
Download the report to understand where AI is headed
Connect with Catalyst Connection to turn insight into action—with potential funding support
You may qualify for manufacturing mini-grants that help offset the cost of AI readiness, operational improvements, and technology adoption.
Catalyst Connection works with manufacturers across Southwestern Pennsylvania to:
Assess AI and smart manufacturing readiness
Identify eligible grant and funding opportunities
Provide technical assistance to support implementation
