Leveraging Top AI Tools, This Firm Provides SMB Clients with Corporate-Level Services CLA's commitment to integrating artificial intelligence into its service offerings empowers smaller companies to overcome traditional barriers and embodies the firm's mission to serve its clients, people, and communities.

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) is enabling growing businesses of all sizes to automate tasks, analyze data, and make informed decisions faster. Yet, many small- and medium-size businesses (SMBs) often face challenges accessing cutting-edge tools and technology such as AI. This is largely due to constrained budgets, insufficient in-house experience, and the tech industry's focus on larger organizations.

CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen LLP) recognizes these challenges and is on a mission to democratize AI for SMBs, providing them the necessary resources to thrive. "Much of what we do from a digital AI perspective is trying to take away some of the burden clients might feel in terms of things that aren't really in their sweet spot," explains Spencer Lourens, Chief Data Officer at CLA. "They want to run their business and make it more successful."

As a top 10 accounting and professional services firm in the United States, CLA is dedicated to serving its clients, people, and communities. The firm provides a comprehensive suite of services, including tax assurance, wealth advisory, digital outsourcing, and consulting.

At its core, CLA aims to deeply understand its clients' businesses and their specific operational needs. This commitment is reflected in CLA's technology investments, demonstrating its dedication to the SMBs it serves.

Investing in AI and technology

CLA has made significant investments in AI and technology, highlighted by the strategic acquisition of Engine B, a dynamic generative AI technology company specializing in accounting and professional services. This alliance allows CLA to unify industry-specific financial data, providing scalable intelligence to businesses of all sizes.

The firm's commitment to AI extends beyond tools — it encompasses building a tech-enabled workforce. Initiatives like a firm-wide Microsoft Copilot integration and the creation of a Chief Data Officer role underscore CLA's dedication to embedding AI throughout the organization and its offerings.

"When I think about our clients dealing with challenges around accessing AI tools, it's very similar to how we support them with all our services," explains James Watson, Managing Principal of Solutions at CLA. "Our mission is to stay ahead of the curve and help them with the pace of change so they can focus on their core business."

Related: Harnessing AI, This Firm Is Setting the New Standard in Professional Services

A people-first approach to tech

CLA's AI solutions provide real-time data analysis and predictive insights, enabling clients to make informed decisions quickly. This approach transforms clients from doers to thinkers, allowing them to leverage AI for strategic, long-term growth while keeping them at the helm of their operations.

"We try to understand why your business exists, what makes it tick, and how it operates," Lourens says. "Our consultants don't just implement software — they get to know you and your issues to build real value."

Watson adds, "It's a twofold component: automating tasks for clients and for ourselves to create more time for focusing on what matters. Our solutions provide real-time data analysis, predictive insights, and help shift from day-to-day operations to strategic growth opportunities."

Real-world applications and success stories

CLA's AI-driven solutions enable client success in a range of industries. One case involves an agricultural client struggling with crop failures. CLA designed an algorithm to analyze planting times, heat, and moisture levels, which led to extended growing periods and $300,000 of increased revenue. "We were able to identify what was driving a lot of their issues and help them capture more revenue," Lourens explains.

In the manufacturing sector, CLA implemented a predictive maintenance solution for a client using AI to monitor assembly line sensors. This led to a 30% reduction in downtime and significant cost savings. "We can predict when things are going to fail and reduce downtime," Lourens says.

By focusing on personalized, industry-specific strategies and investing in technology and people, CLA helps its clients stay competitive in an evolving market, achieve sustained growth and continue contributing to the U.S. economy.

"We want to serve insights, get the data together for them, and reduce the time spent on routine tasks," Lourens says. "Instead of focusing on mundane tasks, business owners can use their knowledge for expansion, quality improvement, and cost reduction."

Click here to learn more about CLA and how its digital strategies and tools can help you achieve your biggest, most important goals.

The information contained herein is general in nature and is not intended, and should not be construed, as legal, accounting, investment, or tax advice or opinion provided by CliftonLarsonAllen LLP (CLA) to the reader. For more information, visit CLAconnect.com.

CLA exists to create opportunities for our clients, our people, and our communities through our industry-focused wealth advisory, digital, audit, tax, consulting, and outsourcing services. CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen LLP) is an independent network member of CLA Global. See CLAglobal.com/disclaimer. Investment advisory services are offered through CliftonLarsonAllen Wealth Advisors, LLC, an SEC-registered investment advisor.