Forrester: Business Leaders Shift from Caution to AI-Centric Growth in 2027 — Forrester Research, Inc.

Event summary

80% of business and tech leaders expect budget increases in 2027, with 25% anticipating growth of 10%+.
Forrester’s survey of 2,600 global decision-makers highlights renewed confidence despite persistent volatility.
Key focus areas include AI readiness, data governance, and operational modernization to avoid technical debt.
Marketers (91%) and tech leaders (82%) show highest optimism for budget growth in 2027.

The big picture

Forrester’s findings reflect a broader industry shift toward AI-driven growth, with leaders prioritizing operational resilience over short-term cost-cutting. The emphasis on governance and experimentation signals a maturing approach to AI adoption, moving beyond hype into tangible outcomes. This trend aligns with the post-pandemic recovery phase, where digital transformation is no longer optional but a competitive necessity.

What we're watching

AI Readiness: How organizations balance AI investment with foundational upgrades like data governance and operational models.
Budget Allocation: Whether targeted spending on AI pilots will outperform broad-based tech debt reduction efforts.
Market Volatility: The pace at which businesses adapt to treating volatility as a permanent feature of strategic planning.