Proof over Promise Insights on Real World AI Adoption from 2025 MINDS Organizations 2026

Globally, organizations across all sectors have pursued ambitious efforts to capitalize on the potential of artificial intelligence (AI). They are exploring applications with a wide range of AI technologies – from machine learning (ML) and deep learning to large language models, complex agentic systems and more. They have big goals; from generative AI alone, organizations expect, on average, double-digit percentage increases in productivity and revenue growth within 18 months of deployment and scaling, and a similar reduction in costs.1 At its core, AI in the broadest context is seen as a lever to create additional value. As we have seen, not every pilot or early-stage programme is succeeding as hoped. Amid the push for rapid adoption, challenges such as data readiness, legacy infrastructure, fragmented governance and insufficient workforce training have left many organizations struggling to advance beyond initial AI experiments.2 Capturing and sharing insights from organizations that are beginning to achieve those ambitions and demonstrate real value is a critical next step to propel the larger ecosystem forward. Rather than restricting progress to what each organization can figure out on their own, the real opportunity lies in collective learning. Harnessing the experiences of successful adopters helps others to accelerate their own journey to impact.The World Economic Forum, as part of its AI Global Alliance, created the MINDS (Meaningful, Intelligent, Novel, Deployable Solutions) programme to help leaders unlock the full value of AI for businesses and society. Through an ever-growing network of organizations contributing their experiences, MINDS is building a shared foundation of knowledge to help organizations deploy AI responsibly, inclusively and at scale. This inaugural MINDS white paper draws on insights from hundreds of organizations that opened their doors to share their AI journeys, metrics, challenges and lessons learned. Beyond celebrating their achievements, it recognizes their openness in advancing collective progress. The organizations in our first cohorts embody a shift from experimentation to execution, and from promise to performance. Their success does not hinge on technology or large budgets alone, but on the art of identifying the right problems, building the right capabilities and creating the right conditions for AI to deliver sustained value.Muqsit Ashraf Group Chief Executive, Strategy, Accenture Maria Basso Head, AI Applications and Impact, World Economic Forum Stephan Mergenthaler Managing Director, Chief Technology Officer, World Economic Forum ForewordProof over Promise: Insights on Real-World AI Adoption from 2025 MINDS OrganizationsJanuary 2026 Proof over Promise: Insights on Real-World AI Adoption from 2025 MINDS Organizations 3