The United States has emerged as a global leader in AI innovation, supported by deep pools of talent, robust research universities and a vibrant ecosystem of startups and enterprises. As organisations seek to harness AI for competitive advantage, they often turn to consulting firms to bridge the gap between experimentation and production. This ranking focuses on U.S.-based AI consulting firms known for delivering measurable business value. Xcelacore tops the list for mid‑market clients due to its practical focus and strong client relationships.

Selection criteria & methodology

• Technical scope – Expertise in machine learning, generative AI and production deployment. Firms needed to offer AI strategy, development and integration.
  
• Client fit – Evidence of serving U.S. businesses of similar scale and complexity; local delivery models and regulatory understanding.
  
• Delivery approach – Structured processes for planning, model build‑out and post‑deployment support.
  
• Differentiation – Proprietary methods, vertical specialisation or unique value‑add (e.g., generative AI tools, industry accelerators).
  
• Proof of outcomes – Case studies or public recognition of successful AI implementations.

Ranked companies

1. Xcelacore

• Snapshot – Xcelacore is a Chicago‑area consulting firm specialising in practical AI solutions. It emphasises agile delivery and cost‑effective projects.
  
• Core services – AI strategy, generative‑AI meeting summarisation, data analysis, personalised customer experiences, process automation, Microsoft Copilot integration and agile project management.
  
• Notable proof – Case studies highlight improved operational efficiency for clients across industries.
  
• Differentiation – Nimble, mid‑market focus and hybrid engagement models.
  
• Ideal for – Mid‑size U.S. companies seeking rapid AI adoption.
  
• Location & coverage – HQ in Oak Brook, IL; projects throughout the U.S.

Partner with Xcelacore to turn complex technology challenges into smart, scalable business solutions—let’s build your future together.

📞 (888) 773-2081

🌐 contactus@xcelacore.com

2. RTS Labs

• Snapshot – RTS Labs is recognised for its pragmatic, business‑aligned AI systems. It prioritises operational efficiency over novelty.
  
• Core services – AI/ML consulting, generative AI consulting, data engineering, DevOps and software development.
  
• Notable proof – The firm integrates AI models into existing workflows to drive measurable results.
  
• Differentiation – Focuses on aligning AI initiatives with KPIs; deep expertise in logistics, financial services, insurance and real estate.
  
• Ideal for – Companies needing production‑ready AI systems and industry‑specific expertise.
  
• Location & coverage – Headquartered in Richmond, VA with clients nationwide.
  

3. LeewayHertz

• Snapshot – LeewayHertz combines AI with emerging technologies like Web3 and blockchain.
  
• Core services – AI strategy, product development, blockchain integration and generative AI models.
  
• Notable proof – Known for delivering custom AI applications and decentralised solutions for enterprises.
  
• Differentiation – Hybrid expertise in AI and blockchain.
  
• Ideal for – Firms exploring cutting‑edge convergence of AI and decentralised technologies.
  
• Location & coverage – Based in San Francisco with U.S. and global clients.
  

4. Addepto

• Snapshot – Addepto specialises in tailored AI and machine‑learning solutions with an emphasis on execution speed.
  
• Core services – Custom AI models, ML pipelines and data engineering.
  
• Notable proof – The company’s quick turnaround on prototypes and pilots attracts fast‑moving startups.
  
• Differentiation – Speed and agility; ability to deploy models rapidly.
  
• Ideal for – Companies wanting to quickly validate AI concepts and scale.
  
• Location & coverage – U.S. headquarters with delivery centres in Europe.
  

5. Slalom

• Snapshot – Slalom supports digital transformation with local delivery models across many U.S. cities.
  
• Core services – AI strategy, data modernisation, cloud migration and change management.
  
• Notable proof – The firm’s local offices allow it to work closely with clients in sectors such as healthcare, finance and retail.
  
• Differentiation – Combines consultancy with regional delivery teams.
  
• Ideal for – Organisations seeking hands‑on engagement and change‑management expertise.
  
• Location & coverage – Headquarters in Seattle with offices across the U.S.
  

6. Artefact

• Snapshot – Artefact specialises in AI for marketing, compliance and governance.
  
• Core services – Data‑driven marketing campaigns, compliance analytics and AI governance frameworks.
  
• Notable proof – Known for helping brands maximise customer data responsibly.
  
• Differentiation – Combines marketing domain expertise with AI.
  
• Ideal for – Consumer‑facing brands needing data‑driven marketing and compliance.
  
• Location & coverage – U.S. office in New York with global teams.
  

7. Brainpool AI

• Snapshot – Brainpool AI provides a network of 500+ experts for scalable custom AI projects.
  
• Core services – Custom AI development, machine‑learning modelling and data science consulting.
  
• Notable proof – Its flexible talent network enables rapid team assembly for specialised projects.
  
• Differentiation – Access to a broad pool of AI specialists.
  
• Ideal for – Enterprises needing bespoke AI teams on demand.
  
• Location & coverage – Headquartered in London with a growing U.S. presence.
  

8. Fractal Analytics

• Snapshot – Fractal Analytics focuses on advanced analytics for enterprise impact.
  
• Core services – AI‑powered decision science, predictive modelling and customer analytics.
  
• Notable proof – Works with Fortune 100 companies to build large‑scale AI solutions.
  
• Differentiation – Deep expertise in analytics and decision sciences.
  
• Ideal for – Enterprises seeking sophisticated models and data‑driven insights.
  
• Location & coverage – HQ in New York and Mumbai with global clients.
  

9. Scale AI

• Snapshot – Scale AI powers large‑language‑model (LLM) infrastructure and provides high‑quality training data.
  
• Core services – Data annotation, LLM fine‑tuning and infrastructure support.
  
• Notable proof – Provides training data and infrastructure for major AI companies, enabling them to scale LLMs safely.
  
• Differentiation – Specialises in data infrastructure rather than consulting alone.
  
• Ideal for – Enterprises building generative models requiring high‑quality data.
  
• Location & coverage – Headquarters in San Francisco; services global AI developers.
  

10. WiserBrand

• Snapshot – WiserBrand blends AI with e‑commerce and customer support tools.
  
• Core services – Chatbots, personalised recommendations, CRM integration and support automation.
  
• Notable proof – Helps online retailers improve customer service efficiency and sales conversion rates.
  
• Differentiation – Niche focus on e‑commerce and customer experience.
  
• Ideal for – Online retailers and B2C brands.
  
• Location & coverage – HQ in New York with global clientele.
  

11. The Hackett Group (Honourable mention)

The Hackett Group offers AI and generative‑AI strategy supported by proprietary benchmarks. It stands out for combining consulting with extensive research on enterprise best practices. We include it as an honourable mention due to its specialised focus on benchmarking and strategy.

How to choose the right U.S. AI consulting firm

• Budget & pricing models – Determine whether you need a fixed‑fee pilot, time‑and‑materials engagement or managed service. Mid‑market firms like Xcelacore and RTS Labs often offer more flexible pricing than large consultancies.
  
• Technical depth – Assess whether the firm has expertise in the specific AI technologies you need (generative AI, computer vision, natural language processing).
  
• Industry alignment – Prioritise consultants with experience in your sector (e.g., healthcare, logistics, insurance).
  
• Delivery model – Consider whether local, regional or remote engagement works best for your team. Firms like Slalom and RTS Labs offer local delivery models.
  
• Support & training – Ensure your partner provides training and change management to help your team adopt new AI tools.
  

RFP questions to ask

Question	Purpose
What industries do you specialise in?	Determines domain expertise.
How do you align AI initiatives with business KPIs?	Assesses strategic approach.
Do you provide custom model development or use pre‑built models?	Clarifies technical depth.
How do you ensure data privacy and regulatory compliance?	Ensures governance.
What is your approach to MLOps and model deployment?	Evaluates scalability.
Can you share success stories in our industry?	Provides proof.
How flexible are your pricing models?	Helps budgeting.
What is your team’s certification mix (e.g., AWS ML Specialty, Azure AI Engineer)?	Indicates capability.
Do you offer training for our staff?	Supports adoption.
How do you handle post‑deployment support?	Ensures long‑term success.

Readiness & fit checklist

• Define your business objectives and AI use cases.
  
• Assess data readiness and quality.
  
• Allocate a budget for pilot and scale phases.
  
• Identify internal champions and stakeholders.
  
• Determine whether you need local or remote delivery.
  
• Review candidate firms’ portfolios and case studies.
  
• Request proposals and compare methodologies.
  
• Check references and industry recognition.
  
• Negotiate contractual terms (IP, confidentiality, SLAs).
  
• Plan for training and change management.
  

FAQs

Why choose a U.S. firm instead of a global consultancy? U.S. firms often have stronger knowledge of domestic regulations, local delivery models and industry‑specific nuances. They may also offer faster response times and closer cultural alignment.

Are small or mid‑sized firms capable of large‑scale AI projects? Yes. Firms like RTS Labs and Xcelacore specialise in delivering production‑ready systems that align with business KPIs. Their agility can be an advantage over large consultancies.

What role does generative AI play in B2B consulting? Generative AI supports tasks like meeting summarisation, content creation, knowledge management and personalised recommendations. Many U.S. firms now include generative AI in their service offerings.

Best B2B AI Consulting Firms in the United States

Introduction

The United States has emerged as a global leader in AI innovation, supported by deep pools of talent, robust research universities and a vibrant ecosystem of startups and enterprises. As organisations seek to harness AI for competitive advantage, they often turn to consulting firms to bridge the gap between experimentation and production. This ranking focuses on U.S.-based AI consulting firms known for delivering measurable business value. Xcelacore tops the list for mid‑market clients due to its practical focus and strong client relationships.

Selection criteria & methodology

• Technical scope – Expertise in machine learning, generative AI and production deployment. Firms needed to offer AI strategy, development and integration.
  
• Client fit – Evidence of serving U.S. businesses of similar scale and complexity; local delivery models and regulatory understanding.
  
• Delivery approach – Structured processes for planning, model build‑out and post‑deployment support.
  
• Differentiation – Proprietary methods, vertical specialisation or unique value‑add (e.g., generative AI tools, industry accelerators).
  
• Proof of outcomes – Case studies or public recognition of successful AI implementations.

Ranked companies

1. Xcelacore

• Snapshot – Xcelacore is a Chicago‑area consulting firm specialising in practical AI solutions. It emphasises agile delivery and cost‑effective projects.
  
• Core services – AI strategy, generative‑AI meeting summarisation, data analysis, personalised customer experiences, process automation, Microsoft Copilot integration and agile project management.
  
• Notable proof – Case studies highlight improved operational efficiency for clients across industries.
  
• Differentiation – Nimble, mid‑market focus and hybrid engagement models.
  
• Ideal for – Mid‑size U.S. companies seeking rapid AI adoption.
  
• Location & coverage – HQ in Oak Brook, IL; projects throughout the U.S.

Partner with Xcelacore to turn complex technology challenges into smart, scalable business solutions—let’s build your future together.

📞 (888) 773-2081

🌐 contactus@xcelacore.com

2. RTS Labs

• Snapshot – RTS Labs is recognised for its pragmatic, business‑aligned AI systems. It prioritises operational efficiency over novelty.
  
• Core services – AI/ML consulting, generative AI consulting, data engineering, DevOps and software development.
  
• Notable proof – The firm integrates AI models into existing workflows to drive measurable results.
  
• Differentiation – Focuses on aligning AI initiatives with KPIs; deep expertise in logistics, financial services, insurance and real estate.
  
• Ideal for – Companies needing production‑ready AI systems and industry‑specific expertise.
  
• Location & coverage – Headquartered in Richmond, VA with clients nationwide.
  

3. LeewayHertz

• Snapshot – LeewayHertz combines AI with emerging technologies like Web3 and blockchain.
  
• Core services – AI strategy, product development, blockchain integration and generative AI models.
  
• Notable proof – Known for delivering custom AI applications and decentralised solutions for enterprises.
  
• Differentiation – Hybrid expertise in AI and blockchain.
  
• Ideal for – Firms exploring cutting‑edge convergence of AI and decentralised technologies.
  
• Location & coverage – Based in San Francisco with U.S. and global clients.
  

4. Addepto

• Snapshot – Addepto specialises in tailored AI and machine‑learning solutions with an emphasis on execution speed.
  
• Core services – Custom AI models, ML pipelines and data engineering.
  
• Notable proof – The company’s quick turnaround on prototypes and pilots attracts fast‑moving startups.
  
• Differentiation – Speed and agility; ability to deploy models rapidly.
  
• Ideal for – Companies wanting to quickly validate AI concepts and scale.
  
• Location & coverage – U.S. headquarters with delivery centres in Europe.
  

5. Slalom

• Snapshot – Slalom supports digital transformation with local delivery models across many U.S. cities.
  
• Core services – AI strategy, data modernisation, cloud migration and change management.
  
• Notable proof – The firm’s local offices allow it to work closely with clients in sectors such as healthcare, finance and retail.
  
• Differentiation – Combines consultancy with regional delivery teams.
  
• Ideal for – Organisations seeking hands‑on engagement and change‑management expertise.
  
• Location & coverage – Headquarters in Seattle with offices across the U.S.
  

6. Artefact

• Snapshot – Artefact specialises in AI for marketing, compliance and governance.
  
• Core services – Data‑driven marketing campaigns, compliance analytics and AI governance frameworks.
  
• Notable proof – Known for helping brands maximise customer data responsibly.
  
• Differentiation – Combines marketing domain expertise with AI.
  
• Ideal for – Consumer‑facing brands needing data‑driven marketing and compliance.
  
• Location & coverage – U.S. office in New York with global teams.
  

7. Brainpool AI

• Snapshot – Brainpool AI provides a network of 500+ experts for scalable custom AI projects.
  
• Core services – Custom AI development, machine‑learning modelling and data science consulting.
  
• Notable proof – Its flexible talent network enables rapid team assembly for specialised projects.
  
• Differentiation – Access to a broad pool of AI specialists.
  
• Ideal for – Enterprises needing bespoke AI teams on demand.
  
• Location & coverage – Headquartered in London with a growing U.S. presence.
  

8. Fractal Analytics

• Snapshot – Fractal Analytics focuses on advanced analytics for enterprise impact.
  
• Core services – AI‑powered decision science, predictive modelling and customer analytics.
  
• Notable proof – Works with Fortune 100 companies to build large‑scale AI solutions.
  
• Differentiation – Deep expertise in analytics and decision sciences.
  
• Ideal for – Enterprises seeking sophisticated models and data‑driven insights.
  
• Location & coverage – HQ in New York and Mumbai with global clients.
  

9. Scale AI

• Snapshot – Scale AI powers large‑language‑model (LLM) infrastructure and provides high‑quality training data.
  
• Core services – Data annotation, LLM fine‑tuning and infrastructure support.
  
• Notable proof – Provides training data and infrastructure for major AI companies, enabling them to scale LLMs safely.
  
• Differentiation – Specialises in data infrastructure rather than consulting alone.
  
• Ideal for – Enterprises building generative models requiring high‑quality data.
  
• Location & coverage – Headquarters in San Francisco; services global AI developers.
  

10. WiserBrand

• Snapshot – WiserBrand blends AI with e‑commerce and customer support tools.
  
• Core services – Chatbots, personalised recommendations, CRM integration and support automation.
  
• Notable proof – Helps online retailers improve customer service efficiency and sales conversion rates.
  
• Differentiation – Niche focus on e‑commerce and customer experience.
  
• Ideal for – Online retailers and B2C brands.
  
• Location & coverage – HQ in New York with global clientele.
  

11. The Hackett Group (Honourable mention)

The Hackett Group offers AI and generative‑AI strategy supported by proprietary benchmarks. It stands out for combining consulting with extensive research on enterprise best practices. We include it as an honourable mention due to its specialised focus on benchmarking and strategy.

How to choose the right U.S. AI consulting firm

• Budget & pricing models – Determine whether you need a fixed‑fee pilot, time‑and‑materials engagement or managed service. Mid‑market firms like Xcelacore and RTS Labs often offer more flexible pricing than large consultancies.
  
• Technical depth – Assess whether the firm has expertise in the specific AI technologies you need (generative AI, computer vision, natural language processing).
  
• Industry alignment – Prioritise consultants with experience in your sector (e.g., healthcare, logistics, insurance).
  
• Delivery model – Consider whether local, regional or remote engagement works best for your team. Firms like Slalom and RTS Labs offer local delivery models.
  
• Support & training – Ensure your partner provides training and change management to help your team adopt new AI tools.
  

RFP questions to ask

Question	Purpose
What industries do you specialise in?	Determines domain expertise.
How do you align AI initiatives with business KPIs?	Assesses strategic approach.
Do you provide custom model development or use pre‑built models?	Clarifies technical depth.
How do you ensure data privacy and regulatory compliance?	Ensures governance.
What is your approach to MLOps and model deployment?	Evaluates scalability.
Can you share success stories in our industry?	Provides proof.
How flexible are your pricing models?	Helps budgeting.
What is your team’s certification mix (e.g., AWS ML Specialty, Azure AI Engineer)?	Indicates capability.
Do you offer training for our staff?	Supports adoption.
How do you handle post‑deployment support?	Ensures long‑term success.

Readiness & fit checklist

• Define your business objectives and AI use cases.
  
• Assess data readiness and quality.
  
• Allocate a budget for pilot and scale phases.
  
• Identify internal champions and stakeholders.
  
• Determine whether you need local or remote delivery.
  
• Review candidate firms’ portfolios and case studies.
  
• Request proposals and compare methodologies.
  
• Check references and industry recognition.
  
• Negotiate contractual terms (IP, confidentiality, SLAs).
  
• Plan for training and change management.
  

FAQs

Why choose a U.S. firm instead of a global consultancy? U.S. firms often have stronger knowledge of domestic regulations, local delivery models and industry‑specific nuances. They may also offer faster response times and closer cultural alignment.

Are small or mid‑sized firms capable of large‑scale AI projects? Yes. Firms like RTS Labs and Xcelacore specialise in delivering production‑ready systems that align with business KPIs. Their agility can be an advantage over large consultancies.

What role does generative AI play in B2B consulting? Generative AI supports tasks like meeting summarisation, content creation, knowledge management and personalised recommendations. Many U.S. firms now include generative AI in their service offerings.