Shadow AI (informal AI use practices) emerges as a fix for corporate projects
On September 6, 2025, industry reports highlighted how “Shadow AI” — employees using artificial intelligence tools without formal approval — is increasingly seen as a way to revive failing corporate AI initiatives. While such practices pose security and compliance risks, they have enabled rapid experimentation with new tools and faster adoption of practical solutions beyond bureaucratic hurdles. Researchers noted that failure rates for enterprise AI projects exceed 70%, making Shadow AI a significant factor in testing model viability. No verified figures have been disclosed on the market size tied to this trend.
Shadow AI is helping companies salvage failing AI projects by enabling quick, informal experimentation, despite risks and a lack of market size data.