Wishing you an awesome 2026!
I’m typically an optimist when we head into a new year. It’s just how I’m wired. However, I’ll admit my optimism has been chipped away over the last few years by tough economic conditions and the continuous cycle of layoffs.
Last year, for example, felt like an “AI pause.” It was a period of limbo where companies and individuals were unsure how AI would truly affect them… from internal use to customer facing solutions, to the fear that AI might replace us all.
By the end of last year, it felt like everyone found their groove. We realized that AI isn’t replacing jobs, at least not for now, but instead it’s giving everyone “superpowers.” We’re seeing a shift where AI is used to make us more productive, efficient, and creative.
Heading into this year, my optimism is back – largely due to the positive energy I saw in Q4. We saw massive funding rounds for high profile AI companies like 7AI and Suno, proving that “Agentic AI” is more than just hype. Plus, for the first time in a while, we’re seeing companies back in growth mode and hiring again.
I think 2026 will finally be a year of “normal” activity and steady growth. It might not be rocketship growth, but it’s positive and sustainable—and I’ll take that any day!
So… what are your predictions for 2026?
Share your thoughts in the form below. It can be anything related to the Boston startup community or tech at large: funding, AI, hiring, culture, return to the office vibes, and more!  We’ll be publishing a roundup of your predictions over the next week!
