TL;DR: Top Highlights from State of the Word 2025
WordPress’s "State of the Word 2025" showcased innovation crucial for entrepreneurs navigating digital growth in 2026.
• WordPress 6.9's live launch introduced improved block editing tools, AI integrations like the Abilities API, and global inclusivity features driving localization.
• AI advancements, such as plugins for automation and natural language commands, empower startups to utilize smarter workflows.
• Global growth insights emphasized emerging markets like Japan and non-English website opportunities for scaling businesses.
Take advantage of WordPress tools to automate processes, embrace multilingual outreach, and position your startup for growth. Explore more via WordPress resources like the AI Experiments Plugin.
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State of the Word 2025 Recap: The Top Highlights
As we approach the cusp of 2026, I, Violetta Bonenkamp, a serial entrepreneur with over two decades of experience across deeptech, education, and startup ecosystems, am excited to share my take on WordPress’s monumental event, “State of the Word 2025.” Held in San Francisco and streamed globally, this year’s keynote showcased groundbreaking innovations, reinforced the values of the open web, and gave us a preview of what the future holds for digital entrepreneurs like you and me. If understanding the trends shaping 2026 can elevate your game as a startup founder or business owner, this recap is for you.
Why Should Entrepreneurs Care About “State of the Word”?
WordPress powers nearly half the internet, 43% of all websites, to be exact, and is responsible for shaping how digital businesses grow globally. For founders, freelancers, developers, and business owners, understanding how the platform evolves gives you an edge. It directly impacts how you operate online, build your audience, and leverage tools to grow faster. As someone deeply embedded in the startup world, there are actionable insights from this event that could help you stay ahead in the ever-changing web and entrepreneurial ecosystem.
- WordPress 6.9 launched live during the keynote, proof of rapid iterations in tech development.
- AI integrations are no longer ideas but practical tools embedded into the open web.
- The ecosystem is growing globally, with thriving participation from non-English communities.
- New resources for founders simplify everything from website creation to monetization.
What’s the Buzz About WordPress 6.9?
For the first time in history, a major WordPress update went live during the keynote. Known as WordPress 6.9, this release has reinforced WordPress’s position as the leader in content management systems. The live launch demonstrated the agile workflows that define the platform’s development culture, something every entrepreneur should consider implementing in their business.
- Improved site-building tools: Entrepreneurs now have access to enhanced block editing capabilities, empowering non-coders.
- Focused AI integrations: The Abilities API and MCP adapters make WordPress “machine-readable” for AI agents, meaning smarter workflows for tech-savvy business owners.
- Global inclusivity: Over 56% of WordPress websites now operate in non-English languages, showcasing localization as a major growth opportunity.
If you’d like to explore the new features, the official WordPress 6.9 Developer’s Guide offers a detailed breakdown for technical adopters.
How AI is Reshaping WordPress
Artificial intelligence stole the spotlight this year, with WordPress unveiling practical AI tools. As someone leading multiple AI-related initiatives, I found their roadmap fascinating. AI isn’t a passing trend; it’s the foundation for the next generation of entrepreneurship.
- Abilities API: Standardized to make WordPress’s plugins and features readable for AI agents.
- AI Experiments Plugin: Already live in the plugin directory, enabling entrepreneurs to explore AI workflows without coding.
- Telex: Watch WordPress transform your ideas into live blocks through natural language commands, great for founders managing rapid MVP development.
This integration makes WordPress indispensable for any tech-savvy creator aiming to stay relevant in markets dictated by artificial intelligence. To unlock these benefits, check out how the AI Experiments Plugin could work for your startup.
The Global Impact of WordPress
One aspect I deeply resonated with was WordPress’s commitment to global inclusion. Entrepreneurs often focus on scaling their ideas locally, but WordPress showcased data that demonstrated why globalization isn’t optional, it’s the key to growth in 2026.
- Localized focus: The platform now powers websites that operate in 56% non-English markets.
- Emerging territories: Japan has become the second-largest WordPress market globally, with over 58.5% of its websites using the CMS.
- Youth initiatives: Programs like WordPress Youth Day in Nicaragua inspire the next generation to experiment with digital tools.
If you’re looking to crack into specific markets or get localized guidance on scaling a business, learn more from WordCamp highlights.
Common Mistakes Entrepreneurs Make with WordPress
While WordPress provides incredible resources, in my experience, too many founders misuse its potential. Here are mistakes to avoid:
- Choosing cheap hosting: Your website speed and reliability impact the user experience. Invest properly.
- Ignoring non-English markets: Creating multilingual websites enables cross-border scaling, even on a shoestring budget.
- Underestimating plugins: Many entrepreneurs install plugins without assessing compatibility, leading to bloated sites. Always vet for necessity and performance.
- Skipping analytics: Use tools that track visitor metrics and behaviors to make data-informed decisions.
How to Leverage WordPress for Startup Success
- Embrace AI workflows to automate repetitive content tasks.
- Use block themes for easy brand alignment without coding expertise.
- Get your team familiar with new releases, WordPress training boosts productivity.
- Prioritize SEO-friendly plugins to optimize for organic growth.
- Connect with WordPress communities globally for feedback and scaling lessons.
Take these steps today and watch your startup establish its digital foothold while benefiting from cutting-edge tools backed by WordPress’s open-source ecosystem.
The Bottom Line
WordPress is more than a CMS, it’s a gateway to mastering the digital economy. Whether through AI advancements, global outreach, or reshaping how entrepreneurs interact online, “State of the Word 2025” was a wake-up call for founders navigating 2026. Now is the perfect time to embrace these advancements and stay competitive.
Ready to start? Join WordPress’s global network to gain insights tailored to entrepreneurs, learn directly from WordPress blog resources, and build an online presence you can truly own.
FAQ on State of the Word 2025 Highlights
Why is "State of the Word" significant for WordPress users and developers?
The "State of the Word" is a yearly keynote addressing WordPress advancements, community updates, and technological innovations that shape the open web. It highlights WordPress’s growth, now powering 43% of the internet, and underscores its position as the leading CMS. This year, the introduction of groundbreaking developments like WordPress 6.9 and AI integration has made it more relevant than ever, especially for entrepreneurs and developers looking to capitalize on rapid digital transformation. Learn more about the State of the Word Recap
What were the major features launched with WordPress 6.9?
WordPress 6.9 introduced impactful updates such as enhanced block editing capabilities for users, a focus on localization to support non-English markets, and strategic AI integrations like the Abilities API to optimize workflows. For the first time in WordPress history, the launch of version 6.9 happened live during the keynote, solidifying WordPress’s adaptive and agile approach to innovation. Explore WordPress 6.9 Features
How is artificial intelligence reshaping WordPress?
AI is now central to WordPress’s evolution, with tools such as the AI Experiments Plugin already available for entrepreneurs aiming to automate complex tasks. Features like the Abilities API enable WordPress plugins and themes to be interpreted and utilized by AI agents, opening opportunities for personalized, automated workflows. Moreover, Telex, a groundbreaking tool showcased during the event, allows users to create functional site elements using natural language commands. Learn more about WordPress AI Innovations
How is WordPress responding to the globalization of the web?
WordPress demonstrated its commitment to global inclusion by reporting that 56% of WordPress sites now operate in non-English languages. Japan emerged as the second-largest WordPress market, with 58.5% of its websites utilizing the CMS. Initiatives such as localized WordCamps and youth outreach, like WordPress Youth Day in Nicaragua, have been critical in fostering global engagement. Explore WordPress’s Global Expansion
What role does WordPress play in assisting entrepreneurs?
WordPress simplifies digital entrepreneurship by continually enhancing tools like block themes and SEO-friendly plugins, enabling seamless website creation without developer expertise. Programs like WordPress.com’s Campus Connect also encourage students and entrepreneurs to engage with the platform while learning modern digital tools. Leveraging WordPress’s AI features can further automate repetitive tasks, allowing business owners to focus on growth. Discover WordPress for Entrepreneurs
How is WordPress prioritizing inclusivity in digital content?
WordPress aims to make its tools accessible to all. With localization initiatives, over 56% of sites are non-English, offering vast opportunities to those in underrepresented markets. Global collaborator programs and educational outreach, such as WordPress learning conferences, empower individuals from diverse regions to use the digital economy’s tools effectively. For more, attend tailored sessions at WordCamps globally. Explore WordCamps
What are the biggest mistakes entrepreneurs make when using WordPress?
Common pitfalls include choosing low-cost hosting, failing to create multilingual sites for global reach, overloading sites with unnecessary plugins, and underusing analytical tools to measure site performance. To maximize WordPress tools, entrepreneurs should prioritize performance, multilingual accessibility, and strategic plugin use while leveraging robust analytics. Proper hosting and training are also essential. Learn about Hosting on WordPress
What makes AI-powered tools in WordPress transformative for small businesses?
WordPress AI tools like the Abilities API and AI Experiments Plugin offer small businesses automation capabilities previously inaccessible without technical expertise. These tools make workflows seamless, reduce manual labor, and foster strategic growth. For instance, Telex’s language-based block creation simplified MVP development. Explore AI Tools in WordPress
How does the WordPress ecosystem ensure scalability for businesses?
WordPress supports businesses of all sizes with a highly extensible platform, offering over 60,000 plugins. Its open-source model allows unprecedented customization, while tools like WordPress Playground enable businesses to test run their websites efficiently. The enhanced safety measures and faster plugin review times further ensure smooth scaling without downtime. See More About WordPress Plugins
How can entrepreneurs stay updated on WordPress changes?
Entrepreneurs can engage with the vibrant WordPress community through annual "State of the Word" events, WordCamps, and online resources like the WordPress blog. Regular training sessions, community discussions, and developer documentation also help users stay ahead of new updates and features. Join the WordPress Community
About the Author
Violetta Bonenkamp, also known as MeanCEO, is an experienced startup founder with an impressive educational background including an MBA and four other higher education degrees. She has over 20 years of work experience across multiple countries, including 5 years as a solopreneur and serial entrepreneur. Throughout her startup experience she has applied for multiple startup grants at the EU level, in the Netherlands and Malta, and her startups received quite a few of those. She’s been living, studying and working in many countries around the globe and her extensive multicultural experience has influenced her immensely.
Violetta is a true multiple specialist who has built expertise in Linguistics, Education, Business Management, Blockchain, Entrepreneurship, Intellectual Property, Game Design, AI, SEO, Digital Marketing, cyber security and zero code automations. Her extensive educational journey includes a Master of Arts in Linguistics and Education, an Advanced Master in Linguistics from Belgium (2006-2007), an MBA from Blekinge Institute of Technology in Sweden (2006-2008), and an Erasmus Mundus joint program European Master of Higher Education from universities in Norway, Finland, and Portugal (2009).
She is the founder of Fe/male Switch, a startup game that encourages women to enter STEM fields, and also leads CADChain, and multiple other projects like the Directory of 1,000 Startup Cities with a proprietary MeanCEO Index that ranks cities for female entrepreneurs. Violetta created the “gamepreneurship” methodology, which forms the scientific basis of her startup game. She also builds a lot of SEO tools for startups. Her achievements include being named one of the top 100 women in Europe by EU Startups in 2022 and being nominated for Impact Person of the year at the Dutch Blockchain Week. She is an author with Sifted and a speaker at different Universities. Recently she published a book on Startup Idea Validation the right way: from zero to first customers and beyond, launched a Directory of 1,500+ websites for startups to list themselves in order to gain traction and build backlinks and is building MELA AI to help local restaurants in Malta get more visibility online.
For the past several years Violetta has been living between the Netherlands and Malta, while also regularly traveling to different destinations around the globe, usually due to her entrepreneurial activities. This has led her to start writing about different locations and amenities from the point of view of an entrepreneur. Here’s her recent article about the best hotels in Italy to work from.
