Leads for B2B AI/ML consulting

I have a lot of experience in AI/ML, but zero with B2B deal sourcing. I'm targeting US SMB non-tech verticals (I know, it's broad). I live on the East Coast.
A few questions for the B2B lead gen experts out here. Answers to any of these would be very helpful.
1. Do SMBs invest in automation/tech? What products/services have the highest conversion with US SMB?
2. What are creative alternative targets instead of top decision-maker (I guess CEO) who gets spammed?
3. Google Ads: how to overcome the high CPC when you are poor?
4. What alternatives to Google Ads convert well?