This study investigates AI literacy as a key antecedent factor influencing managerial perceptions in strategic decision-making. Drawing on technology acceptance research, this study examines how managers’ understanding of AI technologies shapes their perceptions of benefits, risks, and trust. Based on a survey of 109 Polish senior managers, factor analysis and regression modelling are employed to test three hypotheses. Results show that AI literacy significantly influences trust and perceived benefit, while demonstrating a complex positive relationship with risk perception that suggests informed awareness rather than fear. This exploratory study contributes by introducing and validating AI literacy as a novel antecedent construct, offering insights into the factors that drive managerial acceptance of AI in strategic contexts. Limitations include study’s exploratory nature and relatively small sample size.