Research run by Small Business Britain in partnership with BT Group shows small business owners expect artificial intelligence to play a central role in their operations within five years. More than two thirds, 68%, believe artificial intelligence could boost their growth, while around half, 51%, say they need hands-on support to implement the technology effectively. The data suggests enthusiasm for adoption is high but that practical education and targeted training remain major barriers.
To address that need, Small Business Britain and BT Group are relaunching the free, six-week ´AI for Small Business´ programme. Launched earlier in the year, the series previously attracted more than 2,000 live attendees and was also watched on demand. The returning cohort will take part in expert-led webinars and an interactive community platform designed to bridge critical digital and artificial intelligence skill gaps. The programme is scheduled to start on 15th September and will cover topics including using artificial intelligence to make marketing more efficient, sourcing new leads, boosting sales and building sustainable processes. Sessions will be recorded and made available to entrepreneurs who sign up to the course on the Small Business Britain website.
Leaders involved in the initiative framed the relaunch as a direct response to feedback from small businesses. Michelle Ovens CBE, founder of Small Business Britain, said many owners are eager to use the full potential of artificial intelligence but need education and training to do so. Chris Sims, chief commercial officer, uk business at BT, said the programme responds to small businesses´ desire to work faster and smarter and free time to focus on innovation and customer relationships. Practitioners delivering the course emphasise practical outcomes. Cheryl Laidlaw, a trainer on the programme, told attendees she intends to show that artificial intelligence is practical and can deliver tools that save hours, cut costs and amplify ideas. Image captions also note Jamie Bykov-Brett will host a session as part of the series. Small business owners can learn more and sign up through the Small Business Britain website.
