THE AI Advantage for SMEs

The AI Advantage for SMEs

Working Smarter, Making Better Decisions and Driving Growth with AI

Programme Overview

This 5 session programme supports SME owners and managers to integrate artificial intelligence into their business in a practical, accessible and results-focused way to improve decision-making, productivity and performance. Participants will learn how to apply AI to improve key areas of their business including planning, market research, marketing, customer communication, operations and day-to-day decision-making, without the need for technical expertise. Each session combines live demonstrations, guided exercises and real-world examples to build confidence and capability. The programme also introduces responsible AI use, including an overview of the EU AI Act, helping businesses understand how to use AI safely, ethically and in line with emerging regulations.

Format

• 5 x half day workshops online (3 hours), delivered weekly over 5 consecutive weeks
•  1 x one-hour one-to-one clinic per business - supporting implementation

The date and time of the follow-up one-to-one online clinic (1 hour) will be scheduled by the trainer and confirmed with each participant via email.

Who This Programme Is For

• SMEs curious about AI but unsure how to apply it in a practical way
• Entrepreneurs looking to improve efficiency, productivity & business performance
• Managers seeking to improve decision-making, communication, planning and overall
  management effectiveness.
  No prior knowledge or experience with AI is required

Topics Covered

• Introduction to AI in business, the opportunities and limitations
• Practical AI tools for everyday business tasks
• Using AI for business planning, research and idea generation
• Improving communication, marketing and customer engagement using AI
• Using AI to streamline workflows, save time and improve operational efficiency
• Enhancing decision-making with AI-generated insights and structured prompts
• Responsible AI use, risks and considerations (including the EU AI Act)
• Using AI to support leadership, communication and management effectiveness

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this programme, participants will:

• Understand how AI can be applied across key areas of the business to improve
  performance
• Confidently use AI tools to support day-to-day tasks
•  Save time and increase productivity through practical AI applications
• Make more informed business, data-driven decisions using AI-assisted insights
• Improve the quality, consistency and effectiveness of business communications and
  content
• Understand the importance of responsible AI use and key regulations
• Develop a clear and practical AI implementation plan tailored to their business
  Programme Structure
• Session 1: AI for Business - Opportunities, Risks and Where to Start
• Session 2: AI for Planning, Research and Decision-Making
• Session 3: AI for Marketing and Customer Communication
• Session 4: AI for Productivity and Operations
• Session 5: Embedding AI in Your Business

For Sligo-based SMEs looking to apply AI within their own business; not intended for those providing AI training or advisory services.

Local Enterprise Office Sligo reserves the right to prioritise or decline applications