Aberdeen Businesses Invited to Explore the Potential of AI
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Aberdeen have an exciting opportunity to explore the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) through a new programme launched by Aberdeen City Council in partnership with CodeBase, a leading tech ecosystem organisation. This initiative is designed to boost productivity, streamline operations, and support smarter, data-driven decision-making across local businesses.
The programme, set to run from January to March 2025, offers Aberdeen SMEs a chance to harness AI technology to improve their competitiveness. It’s an initiative aimed at equipping businesses with the tools and knowledge to integrate AI into their workflows, ultimately supporting local economic growth.
Aberdeen City Council Co-Leader Councillor Ian Yuill emphasised the programme’s significance:
“This programme will enable small and medium-sized businesses from across Aberdeen to discover a new way to work as well as benefitting the local economy by supporting their growth.”
The programme targets businesses with at least five employees and an annual revenue exceeding £500,000. It’s free to attend, thanks to joint funding from Aberdeen City Council and the UK Government via the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
AI technology has long been heralded as a game-changer for industries, but its adoption among SMEs often lags behind larger companies. The Aberdeen programme seeks to bridge this gap, offering tailored support for businesses that may not have the resources or expertise to explore AI on their own.
By incorporating AI into their operations, SMEs can:
Enhance Productivity: Automate routine tasks to free up valuable time.
Reduce Costs: Identify inefficiencies and streamline processes.
Improve Decision-Making: Leverage data insights for more informed strategies.
From optimising supply chains to better understanding customer behaviours, the possibilities of AI are vast, and this programme offers a chance for Aberdeen businesses to tap into that potential.
CodeBase brings significant expertise to the table. Known for its work with startups and tech education, the organisation has already made its mark in Aberdeen since opening a startup incubation hub in the city in 2019.
CodeBase supports businesses by providing educational programmes, mentorship, and collaborative spaces for innovation. Its involvement ensures that SMEs participating in the AI programme will receive expert guidance, making AI accessible even to those with minimal prior experience.
Applications for the programme are open until Monday, 9 December 2024, and can be submitted online via the CodeBase website. With only a limited number of spaces available, businesses are encouraged to act quickly to secure their spot.
Eligible businesses must meet the following criteria:
Employ at least five people.
Generate annual revenue of £500,000 or more.
These requirements aim to ensure that participants are well-positioned to implement the insights and tools gained through the programme effectively.
This initiative reflects a broader effort by Aberdeen City Council to position the city as a leader in innovation and economic growth. By empowering SMEs with cutting-edge technology, the council is fostering resilience and adaptability in the local business community, a vital step in a city undergoing significant transitions, particularly in energy and technology sectors.
The partnership between the council, CodeBase, and the UK Government highlights the collaborative effort needed to future-proof Aberdeen’s economy. AI adoption isn’t just about keeping up with global trends; it’s about ensuring the city’s businesses can thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape.
While the benefits of AI are clear, it’s important to acknowledge the challenges SMEs may face when integrating this technology. From concerns about cost and complexity to questions about ethical use and data security, the path to AI adoption isn’t without its hurdles.
Programmes like this can help demystify AI and provide practical, hands-on guidance to address these concerns. By removing barriers and offering support, Aberdeen City Council and CodeBase are giving local businesses the tools to innovate and grow.
This programme isn’t just about individual businesses, it’s about strengthening Aberdeen as a whole. By equipping SMEs with AI capabilities, the city is building a more dynamic and competitive business environment, one that’s better prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.
As the deadline for applications approaches, Aberdeen’s SMEs have a unique opportunity to step into the future of business. With the right tools and support, they can unlock new potential, drive growth, and contribute to a thriving local economy.
Don’t miss the chance to be part of this exciting initiative. To learn more and apply, visit the CodeBase website today.
https://www.thisiscodebase.com/ai-navigator
