Free AI Programme Helping West Midlands Small Businesses Unlock Growth
By Anushka Malhotra
1 minute 4 seconds
Growth

Share:

Quick Read: A free AI training programme is helping West Midlands small businesses bridge the AI skills gap, unlocking growth and efficiency through expert-led training.
A new AI training programme is empowering small business owners in the West Midlands to bridge the AI skills gap, as research reveals that while entrepreneurs are eager to embrace AI, many lack the necessary training to do so effectively.
A study by Small Business Britain, in partnership with BT Group, found that 68% of small business owners believe AI could significantly boost their growth. However, many struggle with understanding and integrating AI into their operations.
To tackle this challenge, Small Business Britain and BT Group have launched the AI for Small Business programme—a free, six-week online course designed to upskill small business owners with essential AI and digital skills. The programme features expert-led webinars and an interactive community platform to help businesses make practical use of AI for marketing, efficiency, and security.
Chris Sims, Chief Commercial Officer at BT, said:
“We know AI can be overwhelming for small businesses. This course simplifies AI and provides hands-on training to help entrepreneurs maximise its potential.”
The programme, which covers topics such as AI fundamentals, marketing, and security, will conclude with a four-week series of workshops in May, focusing on AI-powered marketing strategies.
Jeevan Punj, founder of Telford-based Elite Hampers, praised the programme:
“AI has been an incredible asset for us, saving time and improving workflow—especially in marketing. We're excited about how AI will continue to enhance our business.”
Entrepreneurs can access the AI for Small Business sessions on demand via the Small Business Britain website. Those interested can join the waitlist at smallbusinessbritain.uk/ai-for-small-business.
What's new

West Midlands Poised to Lead UK’s AI Revolution, Says KPMG Partner

Private firms in the West Midlands are outpacing the rest of the UK in their plans to adopt artificial intelligence (AI), positioning the region at the forefront of digital innovation, according to KPMG’s Andy Bostock.
With the UK Government’s AI Opportunities Action Plan aiming to cement the country as a global leader in artificial intelligence, the West Midlands is already taking significant steps in that direction. The plan, launched earlier this year, highlights how AI can modernise public services — and private sector companies across the region are responding to the call with enthusiasm.
According to KPMG’s Private Enterprise Barometer, published in December, 83% of West Midlands private firms are planning AI investments — well above the national average of 73%.
Andy Bostock, Senior Partner at KPMG, said:
“The most successful companies are those viewing AI not as a cost, but as a strategic investment in long-term growth and resilience.”
The West Midlands, with its strong roots in engineering and manufacturing, is well-positioned to reap the benefits of AI. From optimising supply chains to enhancing talent acquisition and predictive maintenance, AI applications are already transforming business models.
A recent joint report by KPMG and UKTN found that accelerating AI adoption across manufacturing and engineering will be essential to meet the region’s tech sector goal of reaching a £100 billion valuation by 2030.
The region is home to over 300 AI-focused businesses employing more than 11,000 people, forming one of the most dynamic digital clusters in the UK. Yet, Bostock stressed that the journey is just beginning.
To fully harness AI’s potential, businesses must establish strong, adaptable data frameworks and integrate AI solutions that align with their existing operations. This includes practical tools like chatbots for customer service, predictive analytics for inventory management, and AI-driven insights for marketing and long-term planning.
Andy Bostock added:
“Real business value comes from identifying where AI can enhance existing strengths. It’s not about starting over, it’s about getting smarter.”
As the region doubles down on digital transformation, Bostock believes cutting through the AI hype and focusing on measurable outcomes will be key to unlocking its full potential.
By Anushka Malhotra
11 Apr
An image of the outside of selfridges in birmingham from below looking up. You can see the iconic silver circles with the blue background of the building and the sky on a sunny day
Proudly Backed By Our Patrons
About
About Us
Meet The Team
What's Happening
Explore
Events
Birmingham Tech Week
Contact
https://twitter.com/TechWestMids
https://www.linkedin.com/company/techwm/
mailto:marketing@techwm.com
TechWM Logo in blue and grey
AND Digital Logo
Contentful Logo