The announcement comes as official analysis shows many SMEs remain wary of AI, with a government report finding New Zealand SMEs are lagging behind comparable markets in adopting advanced digital tools, despite their increasing use among larger businesses.
ASB executive general manager of business banking Ben Speedy (pictured) said many Kiwi companies were competing without having the same technology as their overseas rivals.
“We have spades, but international companies have excavators. Too often our productivity challenges are solved by adding more people, rather than investing in automation and AI,” Speedy said. “Pathway to Productivity aims to help businesses step up to the excavator with practical, evidence-based solutions that can truly improve productivity in New Zealand.”
AI Bootcamp targets 4,000 small and medium-sized businesses
In partnership with Xero and academyEX, ASB will launch its AI Bootcamp for Business next week, billed as Aotearoa’s largest hands-on AI bootcamp. The free, 12-week online program targets approximately 4,000 small and medium-sized businesses and focuses on building confidence in using AI in daily operations.
Participating companies are expected to complete exercises such as AI-driven marketing campaigns, workflow management AI agents, and automated standard operating procedures, and end with a 30-day AI implementation plan. The cost of $1,350 per person and 12 months of access to the AI learning platform will be fully provided by ASB.
