The partnership launches the first AI Upskills programme aims to help Vancouver Island businesses improve productivity and streamline operations.
Economic Development Cowichan (EDC) and Community Futures Central Island (CFCI) are implementing the first regionally focused AI training programme designed specifically for small businesses, nonprofits and solopreneurs.
According to economic development analyst Brittany Taylor, the programme will be a practical approach to show how much AIL can do to the economic community.
“From our perspective, AI is in the early stages, so this is an opportunity to get involved and help shape how it evolves and how it is used,” says Taylor. “Businesses on Vancouver Island, like all small businesses, face a variety of challenges each day. There are some real challenges and why not use all the tools in the box?”
According to Vancouver Trade CommissionOnly 9% of BC companies currently use AI, while 6% plan to use it, and 17% have no plans to use technology for their businesses.
The board says they often hesitate to move AI forward, but Taylor says each program on the island's new course can adapt to the needs of each business on the island.
“In this program, participants take different stages, but start with consciousness and explore some common use cases,” she says. “This is a place I think it really applies to the whole region.”
EDC Manager Barry Oliodran says it is important that the region's economic development keeps technology up to date and stay ahead of its profitability.
“We are proud to lead the way we can support the Cowichan business,” says O'Ridoran. “We want to leverage AI in practical ways to improve operations.”
EDC offers courses to valley businesses with 10 openings.
