Workshops, webinars and mentorship programs available to small employers, says government
Manitoba is helping small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into their operations through a new training initiative.
The provincial government—in partnership with the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce (MCC) and Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce (WCC)—is investing $2 million in an artificial intelligence (AI) training initiative to help SMBs dismantle common barriers to AI adoption.
“This training initiative will allow small- and medium-sized businesses to enhance productivity and grow their enterprise,” says Adrien Sala, minister of finance. “We will continue to invest in our economy and ensure that businesses across the province can remain competitive with the rest of the country.”
The integration of AI has become not just a trend but a necessity for staying competitive. And while AI promises increased efficiency, productivity, and profitability, its implementation often triggers apprehension and resistance among employees, Cecelia Herbert, principal behavioural psychologist at Qualtrics, previously said.
“Our government is committed to helping businesses succeed, especially adapting to a new and exciting digital economy that includes a provincewide AI strategy, with both a private and public sector focus,” says Moroz. “This investment will provide tools to help Manitoba businesses grow and thrive.”
The initiative will offer workshops, webinars, and mentorship programs through the MCC and WCC. An AI readiness self-assessment tool will also be provided, allowing businesses to evaluate their current stage of AI adoption and receive tailored recommendations.
“This strategic investment ensures SMEs have ongoing support and resources to harness AI, enhancing their competitiveness and resilience,” said Chuck Davidson, president and CEO of the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce. “The Manitoba Chambers of Commerce is dedicated to being a champion of AI and its potential to help businesses achieve sustainable economic growth, which in turn benefits the entire province. Delivering this project through Manitoba’s chamber network will allow us to ensure SMEs from all corners of the province can benefit from structured, practical AI methodologies.”
Overall, 90 per cent of employers say that adapting to technological change is a moderate to high priority, according to a previous report from Deloitte.
What is the best way to implement AI at work?
Employers can take the following steps to develop the positive uses of AI and make them available to more people, while also mitigating the serious risks it creates, according to
Martin Woodward, director global legal - tech & procurement, Randsatd:
- Train workers in using AI at work.
- Monitor workers’ AI use and engage with employees.
- Have clear AI governance documents in place and a common definition of responsible AI.
“AI tools aren’t going away, and in the future, they’ll be even more advanced and widely used than today. So it’s time for every company to start thinking about how responsible, ethical AI can be ensured in the organization,” he says.
The adoption of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in Canadian workplaces has more than doubled in the past year, but many Canadians may be risking sensitive data in the process, according to a previous KPMG report.
