Understanding the Current Landscape of AI and Sustainability in European SMEs
Our organization recently completed a comprehensive research project to shed light on the state of artificial intelligence (AI) and green practices among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across five European countries: Spain, Bulgaria, Malta, Greece, and Cyprus.
Key findings from the research reveal both exciting opportunities and challenges for SMEs:
- Growing Interest in Sustainability: While 45% of SMEs struggle to find information on AI and green topics, a significant positive: 77% of respondents consider environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors to be important or fundamental to their business. However, only 42% have a formal green strategy in place.
- Digital Adoption with Room for Growth: Encouragingly, 85% of SMEs utilize digital technologies, with 43% boasting major or full digitalization. However, further development is crucial, particularly in AI and data analytics.
- Skills Gap in AI & Sustainability: Recognizing the importance of green and digital skills, 90% of respondents see them as vital for informed decision-making. Yet, only 60% feel prepared for AI, highlighting a significant skills gap. Interestingly, 50% prefer online platforms and peer learning for upskilling.
- Barriers to Adoption: Financial constraints and time limitations top the list of challenges for nearly half of the respondents (48%). Additionally, 35% of SMEs perceive AI and green technologies as complex and uncertain, hindering their adoption.
The Benefits of Understanding This Research for Your SME:
This research provides valuable insights to help SMEs navigate the landscape of AI and green practices. By understanding:
- Your Needs: The research findings can inform the development of training programs specifically tailored to address your challenges in AI and sustainability.
- Barriers to Adoption: Gaining knowledge of the obstacles hindering AI and green technology adoption allows us to create strategies to overcome them.
- Skills & Training: Analyzing the skills required for success in a sustainable future empowers us to design effective training programs that empower you and your staff.
- Informed Decision-Making: Equipped with knowledge from the research, you can make informed choices regarding technology adoption and sustainability initiatives for your business.
Dive deeper into the research and discover the full report here: https://ai4greensme.eu/outcomes/
By working together, we can empower SMEs to unlock the potential of AI and green practices, fostering a more sustainable and prosperous future. Join our community here: http://eepurl.com/i0M4lw