Interdisciplinary AI training and real-world applications for SMEs
▶Summary
The partners of the INAI4SME project, led by MICC, aimed to reduce the AI skills gap and promote inclusion by developing practical, innovative tools for education and business. For example, Connec...
▶Objectives
The partners of the INAI4SME project, led by MICC, aimed to reduce the AI skills gap and promote inclusion by developing practical, innovative tools for education and business. For example, Connectus wanted to create training programs that support digital empowerment for diverse groups, including job seekers and vulnerable communities, with a strong focus on employability and entrepreneurship. EVM sought to strengthen the AI knowledge base within SMEs and VET institutions by offering structured mentoring and technical upskilling, enabling companies to access a new generation of trained professionals. INNOMATE set out to produce adaptive, AI-powered learning content tailored to the needs of vocational students, while also advancing their internal capabilities to lead similar projects in the future. EXEO focused on demystifying AI for SMEs by designing hands-on, accessible training and providing strategic guidance through tools like the Mentor Handbook, with the goal of making AI adoption sustainable and aligned with business goals.
▶Activities
The INAI4SME project carried out key activities to support AI adoption in SMEs and VET. Connectus organized a multiplier event with 40 participants, conducted surveys with SME staff and VET teachers, and held a local workshop and pilot testing. EVM developed Module 3, created exercises and materials, led the development of the Moodle platform, contributed to the Mentor Handbook, and translated all resources into Spanish. INNOMATE participated in project meetings, developed Modules 4 and 6, supported research, testing, and dissemination, and organized a local conference. CEPROF worked on module development, piloted AI courses with SMEs and VET trainers, and contributed to the online learning platform and mentoring strategy. EXEO structured the AI training modules, developed the Mentor Handbook, and supported pilot testing and refinement. MICC, as lead partner, managed project coordination, led meetings, monitored progress, created the project website (https://www.inai4sme.eu/), and produced AI-generated video introductions for the modules.
▶Impact
The INAI4SME project produced several key results to foster AI adoption in SMEs and VET. These include the AI Framework for SMEs (WP2), which offers a structured methodology for AI integration, and 7 AI Training Modules with lessons, exercises, and interactive content (WP3). A comprehensive Mentor Handbook, led by EXEO, supports trainers in guiding SMEs. The Moodle-based Open Online Course Platform (https://learn.inai4sme.eu/) was developed by EVM to host all training materials. INNOMATE contributed by creating interactive modules and organizing local workshops. MICC created and managed the project website (https://www.inai4sme.eu/), led dissemination via newsletters and social media, (Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094315711402&locale=it_IT, LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/inai4sme-project/posts/, YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@INAI4SME )and developed AI-generated video introductions for each module, translated with partner support, available on the project YouTube channel. Together, these outputs increased digital skills, supported personalized learning, and strengthened the collaboration between VET providers and SMEs, ensuring long-term impact.