Samuel Easto-Lefebvre, National AI Lead, Senior Advisor, BDC, discusses a new program by the bank to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) adopt artificial intelligence (AI) technologies effectively.
PRESS RELEASE
Montreal, December 4, 2024 – BDC, Canada’s Bank for entrepreneurs, is thrilled to introduce the Data to AI Program. This initiative aims to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) adopt artificial intelligence (AI) technologies effectively.
Empowering SMEs with AI
Many SMEs are unsure how AI, automation, and cybersecurity can benefit their operations. BDC’s study, “The AI Imperative for Canada’s Entrepreneurs,” found that only 39% of businesses believed they were using AI. However, 66% recognized AI tools when shown a list.
The Data to AI Program starts with education, helping businesses understand AI and its benefits. BDC then helps create a customized plan, offering financing up to the full project cost, and integrates AI, cybersecurity, and automation solutions.
“We believe that every small business needs and deserves the opportunity to benefit from the power of AI,” said Véronique Dorval, Executive Vice President and COO, BDC. “Our tailored solutions provide the guidance and support needed to integrate these technologies seamlessly and securely into their operations and help entrepreneurs increase their productivity.”
Comprehensive Service Package
The Data to AI Program includes:
- AI Solutions: Guidance on understanding AI, its benefits, and implementation.
- Cybersecurity: Assessments and solutions to protect client information.
- Data Strategy: Customized roadmaps to streamline processes and enhance productivity.
Success Stories
Clients of the Data to AI Program have seen significant improvements. Stephen Hamelin, President and CEO of Vortex Aquatic Structures International, said, “BDC helped us understand AI’s impact on our business, aiding in both long- and short-term planning. Their approach was insightful and effective.”
With BDC’s support, Vortex developed an AI readiness roadmap, including feasible projects, resources, and suppliers. They also implemented an internet scraping tool for investment and sales information and planned a customer service chatbot.
Bridging the Knowledge Gap
BDC’s Data to AI Program aims to demystify AI for SMEs and boost productivity. The study highlights that technology adoption is key, with 97% of businesses using AI reporting benefits like increased efficiency, reduced costs, higher sales, improved customer service, and better management of sales, production, and inventory.
Click here to learn more about BDC’s Data to AI Program.
About BDC: 80 years as Canada’s bank for entrepreneurs
BDC is a partner of choice for all entrepreneurs looking to access the financing and advice they need to build their businesses and tackle the big challenges of our time. Our investment arm, BDC Capital, offers a wide range of risk capital solutions to help grow the most innovative firms. BDC’s development role means we are in a state of perpetual evolution – wherever entrepreneurs go and whatever the Canadian economy needs – we will be there to help them defy the odds. 80 years later, that commitment remains very much alive. The financial value of BDC’s services is estimated to add $23.6 billion in GDP to Canada’s economy over the next five years. We are one of Canada’s Top 100 Employers and Canada’s Best Diversity Employers and the first financial institution in Canada to receive the B Corp certification in 2013. For more information on our products and services and to consult free tools, templates and articles, visit bdc.ca or join BDC on social media.
Mario Toneguzzi
Mario Toneguzzi is Managing Editor of Canada’s Podcast. He has more than 40 years of experience as a daily newspaper writer, columnist, and editor. He was named in 2021 as one of the Top 10 Business Journalists in the World by PR News – the only Canadian to make the list. He was also named by RETHINK to its global list of Top Retail Experts 2024.
About Us
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