The University of Salford secures £101,000 to support AI education for SMEs.
- The funding from Innovate UK aims to address AI and cybersecurity challenges.
- SMEs will receive education on AI-driven security solutions and risk management.
- Workshops and online resources will be freely accessible to businesses.
- The initiative supports diversity by promoting women in cybersecurity.
The University of Salford’s Center for Sustainable Innovation has procured £101,000 from Innovate UK. This funding will empower small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Greater Manchester by educating them on the convergence of artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity. The aim is to overcome significant hurdles faced by these businesses in adopting AI technologies securely.
A key element of this initiative is the creation of educational resources designed to make AI-driven cybersecurity solutions more accessible and understandable to SMEs. Businesses will learn to integrate AI into their operations while comprehensively managing potential risks. Resources will include workshops, podcasts, and online training, ensuring that knowledge is both widespread and in-depth.
Recent market research underscores the urgency and relevance of this program. Executives predict that 40% of the workforce will require reskilling within three years due to AI implementation. Additionally, research reveals that 74% of organizations have observed AI meeting or surpassing their investment expectations. Yet, cybersecurity remains a prevalent threat, with data showing that half of the businesses have experienced cyber incidents in the past year.
Dr. Angel Jimenez-Aranda, a leading figure in digital transformation, emphasizes that SMEs are at a crucial junction in their AI journey. Dr. Jimenez-Aranda notes, “Many businesses are at a critical point in their AI journeys and, while the technology presents great scope to drive innovation, efficiency, and productivity, it’s essential those at the helm of leading adoption are educated on these opportunities as well as security risks.”
Co-lead Tarek Gaber highlights the importance of addressing security early in AI adoption stages. He states, “As SMEs adopt AI to transform their operations, security of AI must be part of the foundation, not an afterthought.” This project aims to ensure AI becomes a reliable ally in business growth, underpinned by secure technological infrastructures.
Another fascinating aspect of this initiative is its focus on inclusivity. The project aligns with national goals to increase diversity in STEM fields by 2030, with a special emphasis on encouraging women to enter cybersecurity. This will be achieved by showcasing role models and fostering an inclusive culture within the field.
This program is set to have a ripple effect, boosting not only the participating businesses but also the wider community in Greater Manchester. The initiative will provide its materials and insights publicly on a dedicated website, amplifying its impact beyond the initial project duration. The efforts will commence in early 2025, with the first of the educational workshops slated for late January, concluding by March of the same year.
This initiative by the University of Salford marks a significant step in bolstering AI and cybersecurity expertise among SMEs in Greater Manchester.
