This is a press release sent by Microsoft on March 25, 2024:
“Microsoft Canada released the results of a new study on the challenges and opportunities of AI for Canadian small businesses on March 25, 2024. The results reveal that Canadian SMEs are moving from curiosity to action on AI, with 78% currently looking to adopt AI. Below are other findings from the survey, including a strong focus on training and protecting data privacy as part of the rise of AI.
Investment & Adoption
37% of Canadian SMEs invested in AI in 2023
78% of SMBs are currently looking to adopt AI
65% encourage their employees to use AI
AI has led to an average 31% increase in SME productivity in Canada and 76% of businesses consider the impact of AI on business productivity to be positive.
AI is gaining efficiency in human resources
58% of companies say AI makes the recruitment process easier
64% say employees are focusing on more creative and relevant tasks with AI
Hiring employees with AI expertise and training existing employees are priorities for HR (37% vs. 35%).
Laying the right foundation
More than half of the companies surveyed have conducted AI training.
Nearly half of mid-sized companies cited developing current talent as a major challenge for AI adoption.
Data privacy and cybersecurity threats are both among the top five AI challenges for SMBs in Canada.””
Featured photo: Microsoft Canada offices in Montreal, taken by Split Screen
