New free AI course and digital strategies support for small businesses in Gosport

Small businesses in Gosport can benefit from a new free AI course, as well as tailored support to improve their digital strategies. Find out more about the partnership between Gosport Borough Council and Solent Partners.

Gosport start-ups and small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) are being offered a unique opportunity with the free Gosport Digital Accelerator Programme to transform their approach to digital and technological strategies.

With a free Artificial Intelligence course, the programme has been developed to help new and established small businesses to use the capabilities of AI to increase productivity and growth. Mentors will help businesses to pinpoint the opportunities AI can provide, and the challenges too, and then link you up with an expert who can provide one-to-one tailored support.

With more than 1,000 diverse businesses in Gosport, it is more crucial than ever for us to invest in improving the digital infrastructure. This will give our start-ups and SMEs the best chance to succeed in today’s economy.

Gosport Borough Council Deputy Leader Cllr Robert Hylands

He added: “The Gosport Digital Accelerator Programme offers tailored support, mentorship and access to new technologies. Our goal is to support our local economy and business community and stimulate innovation and growth through the adoption of digital tools and strategies. We’re excited to see the positive impact the programme will no doubt achieve.”

What can the Gosport Digital Accelerator Programme can do for you?

The programme aims to drive greater productivity growth, as well as future-proof businesses. By offering mentorship and opportunities to work with renowned industry leaders, it can help you identify digital priorities, including SEO, analytics, sales, e-commerce, design and finance.

Who qualifies for the Gosport Digital Accelerator Programme?

Start-ups: Applicants need a residential or commercial address in the borough, and are starting their first business and trading for up to two years, with an ambition to grow.

Established small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs): Applicants must be registered in the Gosport Borough Council area and want to develop their digital capabilities with a focus on digital/tech resources. They need to have been trading for over two years, with regular sales revenue.

Solent Growth Partnership’s Business Board Chair Rachael Randall said: “We are excited to be working with Gosport Borough Council to support 30 Gosport-based businesses to develop stronger digital and technological know-how in an ever-changing digital landscape.

“Our team will assess the specific needs of each business and connect them with experts who fully understand the digital challenges specific business sectors face and the benefits that they can embed to help their business thrive.”

How is the programme funded?

The project is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and is part of a wider £1m programme to boost digital skills in Gosport.

The UKSPF aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK by investing in communities and place, supporting local business, people and skills.

Click here to sign up or for more information.

Visit the Gosport Digital Accelerator page for further details.

To find out more about the work of Solent Partners go to www.solentpartners.com