Government extends AI support for small businesses

A further 120 small businesses will get expert help to put artificial intelligence (AI) to work, with the Government extending its AI Advisory Pilot until 30 June 2027, says Small Business and Manufacturing Minister Cameron Brewer. Around 150 businesses have already come on board since the pilot launched in January. Delivered through the Regional Business Partner Network (RBPN), it gives businesses trusted expert advice on where AI can make a real difference, and co-funds the development of a tailored AI roadmap and the cost of putting it in place, up to $15,000. "Plenty of small business owners can see AI could save them time and money. What they often don't have is the time or in-house expertise to know where to start. That's the gap this pilot fills," Mr Brewer says. "Businesses have put their hands up in strong numbers and the feedback has been encouraging, so we're backing it with more places and more time. "AI isn't just for big corporates with their own IT departments. With the right support, a local manufacturer, tradie or retailer can use it to cut the admin, work smarter and spend more time on what they do best." The appetite for AI support goes well beyond the pilot. Bet