The Czech Republic and Austria lag behind in practical AI application, with AI usage in companies below 10% in both countries as of 2020 and 2021. Small and medium-sized enterprises face uncertainty about leveraging AI to address specific issues due to resource constraints. However, AI is a top priority for the European Union, aligning with the 2018 European AI Strategy emphasizing AI for societal benefit. The recently adopted "AI Act" by the EU takes initial steps in AI regulation. The project AI Catalyst for SMEs aims to bridge research and practice, offering insights into AI applications, ethical considerations, and self-assessment tools like the AI Readiness Radar. Cross-border activities involve training and informing companies about AI benefits, with recommendations for future AI strategies for policymakers. The project adopts an inclusive approach, involving companies, regions, policymakers, academia, and support organizations.
AI Catalyst for SMEs: Innovation promotion through social design thinking labs and shared knowledge platform
