“AI is not relevant for my business.”
That’s still the most common reason UK companies give for not adopting AI.
According to British Chambers (BCC) Research (2024):
- Only 25% of UK businesses are currently using AI
- A staggering 43% have no plans to adopt it at all
I was pleased to join the British Chambers of Commerce AI & Digitalisation Panel alongside Carolyn Dawson (moderator), Andrea Reynolds, Heba Bevan OBE, and Dr James Kuht MBE.
As chambers, our role must evolve from traditional service providers to digital transformation partners for our members, especially SMEs. That means embracing AI ourselves and helping others do the same with confidence.
Here are three practical steps:
- Practice what you preach: Equip and educate your chamber staff on AI
- Create space for dialogue: Host forums and industry-specific events
- Elevate your members’ voices: Let AI service providers share real solutions with fellow businesses
At British & Commonwealth Chamber of Commerce in Finland, we’re staying ahead, organising events, offering practical tools, and sharing expertise drawn from hands-on experience, building both AI-driven apps and a fully-fledged SaaS product.
AI isn’t the future. It’s the present. And we’re helping our members make the most of it.
