Transforming Businesses with AI: The AI Foundry Initiative

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. The AI Foundry: A New Initiative
3. The Success of the Cyber Foundry
4. The Partnership and Funding
5. Key Themes of the AI Foundry
6. Phase One: Business Development
7. Phase Two: Technical Assistance
8. Eligibility and Criteria
9. Contacting the AI Foundry
10. Future Plans and Next Boundary Project

The AI Foundry: Revolutionizing Business with Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) has rapidly become one of the most promising technologies for businesses across various industries. It offers new opportunities for growth, efficiency, and innovation. In this article, we will explore the AI Foundry, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Greater Manchester, UK, in harnessing the power of AI. From its inception to its goals and the benefits it brings, we will delve into the details of this exciting project.

1️⃣ Introduction

With the continuous advancements in technology, organizations worldwide are seeking ways to leverage AI to gain a competitive edge. The AI Foundry, an initiative led by the partnership between Manchester Metropolitan University and three other distinguished universities, aims to equip SMEs with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate the world of AI successfully.

2️⃣ The AI Foundry: A New Initiative

Building upon the success of the Cyber Foundry, the AI Foundry is the latest addition to a series of projects aimed at fostering regional growth through technology adoption. With a significant focus on supporting SMEs, the AI Foundry seeks to enable businesses to understand AI's capabilities and determine how to integrate it strategically for growth.

3️⃣ The Success of the Cyber Foundry

The Cyber Foundry, launched two years ago, has been a resounding success. By working closely with SMEs in the Greater Manchester area, the project has helped nearly 600 businesses enhance their cyber security processes. Over 400 of these businesses have received direct support, with 45 successfully developing and launching new products in the market. The Cyber Foundry has not only driven economic growth but also fostered a collaborative community by connecting various stakeholders, including the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and GCHQ.

4️⃣ The Partnership and Funding

The AI Foundry brings together the expertise and resources of Manchester Metropolitan University, University of Manchester, University of Salford, and Lancaster University. As a recipient of funding from the European Regional Development Agency, the AI Foundry can offer its services to SMEs at no cost. Strong support from the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and the recent establishment of GCHQ in the city further emphasize the importance of these projects to the region.

5️⃣ Key Themes of the AI Foundry

The AI Foundry focuses on four key themes in which AI can drive significant advancements:

1. Class Materials and Manufacturing: Exploring intelligent and smarter use of technology to enhance material and manufacturing systems, giving the city a competitive advantage in these sectors.
2. Clean Growth: Employing emerging AI technologies for sustainable city growth, ensuring environmental responsibility and maximizing efficiency.
3. Digital and Creative Media: Applying AI to the digital and creative media industry to unlock new possibilities and drive innovation.
4. Health Innovation: Innovating in the health space by creating AI-powered tools, services, and products that support the Healthcare sector, particularly in challenging times like the Present.

6️⃣ Phase One: Business Development

In the initial phase, the AI Foundry aims to support at least 400 local SMEs by increasing their awareness and understanding of AI's potential. Dedicated business support teams provide workshops and guidance to help SMEs develop their business plans with an AI focus. By the end of this phase, SMEs will have a clear strategy for growth and be ready to move into the technical development phase.

7️⃣ Phase Two: Technical Assistance

Upon completing the business support phase, selected SMEs enter the technical assistance stage. Around 50 businesses will have the opportunity to work closely with university-based technical teams for three months. These collaborations aim to develop and prototype AI technologies that can be integrated into the businesses' operations, leading to the creation of new jobs and enhanced products in the market.

8️⃣ Eligibility and Criteria

To participate in the AI Foundry, SMEs must be registered and located within the boundaries of Greater Manchester. While there is no cost for participation, eligibility is specific to the funding scheme and may impact some state aid allocations. The AI Foundry is open to collaboration with larger organizations, even if they don't meet the SME criteria, to facilitate interactions between SMEs and the broader ecosystem.

9️⃣ Contacting the AI Foundry

The AI Foundry project is in its early stages, and as it progresses, more information will become available on websites and through various communication channels. Manchester Metropolitan University's website will be a primary source of information, but the other partner universities will also provide contact details. The project's recruitment of business development managers ensures direct engagement with SMEs through events, workshops, and conferences held across the city.

🔟 Future Plans and Next Boundary Project

The AI Foundry is dedicated to continuous improvement and supporting business growth. As the project unfolds, collaborations across universities and industries will provide valuable insights and opportunities for further boundary projects. Suggestions and feedback from SMEs and the community are encouraged to Shape the future development of this initiative and identify additional areas for support and innovation.

Highlights:

• The AI Foundry is a new initiative supporting SMEs in Greater Manchester to harness the power of AI.
• It builds upon the success of the Cyber Foundry, which has already helped 600 businesses enhance their cyber security practices.
• The AI Foundry focuses on key themes such as materials and manufacturing, clean growth, digital and creative media, and health innovation.
• Phase one involves business development and awareness, while phase two provides technical assistance and innovation.
• SMEs in Greater Manchester can participate in the AI Foundry at no cost, thanks to funding from the European Regional Development Agency.

FAQ:

Q: What is the AI Foundry? A: The AI Foundry is an initiative that supports SMEs in Greater Manchester in harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI).

Q: How does the AI Foundry support businesses? A: The AI Foundry provides business development support and technical assistance to SMEs, helping them understand and integrate AI into their operations.

Q: Is there a cost to participate in the AI Foundry? A: SMEs in Greater Manchester can participate in the AI Foundry at no cost, thanks to funding from the European Regional Development Agency.

Q: What are the key themes of the AI Foundry? A: The AI Foundry focuses on materials and manufacturing, clean growth, digital and creative media, and health innovation as key themes for AI-driven advancements.

Q: How can SMEs get in touch with the AI Foundry? A: SMEs can visit the Manchester Metropolitan University website for more information and contact the AI Foundry through the provided channels.

Resources:

• Manchester Metropolitan University AI Foundry