This practical, fast-paced session introduces small business owners and sole traders to time-saving AI tools that can make an immediate impact. Without any technical jargon, you'll learn how to use AI to streamline everyday tasks, improve decision-making, and boost productivity. From automating admin to generating marketing content, this course focuses on accessible, affordable tools that deliver real results. Whether you're a freelancer, shop owner, or service provider, you'll come away with a clear understanding of what AI can do for your business, along with practical steps to get started straight away. No technical experience required, just curiosity and ambition.
📍 Location: Launchpad, Hillary House
⏱ Duration: 2 hours (room will be open 30 minutes prior to start time)
Who Should Attend:
This session is designed for sole traders, freelancers, and small business owners on the Isle of Man who want to save time, cut costs, and stay competitive using simple but powerful AI tools, without needing any technical expertise.
Objectives:
By the end of this session, attendees will:
- Understand what AI can and cannot do for a small business today
- Identify several practical AI tools they can start using immediately
- Learn how to use AI to free up time
- Gain confidence in experimenting with AI in day-to-day operations
- Leave with a goal for implementing at least one AI-powered improvement in their business
Session Agenda:
- Welcome and Introduction
- What AI Really Is (and Isn’t)
- Common Pain Points for Small Businesses
- AI Tools That Save Time and Money
- Live Demonstrations: Real-World Use Cases
- Automating Admin and Repetitive Tasks
- Generating Content and Ideas with AI
- Building Your Personal AI Toolkit
- Action Planning: What to Try First
Instructor: Dan Thomas
Dan Thomas works with business leaders, boards, and public sector teams to help them understand and manage the risks and opportunities of advanced technologies like AI and blockchain. With over 20 years of experience spanning product design, national programmes, and emerging tech strategy, he now focuses on supporting leadership teams with trusted insight, helping them stay ahead of disruption and use AI responsibly.
What's included:
Access will also be given to a "getting started with AI" questionnaire that they can quickly use to guide them through the process of deciding what quick wins are available to them.
About Activate AI:
Activate AI empowers the Isle of Man community through accessible AI education and training. Led by industry experts, these sessions help businesses and residents harness AI for innovation, productivity, and growth.
Note:
By registering, you consent to your information being shared with the trainers for session management and communication purposes. You will also receive the Activate AI newsletter (unsubscribe anytime). For concerns about data sharing or newsletter subscriptions, please email ai@gov.im.
