The New Year got off to a strong start with the delivery of an in-person AI training session at Ards Business Hub, bringing together a highly engaged group of small business owners keen to explore how AI can be used in practical, meaningful ways.

The session, Making AI Work for You and Your Business, was designed specifically for owner-managers, freelancers, and SME leaders who are curious about AI but want clarity rather than hype. The focus wasn’t on theory or technical jargon, but on how AI can be applied immediately to improve efficiency, productivity, and decision-making in everyday business operations.

Practical AI, not science fiction

A key part of the session was a live demonstration of commonly used AI tools that participants could begin using straight away. These were off-the-shelf, subscription-based tools - affordable, accessible, and already widely used by small businesses, rather than bespoke or complex systems that require large budgets or technical teams.

We explored how these tools can support areas such as:

• Day-to-day productivity and admin

• Content creation and communications

• Planning, research, and decision support

For many in the room, this was an important shift in mindset: understanding that AI doesn’t have to be disruptive or expensive to be valuable. In many cases, it can simply slot into existing ways of working and remove friction from routine tasks.

A brilliant setting for learning

The training took place in one of the beautifully designed rooms within Ards Business Centre. The space itself made a real difference - light-filled, modern, and thoughtfully laid out, creating an environment that encouraged discussion, questions, and shared learning.

Ards Business Hub continues to set a high standard in terms of facilities and support for the local business community, and it was a pleasure to deliver this session in such a professional and welcoming setting.

The first of three Reinventor Network events

This session marked the first of three Reinventor Network events taking place over the coming months, all delivered in partnership with Ards Business Hub. The series is designed to give local business owners access to practical insights, peer learning, and future-focused thinking — without overwhelming them or pulling them away from the realities of running a business.

If you’re looking for a speaker on AI for your business network, organisation, or event, this session reflects the practical, accessible approach I bring to audiences. You can find more details about my speaking work here.