Sage and Google back North East AI skills push for SMEs

Sage has partnered with Google and Multiverse to deliver hands-on AI skills and support for SMEs through the AI Growth Zone in the North East, with the aim of bridging the gap between growing interest and slow adoption of AI tools in the business world.

The leader in accounting, financial, HR, and payroll technology joined forces with Google and Multiverse to deliver the event, which focused on practical tools and approaches SMEs can use.

Jonathan Cowan, executive vice president at Sage, said: "The real opportunity isn't just understanding AI – it's making it usable in day-to-day business.

"The North East has a strong track record of innovation, and that's only accelerating as AI becomes part of how businesses operate.

"Small businesses are the backbone of the UK economy, so it's critical they can benefit from that – regardless of their size.

"There's still a real confidence gap though.

"Most businesses don't need more theory – they need to know what works in practice.

"The role for companies like Sage is to show how AI can fit into everyday tasks in a way that saves time, adds value and keeps people in control."

The event comes just a week after London Tech Week, where the Government highlighted the need for large-scale AI skills development.

As part of the UK’s AI Skills Boost programme, Sage, Google and Multiverse are working to equip millions with the practical AI knowledge needed to drive real-world adoption.

According to new research from Enterprise Nation, more than half (53 per cent) of SMEs believe better AI skills would improve quality, consistency, and speed in their business operations.

However, 53 per cent said costs were a barrier, 46 per cent pointed to a lack of skills, and 37 per cent said they simply didn't have the time to learn.

The event aimed to address these issues by giving businesses actionable advice and tools to implement AI effectively.

Kate Alessi, managing director and VP at Google UK & Ireland, said: "While small businesses are eager to embrace AI, barriers like a lack of time and training keep many from taking the first step.

"We've launched our AI Works for Britain campaign to help Brits use AI to unlock growth.

"We're proud to partner with Sage to help demystify AI and give small businesses the confidence to use these tools to boost their productivity.

"Equipping the North East’s vibrant business community with these skills doesn't just save these businesses time – it fuels the wider UK economy and brings us closer to the Government's goal of upskilling 10 million people by 2030."

For some attendees, the event marked a turning point in their understanding and confidence around AI.

Faye Willis, SEND co-ordinator and senior youth worker at Cramlington Voluntary Youth Project, said: "This is the first time AI has felt relevant to what we do day to day.

"It's easy to feel like you're falling behind with things like this but today has given us a clear place to start – and the confidence to actually use it, not just talk about it.

"We don’t have a dedicated admin person, and most of my time is spent working directly with young people, so if AI can help with things like funding bids and pulling together data, it would free up time to focus on what we’re really here to do."

Working alongside Google and Multiverse, the aim was to give businesses something tangible to take away – whether that’s trying a new tool, improving an existing workflow, or simply feeling more confident about where to start.

The event also forms part of the wider ambitions of the North East AI Growth Zone, supported by industry and policymakers.

Kim McGuinness, North East Mayor, said: "I want everyone in the region to benefit from the North East AI Growth Zone.

"We are working closely with industry including some of the biggest brands around like Sage, Microsoft and Google, and with local businesses who are looking to adopt the latest AI tech.

"Critically we are supporting our region’s young people too, so we can ensure we have the skills needed to support the thriving and dynamic tech sector.

"I want local people to enjoy all the benefits and opportunities this brings.

"The North East truly is the place to be when it comes to AI and tech."

Sage is also contributing to national conversations about adopting AI in a way that is secure, transparent, and relevant to real-world business needs.