Practical AI support on offer for small businesses in Mid and East Antrim
Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Thomas Gordon, helps launch the new Go Succeed AI Advantage Programme at the Ecos Hub in Ballymena
Tuesday 29 September 2026
Small businesses across Mid and East Antrim are being offered practical help to use artificial intelligence in everyday work, from handling customer enquiries and processing documents to marketing and planning.
The new AI Advantage Programme will combine five specialist workshops with tailored one-to-one mentoring, helping micro and small businesses identify where the technology could be useful and put it into practice.
Delivered through Go Succeed and funded by the UK Government, the programme aims to help businesses improve productivity and efficiency while supporting growth.
Turning AI awareness into practical skills
ProfileTree will deliver the workshops and mentoring, with support covering responsible AI use in content creation, customer relationship management, marketing, website optimisation, customer service, document processing, forecasting and planning.
Laura Owens, Programme Manager at ProfileTree, said:
“While many businesses are aware of AI, understanding how it can be applied within their own operations can be a challenge. We will help businesses identify practical uses for AI and implement this technology within their enterprises.”
The programme is intended to support businesses at different stages of using digital technology, including those exploring AI for the first time and those seeking to build on existing skills.
Support for businesses taking their first steps
Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Thomas Gordon, said:
“Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing the business landscape, creating new opportunities for organisations of all sizes to improve productivity, enhance customer engagement and streamline day-to-day operations.
“Through the AI Advantage Programme, we are committed to helping local businesses understand the potential of AI and providing the practical support needed to adopt these technologies with confidence.
“Whether a business is taking its first steps towards digitalisation or looking to build on existing capabilities, this programme offers expert guidance and hands-on support to deliver meaningful business improvements.”
How to register your interest
The announcement does not specify workshop dates, venues, a registration deadline or whether there is a participation fee.
Micro and small businesses in Ballymena and across Mid and East Antrim can request further information or register their interest by emailing amplify@midandeastantrim.gov.uk.
