AI can revolutionize the functioning of SMEs, was heard at the conference Digitalization of SMEs at the University of Applied Sciences

The SME Digitalization 2024: Using AI in Industrial Production conference brought valuable information and inspiration for all those interested in modern trends in the digitalization of industry. Conference attendees learned about specific examples of the use of AI and data collection in industry, including practical applications of SmartBin and SmartLabel systems or warehouse automation. There was also information about services for SMEs in testing AI in a real environment.

"Digitization is a key factor for the competitiveness of SMEs in today's world. We believe that AI has the potential to revolutionise the way SMEs operate and innovate. That's why we have focused on this topic in this platform that connects entrepreneurs and experts to work together to find new opportunities and solve challenges. We are also pleased that this important event is being held in Vysočina for the fourth time and that local companies are again represented among this year's inspirational speakers," said Adéle Lánová, Director of the Jihlava Regional Office of CzechInvest.

"Artificial Intelligence is a key element for the transformation of industry in the 21st century. Together with our partners, we strive to provide businesses not only with technological know-how, but also with strategic and practical tools, such as DigiAudit, for the successful integration of artificial intelligence into their operations. This year's SME Digitisation Conference is an opportunity to share the latest knowledge and best practices in this area," Robert Keil, Director of the National Centre for Industry 4.0.

Panel discussions offered a space for sharing experiences and expert debate. Visitors were also able to consult financial tools with experts from API, CzechInvest, NCP 4.0, AI-Matters and TAČR. The programme also included a visit to the Cyber Physical Factory on the premises of the VŠPJ, where interested parties could see modern technologies in practice.

"We are delighted to be part of this important gathering of SMEs and digital transformation experts. We believe that collaboration between academia and the business community is the key to success in implementing new technologies. We will continue to see how the knowledge gained at the conference and the sharing of know-how will translate into practice and lead to the further development of digital entrepreneurship in the Czech Republic," said Zdeněk Horák, Rector of VŠPJ.

A total of 18 events were held under the theme Digitisation of SMEs between September 2020 and March 2024. Eight times offline in Prague, Ostrava, Jihlava, Pardubice and Pilsen and ten times online. More than 700 people attended the physical events and more than 12,000 people from the general public watched the recordings. The events have been attended by over 2,000 unique contacts and have featured 163 speakers. 11 field trips were also conducted as part of the Digitization of SMEs.