AI Adoption in Finnish SMEs: Key Findings from AI Consultancy at a European Digital Innovation Hub

Abstract

This study analyzes AI adoption trends among Finnish small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) using insights from the Finnish AI Region (FAIR) project's AI consultancy services. It focuses on how Finnish SMEs are integrating AI to improve operations. The research analyses SMEs' AI maturity levels, sector-specific demands, technology preferences, and barriers to adoption. The study finds that most SMEs are in the early stages of AI adoption, facing challenges like technical knowledge gaps, data management, and AI strategy development, while a few have reached higher maturity levels. The study offers insights to help education leaders, research and development leaders, policymakers, and business executives support SMEs in their AI-driven digital transformation.