Struggles Persist for Many Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises Regarding AI Costs and Required Skills
In a recent development, the Foundation and Akamai Technologies have announced a collaboration aimed at making AI more accessible for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The partnership, announced on July 1, 2025, is part of a growing trend of organizations supporting MSMEs in adopting AI.
Both the Foundation and Akamai Technologies are active in the field of AI, and they are now joining forces to help more businesses adopt this technology. The collaboration aims to provide digital skills training for MSMEs, enabling them to better utilize AI tools for automating routine tasks, improving customer engagement, and scaling business operations.
The use of AI by MSMEs is a growing trend, with many businesses already employing tools like chatbots and Jasper AI for marketing and customer service. However, a June 2025 study revealed that 59% of MSMEs face challenges with the cost and digital skills required for AI.
Recognizing these challenges, Akamai Technologies is providing resources to help MSMEs overcome these hurdles. The collaboration is expected to lower the entry barriers for MSMEs by offering affordable, intuitive, and scalable AI technologies and digital tools.
Moreover, the partnership will focus on mentorship and guidance, addressing the hesitation MSME owners may have due to complexity or lack of expertise. This human support will play a crucial role in encouraging MSMEs to adopt AI, ensuring it is integrated with practical business needs.
This collaboration is a significant step in promoting AI adoption among MSMEs, reflecting the broader ecosystem trends and programs aimed at empowering MSMEs. Similar organizational efforts, such as Malaysia’s SME Digitalisation Grant and MDEC’s Go Digital program, focus on aligning AI adoption with business goals, upskilling workforce, and increasing digital literacy.
Government-backed initiatives like India's AI Mission and Digital India also promote AI literacy and access, often partnering with industry players to enable MSMEs to scale globally with tech-enabled growth.
In conclusion, the collaboration between the Foundation and Akamai Technologies is a positive development for MSMEs. By providing AI-enabled platforms, training programs, and mentorship, this partnership will help more businesses adopt AI, driving growth and efficiency in the MSME sector.
The partnership between the Foundation and Akamai Technologies, focused on providing digital skills training and resources, can help Small-business owners overcome cost and digital skill challenges in implementing AI. With affordable, intuitive, and scalable AI technologies and digital tools, this collaboration can lower the entry barriers for Small-businesses and promote the use of AI in finance and business operations.
