A seminar dedicated to the application of artificial intelligence in SMEs was held at Arel, with the participation of representatives from the academic world, entrepreneurial associations, and businesses. The meeting, moderated by Claudio Lucifora (Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore), was opened by Cristina Alessi (University of Brescia), who introduced the topic by highlighting the main dynamics that are characterising the adoption of AI in small and medium-sized production contexts.

The speeches by Alberto Albertini (Antares Spa), Maurizio De Carli (CNA), Cristiano Nervegna (Deep Lab, Confesercenti) and Cristina Zanini (Confindustria Brescia) highlighted a multifaceted picture: on the one hand, the opportunities linked to the applications already in operation in the most structured enterprises; on the other, the persistent difficulties limiting the spread of AI, including the lack of specialist skills, the limited investment capacity and the need for more solid support from territorial and association systems. The growing role of European regulation and the need for businesses to prepare for a more defined and stringent regulatory environment were also mentioned.

In closing, Tiziano Treu (Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore) recalled the importance of policies and support tools that make technological innovation effectively accessible to SMEs, emphasising the need for a coordinated approach between institutional, academic and entrepreneurial actors.