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For business

Problem Definition Workshop

Fully funded, tailored support to scope a transformational AI project for your business

Got an idea how AI can transform your business or workflow but not sure where to start?

This one-to-one workshop helps you define the right problem, understand your data, and take confident next steps toward a project with tailored support from our Data and AI Team.

Tailored for SMEs poised to start AI-driven projects or those who have completed previous data and AI training, this workshop helps define clear AI applications to address specific business challenges. It is ideal for those who demonstrate sufficient data readiness.  

Register your interest

Who it’s for 

SMEs who have sufficient data readiness (meaning they have relevant, accessible, and appropriately structured data) and are ready to scope a project.

This includes data-mature organisations with accessible data and clearly defined problems or innovation goals, who are ready to test AI through pilots and proof-of-concept projects, usually with some technical staff in place, but may still need specialist support. 

How it works 

  • You’ll receive a one-hour session, with up to two 30- to 45-minute follow-up sessions, to scope a project or identify requirements for the Proof of Concept solution with The Data Lab’s Data and AI Team.
  • The workshop will help participants kick-start a strategic approach to AI project initiation, ensuring participants can effectively align AI capabilities with real business needs and available data. It provides a smooth transition from strategic learning to practical application.
  • The workshop is designed to reduce risk, strengthen readiness, and ensure that future AI activity is grounded in a real business need.
  • It is offered in a one-to-one format for organisations that are ready. We also offer it as a group webinar for organisations that have completed our course ‘From Foundation to Implementation’ and are looking to explore next steps.  

How you’ll benefit

By the end of the workshop, organisations will have: 

  • Greater clarity on the problem they are trying to solve; 
  • A better understanding of the role data plays in enabling AI solutions;  
  • Confidence in the next steps to progress a proof of concept or project.  

You’ll also gain access to expert consultancy and insights from The Data Lab’s team – trusted, practical specialists at the heart of Scotland’s AI ecosystem.

How to apply

Participation is subject to an eligibility check. Spaces are limited and may be allocated on a first-come basis.

Register your interest by completing the form below :

Cost

This support is fully funded by the Scottish Government – there’s no cost to your business.

Please note this funded support is provided as Minimal Financial Assistance (MFA) in accordance with the Subsidy Control Act 2022. Applicants will be required to confirm that receipt of the funded support will not cause them to exceed the statutory MFA limit of £315,000 over the applicable three-year period.

Duration 

A one-hour session, with up to two 30- to 45-minute follow-up sessions, to scope a project or identify requirements for the Proof of Concept solution.

Next steps 

Once your project scoping is complete, apply for fully-funded hands-on support to develop and test your AI solution.

Hands-on data and AI support for SMEs

AI Leadership Academy | National AI Adoption Programme for SMEs

This course is part of the AI Leadership Academy. Designed for non-technical SME leaders, including CEOs and C-suite executives, The AI Leadership Academy is a key initiative under Scotland’s AI Strategy (2026–2031), delivered via AI Scotland and enterprise partners. 

This support programme is funded by the Scottish Government and delivered in partnership with Scottish Enterprise.

To access support offered by Scottish Enterprise, visit their website:

Strategic Leadership for AI, Data and Technology | Scottish Enterprise

The programme is funded by the Scottish Government and will run until 31st March 2027. 

Innovate • Support • Grow • Respect

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t: +44 (0) 131 651 4905

info@thedatalab.com

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The Data Lab is part of the University of Edinburgh, a charitable body registered in Scotland with registration number SC005336.

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