Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) often operate with limited resources compared to large corporations, making it difficult for them to invest in innovation, explore new markets, or strengthen their communication. In this context, artificial intelligence (AI) emerges as a key tool, as it allows for the automation of routine tasks, optimization of administrative management, and increased productivity. This way, SMEs can allocate more resources to strategic activities that truly add value and enhance their competitiveness. By freeing teams from repetitive tasks, AI enables professionals to focus on creative, strategic, and relational functions, where human intervention makes a difference against the competition. To promote the adoption of AI, more initiatives aimed at SMEs are emerging. For example, BBVA offers its clients two free licenses of ChatGPT Business for one year, as a result of its collaboration with OpenAI. Additionally, the business community Cecot, based in Terrassa, has been providing its members since February with a set of AI tools designed to resolve queries, understand regulations, and optimize time. Effectively applying AI According to Cecot, most Catalan companies already recognize the potential of AI as a driver of competitiveness, although there remains a gap between theoretical knowledge and real application. “The real challenge is not understanding what AI is, but knowing how to implement it wisely and achieve a tangible impact on business processes. To do this, it is essential to create trustworthy environments, invest in training, and provide adequate support,” says Oriol Alba, Secretary General of Cecot. While large companies often have internal resources to adopt AI, SMEs require external support to identify areas where this technology can generate the most value. José Luis Serrano, head of SMEs at BBVA in Spain, emphasizes: “SMEs need a partner to help them incorporate AI in a practical and safe manner. This technology boosts talent and competitiveness, so it is crucial to start working with it as soon as possible. At BBVA, we want to support SMEs in this process.” The key is to apply AI where it truly adds value and impact to the business. In this regard, BBVA has positioned itself as the first financial institution in Spain to actively promote the adoption of AI among its SME clients, both new and existing. The free access to ChatGPT Business for one year includes the use of the most advanced AI model, file uploads, content generation, web browsing, an administration panel, and a collaborative environment for teams, along with enhanced data protection guarantees. The institution also offers training content so that SMEs can apply AI practically in their operations. This way, companies can experience the benefits of automation, improved efficiency, and the freeing up of time for higher value-added tasks. Concrete solutions The new Cecot IA platform is designed for SMEs to find answers to specific and transversal needs. It includes a chatbot about the association's services, a virtual assistant to resolve queries about the Verifactu system (the new invoicing system of the Spanish Tax Agency), and a text summarizer. “The reception has been very positive, especially because these are useful tools for day-to-day operations, not just theory,” adds Alba. One of the main benefits of AI is the quick and structured access to relevant information, which facilitates decision-making and improves organizational efficiency. AI is not just an opportunity for large companies, but a true lever for growth, competitiveness, and innovation for the entire Spanish business fabric, as emphasized by BBVA. Its initiative to offer free access to ChatGPT Business arises from a strategic alliance with OpenAI, following nearly two years of collaboration, aimed at promoting the use of AI in the financial sector, now focused on businesses. Thus, SMEs can leverage AI to enhance internal talent, allowing professionals to spend more time on innovation, decision-making, and business development. Experts agree that the implementation of AI fosters a more agile corporate culture, better prepared for the future, improving the ability to detect opportunities, anticipate customer needs, and personalize products or services. An increasingly urgent need. (Source: elperiodico.com)