JBDC pushes AI automation for improved MSME efficiency and competitiveness

The Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC) is encouraging micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to move beyond basic use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools and begin integrating automation into their core business operations, as part of efforts to improve efficiency, responsiveness and long-term competitiveness.

The call comes following the agency’s first Virtual Biz Zone session for 2026 on March 17, which explored AI for small businesses.

Dr Sean Miller, a computing lecturer at the University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona, argued that while AI has become widely accessible, many businesses are not yet using it to its full potential.

“Where I think the most useful power for artificial intelligence and generative AI, specifically large language models, is for small businesses, is in AI automation,” Miller said. “Automating the processes that you probably don’t like to do or the processes that would be tedious.”

He emphasised that automation allows business owners to streamline routine tasks such as responding to customer inquiries, managing communications and organising workflows, thereby freeing up time to focus on strategic growth.

Christopher Derrell, head of web development at Adtelligent, reinforced this point, noting that AI presents an opportunity for MSMEs to scale operations without significantly increasing costs.

“How can you speed up your business without necessarily having to hire 50 more people? How can you use the tools that now exist to actually improve your business?” Derrell asked.

He further highlighted that many entrepreneurs continue to shoulder multiple responsibilities within their operations, making automation a critical support tool.

“Many of you are either the only person in your business… who lies down at their bed at night… thinking, ‘How do I improve this issue that I’m currently having?’” he said.

However, both presenters cautioned that successful adoption of AI requires a clear understanding of existing business processes.

“We can’t send an AI to do work for us if we don’t have a clear understanding of our own process,” Derrell explained. “Clarity is the first thing. If you can map it, then you can improve it.

Miller also underscored the importance of maintaining human oversight when using AI tools.

“AI is a very powerful, but it’s not perfect. It’s not God, it can’t tell you what to do. It’s not an oracle for you to go and just consult and follow blindly,” he said. “We must remain in control.”

The session also addressed potential risks associated with AI, including inaccuracies in generated content and vulnerabilities to misuse, reinforcing the need for responsible and informed application.

Despite these considerations, presenters agreed that AI-driven automation represents a significant opportunity for MSMEs to improve productivity and remain competitive in an increasingly digital business environment.

Derrell noted that businesses that fail to adapt may face increasing pressure from more agile, tech-enabled competitors.

“Anybody… who does not use AI to speed up their business, there is a generation that is waiting to eat your supper,” he warned.

The focus on AI follows on the heels of the JBDC’s launch of its online learning platform JBDC Biz Wiz, an initiative which takes a significant spot on the agency’s list of digital transformation programmes.

 “The world is moving at a rapid pace with technological advancements designed to impact several sectors. While it cannot entirely replace human capital, technology in business is critical to sustaining growth at a pace which doesn’t harm the viability of business and also to have a fighting chance in a global competitive space. So, technology is not optional; it is a must,” said acting JBDC chief executive, Harold Davis.

Davis admits that technology adoption can be challenging for some entrepreneurs. “Our data reveals that a moderate 32.44 per cent of MSME respondents use digital technologies daily. This is why the JBDC is designing programmes that will help MSMEs in embracing technology as a growth strategy. Sessions like the Virtual Biz Zone provide unique opportunities for them to interact with our expert partners whom they might not otherwise come across,” he added.

Source: Our Today