TLDR: An Ontario college is actively assisting small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) in navigating the complexities of artificial intelligence. Through its dedicated AI Hub, the college provides crucial support in developing AI prototypes, mitigating adoption risks, and accelerating market entry, addressing the common challenges faced by SMEs lacking in-house AI expertise and resources.
An Ontario college is stepping up to empower small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) in harnessing the transformative power of artificial intelligence. Recognizing that many SMEs lack dedicated AI specialists, data scientists, or the capital for extensive technology upgrades, the institution is offering vital support to bridge this technological gap.
According to a college president, ‘AI is here to stay.’ The president emphasized that ‘Most small and medium-sized businesses don’t have dedicated AI specialists or data scientists on staff. They may lack the capital for large-scale technology upgrades or the bandwidth to experiment without disrupting daily operations.’ To counter these challenges, the college aims to serve as a crucial partner. ‘Colleges bridge that gap by helping businesses test what works, build custom tools, retain rights to generated intellectual property and train both current staff and the next generation of leaders,’ the president stated.
Durham College, located in Oshawa, has been at the forefront of this initiative since launching its AI Hub in 2017. Since its inception, the AI Hub has collaborated with over a hundred businesses, focusing on real-world problem-solving and application. Their work includes building prototypes, reducing adoption risks, and accelerating time to market for AI solutions.
Notable collaborations highlight the impact of the AI Hub. MinuteBox and ADOREYES were recognized with AI Impact Awards in 2024 and 2025, respectively, for their successful integration of AI. Another significant partnership began in 2018 with Precise ParkLink, leading to the development of ‘Joy,’ Canada’s first AI-powered virtual parking assistant kiosk. This innovative solution can answer parking regulation queries, with the AI Hub’s research team further enhancing it with multilingual capabilities, optimized AI development turnaround times, and a feedback system for improved response accuracy.
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The broader economic implications of AI adoption are also a key focus. The president underscored the urgency, stating, ‘If Canada’s smaller firms can’t keep pace, they risk losing market share and missing the chance to lead in emerging industries. The creation of a federal AI minister is a pivotal signal that AI adoption is no longer optional if we want to remain competitive.’ This proactive approach by Ontario colleges is seen as essential for Canada to maintain its competitive edge in a global landscape increasingly driven by AI.
