Artificial intelligence isn’t just for big tech companies or futuristic startups.
It’s already transforming how small businesses operate, making day-to-day tasks faster, decisions smarter and teams more productive.
At Launchpad, we’re seeing more entrepreneurs and local leaders exploring how AI can free up their time, cut down admin and unlock new opportunities for growth.
Today, we’re proud to host an AI Accelerator: Introduction to AI and Digital Tools workshop in partnership with Southend-on-Sea City Council and delivered by Good Change People. The full-day, hands-on event brought together business owners, freelancers and professionals from across Southend to explore how AI and digital tools can make work simpler, more efficient and more creative.
Understanding the potential of digital tools
For many small businesses, digital transformation starts with simple tools, like automated emails, shared project boards, or real-time collaboration platforms. These tools make it easier to stay connected, manage workloads and deliver projects on time. The morning session of today’s workshop focused on exactly that: identifying where digital tools can fill gaps, streamline workflows and reduce manual effort.
Through activities like tool mapping and gap analysis, participants are learning how to make technology work for them, rather than the other way around. It’s about building confidence and finding practical ways to embed smarter systems into everyday business life.
From digital tools to AI-powered productivity
The afternoon session moved into the world of AI, with a focus on Microsoft Copilot – a suite of tools that’s helping small businesses unlock new levels of productivity. From writing better emails in Outlook and summarising meetings in Word, to analysing spreadsheets in Excel and creating standout presentations in PowerPoint, Copilot is designed to save time and enhance creativity.
AI isn’t here to replace people. It’s here to support them. The goal is to free up time for business owners and teams to focus on what really matters, building relationships, serving customers and driving innovation.
Building confidence through collaboration
What makes events like this special is the opportunity for peer learning. By bringing together Southend-based businesses, entrepreneurs and leaders, we’re creating a space to share ideas, experiment and learn from one another’s experiences. The collaborative project lab and practical exercises help turn insights into action, so participants leave with real strategies they can start using straight away.
A first step in a bigger journey
Today’s workshop is a pilot for a four-part accelerator series designed to help local businesses go further with digital transformation. The aim is to give participants the tools, knowledge and confidence to continue exploring AI and automation in their work, creating a ripple effect that benefits the wider business community.
Why AI matters for small businesses
AI isn’t just a buzzword. It’s a powerful tool that can help small businesses grow sustainably. By automating repetitive tasks, improving communication and supporting smarter decision-making, AI gives business owners the freedom to focus on strategy, creativity and customer experience.
Innovation doesn’t have to be complicated but it has to be practical. Events like this show how technology, when used thoughtfully, can empower people to work better, not busier.
If you’re a Southend-based business ready to embrace AI and digital tools, keep an eye out for future workshops and accelerator opportunities on our events page.
