The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is investing $1,950,000 to support the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Community Business Development Corporation’s creation of a new artificial intelligence micro-credential training program for small and medium-sized enterprises across the Newfoundland and Labrador.

Many small and medium-sized enterprises in Newfoundland and Labrador face challenges with core business functions such as human resources, finance and customer experience.

Developed in partnership with Keyin College, the Artificial Intelligence for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises micro-credential program aims to equip businesses with artificial intelligence skills to boost productivity, streamline operations and enhance competitiveness.

The micro-credential curriculum will have three key components:

• An introduction to artificial intelligence for small to medium-sized businesses.
• Focused training in areas such as leadership and strategy, human resources and workforce development, finance and accounting, or sales, marketing and customer experience.
• A capstone project in-which participants will identify a business challenge and develop an artificial intelligence-based solution.

The first cohort of this initiative will begin in June 2025, with 650 employees across 325 small and medium-sized enterprises receiving the micro-credential training. Keyin College will also provide training for the Community Business Development Corporation’s development officers to ensure sustained support for artificial intelligence adoption across local businesses.

This funding is being provided through the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Labour Market Development Agreement.

Quotes
“Small and medium-sized businesses are critical to our provincial economy. This training will help them use artificial intelligence in practical ways to grow, adapt and stay competitive in a rapidly changing labour market. This investment reflects our government’s commitment to preparing the workforce for the future and supporting local businesses.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills

“The rapidly developing field of artificial intelligence has the potential to provide business solutions for many of our province’s small and medium-sized enterprises. We are pleased to support this effort to ensure businesses and employees have the skills they need to harness this powerful new tool.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Acting Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

“AI adoption will create advantages for Newfoundland and Labrador businesses, and help them streamline processes, stay competitive and increase productivity. We’re excited for Keyin College to offer this training and look forward to our first cohort.”
Wayne Power
Chairperson, Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Community Business Development Corporations

“At Keyin College, we believe technology should be accessible, practical, and empowering — especially for small and medium-sized businesses that are the backbone of our economy. This partnership allows us to bring real-world AI training to local companies across Newfoundland and Labrador, helping them strengthen operations, boost productivity, and prepare for the future with confidence. We’re proud to deliver this important work and excited to see the positive impact it will have in communities all across the province.”
Craig Tucker
Co-owner, Keyin College

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