Event Practical AI for small businesses: Getting started with confidence

Join the AICC and LCCC Business Solutions for their next Entrepreneurs Network breakfast session on how to get started with AI. Practical AI for small businesses: Getting started with confidence

Feb 19, 2026 8:00 am

Feb 19, 2026 9:30 am

1 hour and 30 minutes

Inspire Business Centre, Carrowreagh Road, Dundonald, BT16 1QT

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just for large organisations with big budgets, it’s increasingly accessible, affordable and relevant for small businesses too. This practical, entry-level workshop has been designed specifically for entrepreneurs and business leaders who are curious about AI but unsure where to start, as part of the LCCC entrepreneurs network series.

Delivered by Christopher McCausland, Principal AI Engineer at the AICC, this session will provide a clear, jargon-free introduction to AI and how it can be applied in everyday business settings. Aimed at those with little or no prior experience, the workshop will focus on demystifying AI, addressing common concerns and showcasing realistic ways small businesses can use AI tools to save time, improve efficiency and support growth - without needing technical expertise or large budgets.

Attendees will move beyond well-known tools like ChatGPT to explore a broader range of practical AI applications, with real-world examples and use cases relevant to local businesses wherever possible. The session will emphasise confidence-building and practical decision-making, helping participants understand what AI can and can’t do for their business.

The morning will begin with informal breakfast networking, followed by a focused presentation and interactive Q&A. Participants will also receive practical take-away resources to help them reflect on opportunities within their own organisation and identify simple next steps after the session.

Christopher McCausland, Principal AI Engineer, AICC

Christopher collaborates with industry professionals, researchers and stakeholders to explore and showcase the transformative potential of AI across various sectors. He plays a key role in building collaborative networks, helping businesses assess their AI readiness and designing training programmes ranging from introductory AI courses to advanced expert modules.

With a Master’s degree in Electronic Engineering from Ulster University and a second Master’s in Mechatronic Systems from Hochschule Augsburg, Germany, Christopher is currently completing his PhD. His research focuses on using AI and time-frequency mathematics to improve the detection of sleep disorders, which has led to high-impact publications and funding from the European Sleep Research Society.

Christopher has also participated in a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme, applying AI to improve mental health triage systems. Before joining the AICC, Christopher worked as an electronic hardware design engineer and part-time lecturer at Ulster University, specialising in Digital Signal Processing.

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