Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping the way we live, work, and do business. But while large enterprises race ahead with AI-powered solutions, many small and medium-sized businesses — especially those led by women — are still watching from the sidelines. This is where EmpowerAI steps in.
EmpowerAI is an Erasmus+ funded project that aims to equip women entrepreneurs and VET educators with the skills, confidence, and tools they need to understand and harness AI technologies in their business and teaching practices. It addresses a critical gap: the intersection of entrepreneurship, digital innovation, and gender equality. The project’s mission is clear — to empower women-led SMEs and vocational education professionals through practical, accessible learning pathways in AI. By doing so, EmpowerAI contributes to broader goals of digital inclusion, economic resilience, and future-ready education.
EmpowerAI doesn’t overwhelm learners with technical jargon. Instead, it provides real-world guidance, tailored specifically to the needs of entrepreneurs and educators who may be new to the world of AI and digital tools — many of whom may feel hesitant or excluded from the fast-moving world of AI.
- An interactive, self-paced online training course that introduces key AI concepts, strategies for business adoption, and solutions to common fears and ethical concerns. The course is practical, engaging, and designed for learners with little or no prior experience with AI.
- A user-friendly Compendium-Database that features real AI tools used in business, interviews with women entrepreneurs, and case studies of success. The database is searchable, multilingual, and connected to the training course, creating a seamless support system for users.
Both resources are structured to support VET teachers and students as well, offering fresh material for teaching entrepreneurship, digital skills, and innovation through AI.
According to recent reports by the European Commission, women remain significantly underrepresented in both entrepreneurship and digital technology sectors. The digital gender gap continues to slow progress in inclusion, innovation, and economic growth.
EmpowerAI offers a response: by simplifying access to AI knowledge, boosting digital confidence, and providing tailored tools, it helps open doors for women to participate — and lead — in the digital economy.
The project is now entering its next phase. In the coming months, EmpowerAI will be tested across partner countries through piloting activities with female entrepreneurs and VET professionals. These real-world sessions will help ensure the resources are relevant, effective, and empowering — just as intended.
Learn more about EmpowerAI and its tools at https://empowerai.eu/.
Follow us for updates as we continue bridging the gap between AI and inclusive entrepreneurship on:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EmpowerAI.project/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/empoweraiproject/
Author of the article: Efthymia Skoulidi, EU Projects Manager at p-consulting.gr.