Digitalization and AI for Small and Medium Enterprises - Training of Trainers
Cover image © Canva
Online
Digitalization and AI for Small and Medium Enterprises - Training of Trainers
23 juin–18 juillet 2025
Le cours est disponible en English
Présentation du cours
This course is designed to equip trainers with the knowledge and practical tools they need to support SMEs in leveraging the potential of digitalization and artificial intelligence. Participants will explore essential concepts of digital transformation, focusing on how to optimize business operations, strengthen market competitiveness, and enhance workplace productivity through accessible and cost-effective solutions. Special emphasis is placed on AI, covering key applications relevant to SMEs-from automation that frees up resources for higher-value tasks to data analytics for better decision-making. Recognizing that AI is widely used but often misapplied, the programme focuses on effective methods of AI adoption while highlighting the importance of responsible and people-centred approaches. Upon completion, trained professionals will be fully prepared to deliver their own training programmes or advisory services centred on digitalization and AI, unlocking new growth opportunities for SMEs.
Groupes cibles
- Trainers working for public or private institutions, BDS providers, microfinance institutions or as consultants. - Established ILO-certified trainers who want to upgrade their skills. - Managers of enterprise development organizations or microfinance institutions. - Consultants specializing in SME development seeking to incorporate AI knowledge into their service offerings. - Digital skills educators aiming to modernize their training methodologies for SMEs.
What will I learn and be able to do?
By the end of this course, participants will:
- Understand the core concepts of digitalization for SMEs, including digital business models, digital marketing, data-driven decision-making, cloud solutions, e‑commerce channels, and cybersecurity fundamentals.
- Learn to apply AI tools across key business functions such as marketing, operations, customer service, and finance.
- Understand responsible and human-centred approaches to digital transformation and AI.
- Be able to design and deliver effective training programmes, advisory support, or coaching services that empower SMEs to adopt digital and AI solutions confidently.
- Gain access to ready-to-use training materials and facilitation toolkits that will help deliver engaging learning sessions.
- Unlock their own dedicated course space on ITCILO eLearning platform Jumu. Trainers will be able to deliver online training on digitalization and AI with a pre-built, customizable course—complete with essential materials, integrated webinar access, and interactive features to effectively engage with learners.
Training structure
The programme consists of two distinct phases:
Phase 1: Core skills development (4 weeks)
Participants engage in a blended learning experience, integrating live expert-led webinars with structured self-paced learning. Over four weeks, participants dive into core concepts of digitalization and AI for SMEs and learn how to design and deliver impactful training programmes. Key activities include collaborative group work, curated readings, hands‑on assignments, and peer discussions. This phase involves approximately 3 to 4.5 hours of live webinars per week, while the rest of the content will be available in self-guided format.
A Certificate of Participation will be awarded upon successful completion of Phase 1.
Phase 2: Training delivery (3 months)
In this phase, participants have the opportunity to put their newly acquired knowledge into practice. They are tasked with designing and rolling out a complete training programme to their target group of local SMEs, addressing context-specific challenges and opportunities. Throughout this period, ITCILO experts provide ongoing e‑coaching—offering tailored feedback, facilitation tips and troubleshooting via virtual check‑ins.
A Certificate of Achievement will be awarded upon completion of Phase 2, which give successful candidates the title of ITCILO SME Digitalization Trainer. Furthermore, successful candidates will receive privileged access to Jumu, the ITCILO eLearning platform designed for business management trainers and SMEs.
