Intelligent SME.tech Issue 59 | Page 32

// INTELLIGENT TECHNOLOGY //

Vodafone targets 1 million UK SMEs for digital upskilling by year-end

I ntroduced in 2021 to help businesses during the pandemic, business. connected has become Vodafone Business’ flagship small business support initiative. The programme now aims to digitally upskill one million UK small- and medium-sized enterprises( SMEs) by the end of this year.

So far, business. connected has supported 800,000 SMEs in adopting new technologies to grow their businesses, leaving a target of 200,000 more to reach in the remaining months.
Delivered in partnership with small business support platform, Enterprise Nation, business. connected offers high-quality, accessible training across a wide range of digital topics. SMEs can participate through webinars, digital workshops and in-person events tailored to their needs.
As part of Vodafone’ s broader everyone. connected initiative, which aims to combat digital exclusion in the UK, this expanded target reflects Vodafone’ s commitment to equipping SMEs with the tools, knowledge and confidence to succeed in a digital economy. community – ensuring we meet them where they are to deliver real value when they need it most. By setting a new target of reaching 1 million SMEs this year, we’ re reaffirming our commitment of ensuring every business, no matter their size or location, has the tools and confidence to thrive in the digital age – all powered by our marketleading network.”
To support SMEs with essential cybersecurity training, Vodafone Business is offering a free onemonth trial of CybSafe, a human risk management platform.
Aaron Asadi, CEO, Enterprise Nation, said:“ business. connected has already played an incredibly important role in upskilling the UK’ s entrepreneurs with digital confidence and vital tools that are already helping them to improve productivity and maintain competitiveness.
“ In today’ s rapidly evolving economy, digital business skills are fundamental for every business – from high-street bakers to plumbers and everything in between. Technology helps businesses adapt income streams, become more resilient to future shocks and shape their future success. We are delighted to be working with Vodafone Business to reach more businesses and achieve this ambitious milestone.”
Following the merger between Vodafone UK and Three UK, the new company has committed to investing £ 11 billion in the UK’ s digital infrastructure. This includes a nationwide 5G Standalone network to enhance connectivity, support innovation and drive economic growth. �
Nick Gliddon, CEO, Vodafone Business UK, said:“ business. connected is Vodafone’ s flagship initiative to help small businesses thrive – and that’ s more critical than ever. SMEs are facing significant economic pressures, from inflation and rising costs to the ongoing need to adapt to a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Through business. connected, we’ re proud to offer meaningful support that empowers small businesses to build resilience and seize new opportunities.
“ We’ re also continuously looking at innovative and accessible ways to engage this time-poor but vital
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