Hooja? How is AI Impacting the Digital Divide for Norrland’s SMEs

Abstract

SMEs in Sweden’s Northern expanse, Norrland, operate in remote locations and challenging conditions. AI has been adopted by organizations, providing a valuable addition to the digital toolkit. However, as SMEs lack the resources and capacity of larger organizations the AI systems adopted are often limited and can leave them vulnerable. A qualitative exploratory study was undertaken with rural SMEs and associated stakeholders in Norrland to understand how AI was impacting the digital divide. The findings show that Norrland SMEs are applying AI to their benefit, however concerns are unfolding as to wider implications such as cost and nefarious uses.