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Build applied AI experience through real SME challenges
AIMS is a practical programme for people who want to build credible experience in applied AI and progress towards AI-enabled work. You will work as part of a structured team on real business challenges from Greater Manchester SMEs.
These challenges may focus on productivity, automation, workflow improvement, data use or operational efficiency.
This is not classroom training. It is hands-on project experience, supported by Manchester Digital, Manchester Metropolitan University and industry mentors.
You should be available to join an 8 week AI Deployment Sprint in September or January.
Who is it for
AIMS is aimed at people who want to build practical AI deployment experience and use that experience to move towards AI-enabled roles, projects or opportunities. They may already have some tech or AI related experience, exposure or training.
It may be suitable for:
- Women and underrepresented groups interested in applied AI and tech
- STEM or digital graduates
- Digital bootcamp graduates
- Career changers
- Grad Recharge alumni or candidates
- People with early experience in marketing, operations, data, digital or business support roles who want to apply AI in practical settings
- People who want to build confidence and evidence of capability through real business projects
Final eligibility criteria will be confirmed before selection. Final details of hours per day for the 8 weeks will be confirmed before go live.
What participants will do
Participants will:
- Work on live AI or automation challenges from SMEs
- Join structured project teams supported by AI specialist mentors
- Build practical experience in applied AI deployment
- Receive support from Manchester Digital, MMU and technical mentors
- Develop evidence of capability through real business work
- Connect with employers and potential opportunity routes
- Build confidence, commercial awareness and project experience
What participants will get
Through AIMS, participants will gain:
- Practical applied AI experience
- Exposure to real SME business challenges
- Team-based project delivery experience
- Support from industry and academic partners
- Aclearer understanding of AI-enabled roles and workplace expectations
- Potential access to paid projects, internships, fixed-term roles or direct hiring opportunities
AIMS is designed to support progression into AI-enabled work, but participation does not guarantee a job.
AIMS is delivered in partnership with:
