CommBank’s National Initiative to Boost AI Skills Among Small Businesses
In an effort to empower small businesses across Australia, Commonwealth Bank has launched an ambitious national initiative focused on enhancing technological skills, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity. Collaborating with OpenAI, this program aims to bridge the gap where nearly half of small businesses are currently not leveraging these crucial technologies.
A Push for Technology Adoption
The Commonwealth Bank of Australia has set a target to support 1 million small businesses in adopting AI and improving their cybersecurity frameworks. The initiative is designed to cater to the unique needs of these businesses, facilitating a broader digital transformation that is vital in today’s economy.
The program features a series of practical learning modules and masterclasses designed specifically for business owners. These resources aim to demonstrate how emerging technologies can enhance operational efficiency and implement essential practices for maintaining cybersecurity.
Innovative Partnerships for Effective Learning
As part of this initiative, CommBank will collaborate with OpenAI to develop a suite of learning materials focused on AI. CommBank’s CEO, Matt Comyn, articulated the vision behind this initiative, stating that small businesses are integral to Australia’s economy. However, many operators feel constrained by time and resources when it comes to exploring new technological solutions.
“We want every small business to feel confident using digital technologies such as AI, whether they’re starting, running, or growing their business,” Comyn emphasized. He highlighted the importance of ensuring that these businesses also acquire robust cybersecurity skills to safeguard their data and operations as they transition into an increasingly digital landscape.
Addressing the Skills Gap
Recent statistics from the Council of Small Business Organisations Australia (COSBOA) provide insightful context for this initiative. The Small Business Perspectives Report 2025 reveals that almost 48% of Australian small businesses have not yet adopted AI. Furthermore, only 14% have fully integrated AI into their operations. This stark data underscores the necessity of targeted educational programs to build confidence among business owners in utilizing AI safely.
In light of this, CommBank’s initiative is strategically designed to help businesses gain both confidence and practical skills to incorporate technology effectively and sustainably.
Support for Innovation
Matthew Addison, COSBOA chair, has voiced strong support for CommBank’s new initiative, pointing out that small businesses are inherently innovative and eager to utilize AI tools for enhanced productivity and competitiveness. “With the right structured support, the potential benefits for productivity and the broader economy are significant,” Addison noted.
The importance of practical support cannot be overstated, especially as small businesses strive to keep up with larger organizations that are often quicker to adopt new technologies.
Expanding Resources for Small Businesses
OpenAI’s chief strategy officer, Jason Kwon, commented on the unique opportunity this partnership presents to widen access to hands-on AI education. He remarked that thousands of Australian businesses are already using AI tools like ChatGPT to refine their operations and improve customer service. Kwon added, “AI is destined to be as crucial for small businesses as the internet or mobile banking.”
By combining resources and expertise, CommBank and OpenAI aim to make significant strides in equipping small business owners with the insights and tools they need to thrive in a technology-driven market. This initiative not only seeks to enhance individual business operations but also contributes to a more competitive economic landscape in Australia as a whole.
Through this initiative, CommBank is setting a clear example of how financial institutions can play a role in facilitating digital literacy and innovation, ensuring that Australia’s small businesses are not left behind in the ever-evolving technological landscape.
