The Wirral Chamber of Commerce launched the Wirral AI Academy powered by Pair to help local businesses take their first steps into AI. In just one month, members are already seeing real impact: saving time, improving quality, and gaining confidence. With a second cohort on the way, this initiative is setting the pace for how local communities can embrace AI and future-proof their region together.

The UK government is moving from AI trials to full-scale implementation, backed by £5.25bn in funding. Key targets include 1 in 10 civil servants in digital roles by 2030 and 5% efficiency savings by 2028–29. Success hinges on proven tools and proper training - with a 26-minute daily saving seen only when staff were upskilled. The AI Adoption Fund launches in 2026, rewarding departments that show real, measurable results. The message is clear: AI implementation starts now, and training is the key to unlocking its value.

Making the most of your Pair AI Masterclasses isn’t just about taking them - it’s about applying what you’ve learned. In this post, Anne shares three practical, research-backed tips to help you embed your learning: teach others to reinforce your knowledge, exchange ideas with peers to uncover new use cases, and use AI tools regularly to build confidence and capability. Mastery comes through action - and AI is here to support, not replace, your professional growth.

There is no wrong choice with AI tools at the moment - all of the mainstream ones are good and getting better. The most important thing though - is to choose one and commit to learning how to use it effectively and embed it into your workflows.