The evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming businesses and not-for-profit organisations in their everyday operations, and new funding is aimed at upskilling and boosting their performance even more.

Under the Victorian government’s Regional Tourism Network Industry Strengthening Program tourism-based organisations are eligible for up to $100,000 to deliver training and support to regional tourism businesses.

Murray Regional Tourism will use their funding for their AI for Tourism and Hospitality Businesses Program to help local businesses understand how to use AI and technologies to assist their business.

Tourism is a major driver of regional economies with data from Tourism Research Australia showing in 2024 there were 56.8 million visitor trips to and within regional Victoria, injecting $16 billion.

The Rural City of Wangaratta has for several years offered training for businesses in the municipality, with an AI workshop held just last Thursday.

Janine Rolles, coordinator economic development & tourism, said council supports local business and industry by promoting skills development and new opportunities through its economic development team.

“We regularly offer workshops and webinars covering topics such as financial management, OHS, HR, marketing, and emerging technologies like AI," Ms Rolles said.

“Most recently, we partnered with Regional Development Australia Melbourne to host a well-attended regional AI forum in Wangaratta.

“We hosted a workshop Your Virtual Assistance: Getting Started with ChatGPT, presented by Propel Digital.

“Funded through council’s Small Business Development Program, the workshop is coordinated by our economic development team.

“Due to strong interest, additional places were made available.

“The session offered practical insights into how businesses can use AI to enhance their services.”

In reference to how AI tools can assist tourism and hospitality businesses, Ms Rolles said a wide range of AI tools can help tourism and hospitality businesses enhance service delivery - from industry-specific platforms to general tools like CoPilot and ChatGPT - the best solution depends on each business’s unique needs and goals.

“AI is already embedded in many digital platforms, including social media," she said.

“Tools like chatbots can handle routine customer enquiries, freeing up staff time and improving response speed.

“AI can also support tasks like financial analysis—its potential is only limited by how businesses choose to apply it.”

Council encourages anyone interested in AI for business to subscribe to council’s economic development newsletter for updates on local and online workshops.

You can also visit https://www.investwangaratta.com.au/Support/Business-Events for upcoming events supporting business skills development.