Thanks to AI, Italian SMEs save over 270 hours a year

The regularity of use of the technology indicates that approx three-quarters of the sample (76%) interact with these systems on a weekly basis, applying them to ordinary activities such as searching for information, document synthesis and drafting communications or marketing content. The main benefit found lies in thetime optimization, with an average saving quantified at 5.2 hours per week for each operator, corresponding to over 270 hours on an annual basis. The data indicates that the recovered time is progressively reallocated towards functions with greater added value, including the development of products and services, strategic planning and activities with a strong creative component, improving the overall effectiveness of staff in their roles.

These results were presented today by OpenAI at an event that marks a fundamental milestone for the SME AI Accelerator in Italy. The initiative, launched in April in collaboration with Confartigianato Imprese and Booking.com, has already seen strong interest, with hundreds of Italian SMEs applying to the program in just a few weeks.

Despite the dynamism of the sector, the consolidation of these technologies must face specific structural barriers. The main obstacles are related to the lack of skills and training, concerns about data security and privacy, and the limited availability of time for implementation in business flows

. Currently, only 37% of companies have a formal internal regulation or policy, configuring a scenario in which spontaneous use by employees prevails over a centralized strategy.

To overcome these critical issues, local training initiatives, such as those promised in synergy with artisan trade associations, aim to structure adoption. Rino Mura, EMEA Partnerships at OpenAI, said:“Today, Italy represents one of the clearest examples of both the opportunities and challenges linked to the adoption of AI. Small and microbusinesses are the heart of the economy and many are already experimenting with artificial intelligence, but transforming these initiatives into constant and scalable use remains a real obstacle. For smaller businesses, in particular, it is not just a matter of accessing technology: it is essential to have time, skills and clarity on how to apply it in a manner consistent with daily activities. This is precisely where practical training and concrete use cases can make the difference. The real opportunity for SMEs is therefore not to replace what makes them unique, but to reduce friction: simplify routine activities, support decision-making and free up time to dedicate to the areas where specific skills and relationships with customers matter most.”