Start small, but start now: Why AI is no longer just for big business

As part of Birmingham Tech Week, Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce is shedding light on some of the key members driving innovation in AI and technology.

Phil Webb (pictured) – co-founder of Vu Ai – shares how artificial intelligence is no longer reserved for large enterprises but is now within reach for businesses of all sizes.

He also emphasises the urgency of beginning the AI journey today — before the pace of change leaves slower adopters behind.

Can you tell us briefly what your business does and what makes it unique?

Vu Ai is an AI and automation agency based in the West Midlands, helping organisations unlock the power of artificial intelligence to save time, cut costs, and improve performance.

What makes us unique is our human-first approach, we don’t just implement AI, we help businesses understand it.

From automating reports and enquiries to creating intelligent dashboards and workflows, we bridge the gap between technology and everyday business challenges.

What’s one recent innovation, tech project, or digital transformation your team is proud of?

We recently delivered a digital transformation project for a retail bedroom company that completely transformed how they operate.

They’d been relying on paper-based processes for client bookings, invoices, and workshop orders.

We helped them move to a fully digital, AI-driven system, covering everything from customer journey management and stock control to AI-powered invoice processing and AI analysis of workshop time records.

The result? A more efficient, accurate, and connected business that can scale with confidence.

How has AI or automation changed your processes or the way you serve customers?

AI has transformed how we operate at every level.

We use automation internally for client onboarding, proposals, and reporting, freeing our team to focus on strategy and innovation.

For clients, AI has allowed us to go beyond building tools and instead build intelligent systems that learn, adapt, and improve over time.

It’s shifted us from service providers to long-term innovation partners.

Why is Birmingham / the West Midlands a good place for tech innovation?

The West Midlands has a fantastic blend of industrial heritage and digital ambition.

Birmingham’s tech scene is growing fast, but what makes it special is its sense of community, collaboration comes naturally here.

With access to great talent, strong business networks, and a cost-effective base, it’s an ideal place to build something meaningful.

What role has the Chamber played in your journey so far?

From day one, the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce has played a huge part in our journey.

From networking and advice to practical resources and introductions, the Chamber has consistently helped us connect, learn, and grow.

It’s a great example of how local support can make a real difference for small businesses in tech.

What tech trend excites you the most for the future?

Without question, AI.

All SMEs should take advantage of its power; it’s not just for big companies anymore.

AI is becoming more accessible, affordable, and adaptable, meaning every business, no matter its size, can now automate repetitive work, improve customer experience, and gain insights that were once out of reach.

If you could give one piece of advice to other businesses exploring tech, what would it be?

Start small, but start now.

Don’t wait for the perfect moment or the biggest project, pick one process that frustrates your team and automate it.

The biggest gains come from steady progress, not big leaps. Once you see the impact, you’ll wonder why you didn’t start sooner.

How does Tech Week help raise the region’s tech profile nationally or globally?

Tech Week showcases the incredible innovation happening across the Midlands. It gives local businesses a national stage, encourages collaboration, and highlights that world-class technology isn’t just built in London.

It’s built right here. It also helps inspire the next generation to see the region as a vibrant, opportunity-rich place to grow their careers in tech.