The INAIR project, a Coordination and Support Action funded by the Horizon Europe Research and Innovation Programme, aims to bridge the gap in the adoption of key digital technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), in the retail sector.

This project seeks to contribute to the objectives set by the European Union for the Path to the Digital Decade, particularly to the target of more than 75% of European companies adopting AI technologies by 2030. 

While the global market for AI in retail is expected to grow at a compound annual rate of 35% over the next five years, findings of the latest Digital Economy and Society Index showed that the European wholesale and retail trade sector is the third to last in the EU regarding the adoption rate of AI technologies, with only 6% of enterprises using AI. INAIR was initiated in this context to equip European retailers with the necessary skills to adopt AI, promote sustainable business practices, and strengthen competitiveness in the digital era.

INAIR primarily targets owners and employees of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in the retail sector in five European countries: Cyprus, Germany, Italy, Poland, and Romania. Additionally, it involves industry experts, such as specialized consultants, business owners, academics, trade unions, chambers of commerce, and representatives of national and EU-funded projects.

The project pathway towards achieving its objectives will start with research on the needs and gaps in AI skills for MSMEs in retail, focusing on transversal, informational, digital, and technical skills required for the adoption of AI. The project develops a core AI curriculum, covering the fundamentals and applications for greening the retail sector and optimizing resources and processes.

Key tools also include an AI Skills Assessment Tool to assess knowledge and skills, a collection of integrable Open Educational Resources, such as learning modules, tools, simulations, and games, and an E-Learning Environment with personalized learning paths based on the results of the AI skills assessment.

Finally, INAIR will offer a Practical Guide for Facilitators, providing a step-by-step guide for trainers to integrate the project's AI skill development solutions into vocational training.