The project, which builds on the results of the previous project AI Social Design Thinking Lab (ATCZ271), aims to promote the use of AI applications in Austrian and Czech SMEs, as this was below 10% in 2020 and 2021. The project combines research and practice by providing insights into AI applications, making recommendations for AI strategies and developing an AI Readiness Radar. IHS builds on the Societal Readiness Thinking Tool developed in the EU project NewHoRRIzon and is responsible for ethical considerations in relation to AI in the project implementation. AI Catalyst for SMEs pursues an inclusive approach and involves companies, regions, decision-makers, interest groups and research.