Empowering entrepreneurs with AI in Lethbridge

Economic Development Lethbridge (EDL) has partnered with Finnish technology company Digiole to launch new AI-powered digital assistants that are transforming how entrepreneurs access support and resources in southern Alberta.

The initiative introduces two custom AI tools – one designed for entrepreneurs and the other for business advisors – making Lethbridge one of the first communities in Canada to embed AI into its business advisory services in a meaningful, regionally tailored way.

The external-facing assistant, called Robin, supports clients in developing core business fundamentals like value propositions and business models. It allows users to ask questions in plain language and receive step-by-step guidance grounded in trusted resources. A second assistant, named Charlee AI, helps EDL’s business advisors streamline internal operations and save staff time by locating key documents, training tools, and forms.

Instead of using AI tools that search the internet, the AI assistants are built on a private set of trusted, local resources. This keeps responses accurate, consistent, and aligned with data privacy rules. The idea grew out of challenges experienced during COVID-19. By integrating AI, EDL streamlined internal operations and gave entrepreneurs access to on-demand guidance, which is especially helpful for those who prefer to learn at their own pace.

EDL’s work with Digiole offers a practical, scalable model for other municipalities interested in using secure, purpose-built AI to enhance service delivery and better support local business communities.

For more information, please contact hylann [at] abmunis.ca (Hylann Ma), Growth and Innovation Manager.