Readiness status of SMEs operating in the manufacturing sector for artificial intelligence technologies: The case of Ankara province

With the rapid acceleration of digital transformation, artificial intelligence (AI) technologies have begun to create profound impacts across economic, social, and technological domains on a global scale. Nearly all countries with major economies have developed strategic roadmaps centered around artificial intelligence, anticipating its multifaceted contributions such as increasing productivity, improving quality, and reducing costs. Alongside AI, the rapid advancement of internet technologies, next-generation information systems, energy technologies, materials science, and biotechnology is not only driving technological progress but also reshaping definitions of economic welfare and national security in today's world. In this transformation process, the integration of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) into artificial intelligence technologies holds critical importance. SMEs play a central role in the Turkish economy, particularly in terms of the value they generate, their contribution to employment, and their production capacity. However, it is also well known that these enterprises face various challenges in adapting to digital transformation and incorporating AI applications into their business processes. In this context, identifying the current status of SMEs, measuring their level of awareness, and determining their priority needs is of significant importance for both policymakers and practitioners. This study focuses on SMEs operating in the manufacturing sector within the province of Ankara, aiming to analyze their readiness for artificial intelligence technologies, their tendencies to adopt such technologies, and their specific needs. Based on data collected through a survey, the research examines whether SMEs' approaches to AI vary depending on certain business characteristics. The findings aim to contribute to a deeper understanding of the barriers faced during the transition to AI and to offer recommendations for more effective planning of this process.