How SMEs Can Build Infrastructure for Digital Growth in the AI Era

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen Bari. As AI shifts from experimentation to execution, many Canadian businesses are discovering that their underlying networks, security, and infrastructure are not built for what is coming next.

In this episode, Raj Juneja, President of Cisco Canada, shares why infrastructure debt is the hidden risk behind AI adoption, how leaders can close the talent and technology gap, and what it truly takes to build secure, scalable, AI-ready foundations for 2026 and beyond.

Key Highlights

1. Infrastructure Debt Risks: Why outdated networks and weak security can derail AI adoption.
   
2. Closing the Talent Gap: How organizations keep pace when AI outmoves internal expertise.
   
3. AI-Ready Foundations: Practical steps to build secure and scalable networks.
   
4. Strategic Investment Priorities: How leaders align tech spending with real business outcomes.
   
5. Avoiding AI Pitfalls: The most common implementation mistakes SMEs must sidestep.

Special Thanks to Our Partners:

• UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA
• Google: https://www.google.ca/
• A1 Global College: https://a1globalcollege.ca/
• ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspx

For more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age!

Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.