AI Peer Network

Exploring Ethical AI for Social Good in the South West

The AI Peer Network, led by Tech4Good South West, is a place-based, peer-led initiative designed to help voluntary, community, and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations explore and adopt ethical, accessible, and practical AI solutions.

Launched in 2025, the network brings together charities, social enterprises, and community groups from across the region to share real-world experiences, build AI confidence, and foster locally relevant innovation that addresses the unique needs of South West communities.

What We Offer

Comprehensive Support Ecosystem

  • Peer Learning Sessions: Regular online gatherings every 6 weeks

  • In-Person Events: Annual gatherings and drop-in clinics for hands-on support

  • Resource Library: Curated tools, templates, and guides for your organisation

  • AI Living Lab: Annual intensive development program (Sept-Nov) focusing on different themes each year

Peer Learning Sessions

  • Held online every 6 weeks, with one annual in-person gathering

    Topics include AI ethics, data privacy, practical applications, and implementation strategies

    Interactive format with lightning talks, case studies, and expert input

    Safe space to explore possibilities and address concerns together

Living Lab - A Rolling Innovation Engine for Social AI

The Living Lab is Tech4Good South West’s year-round intensive development program where selected members can collaborate on building practical AI solutions for their organisations.

We live here. We work here. We care about the impact of technology on our neighbours, networks, and shared future. That’s why this Lab exists.

Rooted in the South West

The South West is home to:

  • 18.5k+ technology companies 

  • 44% of South West investments go to impact-led businesses, highest in the UK 

  • 23.7k charities, highest per capita outside London

A growing movement of people who believe technology should serve people, not the other way around.

The Living Lab channels this local energy into a shared innovation infrastructure, one that reflects our region’s values of collaboration, inclusion, and social purpose.

How It Works

  • Rolling cohorts throughout the year, currently quarterly, scaling with demand

  • Each cohort explores a shared theme (2025: “Data & AI Foundations for Custom Assistants”)

  • Charities bring challenges; we form teams to design, build, and implement

  • Milestones align with major events like Bristol Technology Festival (October), Bath Digital Festival (May) and other key events throughout the South West region.

Find out more and get involved in Living Lab.

Who is the AI Peer Network for?

We welcome

  • Small and medium-sized charities and community organisations exploring AI for service delivery, data analysis, and decision-making

  • Social impact organisations interested in responsible and ethical AI applications

  • Nonprofits at any level of AI knowledge—from those curious about AI to those already experimenting with it

  • Organisations at different stages of readiness—you can engage in learning now and implementation later

While we aim to be inclusive, the network may not suit:

  • Organisations with a purely commercial focus.

  • Those seeking advanced technical AI training or general IT support.

  • Organisations with no current interest or plans to explore AI.

Why Join ?

  • Build AI Confidence: Demystify AI concepts and learn from peers about real-world applications relevant to your work

  • Develop Ethical Practices: Understand how to use AI responsibly, focusing on equity, privacy, and sustainability

  • Enhance Your Services: Discover practical ways AI can improve service delivery, streamline operations, and extend your impact

  • Create Custom Solutions: Join the annual Living Lab when your organization is ready

  • Join a Supportive Community: Connect with peers facing similar challenges and opportunities

  • Shape the Future: Help determine focus areas for future Living Lab cycles

How we work

  • Meet Where You Are: Engage at your current level of understanding and organisational readiness

  • Learn by Doing: Progress from exploration to practical implementation at your own pace

  • Community-Led Approach: Content and priorities shaped by participants to ensure relevance

  • Ethical Foundation: Commitment to responsible, inclusive, and accessible technology use

  • Regional Focus: Solutions and approaches tailored to South West contexts and communities

Join us

Join us in building a future where technology serves our communities effectively and ethically. The AI Peer Network offers multiple entry points for organisations at all stages of their AI journey.

Participation is free for Tech4Good South West members, with 50% discounted rates for VCSEs. Be part of shaping how AI serves people, planet, and places in our region.

Who Can Join: VCSE organisations of all sizes and stages in the South West with an interest in AI.

Cost: The AI Peer Network is free for Tech4Good South West members. If you’re not yet a member, annual membership includes a 50% discount for VCSE participants and provides access to additional resources, events, and a thriving community.

  • Micro - £89 (Individuals/Employees or staff less than 5)

  • Small - £299 (Employees or staff less than 25)

  • Medium - £595 (Employees or staff less than 55)

  • Large - £995 (Employees or staff less than 250)

  • Enterprise - £2,495 (Employees or staff more than 250)

Explore Membership Options & Benefits and be part of a pioneering community that’s shaping the future of AI for good.

Have questions? Contact Ed Howarth at hello@tech4goodsouthwest.org.