AI: Myths, Risks & Benefits

Learn how to adopt AI without exposing your organisation to avoidable intellectual property, data or financial risks at this practical Gateshead workshop. Taking place on Wednesday 28 October 2026, from 9:30am to 12:30pm, AI: Myths, Risks & Benefits offers a clear-eyed introduction to the potential downsides of artificial intelligence,and the practical measures small organisations can take to protect themselves. The three-hour, in-person session will be held at the Northern Design Centre in Gateshead, within the wider Newcastle area. ## What the workshop covers AI can create genuine benefits, but organisations may adopt it without fully understanding what happens to their information, content or budget. Rather than relying on hype or technical jargon, this workshop examines common ways AI use can go wrong and what those mistakes could cost. Topics include: - Intellectual property: how businesses can unintentionally hand over valuable ideas or material through everyday use of free AI tools, including services that train on information submitted by users. - Personal information and data exposure: how sensitive information may be revealed, and what that could mean both for your organisation and for the people whose data you hold. - Cost management: why unchecked AI usage can lead to runaway costs and why organisations need to keep an eye on consumption. - Reducing exposure: practical steps that help teams use AI more sensibly while limiting avoidable risks. The emphasis is on helping attendees understand what to watch for before problems arise. By the end of the session, you should have a more grounded view of AI’s risks and benefits, alongside practical ways to approach adoption with greater care. ## Who should attend? This workshop is designed specifically for small businesses and charities that want to start using AI,or improve how they already use it,without being caught out by hidden consequences. No prior technical knowledge is required, making it suitable for leaders, staff and decision-makers who need an accessible overview rather than a highly technical session. The event is organised by Digital Pathfinders and takes place at Northern Design Centre, Abbott’s Hill, Gateshead NE8 3DF. Register for AI: Myths, Risks & Benefits