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Direct Digital Holdings Initiates AI Council to Strengthen SMB Capabilities

In an era where artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the advertising landscape, Direct Digital Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: DRCT) has taken a definitive step by launching its very own AI Council. Announced on February 6, 2025, the council aims to bridge the widening gap in AI adoption between small and mid-sized business (SMB) advertisers and their larger counterparts. This initiative is a response to the essential need for SMBs to harness AI's power in order to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving digital marketplace.

Addressing the Digital Disparity

As the digital domain continues to transform, companies are increasingly leveraging AI to streamline operations, optimize ad expenditure, and drive consumer engagement. Unfortunately, many SMBs and mid-sized brands face significant challenges in adopting these technologies, primarily due to limited resources and expertise. Recognizing this disparity, Direct Digital Holdings has established the AI Council with the express purpose of equipping these businesses with practical AI strategies and insights necessary to bolster their competitiveness in the digital realm.

Anu Pillai, Chief Technology Officer at Direct Digital Holdings and a member of the AI Council, stressed the urgency of this initiative: "Artificial intelligence is transforming digital advertising, but too often, small and mid-sized businesses are left behind. The AI Council's mission is to bridge this gap. By democratizing access to AI tools and strategies, we empower small and medium-sized businesses to participate and lead in their markets."

Core Initiatives of the AI Council

The AI Council will concentrate on several vital facets aimed at supporting SMBs, including:

1. Education and Workshops

The council will provide a series of seminars and resources to clarify AI concepts in accessible language, thus making cutting-edge technology understandable and practical for small businesses.

2. Strategy Development

Assistance will be offered in crafting tailored AI-driven advertising strategies that align with the specific needs and market conditions of the businesses engaged.

3. Technology Implementation

Small businesses will receive vital support in the deployment of AI applications, from automated bidding systems to comprehensive customer data analysis, enabling them to maximize the benefits of AI without needing extensive in-house expertise.

4. Performance Monitoring

Members of the council will guide businesses in establishing systems to measure the effectiveness of AI applications, allowing for continuous improvement and optimization.

5. Resource Creation

The council has developed a collection of free eBooks and practical guides designed to assist SMBs in navigating the complexities of AI integration. These resources include frameworks for employee generative AI usage policies and best practices for effective generative AI prompting.

A Collaborative Approach

In addition to its internal experts, the AI Council plans to collaborate with technologists, academic leaders, and industry innovators to ensure that its strategies remain relevant to the latest developments in AI. This partnership-based approach aims to provide SMBs with state-of-the-art solutions tailored to their unique needs.

Christy Nolan, VP of Delivery Solutions at Direct Digital Holdings and also a member of the AI Council, highlighted the council's comprehensive strategy: "By leveraging both advertising and AI partners, our company will develop innovative products tailored to the unique needs of small businesses. This includes AI-driven marketing tools that help small and mid-sized businesses optimize their dollars as well as strategic initiatives such as AI training programs and workshops to empower small businesses with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in a competitive market."

A Commitment to Inclusivity

The creation of the AI Council is an ongoing commitment by Direct Digital Holdings to ensure that all customers, irrespective of size, possess the tools and knowledge to succeed in an increasingly AI-centric world. The council's resources will be readily accessible, including a dedicated DDH AI Council Resource Center where interested parties can download eBooks and practical guides.

As SMBs navigate an increasingly complex digital landscape, initiatives like the AI Council will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in leveling the playing field, ensuring that smaller businesses can harness the power of AI to realize their full potential.