Madrid, Spain – ACK3 and the University of Salamanca (USAL), through its IME Business School, have announced a new strategic collaboration to offer the Executive Program in Artificial Intelligence and Digitalization for SME Executives. The initiative is designed to equip small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) leaders with the practical tools and strategic vision needed to drive digital transformation within their organizations.
The program is fully funded under the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan – Next Generation EU and is available at no cost to eligible SME executives located in Andalusia, Valencian Community, Ceuta, and Melilla. The training is valued at €9,000 and offers a structured pathway for digital upskilling across diverse sectors.
Combining academic excellence with real-world expertise
The program, which grants a University of Salamanca credential (15 ECTS), reflects the University’s commitment to supporting the competitiveness of SMEs through accessible, high-impact executive education. With a 3-month duration and 150 hours of training, the format includes:
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130 hours of online instruction
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4 in-person sessions (16 hours)
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Personalized mentoring to develop actionable digital transformation plans
Participants will work with accessible technologies such as ChatGPT, Copilot 365, Power BI, Mailchimp, and Holded, with no prior technical experience required.
Sector-focused content for real-world impact
A distinctive feature of the program is its sector-specific approach. Modules have been tailored to industries such as agriculture, tourism, construction, healthcare, retail, and, notably, defense, security, and cybersecurity—an area of specialization for ACK3.
According to Jorge Quintana, CEO of ACK3 and instructor of the course:
“Small and medium-sized enterprises can no longer view digitalization as optional. We operate in a landscape shaped by hybrid threats—from cyberattacks to disinformation campaigns—which affect local businesses just as much as global corporations. This program provides SME leaders with the competencies needed to both protect and transform their organizations.”
Expert faculty bridging academia and practice
The teaching team is composed of academics and professionals with extensive experience in digital transformation, cybersecurity, AI ethics, innovation, and leadership. Notable contributors include:
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Jorge Quintana, specialist in cyber intelligence and strategic leadership
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Daniel Terrón, professor of digital law and AI ethics
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Lola Busto, expert in blockchain and technology investment
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Rafael de la Cuadra, international innovation consultant with MIT training
This multidisciplinary faculty ensures that the program delivers both technical insight and strategic relevance for today’s SMEs.
A joint commitment to SME growth and resilience
This initiative highlights a shared commitment between ACK3 and the University of Salamanca to address the evolving challenges faced by SMEs. By combining academic rigor with practical, hands-on training, the partnership seeks to strengthen resilience, competitiveness, and digital maturity across the business ecosystem.
About IME Business School
IME Business School is the executive education arm of the University of Salamanca, one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious academic institutions. Focused on leadership, innovation, and digital strategy, IME delivers programs tailored to the real-world needs of SMEs. Its faculty brings together experts from academia and industry, offering a unique blend of knowledge and applied expertise.
