This paper explores the association between strategy tools and owner-managers of
micro and small businesses (MSBs) adopting a case study methodology where the owner-managers
are recognised as embedded units of analysis (EUAs) on a practical educational
pathway to developing a business plan and healthy businesses. The study incorporates
artificial intelligence (AI) as one of the strategy tools. The study found that MSB owner-managers
can benefit from learning strategy tools within a micro-credit postgraduate
curriculum to develop their business plans. Adopting AI applications to create operating
procedures and organisational routines have proven useful. The knowledge of strategy
tools and AI are relevant to their situations, providing valuable knowledge which results in
confidence to make informed decisions and their capability development.