Working in a country pub during lockdown inspired research into AI in rural communities. When the pandemic hit, I found myself stuck in a pub in country Queensland. The undeniably enviable position meant that in between working remotely for an AI company, I was also helping my parents navigate operating their country pub in lockdown. By morning I'd be working with talented AI engineers, then in the afternoon I'd help someone make a purchase for the first time (ever) on a bank card. And suddenly my research thesis was born – "How are our rural communities, and in particular small businesses positioned in the ever-evolving digital world?"