Globally, personalised learning platforms (PLPs) are increasing in significance and usage, making them today's most preferred tools to offer tailored learning experiences. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has turned personalised learning into a powerful learning force, thus helping to catalyse the customization and adaptation of learning methods and content to maximize learning outcomes. This study aims to assess the role of PLPs in driving the skills development of small firms in South Africa. The design research science (DSR) method was used to guide the conceptualization, design, and evaluation of the Bus-Ad-Coach Personal Learning Platform (BA-PLP). The platform was developed with four aims in mind, i.e., (a) to champion the personalisation and adaptation of business education content and methodologies, (b) to drive the embedment of real-time feedback and self-assessment of learners, (c) to guarantee seamless access to business education, and (d) to make learning a captivating and rewarding experience. The prototype was evaluated to gauge its usability, functionality, and performance in a real-world context. Seventy-one (71) first-time prototype users took part in its evaluation using a structured tool. Out of the 426 responses collected from 71 users, 200 responses (46,9%) strongly approved of the platform's features and acknowledged its educational and informational effect, and 41% enormously appreciated the relevance of its educational content. The study found that recent endeavours to uniquely blend game mechanics, chatbots and AI-generated texts into the PLP mix can make the knowledge acquisition journey an extremely customised, reflective, and captivating experience. The findings of this study revealed that personalised learning platforms are an indispensable element in the training processes of small businesses.