Alaska Small Business Development Center

Alaska SBDC Launches First-of-its-kind Artificial Intelligence Resource Center 

March 4, 2024

Anchorage, AK, March 4, 2024 – The Alaska SBDC is thrilled to announce the formation of a new Artificial Intelligence Resource Center (AIRC) to support business advisors and small business owners while contributing to the advancement of AI in Alaska.

“Artificial Intelligence has the potential to make a transformative impact on Alaskan businesses.. AI-powered tools can help business owners overcome a shrinking workforce, connect more effectively with customers, and identify new markets or funding sources. I’m proud of the Alaska SBDC’s leadership in this area which has resulted in the launching the first-of-its-kind AI Resource Center to support our business advisors and small businesses alike.” – Jon Bittner, Alaska SBDC State Director.

The Alaska SBDC aims to help connect business owners with new tools and resources, helping them leverage AI solutions for improved business operations, enhanced customer experiences, and product development. By focusing on practical, actionable guidance, the AIRC is poised to become a pivotal resource for small businesses looking to navigate and thrive in the rapidly evolving technological landscape.

“Recent innovations in Artificial Intelligence have transformed how small businesses nationwide operate. The Alaska SBDC has been at the forefront of SBDCs nationally in developing new AI-based tools and training.” Christian Conroy, Director of Strategic Initiatives and America’s SBDC Leadership Institute.

The AIRC enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of SBDC Business Advisors through AI-powered tools, meaning that they can invest more time in personal interactions with clients. The Alaska SBDC’s AI tools have been deployed across the country to other SBDCs looking to streamline the advising process, benefitting Alaskans and positioning the organization as a national leader in the AI-driven business development space.

“The Alaska SBDC has been an incredible partner to the Nebraska SBDC at the Nebraska Business Development Center. The Alaska SBDC’s cutting-edge approach to incorporating AI into its consulting services has proven to be a successful model for the Nebraska SBDC to follow. The Alaska SBDC’s willingness to share resources and train our staff has been incredible!” Tony Schultz, State Director, America’s SBDC-Nebraska

About Alaska SBDC
The Alaska Small Business Development Center (SBDC) provides expert business assistance and resources to empower Alaskan entrepreneurs and small businesses for long-term success. With a team of experienced business advisors and an extensive network of partners, Alaska SBDC offers consulting, training, and resources to help businesses start, grow, and prosper.

About America’s SBDC
America’s SBDC is a non-profit Association that represents America’s nationwide network of SBDCs – the most comprehensive small business assistance network in the United States and its territories. SBDCs are hosted by leading universities, colleges, state economic development agencies and private partners, and funded in part by the United States Congress through a partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Media Contact: Harley Tennant
Communications Manager
(907) 786-7276 | Email

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