This year, a team from Alaska SBDC attended the 45th annual America’s SBDC National Conference in Atlanta, GA, at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis, and two had the honor of presenting again on this year’s hottest topic.
Over 430 workshops were submitted for this year’s conference, and after months of rigorous review, the Association’s Conference Committee selected 132 workshops to be featured at this year’s event.
Alaska SBDC’s AI Resource Center Director Carlos Machuca and Rural Business Advisor Ruth Wolfe presented “AI-Empowerment: A Roadmap to Create AI Solutions for Small Business Success” to a packed room that left standing room only and trickled into the hallway.
This presentation was a turning point for SBDC advisors and directors, equipping them with the knowledge and tools to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into their core services. This strategic shift holds immense potential to reshape the landscape of small business advisory services and empower countless entrepreneurs nationwide.
The presentation went beyond simply introducing AI. It offered a clear roadmap, a five-stage process that demystified the complex world of AI and presented it as a practical tool for SBDC advisors. The narrative of “Our Journey with AI” provided valuable context, while the subsequent sections on operational efficiency and real-world case studies brought the concept to life.
The highlight, however, was undoubtedly the “Live Demo of AI Tools.” This hands-on experience solidified the potential of AI for the attendees, allowing them to envision its practical application in their daily work.
However, the true crown jewel of the presentation was “Our 12-Steps Roadmap to Develop AI Solutions.” This detailed, step-by-step guide empowers advisors to create and implement AI tools tailored to their clientele’s unique needs. Its adaptability ensures its relevance across diverse businesses and stages of development.
The concluding sections ensured attendees were well-equipped. Key takeaways emphasized the strategic benefits and challenges of AI integration, allowing for informed decision-making. More importantly, attendees learned actionable strategies to implement AI solutions effectively, ensuring success for advisors and the small businesses they serve.
The impact of “AI-Empowerment” extends far beyond the conference room. It signifies a commitment to innovation and growth within the SBDC network. Equipping advisors with AI’s power paves the way for a future where small businesses have access to the cutting-edge tools and insights they need to thrive. This, in turn, fosters economic prosperity and strengthens the backbone of our communities.
As AI evolves, this roadmap will be a valuable resource for SBDC advisors nationwide, empowering them to become growth champions for America’s small businesses.
Learn more about the Alaska SBDC’s AI Resource Center.