News Summary
A new program, Small Business B(AI)sics, aims to empower 40,000 small business owners across the nation to harness artificial intelligence for growth. Supported by Google and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the initiative offers hands-on training and resources both in-person and online. Small businesses, vital to the economy, will receive tools and knowledge to integrate AI into their strategies, promoting efficiency and innovation. The program seeks to level the playing field for entrepreneurs, particularly those in rural areas, ensuring their success in a rapidly evolving market.
Texas Launches New Initiative to Empower Small Businesses with AI
Texas is set to experience a transformative initiative aimed at empowering small businesses called Small Business B(AI)sics. This program, designed to support an impressive 40,000 small business owners across the United States over the next three years, aims to provide critical resources for leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) in business operations. The initiative is backed by Google and is a collaborative effort between the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation.
Program Objectives
The primary goal of this program is to equip entrepreneurs with the necessary knowledge and tools to effectively utilize AI in their businesses. The initiative aims to instill confidence among small business owners, enabling them to reflect on the potential of AI to drive growth and improve economic conditions. Funding for the program comes from Google’s AI Opportunity Fund, ensuring that the initiative is well-supported from its inception.
Training Offerings
Small Business B(AI)sics is not just a concept; it promises actionable assistance through hands-on training. Entrepreneurs can engage in both local, in-person sessions and digital online training. More than 1,500 state and local partners will facilitate in-person workshops, fostering an environment of collaborative learning.
Additionally, participants can access a comprehensive digital AI learning hub through the Chamber’s small business platform, CO—. This hub includes training modules, webinars, certifications, and practical guides specifically designed to demystify AI, making it approachable for users of all experience levels. The initiative will also spotlight real-world success stories of small business owners who have integrated AI into their operations.
The Importance of Supporting Small Businesses
Small businesses play a crucial role in the economy, accounting for two-thirds of new jobs and employing nearly half of the private workforce. However, many entrepreneurs, particularly those in rural regions or first-time business owners, may find themselves hesitant to embrace AI technologies due to a lack of information and guidance.
Recent statistics show an 18% increase in AI adoption among small businesses compared to 2024, with its use having more than doubled since 2023. Many business leaders recognize the importance of AI tools for success, believing they can level the playing field and open new growth opportunities while also relieving business owners from mundane tasks.
How to Participate
This initiative provides both in-person and online sessions, permitting entrepreneurs to access industry experts who will offer practical insights to help save time, boost revenue, and attract new customers. The program aims to train tens of thousands of business owners nationwide by 2028, making it a significant opportunity for small businesses ready to innovate.
Business owners are encouraged not to miss out on this chance to explore AI’s potential benefits for their enterprises. Resources are readily accessible on the U.S. Chamber’s digital platform, CO—, and local chambers are prompted to organize training events. Interested entrepreneurs can sign up and explore how AI can elevate their businesses by visiting uschamber.com/co.
Texas is poised to lead the charge in adopting AI for small businesses through the Small Business B(AI)sics initiative. This collaboration showcases the state’s commitment to innovation and support for local enterprises, aiming to keep Texas at the forefront of economic growth and technological advancement.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- U.S. Chamber of Commerce: How AI Can Help Small Businesses Compete and Grow
- Wikipedia: Artificial Intelligence
- U.S. Chamber of Commerce: Entrepreneurs Find Inspiration at Small Business Forum
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Artificial Intelligence
- PYMNTS: Small Business, Big AI: How SMBs Are Leveling the Playing Field
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
