AI Lunchbreak: Intro to AI for Small Business

May 7 12:00 pm — 12:30 pm

Event Details

Are you a small business owner curious about how artificial intelligence (AI) can transform your daily operations? Join us every Wednesday for a 30-minute lunch-and-learn workshop followed by 15-minute Q&A.

Over 12 weeks, we’ll demystify AI by explaining key concepts in simple terms and showcasing real-world examples of how small businesses are leveraging AI to improve your efficiency, increase the quality of your results, and expand your abilities!

You’ll learn about practical AI tools that can help you automate routine tasks, make data-driven decisions, and stay competitive in today’s fast-paced market.

By the end of the session, you’ll have a clear understanding of basic ways that AI can be integrated into your business processes and the steps you can take to get started. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and take the first step towards embracing AI for a more efficient and innovative business. 

NOTE: Only one registration is required for the entire series!

Intro to AI for Small Business

Are you curious about AI but not sure where to start? This beginner-friendly session will demystify artificial intelligence and show you how it can help small business owners like you save time, make smarter decisions, and boost efficiency.

In this 30-minute workshop, you’ll learn what AI is, why it’s such a big deal for businesses, and how to start exploring it in simple, practical ways. Through hands-on examples, you’ll see how AI can assist with everyday tasks like brainstorming ideas, answering questions, and improving communication—no tech experience required!

Key takeaways include:

  • An introduction to AI and how it works.
  • Uses for businesses in your everyday life.
  • A live demo to show how AI can assist with tasks like writing, planning, and problem-solving.

The information provided in this webinar and any supplementary materials provided to registrants are intended for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute professional financial or legal advice. No registrant should act or fail to act on the basis of any material contained in this webinar without obtaining proper financial, legal or other professional advice specific to their situation. The Northern CaliforniaSmall Business Development Center, and its host, the HSU Sponsored Programs Foundation, specifically disclaims any liability, loss or risk, personal or otherwise, which is incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, of the use and application of any of the information presented in this webinar. By registering for this webinar you acknowledge and agree that you have read, understood, accept and agree to the above disclaimer and that under no circumstances shall the Northern California Small Business Development Center or it’s host, the HSU Sponsored Programs Foundation, be held liable for any claims, losses, or damages of any kind or nature arising out of or in any way related to the information provided in this webinar and/or the registrant’s use of or reliance on said information.

MAY 7-JULY 23
12-WEEK AI LUNCHBREAK SCHEDULE
(Subject to change):

5/7/2025 – Intro to AI for Small Business: Getting Started
5/14/2025 – AI Tools 101
5/21/2025 – Craft Your Marketing Strategy With AI
5/29/2025 – Build Great Text Content With AI
6/4/2025 – Using AI in Canva
6/11/2025 – Creating Stunning Images With AI
6/18/2025 – Creating Compelling Video With AI
6/25/2025 – AI for Effortless Social Media – Tools & Tips
7/2/2025 – AI for Email Marketing
7/9/2025 – Supercharge Your AI With Custom GPTs
7/16/2025 – Voice & AI – Using AI for Podcasts, Audio & Voice Assistants
7/23/2025 – What’s Next in AI? Future Trends and Tools

AI Lunchbreak is led by Cathy Balach, Lead Business Advisor

Cathy is a marketing strategist working with AI implementation and online marketing, including video and content development, email communications, and website development.

She holds a MBA with focus in Entrepreneurship from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Masters in International Management from University of Arizona/Thunderbird.

Cathy has worked for PepsiCo, Pricewaterhouse Coopers, and launched three startups of her own. With over 15 years of experience consulting and mentoring small businesses, she has worked with thousands of start-up and growing businesses in the North Bay.