AI Empowerment for Small Business

Course Overview

Predictive and generative AI tools are poised to transform the business world. The goal of this course is to empower small business owners with the knowledge and skills they need to use those tools to transform their businesses. While small business owners may feel like the technology can only be utilized by large corporations or tech companies, there are many opportunities for small businesses. One attraction of AI tools is the ability to automate repetitive tasks, freeing business owners to pursue strategic goals and streamline processes. A technical or mathematical background is not required, so this course has no prerequisites.

Who Should Take This Course?

Small business owners and executives who seek predictive and generative AI tools to scale solutions, increase efficiency, and win new business. Participants will learn from real-world business cases involving AI applications in small business and develop a roadmap for business growth.

Valuable Outcomes

• Review the history, current state, and ongoing promise of AI technologies. 
• Explore predictive and generative AI tools and potential applications in business. 
• Evaluate potential AI solutions using a framework of ethics, privacy, and security standards.
• Apply best practices in choosing AI solutions for specific business problems.

Program Topics and Objectives

Module 1: Introduction and Overview of AI 

A brief history of the development of AI and the types of business problems AI can help solve.

Module 2: Predictive AI 

Which AI techniques are suitable for businesses for predictive analysis? Forecast demand and understand customer behavior by leveraging customer data. 

Module 3: Generative AI 

The newest development in AI—Generative AI—can be used to design products and services, create content for social media and other marketing campaigns, and improve customer service.

Module 4: AI Governance, Ethics, Privacy, and Security 

Businesses must consider the ethical and moral implications of using AI and the broader governance issues that need to be considered when using AI and working with tools from vendors and third parties. We provide a guide for small businesses to manage risks with AI. 

Module 5: Small Business Interviews / Case Discussions 

There are several real-world use cases where small businesses can benefit from using AI. These cases come directly from interviews with small business owners. Examples include using AI for optimizing time management, inventory management, design, marketing, creation of AI-based products and services and prudent AI investments.

Format & Structure

This is an asynchronous, self-paced online course that takes approximately 20-25 hours to complete across five modules. Activities include video lessons, readings, and self-reflection exercises. After most videos and readings, you'll find ungraded review questions to help you assess your understanding before proceeding.

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