SBDC: AI Roadmap for SMBs: A Practical Guide from Readiness to ROI

This workshop is a hands-on training designed to help small and midsize businesses understand, prepare for, and successfully adopt artificial intelligence. Drawing on both scientific research and real-world industry experience, this workshop demystifies AI and provides a clear, actionable framework for leaders who want to leverage AI without unnecessary risk or wasted investment. Participants will learn how to assess their organization’s AI readiness, identify high-value and low-risk use cases, avoid common pitfalls that have led to enterprise AI failures, and design pilots that generate measurable ROI. We will introduce an AI readiness maturity ladder, explore practical barriers faced by SMBs, and outline step-by-step strategies for scaling successful pilots. Presneter, Sina Faridimehr, Ph.D.; Founder & CEO Enerytics