Small Business Owners Seek AI Expertise from Students
AI Workshop for Small Business Owners at Northeastern University
Northeastern University recently hosted a hands-on clinic at its Oakland campus focused on teaching small business owners how to effectively use artificial intelligence (AI) tools in their operations. This event addressed a growing need for small businesses to leverage technology to enhance their marketing and outreach efforts.
The Importance of AI for Small Businesses
For many entrepreneurs, integrating AI into their business practices can seem daunting. However, the benefits of using AI include:
- Enhanced Marketing: AI tools can help create targeted marketing campaigns, analyze customer behavior, and engage with clients more effectively.
- Efficiency: Automation of routine tasks can free up time for business owners to focus on strategy and customer service.
- Cost-Effectiveness: AI solutions can often be more affordable than hiring additional staff for marketing and content creation.
During the clinic, attendees engaged with Northeastern students trained in AI applications tailored to small businesses’ unique needs. Ana Jones, a business owner from Phlex65, a senior caregiver service, learned how to better utilize her content creation tool by receiving personalized guidance from student Esha Kanakapura.
Hands-On Support from Students
Participants were paired with computer science students who offered insights into how AI can enhance their specific business operations. The session included:
- One-on-One Training: Business owners received tailored advice on how to repurpose their existing content for better engagement.
- Collaborative Strategy Development: Students assisted owners in crafting new marketing strategies that incorporated AI tools, maximizing their effectiveness.
“I was struggling to understand how to reach my target audience,” Jones shared. “My time spent with Esha has been inspiring and informative, reigniting my interest in using AI for my business.”
Exploring AI Tools and Techniques
Many small business owners were not fully aware of the capabilities of AI. Throughout the clinic, students demonstrated practical applications of various tools, including:
- Adobe Express: This generative AI platform helps in creating tailored social media posts, videos, and promotional materials, aiding in the visual branding of businesses.
- Prompt Engineering: As explained by student Rohan Kathouria, effective prompt engineering involves providing AI with detailed information to generate more focused and relevant results.
Chef Azikiwee Anderson, who runs Rize Up Bakery, remarked on how the clinic demystified the use of AI for him. “I learned how to refine my AI prompts to align better with my brand voice, and that understanding will help me extend my outreach.”
The Value of Continued Learning
The overwhelming sentiment among participants was the desire for follow-up sessions. Many expressed their appreciation for the structured setting of the clinic. Kim Bardakian, co-founder of Town Love, noted the added value of working directly with knowledgeable students to uncover fresh AI insights. “Having dedicated time to work through questions made this experience invaluable,” she emphasized.
Conclusion: The Future of AI in Small Business
This event marked an important step for the Northeastern Oakland campus, demonstrating a commitment to equipping local entrepreneurs with the skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. With positive feedback and a desire for more assistance, it’s clear that this initiative has created a valuable opportunity for small business owners to integrate advanced technologies like AI into their everyday operations.
