GECC Business Resource by NJBDC: AI Business Academy – Fall 2026 Cohort III

Description

Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ai-business-academy-fall-2026-cohort-iii-tickets-1992421199442?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true

Master AI tools for your business in 6 weeks. Build custom AI assistants, automate marketing, simplify operations.

The AI Business Academy is an intensive, hands-on program designed for small business owners, entrepreneurs, and independent professionals ready to leverage artificial intelligence to transform daily operations and long-term strategy. This is not a passive learning experience—you'll build real tools, automate actual workflows, and leave with an actionable AI implementation plan for your business.

Event Details
Virtual Orientation (Mandatory): Wednesday, September 9, 2026; 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Program Dates: Monday, September 14 – Wednesday, October 21, 2026
Schedule:

• Mondays (Online) – Theory and instructional content session
• Wednesdays (In-Person – Elizabeth) – Hands-on application and projects session

Format: Hybrid—Both in-person and virtual sessions are mandatory. You will attend one virtual session and one in-person session each week for 6 weeks.
Fee: $150 (one-time registration for all 12 sessions)
Location: Zoom (Mondays); Vintage City Offices, Elizabeth, NJ (Wednesdays)

What You'll Build & Learn

• Custom AI Assistants (Week 1) – Design and deploy ChatGPT-based AI tools tailored to your business needs
• AI-Powered Marketing & Social Media (Week 2) – Automate content creation and amplify your brand with Canva and Buffer
• CRM & Lead Management Automation (Week 3) – Streamline client communication using Attio and Zapier
• Business Operations & Productivity (Week 4) – Centralize workflows and automate daily tasks with Notion
• Smart Financial Management (Week 5) – Leverage QuickBooks, Gusto, and Grantable.ai to manage money and access funding
• Demo Day & Implementation (Week 6) – Present your progress and lock in your next steps for long-term AI adoption

Weekly Focus Areas
Week 1: Custom AI Assistants for Business – Build a GPT tailored to your company
Week 2: AI-Powered Marketing & Social Media – Automate and elevate your brand
Week 3: CRM & Client Communication Automation – Streamline leads and outreach
Week 4: AI for Business Operations & Productivity – Centralize your systems
Week 5: Smart Finances – Manage money and funding with AI
Week 6: Demo Day + AI Implementation – Present your progress and plan your next steps

Participation Requirements
This is a time-intensive, results-driven program that demands full commitment. In addition to the weekly Monday and Wednesday sessions, participants should be prepared to dedicate approximately 5 additional hours per week to assignments and project work. Both in-person and virtual sessions are mandatory. We do not offer recordings or asynchronous catch-up options—consistent attendance ensures you stay aligned with peers and don't fall behind in the cohort.

Basic Computer Literacy Required
Participants should be comfortable using a computer for:

• Browsing the internet and managing email
• Using tools like Google Workspace or Microsoft Office
• Attending and navigating virtual meetings via Zoom

If you're uncertain about your tech comfort level, we encourage you to reach out before registering.

Who Should Attend

• Small business owners and entrepreneurs ready to integrate AI into daily operations
• Independent professionals seeking to automate and scale their work
• Business leaders looking to build an AI-driven competitive advantage
• Anyone ready to move beyond curiosity to hands-on implementation

Why Participate?
AI is no longer optional for competitive small businesses. This program bridges the gap between "learning about AI" and "using AI to drive real results." You'll gain practical skills, build working tools, connect with other entrepreneurs navigating AI adoption, and leave with a clear roadmap for AI implementation in your business.

Important Registration Notes
⚠️ Non-Refundable Registration: Please ensure you can commit to attending all sessions and completing required coursework before enrolling. This program is designed for participants who will show up fully present and engaged.

⚠️ Mandatory Orientation: All participants must attend the virtual orientation session on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM. This session covers expectations, technical setup, and cohort alignment.

This Fall, take your business to the next level with hands-on AI skills and practical applications that deliver measurable results. Spaces are limited to maintain teaching quality and peer engagement—secure your spot early before the cohort fills.