Turning AI Access Into Small Business Advantage

The Bronx Chamber of Commerce Foundation's AI Advantage Program, supported by Google.org, set out to help small business owners use artificial intelligence to solve real business problems. Across three cohorts, it trained 70 Bronx-based businesses and nonprofit organizations and delivered $350,000 in direct grants to support their continued growth.

More than 200 businesses applied for 70 available spots. That demand points to a clear opportunity for chambers. Small businesses are not resisting innovation. They are looking for trusted guidance, accessible training and tools they can use right away.

"This program was built to ensure Bronx businesses are not left behind as technology continues to reshape the economy," said Lisa Sorin, president of the Bronx Chamber of Commerce. "Through AI Advantage, we have not only introduced entrepreneurs to practical tools that can strengthen their operations, but also invested directly in their growth."

Meeting Businesses Where They Are

The businesses that applied were already feeling the pressure of digital change. Owners shared concerns about outdated websites, limited social media presence, inefficient administrative processes and a lack of digital tools. Those challenges hit harder for businesses operating with limited staff and resources. According to the chamber, nearly 95% of participants are microbusinesses with five or fewer employees. Just over half are women-owned, and 94% are minority-owned.

The AI Advantage Program focused on closing the technology gap through hands-on learning. Participants tested tools, built solutions and applied what they learned directly to their businesses. The curriculum addressed marketing automation, content creation, customer engagement, workflow optimization and data-informed decision-making. No prior technical experience was required and the program was offered at no cost to participants.

Participants quickly put the training to work. Spin & Learn, Inc., which partners with schools and youth programs to provide table tennis lessons, implemented AI tools for scheduling, business organization and administrative tasks. R L Hair Studio, which provides wig making and hair growth services, used the training to enhance its website, develop customer intake processes and expand its marketing reach.

Tracking Success

Early results from participant surveys point to measurable impact. Every respondent reported saving time on daily tasks, with many citing savings of 5 to 10 hours per week. Participants reported average cost savings of roughly $500 per week. Nearly half said their marketing performance improved. All expressed interest in continuing AI training and education.

The Foundation is continuing to track outcomes through follow-up assessments after graduation, measuring long-term adoption and whether participants continue to apply what they learned.

A Model for Other Chambers

The Bronx Chamber Foundation demonstrated that AI training works when it is accessible, grounded in real use cases and backed by real investment. Hands-on instruction, relevant examples and immediate application turn interest into adoption.

As the AI Advantage Program concludes, the Foundation is exploring opportunities to build on its momentum through future training and small-business technology initiatives.

"Chambers are uniquely positioned to lead this work because they are trusted partners within their business communities," said Gisselle Galerotti, communications and marketing manager at the Bronx Chamber of Commerce. "By connecting entrepreneurs with emerging technologies, chambers can play a powerful role in driving innovation, economic growth and long-term competitiveness for local businesses."

“This content was generated in part using an AI tool and has been reviewed for accuracy. Discrepancies may still exist.”