Salesforce, in partnership with Disruption Now, U.S. Bank, 8451 (Kroger), and Verizon, will host the AI Action Lab at Salesforce Tower Chicago.
Designed for 90 early-stage, action-ready small business leaders, this immersive day cuts through AI hype and gets straight to what matters: real workflows, real tools, real impact. From hands-on labs in prompt engineering and workflow automation to live peer problem-solving and a corporate roundtable on the future of AI integration, participants will leave with tested solutions, strategic insights, and a clear next step. This isn’t theory—it’s practical, low-risk experimentation with AI in a supportive, collaborative setting.
The goal? Equip every participant to run at least one meaningful AI test within 30 days.
Each speaker will deliver a fast-paced, 5-minute dose of insight, cutting through theory to share how small businesses are using AI today, what’s standing in the way, and the following practical steps to take.
Participants engage directly with panelists and each other to surface real questions, explore practical applications, and unlock collaborative momentum.
The most powerful insights often emerge after the agenda ends. In this final session, participants return to their tables for a guided reflection designed to turn ideas into action.
Through a series of purposeful prompts:
• “What shifted for you today about using AI in your business?”
• “What is one test you are committed to running within 30 days?”
• “What barrier do you still need to address, and who here can help?” — leaders are encouraged to pause, process, and put a stake in the ground.
This is more than a wrap-up. It’s a shared commitment moment—where goals are spoken aloud, support systems are activated, and the day’s momentum becomes a launchpad for real-world experimentation.
Community Engagement Director, Policy, Responsible Business, Legal & Security (PRLS) at Verizon
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