AI in 2026: What’s Changing and What It Means for Small Business

Date & Time: May 7, 2026, 1:30pm EDT
Duration: 1 Hour

Learn how AI is changing from tools to outcomes and what that shift means for small business strategy and day-to-day operations.
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About the Webinar

Small businesses have largely used AI as standalone tools, but that is starting to change as AI becomes more automated, more connected, and more capable of handling meaningful work. As AI continues to evolve, many business owners are left trying to determine which developments matter, which claims are hype, and where AI can deliver measurable business value.

In this webinar, you’ll learn how AI is changing from tools to outcomes and what that shift means for small business strategy and day-to-day operations. You’ll see real-world examples and demonstrations of how AI is being applied across common small business functions today as we cover the trends shaping AI in 2026, where AI can deliver real business value, and which opportunities may not be worth the time or investment. 

What You’ll Learn:

  • How AI is shifting from standalone tools to more agent-driven work and what that means for everyday business operations
  • Learn which AI trends matter most for small businesses in 2026
  • Identify where AI can deliver measurable business value
  • Recognize where AI may not be worth the effort or investment
  • Explore the key strategic decisions small business owners should be making as AI evolves
  • See real-world examples and demonstrations of AI applied to common small business functions
  • See real-world examples and demonstrations of AI applied to common small business functions

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Matthew Greg Krieger

SCORE Mentor

I'm a technologist and executive with experience in IT, manufacturing and nonprofit. I'm President of Cober, Inc., an industrial heating equipment manufacturer providing large-scale oven systems to companies such as Proctor and Gamble, Corning and GE. Previously, I held senior IT leadership positions at Time and the Reader’s Digest Association in the roles of division CTO, global data center management, strategy and governance. I'm Board Chair of the Reader’s Digest Partners for Sight Foundation, a non-profit grant maker focusing on direct services to increase the independence of blind and visually impaired individuals. I founded and built Whysper, a text-to-speech audio content aggregator. I also serve on the board of the International Microwave Power Institute and advise Tech 2 Success, Cyber-Seniors and Creative Coefficient.

Charlie Morris

SCORE Mentor

I hold an MS in Computer Science and a BS in Experimental Psychology. As a consultant, I assist businesses in optimizing their analytics and technology deployment, ensuring they make informed decisions that drive growth. With a strong foundation in technology and business strategy, I am committed to empowering small businesses and individuals in their tech and digital marketing endeavors. Leveraging my diverse experience in financial services, clinical trials, and medical devices, I excel at demystifying technology and transforming complex ideas into actionable strategies.