AI for Small Business: From Experimentation to Real Business Advantage

AI is reshaping how businesses operate. But for many owners, it still feels overwhelming. In this episode, we break down what AI actually is (and isn’t), and explore practical ways small businesses can start using it today. From automating repetitive tasks to building custom tools without coding, this conversation cuts through the hype and focuses on how AI can save time and drive smarter decisions, without replacing the human touch. Topics Discussed Common misconceptions about AI and why it’s not “thinking” like humans How to identify the best starting point for AI in your business Practical use cases: automation, data analysis, and workflow optimization Building simple, custom tools with AI Risks to watch for: data privacy, hallucinations, and context limits Moving from experimentation to a strategic AI approach Ready to take the first step with AI? Start by identifying one task that slows you down—and explore how AI could simplify it. Then share this episode with a fellow business owner and start the conversation about working smarter, not harder. Presented by UB School of Management’s Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership and Lemur Studios