Make AI Work for Your Small Business 

AI is changing how businesses operate. The challenge isn't understanding what AI is. It's knowing how to use it in a practical way that saves time, improves productivity, and supports growth. 

The AI for Small Business Cohort is a hands-on learning experience designed to help business owners move from AI awareness to AI adoption. 

Through guided instruction, peer learning, real-world examples, and practical exercises, participants will identify opportunities to use AI in their business and develop a plan they can put into action immediately. The cohort is designed for business owners who want practical outcomes, not technical theory. 

What You'll Learn 

Participants will explore how AI can help: 

  • Save time on repetitive tasks 
  • Improve customer communication 
  • Create content more efficiently 
  • Streamline business operations 
  • Increase productivity 
  • Identify practical AI use cases specific to their business 

By the end of the cohort, you'll leave with a real AI use case and a plan for implementation. 

Program Details

Led by Tim Marshall 

The cohort is led by Tim Marshall, founder of AI4SmallBiz.org and Burton D. Morgan Endowed Chair in Entrepreneurship at Baldwin Wallace University. 

Tim brings more than 20 years of experience in entrepreneurship, marketing, technology, and small business education. Through his work with AI4SmallBiz.org, BW LaunchNET, and the Digital Marketing Center, he helps organizations understand and apply AI in practical ways. 

Program Schedule 

Session Dates 

  • Thursday, September 3, 2026 
  • Thursday, September 10, 2026 
  • Thursday, September 17, 2026 
  • Thursday, September 24, 2026 

Time 

  • Coffee & Networking: 8:00 AM 
  • Sessions: 8:30-10:00 AM 
  • Optional Collaboration Time: Until 11:00 AM 

Ongoing Support 

Businesses that successfully complete the program will have the opportunity to apply for up to $2,000 in project-based support, delivered by Baldwin Wallace student interns under the guidance of Tim Marshall. This support is designed to help participants implement ideas and continue building momentum after the program concludes. 

Eligibility Requirements 

To participate, businesses must: 

  • Be a COSE member 
  • Have been in operation prior to March 1, 2026 
  • Be represented by an owner with at least 51% ownership 

Small Business AI Cohort Application

Application Deadline: Monday, August 17 at 5:00 p.m. 

Participation is limited to help ensure meaningful discussion, peer collaboration, and hands-on support throughout the program.

Apply Today

Questions: Reach out to tfond@greatercle.com or ccooper@greatercle.com with any questions 

This program is hosted by: