AI Readiness for Small Business: Safety, Ethics, and Strategy
Date: Oct 27, 2026
Time: 8:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Location: Elson S. Floyd Building, Room 145 WSU Tri-Cities, Richland, WA, classroom TFLO 145
Cost: $99.00 (space is limited)
About the Workshop
AI is rapidly developing, causing small business owners to struggle to keep up – new tools, new risks, and new rules seem to show up every month. This workshop cuts through the noise and shows participants what is actually shifting, what it means for their business, and how to stay ahead without getting overwhelmed. This workshop will explore what information is safe to put into AI tools, what should stay firmly internal, and most importantly, understand where AI is heading so their business can adapt before competitors do.
What You’ll Learn:
By the end of this session, participants will be equipped to:
- Evaluate and select appropriate AI tools based on functionality, reliability, and organizational needs
- Navigate ethical dilemmas and apply cybersecurity best practices to safeguard data and privacy
- Apply effective prompt engineering techniques to improve the relevance and accuracy of AI-generated outputs
- Leverage AI responsibly while maintaining data integrity and compliance standards
- Develop a personalized or team-based AI code of conduct to guide responsible and sustainable use within your workplace
Technical Requirements and Disclosure Location and Equipment
The workshop will be held in a WSU Tri-Cities computer lab. A computers will be provided; however, participants are encouraged to bring their own device if preferred. Complimentary Wi-Fi will be available.
Software & Accounts – Licenses or subscriptions to Generative AI tools are not included. Participants will be required to create a free account with at least one AI tool to participate in hands-on activities. Paid accounts are not necessary.
Generative AI Use Policy – By participating in this workshop, you agree to use Generative AI tools responsibly and ethically. All AI-generated content must be reviewed and verified for accuracy, fairness, and appropriateness. AI outputs may contain errors or biases; human oversight is required at all times. Do not enter confidential, proprietary, or personal information into any AI system during workshop activities.
Scheduling – Workshop dates are subject to change and may be rescheduled if minimum enrollment is not met seven (7) business days prior to the start date.
Refund Policy – All registrations are final. Refunds will not be issued for cancellations, non-attendance, or scheduling changes; however, if the workshop is rescheduled, your registration will be transferred to the new date.