OpenAI recently hosted its latest SmallBiz AI Jam in Miami, an initiative aimed at equipping small businesses with tools to integrate AI, specifically ChatGPT, into their daily operations. The event, part of OpenAI’s broader strategy to promote AI skills development through OpenAI Academy, gathered over one hundred small businesses and community organizations for in-person training and workshops.
The sessions featured live demonstrations, problem-solving activities, and direct coaching tailored to help businesses streamline their workflows using ChatGPT. OpenAI is conducting the SmallBiz AI Jam series in collaboration with partners such as DoorDash and SCORE Mentors, alongside local groups that foster entrepreneurship in each host city.
Viviana Jordan, OpenAI’s Government Affairs lead, emphasized the significance of the event, stating that small businesses are the “backbone of our communities.” She noted, “OpenAI’s #SmallBizAIJam is all about giving them the AI tools and training they need to grow and thrive.” She highlighted the contributions of national partners like DoorDash and SCORE Mentors, along with local organizations including the Florida SBDC at FIU, The Idea Center at Miami Dade College, and the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce.
During the event, Austin Meyer, OpenAI’s GTM Director, observed that more than 150 small business owners actively engaged with ChatGPT to tackle specific operational challenges. He remarked that the atmosphere was devoid of AI hype, focusing instead on practical applications. Among the use cases shared, participants included an entertainment coordinator who utilized ChatGPT to create custom proposals, a drives and motor manufacturer leveraging AI to enhance its repair business, and a clothing founder who accelerated product development for curvy and plus-size customers.
Meyer noted, “The quality of insight they shared with our team on how ChatGPT can become more intuitive, more practical, and better aligned with the way small businesses actually operate was invaluable.” He reflected on the passion exhibited by participants for their communities, underscoring the importance of OpenAI’s mission in supporting local business growth.
Angel Brodin, a member of the OpenAI GTM team, provided further insights into the day’s activities, noting that discussions about AI adoption often emphasize enterprise use. However, the Miami event showcased the tangible benefits of focusing directly on small operators. Brodin highlighted how they spent time with over 125 local businesses, exploring practical methods to leverage ChatGPT for value creation. She cited examples such as restaurateurs improving their catering process and a plus-size retailer enhancing its online visibility.
Reflecting on community engagement, Brodin also co-presented at an event during the Miami Book Fair in collaboration with Miami Dade College. She expressed satisfaction in spending hands-on time with local residents, emphasizing the thoughtful and meaningful ways AI can be utilized in their businesses. “Every single group solved something tangible during our day together,” she affirmed, thanking partners and volunteers for their contributions.
This initiative marks a significant step in OpenAI’s ongoing efforts to democratize access to AI tools for small businesses. By concentrating on practical applications of ChatGPT, the SmallBiz AI Jam series is poised to foster innovation and resilience in local economies, ensuring that small businesses are not left behind in the rapidly evolving technological landscape.
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