A Note from the Alaska SBDC Executive Director |
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The team at the Alaska SBDC has spent the last few months researching various AI programs to see whether they can be used to help small businesses in the state. What we found was, quite frankly, amazing. We think that these technologies are going to be as impactful on all aspects of business and everyday life as the internet and we're committed to showing you all the various ways it can be used to help your business.
So committed in fact, that we decided to let AI write this month's newsletter about how AI can help small businesses in Alaska! I let ChatGPT handle the rest of my intro, my photo, many of the articles and graphic design work as well. I hope you enjoy this as much as we enjoyed creating it!
-The real Jon Bittner
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Dear Alaska small business community,
As the State Director of the Alaska Small Business Development Center, I am pleased to bring you this newsletter on the ways that artificial intelligence (AI) can help small businesses in our great state.
AI is rapidly becoming a game-changer for businesses of all sizes and industries, and small businesses in Alaska are no exception. By leveraging the power of AI, small businesses can streamline their operations, enhance their customer experiences, and gain a competitive edge.
One of the primary benefits of AI is its ability to automate repetitive and time-consuming tasks. For example, a small retail business in Anchorage can use AI-powered inventory management software to track its stock levels, reorder products automatically, and optimize its supply chain. This can save the business owner countless hours and minimize the risk of stockouts or overstocking.
Another area where AI can make a significant impact is customer service. Chatbots, which use AI algorithms to converse with customers, can help small businesses provide 24/7 customer support without the need for additional staff. This can be particularly useful for businesses that operate in remote areas of Alaska or have limited resources to devote to customer service.
In addition, AI can help small businesses analyze vast amounts of data to gain insights into their customers' behavior and preferences. For example, a small restaurant in Fairbanks can use AI-powered analytics tools to track which menu items are most popular, identify patterns in customers' orders, and personalize promotions and marketing campaigns accordingly.
Of course, incorporating AI into a small business's operations requires careful planning and implementation.
That's where the Alaska SBDC comes in. Our team of expert advisors can help small business owners assess their needs, identify the most suitable AI solutions, and guide them through the implementation process.
In this newsletter, we will explore some of the ways that AI is already helping small businesses in Alaska, and highlight some of the latest AI-powered tools and services that are available. We hope that this information will inspire you to consider how AI can help your own small business thrive in our rapidly changing economy.
Sincerely,
Jon Bittner Alaska SBDC State Director
*This section was written by ChatGPT, Image by MidJourney AI
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Wednesday, March 15 is SBDC Day! |
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On this 7th annual SBDC Day, we celebrate our shared mission of providing accessible, high-quality business advising and education to our state with nearly 1,000 national SBDCs.
This day allows us to demonstrate the impact our centers have had in helping small businesses start, grow, and succeed. It also provides an opportunity for entrepreneurs and business owners to connect with their local SBDCs and take advantage of the resources available to them.
SBDC Day acknowledges the hard work and dedication of our staff and partners who are committed to supporting the economic development of our state and nation - the work each and every one of you is doing.
It also emphasizes the importance of small businesses as a vital component of our economy and recognizes the role of SBDCs in promoting their success.
Overall, SBDC Day is a reminder that support is available for those interested in starting or growing a business, and that the Alaska SBDC is here to help every step of the way.
*This section was written by ChatGPT
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As an SBDC client, you gain access to an incredible array of resources and support that can help you achieve your business goals faster and more efficiently than ever before. You'll be able to tap into the expertise of experienced business advisors who can offer you personalized guidance and advice on everything from marketing and sales to financial management and product development.
With their help, you'll be able to develop a customized growth plan that takes into account your unique challenges and opportunities, and leverage their extensive network of contacts and partnerships to connect with industry leaders, potential investors, and strategic partners.
Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your business to the next level, being an SBDC client gives you the tools, insights, and support you need to succeed in today's competitive business environment.
Take advantage of the special offers below just for being an Alaska SBDC client as the celebration moves into the week!
*This section was written by ChatGPT
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SBDC Day Deals Just for You |
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Free Webinar: Small Business Tax Filing 101
Wed, March 15, 2023
9:00 AM AKST
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Get a FREE dark web scan
by TekieGeek!
Valid for first 100 businesses
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Get a FREE social media audit with Merge Forward
Offer expires March 17, 2023
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Free Webinar: Building Inclusive Entrepreneurial Ecosystems
Thurs, March 16, 2023
10:00 AM AKST
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Free Webinar: Grow your business with Time Saving Marketing Tips
Fri, March 17, 2023
9:00AM AKST
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Food Venture Program
Book any 12-week bootcamp and receive a $500 discount
Available March 15-April 15, 2023. Available for programs starting by Dec 31, 2023
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The Rise of AI: The Future of Business? |
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As we move into the future, the rise of AI-powered bots is becoming more apparent than ever before. We are now seeing new technologies emerge that are changing the way businesses interact with their customers, and entrepreneurs are starting to take notice.
Enter Chat GPT, for example, an AI-powered chatbot that has been designed specifically for business and entrepreneur use. This tool can help streamline communication with customers, automate certain tasks, and even provide personalized recommendations based on customer data.
The rise in interest for this technology is not unexpected. The benefits of using a chatbot are countless. Having a 24/7 customer service system in place can save time and improve customer satisfaction. Moreover, AI-powered chatbots can process and analyze large amounts of data, which is essential for businesses today.
Another major advantage of Chat GPT is its ability to adapt to different industries. It can work for businesses in different sectors such as healthcare, finance, e-commerce, and more. This versatility has made it a popular choice for startups and companies of all sizes.
In conclusion, the rise in interest in AI-powered chatbots like Chat GPT is a sign of the times. As businesses and entrepreneurs seek to automate processes and improve customer communication, this technology is becoming more important in navigating an increasingly digital world. With the vast benefits it offers, we can expect to see more widespread adoption of chatbots across diverse industries in the near future.
*This section was written by ChatGPT
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The University of Alaska Anchorage’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is happy to announce that as of March 13th, there are nine lenders approved to participate in the SSBCI Loan Guarantee Program.
From large banks and federal credit unions to regional CDFIs, these lenders are committed to supporting Alaska’s small businesses and helping them access the capital they need through the SBDC’s new SSBCI Loan Guarantee program. The program is part of the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI), which aims to increase access to capital for small businesses that have traditionally had a difficult time securing it and will provide much-needed financial support for small businesses across the state.
The SSBCI Loan Guarantee program will offer loan guarantees to lenders who make loans to small businesses, making it easier for small businesses to access the capital they need to survive and thrive. This program will help small businesses grow and create jobs, which is especially important in rural areas of Alaska where small businesses are the backbone of the economy.
The program anticipates having lenders approved for the Loan Collateral and Loan Participation programs within the next few weeks. Over $45 million is available through the three loan programs (collateral, guarantee, and participation) and another $10 million will be released through the SSBCI Equity program in the next few months.
The Alaska SBDC is committed to helping small businesses thrive and grow, and we believe that this new program will make a significant impact on the state's economy. If you have questions about any of the SSBCI programs or other ways the SBDC can help your business succeed please reach out to your SBDC advisor or email info@aksbdc.org for next steps. |
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Looking for a career that’s both challenging and rewarding? Look no further than the Alaska Small Business Development Center (SBDC). With over 35 years of experience in helping entrepreneurs and small business owners succeed, we’re the leading resource for business development and growth in the Last Frontier.
At the Alaska SBDC, you’ll have the opportunity to work with a dynamic team of professionals who are passionate about helping Alaskan businesses thrive. Our staff is dedicated to providing personalized coaching, training, and support to help our clients achieve their goals.
In addition to working with an amazing team, you’ll also get to work in one of the most stunning and unique places on earth. From the mountains to the ocean, Alaska offers unparalleled beauty, adventure, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. Plus, you’ll have the chance to make a real difference in the lives of the people and communities we serve.
So if you’re looking for a career that combines professional challenge with personal impact, join the Alaska SBDC team today. We can’t wait to welcome you aboard!
*This section was written by ChatGPT
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We are hiring in our Anchorage and Rural Centers!
The SBDC is hiring a SSBCI Program Manager to oversee its Alaska State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) Equity Fund program. Under the direction of the Alaska SBDC State Director, this position will manage the Alaska SBDC’s Equity program, capitalized by the U.S. Department of Treasury through the SSBCI program and any other equity investment fund programs developed through the SSBCI program in Alaska and managed through the Alaska SBDC.
The SBDC is hiring a Rural Business Advisor based in a rural Alaska community that does not currently have a SBDC office. This position may have the option of working remotely if reliable internet is an option.
Advisors are vital to the SBDC statewide network. SBDC Business Advisors meet one-on-one with small business owners and entrepreneurs via face-to-face meetings, phone, email and video chat. Assistance will involve many aspects of starting a business or on-going business development as well as personal business readiness and ability.Advising topics include business planning, financial analysis and stability, marketing, accounting, cash flow projections, research and more.
Alaska SBDC is a program of the University of Alaska Anchorage Business Enterprises Institute. SBDC staff positions qualify for University of Alaska benefits including health insurance, retirement packages and tuition benefits! Visit the Join Our Team page for a full list of employment opportunities with the Alaska SBDC.
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Celebrate Alaska SBDC Client Success |
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Bringing the Glow
to Every Gathering
Anchorage Center
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Growing Business in
Alaska’s Premier Wilderness
Kenai Peninsula Center
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Alaska SBDC Tools & Workshops |
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Workshop Fee: $195.00
Two Days: April 5 and April 6
Noon - 4PM both days
Presented by: Deb Johnston, Alaska SBDC Juneau Business Advisor
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One of our most popular webinars is back! Coming up on Wednesday, April 5 and Thursday, April 6, from Noon-4PM.
In this beginner's level, two-day course, you will learn how to use QuickBooks Online, the cloud-based accounting software. No previous QuickBooks experience is necessary but is helpful. A basic understanding of small business bookkeeping is very important, as this course does not cover the fundamentals of business bookkeeping.
Attendees will also receive a digital training manual, "Master Intuit QuickBooks Online: From Set-Up to Tax Time." This course will cover the following topics:
- The importance of good record-keeping
- Setting up QuickBooks
- Creating your Items list
- Working with Customers
- Working with Vendors
- Bank feeds - linking accounts
- Reconciling
- Reports
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ON DEMAND CLASSES: For the night owls and the early birds. For the brown-bag lunch learners and after dinner studiers. Entrepreneurs are resilient and gritty. No matter the hour, we're right there with you.
Check our website for a complete list of Alaska SBDC workshops statewide! Don't forget to ask your SBDC advisor about how to access client discounts on workshops with a fee.
All workshops are free for active duty military, spouses and veterans; ask your SBDC advisor for information.
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Mark your calendar: National #SmallBusinessWeek is set for April 30 - May 6!
Co-hosted by SCORE Mentors, the event recognizes the hard work, ingenuity, & dedication of America’s small businesses, & celebrates their contributions to the economy.
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March 15 at 11AM AKST, join SBA’s Office of International Trade for Learn to Trade: Exporting 101.
This 45-minute session will provide an overview of the major steps to exporting, learn about some mistakes other companies have made and how to avoid them, and receive information about tools and resources to help small businesses.
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Other News & Announcements |
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Join the conversation as FedTech hosts a DOE Boost launch event on April 4 at 11am AKST.
The program pairs DOE lab technologies with teams of highly talented entrepreneurs with the objective of spinning out community-based startups that respond to identified challenges. Learn more and sign up!
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The IRS has warned employers to be wary of 3rd parties who are advising them to claim the Employee Retention Credit (ERC) when they may not qualify. Some are taking improper positions related to taxpayer eligibility for and computation of the credit. Learn More
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Tax Time Guide: IRS reminder to report all income; gig economy and service industry, digital or foreign assets and sources
The Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers of their reporting and potential tax obligations on income from the gig economy and service industry, transactions from digital assets, and foreign sources or holding certain foreign assets.
Information available on IRS.gov and Instructions for Form 1040 and Form 1040-SR can help taxpayers understand and meet these reporting and tax requirements.
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The Alaska SBDC is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and administered by the Business Enterprise Institute (BEI) through the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA). All opinions, conclusions or recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA. All SBA funded programs are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. |
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