America's SBDC AI U

What is AI U?

America's SBDC received a $10 million grant from Google.org to build AI U—a national training program that equips SBDC advisors with AI knowledge and resources so they can help small business owners adopt AI tools. The goal: help 100,000 small businesses unlock the power of AI to grow.

Key Details:

Operates across all 63 SBDC networks
Includes online curriculum, live training events, and student-led innovation projects
Free for all SBDC staff and small business clients
Powered by Google.org partnership

Why AI Matters for Small Business

AI tools are transforming how businesses operate—from automating customer service to analyzing data to generating content. Small businesses that adopt AI gain a competitive advantage. But many don't know where to start. That's where AI U comes in.

The Stats:

1 in 4 small businesses are already using AI tools
71% of small business owners plan to adopt AI technologies
Businesses using AI report measurable improvements in efficiency, sales, and profit

Accomplishments So Far

How AI U is Creating Real Impact

Advisors Trained

2,174+

SBDC staff completed AI Essentials training

Building capability across the network

Small Businesses Guided

8,000+

Small businesses receiving AI-specific coaching from trained advisors

Real adoption, real impact

Network Buy-In

87% of networks

Actively sharing AI knowledge and resources

The program is embedded in our culture

Advisor Confidence

57% of networks

Report high/very high advisor confidence in advising clients on AI

Advisors feel equipped to lead

1,021

Additional staff trained through peer knowledge transfer.

The multiplier effect: trained advisors extend learning across their networks.

“

At the heart of small business success is the America's SBDC Network, the largest and most effective business support system in the nation. With our widespread reach, we are empowering millions of businesses every year in both urban and rural communities. Our national footprint enables us to provide essential training on the latest technologies to small businesses.

Charles “Tee” Rowe

President & CEO, America's SBDC

AI SUCCESS STORIES

How AI U is Creating Real Impact

Watch more success stories from advisors
and their clients across America's SBDC network.

Meet our Trainers

The AI U certification is guided by expert SBDC advisors from across the nation who design, develop, and continuously improve our curriculum. They ensure AI U resources stay practical, current, and focused on real advisor and client needs. This is the 2026 AI U Curriculum Committee

Tim Branyan

Indiana SBDC

AI U Program

Helping Small Businesses Harness AI for Growth

For SBDC Staff & Members

What is AI U?

Why AI Matters for Small Business

Accomplishments So Far

How AI U is Creating Real Impact

2,174+

8,000+

87% of networks

57% of networks

1,021

“

Charles “Tee” Rowe

President & CEO, America's SBDC

AI SUCCESS STORIES

How AI U is Creating Real Impact

Watch more success stories from advisorsand their clients across America's SBDC network.

Meet our Trainers

The AI U certification is guided by expert SBDC advisors from across the nation who design, develop, and continuously improve our curriculum. They ensure AI U resources stay practical, current, and focused on real advisor and client needs. This is the 2026 AI U Curriculum Committee

How to Participate

For SBDC Staff & Members

For Small Business Owners

Contact

Watch more success stories from advisors
and their clients across America's SBDC network.