Google and the U.S. Chamber Join Forces to Help 40,000 Small Businesses Learn AI | CO

Artificial intelligence (AI) has become one of the most powerful tools for small businesses that want to compete with their larger counterparts. That’s why tech giants like Google and small business advocates like the U.S. Chamber of Commerce are teaming up to help entrepreneurs gain the skills they need to leverage AI.

At the 2025 CO— 100 Small Business Forum, U.S. Chamber of Commerce Executive Vice President Neil Bradley sat down with Christopher Turner, Google’s Global Head of Knowledge & Information Products, to discuss a new $5 million Google.org grant to provide hands-on AI training for small businesses. Turner also shared his insights on AI’s potential across industries and how entrepreneurs can use it most effectively.

How Google and the U.S. Chamber are supporting small business adoption of AI

Google is investing $5 million into a new program called Small Business B(AI)sics, which aims to train 40,000 entrepreneurs over the next three years. Those enrolled will gain hands-on exposure to AI tools through free in-person and online training, delivered by the U.S. Chamber and local chambers across the country. The program’s ultimate goal: to demystify AI and empower entrepreneurs to use it in the real world.

For those without a tech background who are nervous to take the leap, Turner emphasized that there are no barriers to entry.

“It’s very much a vibe [coding] versus hardcore coding,” he explained. “Do you know how to turn the tool on? Do you know how to enter in a prompt? That’s the level of knowledge we’re at for you to be a superstar with your customers.”

[Read more: The Majority of Small Businesses Embrace Artificial Intelligence]

How AI can unlock new opportunities and efficiencies across industries

While rooted in technology, AI’s potential goes far beyond the tech sector.

“There is no industry … where AI, as a tool, isn’t going to either create a new delivery system or an entirely new offering,” Turner said.

He shared several ways small and medium-sized businesses are already exploring new opportunities with AI, including:

Finding new revenue streams. Small businesses can use Google’s Gemini AI to analyze their business models and identify new products or services based on existing work.Streamlining daily operations. AI tools can automate everything from running payroll to building digital ad campaigns, and owners can approve the final outputs.Driving community impact. Turner shared real-world examples of AI solving longstanding local challenges, from detecting potholes using city vehicle footage to helping identify students at risk of dropping out.

[Read more: 6 Ways Small Businesses Are Using AI to Grow and Become More Profitable]

How to stay competitive in the AI era

With so much growth in AI, some people are worried it could replace jobs or make certain roles obsolete. However, as Turner notes, a majority of today’s jobs didn’t exist in 1945 — and should history repeat itself, AI is more likely to transform the workforce than eliminate opportunities altogether.

The real risk, he continued, isn’t AI itself but falling behind on its use: “Your greatest risk is your competitor figuring this stuff out faster than you.”

Of course, adopting AI for the sake of it isn’t the answer, either. Instead, Turner encouraged entrepreneurs to use this tool with a clear business goal in mind.

“Don’t just run out and slather AI on everything you do and think you’ve done something you haven’t,” he cautioned. “[Ask yourself]: How are you using the tool to achieve your end?”

Programs like Google’s make that concept tangible, empowering entrepreneurs of all backgrounds to build their skills and confidence in AI. Learn more about Small Business B(AI)sics or get notified when trainings become available.

CO— aims to bring you inspiration from leading respected experts. However, before making any business decision, you should consult a professional who can advise you based on your individual situation.

Published October 14, 2025