Verizon aims to empower small businesses with the tools and resources needed to thrive in an AI economy

INDIANAPOLIS – Indianapolis-based small business owners, business leaders and entrepreneurs are invited to take advantage of an upcoming, free event designed to help small businesses build the digital skills and capabilities needed to compete, grow, and innovate in today’s rapidly evolving AI-driven landscape. Hosted by Verizon, “Small Business Digital Ready: Empowering America’s Small Businesses to Succeed in the AI Economy,” will take place on Wednesday, June 24, 2026 at the Mavris Arts and Event Center. The Indiana Chamber of Commerce is proud to share this resource with its members and the broader Indianapolis business community.

This gathering will convene small business owners, policymakers, and industry leaders to explore how AI and digital tools can help businesses grow, expand economic opportunity and strengthen workforce readiness.

Event Highlights Include:

  • Welcome Remarks: Featuring Vanessa Green Sinders, President and CEO of the Indiana Chamber of Commerce, alongside Verizon executives and community leaders.
  • Leadership Chat with Governor Mike Braun: An exclusive conversation discussing policies that can spur economic growth and innovation, fuel AI readiness among entrepreneurs and ensure small businesses are not left behind.
  • Live Workshop – “AI Tools in Action”: A hands-on demonstration of practical, accessible AI tools that provide immediate value and ease of use for small businesses, led by Sharon Lee Thony, Founder and CEO of SLT Consulting.
  • Real-World Perspectives Panel: A dynamic panel discussion featuring local small business owners, community leaders and tech experts sharing how they are currently using AI, the role of community-level support, and how to navigate the digital skills gap.
  • Networking and Showcase: Connect with fellow innovators, policymakers, and industry leaders, and explore a showcase of Verizon Business Group product solutions.

The program will also highlight the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready platform, which provides small business owners with free training, personalized learning, expert coaching, and grant opportunities to accelerate their adoption of digital tools. The platform has already helped 600,000 small businesses enhance their digital skills.

Event Details:

  • Date: Wednesday, June 24, 2026
  • Time: Doors open for registration, networking, and a boxed lunch at 12:30 p.m.; the program begins at 1:00 p.m.
  • Location: Mavris Arts and Event Center, 121 S East Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202
  • RSVP: Register for the free event at https://events.bizzabo.com/empoweringsmallbusinesses