BUSINESS SUPPORT

In a fast-evolving world filled with new technologies, it is important for Rhode Island small businesses to be aware of the benefits and risks of emerging tools. Rhode Island Commerce has collected the below resources to help educate small businesses on the very basics of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, with other topics coming soon. All videos and resources are free to access and designed for beginners. These resources are not designed to offer a comprehensive course in each subject or to advocate for or against the adoption of any technology solution.

Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) has grown in popularity over the last several years. Put simply, artificial intelligence is a computer program trained to simulate and replicate human outputs, such as learning from past experiences. Many companies are now leveraging AI-powered tools to increase workforce productivity and make processes more efficient. Check out the below videos to learn more about what AI is, how it works, and the potential benefits and drawbacks of using AI in your business.

• Microsoft Intro to AI for Small Businesses: This video introduces what generative AI is and provides an overview of a few use cases, while discussing items that small businesses must take into consideration when implementing AI.
• Amazon Web Services: Similar to the video above, this video discusses an overview of what generative AI is, use cases, and next steps for small businesses looking to implement AI.
• TED Talk: This video provides interesting examples of how small businesses outside of the tech sector can utilize AI.
• IBM Technology, Cybersecurity Risks in AI: This video provides helpful diagramming of the risks with AI and how you can protect against them as a small business or user of AI.
• IBM Technology, Implementing AI Ethics: This video discusses another crucial element that small businesses need to consider when implementing AI technologies.

Cybersecurity

New threats are constantly emerging for small businesses. Small businesses must be aware of the threats and what they can do to protect themselves, their data, their employees, and their customers. The resources below provide information on cybersecurity best practices, common cyberattacks, and what you can do to help keep your business safe.

• National Institute of Standards and Technology: This website contains resources ranging from short, introductory videos to longer webinars on how to protect your business from different types of cyberattacks.
• Federal Trade Commission: The FTC provides more videos and resources on cybersecurity basics.
• Federal Communications Commission: This website has tips and trusted resources for small businesses about how to be more cybersecure.
• Microsoft: This website links to helpful articles from Microsoft for how to improve cybersecurity for your small business, including hybrid and remote work setups.

Thank you for visiting the Rhode Island Commerce emerging technologies webpage. We hope you found these resources helpful. If you would like to learn more about resources available to help small businesses grow, please contact a business advisor using this webpage.