FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Penn State Lehigh Valley to host AI workshop for small businesses
Entrepreneurship expert Brad Zdenek to present “AI for Your Business” on March 27
March 18, 2026 - CENTER VALLEY, Pa. — Small business owners and entrepreneurs in the Lehigh Valley will have an opportunity to learn practical ways to use artificial intelligence to strengthen their businesses during an upcoming workshop hosted by Penn State Lehigh Valley.
The Lehigh Valley LaunchBox powered by Penn State will host “AI for Your Business,” a professional workshop presented by Brad Zdenek, director of economic development and student programs with Invent Penn State.
The program will take place March 27 from 12:00 to 1:15 p.m. in Room 135 at Penn State Lehigh Valley. The cost is $25 per person and includes lunch.
The session is designed to help entrepreneurs and small business owners better understand how artificial intelligence can support everyday business needs, including marketing, content creation, market research and problem solving. Participants will also learn how to access Penn State’s entrepreneurship resources and avoid common mistakes when adopting AI tools.
Zdenek leads efforts that support startups, innovation and economic development by connecting entrepreneurs to Penn State’s expertise, statewide resources and innovation network. Through his work with Invent Penn State, he helps guide programs that translate new ideas into real-world ventures and strengthen Pennsylvania’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
“Think of AI less like a simple computer tool and more like a knowledgeable expert you can consult,” Zdenek said. “The more context and detail you give it, the more valuable the insights become. When people learn how to interact with these tools effectively, they can generate new ideas, improve marketing strategies and solve business challenges more quickly.”
With a background in education and evidence-based instructional practices, Zdenek has spent years helping students, entrepreneurs and innovators explore emerging technologies. In recent years, his work has focused heavily on the practical applications of artificial intelligence and how it can help address real-world challenges for organizations and communities.
“Many entrepreneurs understand that artificial intelligence has the potential to help their business, but they are not always sure where to start,” said Cindy Evans, director of the Lehigh Valley LaunchBox. “This program will give participants practical examples and strategies so they can begin using AI tools right away to support their marketing, research and business development.”
Participants will explore real-world examples of AI prompts, strategies for using AI to generate ideas and analyze information, and techniques for incorporating the technology responsibly into business operations.
The Lehigh Valley LaunchBox serves as a regional hub for entrepreneurship and economic development, connecting innovators, startups and small businesses with Penn State’s mentorship, resources and expertise.
“Penn State continues to invest in the Lehigh Valley through programs that connect the University’s expertise with the needs of the regional business community,” said Ryan Abramson, director of strategic communications and campus spokesperson at Penn State Lehigh Valley. “Through initiatives like the Lehigh Valley LaunchBox, the campus is helping entrepreneurs and small businesses access Penn State’s innovation network, expertise and practical tools in areas such as artificial intelligence and entrepreneurship.”
Registration and additional details are available at: https://lehighvalley.launchbox.psu.edu/