Brad Zdenek addresses attendees during the “AI for Your Business” workshop, highlighting how artificial intelligence can support small businesses and entrepreneurs.
CENTER VALLEY, Pa. — Small business owners, entrepreneurs, students and community members gathered at Penn State Lehigh Valley on March 27 for a hands-on workshop exploring how artificial intelligence (AI) can be used to strengthen business strategy, improve decision-making and expand capacity for small teams.
Hosted by the Lehigh Valley LaunchBox, the program, “AI for Your Business,” featured Brad Zdenek, director of economic development and student programs with Invent Penn State, who provided practical insights into how AI is reshaping the way organizations operate.
Zdenek emphasized that while artificial intelligence will change the workforce, it should be viewed as a tool for empowerment rather than replacement.
“AI is not going to replace people,” Zdenek said. “Yes, it will replace some jobs, but it will also create others. More importantly, it gives the people you already have the skills and tools they need to do the jobs you need them to do.”
Throughout the session, Zdenek demonstrated how AI excels at analyzing data and evaluating information, while noting its limitations.
“AI is not good at messy, complex human thinking,” he noted. “But it is very good at data and evaluation.”
He also cautioned participants about the risks of relying too heavily on AI-generated content, explaining that large language models are designed to be agreeable.
“These tools are built to make you happy,” Zdenek said. “They will give you an answer — even if it is wrong. That’s why verification and critical thinking are essential.”
Using real-world examples, Zdenek walked attendees through how to craft effective prompts to generate accurate, usable information. He demonstrated applications for small businesses, including competitor analysis, product development, pricing comparisons, grant writing and identifying market gaps.
He also explored how entrepreneurs can use AI to study similar startups — both successful and unsuccessful — to better understand market dynamics and avoid common pitfalls.
“Many entrepreneurs have big ideas but not a big wallet,” Zdenek said. “AI can help small teams do more, move faster and compete more effectively.”
The interactive workshop included a Q&A session, where participants — ranging from students and faculty to local business owners and startup founders — engaged in discussions about responsible AI use, implementation challenges and emerging opportunities.
“This program reflects the growing demand for practical, accessible AI education,” said Cindy Evans, director of the Lehigh Valley LaunchBox. “We are focused on giving entrepreneurs and small businesses the tools they need to apply these technologies in meaningful and responsible ways.”
The event is part of Penn State Lehigh Valley’s broader effort to connect the University’s expertise with the needs of the regional economy, particularly as artificial intelligence continues to shape industries across sectors.
The Lehigh Valley LaunchBox serves as a regional hub for entrepreneurship and innovation, providing mentorship, resources and support to startups, small businesses and community partners across the region.
Ryan Abramson
Ryan Abramson is the Director of Strategic Communications at Penn State Lehigh Valley.
