The Gilbert Chamber Foundation Brings Free AI Training to Small Businesses in the East Valley

Learn practical AI skills to grow your business and strengthen local economies

Gilbert, AZ. (August 3, 2026) – The Gilbert Chamber Foundation is partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to bring Small Business B(AI)sics to the East Valley. Small Business B(AI)sics is a national initiative from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, with support from Google, that aims to equip small businesses with practical AI skills.

AI adoption among small businesses has more than doubled since 2023. Entrepreneurs using AI report saving time, improving customer service, and unlocking new growth opportunities. Small Business B(AI)sics aims to train 40,000 U.S. entrepreneurs over the next three years through a mix of in-person workshops and digital learning resources.

“For many businesses and professionals, daily use of AI is a new frontier,” said Sarah Watts, President and CEO of the Gilbert Chamber. “There is great opportunity to improve efficiencies and reallocate resources with the use of AI, but it is also important to gain a strong understanding of best practices, liabilities, and challenges that can come with it. Setting up the right framework for your team and business can make all the difference.”

“Small businesses are the heartbeat of our communities,” said Marc DeCourcey, senior vice president at the U.S. Chamber Foundation. “We’re proud to partner with the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce to bring practical, no cost- AI training to local entrepreneurs and helping them innovate, compete, and thrive.”

What you’ll learn:

  • Build a strong foundation: From data protection to ethical AI use, learn AI basics and best Practices
  • Save time and boost efficiency: Discover AI tools that work with platforms you already use
  • Improve what’s working: Use AI to analyze your business and identify growth opportunities
  • Get actionable steps: Walk away with a plan to implement AI in your business immediately

“We are excited to partner with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and Google to bring this series to our community,” added Watts.

The first training will be held in-person at Severson Center at HD SOUTH on Tuesday,August 18, 2026. Small businesses and entrepreneurs can sign up via business.gilbertaz.com/events to express their interest in attending the training. For question or additional information, contact Elaine Kessler Elaine@gilbertchamber.com.

About Small Business B(AI)sics

Small Business B(AI)sics is a national training initiative from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, with support from Google. Over the next three years, the program will offer free, practical in-person and digital training to help 40,000 small businesses harness the potential of artificial intelligence.

About the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation harnesses the power of business to create solutions for the good of America and the world. We anticipate, develop, and deploy solutions to challenges facing communities—today and tomorrow.

About The Gilbert Chamber Foundation

The Gilbert Chamber Foundation, a 501(c)(3) established in 2016, is dedicated to uplifting our community through education, leadership, and civic engagement. Operated by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce, the Foundation serves to connect individuals of all ages and backgrounds with free or low-cost programs in workforce development, mentoring, and community service—empowering students, teachers, seniors, families, business owners and citizens alike.