The Gilbert Chamber Foundation is partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to bring a free artificial intelligence training program for small businesses to the East Valley.

The program, Small Business B(AI)sics, is a national initiative of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, supported by Google.

The initiative is designed to help small-business owners and entrepreneurs learn practical applications of artificial intelligence in their operations.

According to the organizations, the program aims to train 40,000 entrepreneurs nationwide during the next three years through in-person workshops and digital learning resources.

Sarah Watts, president and CEO of the Gilbert Chamber, said artificial intelligence presents opportunities for businesses to improve efficiency while also requiring an understanding of best practices and potential risks.

"For many businesses and professionals, daily use of AI is a new frontier," Watts said. "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."

Marc DeCourcey, senior vice president of the U.S. Chamber Foundation, said the organization is working with local chambers to expand access to AI training.

"Small businesses are the heartbeat of our communities," DeCourcey said. "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."

Program organizers said participants will receive training on AI fundamentals, data protection, ethical use of artificial intelligence, productivity tools and strategies for identifying business growth opportunities.

Attendees also will receive guidance on developing plans to implement AI tools in their businesses.

The first training session is scheduled for Aug. 18 at the Severson Center at HD South in Gilbert. Small-business owners and entrepreneurs can register through the Gilbert Chamber's events website.

Small Business B(AI)sics will provide in-person and online training opportunities as part of its national rollout.

The Gilbert Chamber Foundation, established in 2016, is a nonprofit organization operated by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce that provides educational, leadership and civic engagement programs for residents, businesses and community organizations.