AI and Your Small Business – Where AI fits in your business and where it doesn’t
Keynote Speaker: Kelsey Ruger, Chief Product and Technology Officer at Hello Alice
Kelsey’s presentation began with a general discussion of AI tools with a focus on how to integrate AI into your business. He gave examples of how AI can improve any business – from demand generation to operations and to profit. Kelsey suggested that intentionally integrated AI tools will augment or automate tasks and give you more time to do what AI can’t – to think, build relationship and make strategic decision.
Kelsey suggested intentional planning for what to do – or not do – by finding your friction point.
He also discussed how to develop policies for using AI – including protecting your business’ data – just as you have other internal management policies. He noted that Agentic AI can act as a co-member of your team (or agent for your business) – but should never be left unsupervised!
Kelsey suggested doing three things immediately:
- Identify the one task that takes the most time with the least return.
- Find and try one AI tool for 30 minutes.
- Use the “Tuesday test” – does this tool solve the problem or save time on a regular busy day?
You can see his presentation below at 11:08, view his presentation here (PDF), or to dive deeper on Kelsey’s website here.
NNMD President Wayne Norden summarized District activities in 2025 and updates on the District’s capital projects (see video below at 05:26).
Watch the March Business Network Breakfast Video Below:
