A Glimpse into the Future: My Keynote at The Exchange 2024 in Chicago

As the SMB area lead for Microsoft Canada, I had the distinct pleasure of venturing to the vibrant city of Chicago to partake in an event that was nothing short of revolutionary. The Exchange 2024, hosted by the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce , was a melting pot of innovation, ambition, and transformative ideas.

The Pulse of Innovation

My keynote address centered on a topic that resonates deeply with the pulse of today’s business landscape: Generative AI and its Impact on SMBs. It was an opportunity to demystify the intricacies of AI and to illuminate the myriad ways in which Microsoft Copilot is not just an aid but a catalyst for growth and transformation.

Engagement and Enlightenment

The Exchange was a testament to the power of engagement. Each session was a dialogue, a shared narrative between thought leaders and entrepreneurs. But the highlight, unequivocally, was the interaction with the SMBs themselves. Learning about their unique challenges and aspirations, I was reminded that at the core of every business is a story waiting to be told through the lens of AI.

Empowering SMBs on Their AI Journey

With Microsoft Copilot, we’re not just providing tools; we’re offering a vision. A vision where no-cost assets and AI assessments become the stepping stones for SMBs to embark on their AI journey. Our partnership with AI4SP underscores our commitment to leveraging AI for social progress and economic growth.

Statistics That Speak Volumes

The numbers speak for themselves. The adoption rates, the satisfaction scores, the diverse use cases – they all paint a picture of a future where AI is not a luxury but a necessity. And with Copilot integrated into applications like Outlook, Excel, Microsoft 365, Word, PowerPoint, and Teams, that future is here.

AI for All

In my keynote presentation, I delved into the pivotal role of Microsoft Copilot in empowering SMBs on their AI journey. Copilot offers invaluable no-cost assets and AI assessments, providing SMBs with the tools and insights needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

Moreover, I emphasized our partnership with AI4SP, an organization dedicated to harnessing AI for social progress and economic growth. Together, we are driving innovation and leveraging technology to create positive change in communities worldwide.

Here's a link to some fantastic AI resources and free training to get going : https://aka.ms/SMB_Onepage_AI

The AI Compass

I invite every organization to leverage the FREE AI Compass. https://aka.ms/compassEx24

The AI Compass is a friction free assessment that will ask you seven questions about your current technology usage.

For each question, you can choose a rating of 1-5 – each with a very clear description, in friendly language – of what each possible rating means.

Out of the assessment you will receive 3 outputs.

1.A digital maturity benchmark score for you based on your industry

2.A guide to how AI is being used in your industry

3.A customized set of suggestions for which Microsoft technologies might be considered based on your digital maturity, your size and stated business priority

This assessment becomes the key discussion during a free post assessment consultation with our team of AI experts.

They will use the assessment to help you derive outcomes and provide suggestions on how to AI can enable your business.

Conclusion: A Resourceful Path Ahead

As we concluded the presentation, we didn’t just leave the attendees with food for thought; we provided them with a roadmap. Resources that would guide them, educate them, and ultimately empower them to harness the full potential of AI in their businesses.

As I reflect on my experience at The Exchange 2024, one thing is abundantly clear: the future is bright for SMBs embracing AI-driven solutions. It's not just about embracing technology; it's about harnessing its potential to unlock new opportunities, drive efficiency, and fuel growth.

To all the SMBs out there, I urge you to embark on your AI journey with confidence, knowing that Microsoft Copilot is here to support you every step of the way. Together, let's redefine what's possible and chart a course towards a brighter, more prosperous future.

Thank you to the amazing team that made this possible Nisaini R. Melissa Lynn Paige Michals Erika M. Smith Caryn Dean Jack Lavin Kalees Meckling Luis Salazar Amanda Elert Jose Gomez Cueto Robert M. Shewchuk Roberto Icasuriaga Gatti Kelly Pennell

PS : I am coming back for more of that deep dish pizza goodness!!! #loveChicago!!!