AI + Digital Empowerment

AI + Digital Empowerment is sponsored by Manhattan Chamber of Commerce (Google. org-backed). Free AI and digital training for NYC small businesses, with Google.

org-backed programs helping local restaurants and retailers adopt technology and grow.

AI + Digital Empowerment - Manhattan Chamber of Commerce The Chamber of Commerce has officially launched a groundbreaking initiative designed to empower local businesses by helping them harness the transformative power of artificial intelligence ( A I ) and digital technologies. This multi-faceted project aims to provide companies with the tools, knowledge, and support necessary to thrive in an increasingly digital marketplace.

By offering a range of entry points, our initiative ensures that every business, regardless of its current technical expertise, has the opportunity to enhance its digital capabilities and stay competitive. "Tech to Table" AI Accelerator powered by Google. org Program Overview: Tech to Table ™ An AI-Powered Accelerator for Manhattan’s Food Businesses Supported by Google.

org The Manhattan Chamber of Commerce is proud to introduce Tech to Table™ , a new six-week accelerator designed specifically for local entrepreneurs in the food business. In a competitive NYC landscape, operational efficiency is key. This program equips restaurant owners with hands-on AI training and individualized support to modernize operations, reduce burdens, and drive growth—all supported by Google.

org. Participating businesses will gain access to cutting-edge tools and financial support to ensure long-term success. Financial Support: Business owners who complete the full program and implement the guidance provided will be eligible for a $5,000 grant to support continued growth and technology adoption.

Expert Training: Receive hands-on training from Chamber and Google-trained instructors on integrating Google AI tools into day-to-day operations. Tailored Guidance: The program includes individualized support and step-by-step guidance designed to fit the busy schedules of entrepreneurs (one session per week).

Over the course of six weeks, the curriculum will focus on using AI to improve critical areas of your business, including: "AI in particular has the potential to greatly reduce operational burdens for small business owners across Manhattan. We’re thrilled to partner with Google to bring these capabilities and offerings directly to the entrepreneurs who need them most."

— Jessica Walker , President and CEO of the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce Program Details & Timeline The program aims to support 80 local entrepreneurs across two cohorts (40 participants each). Focus: Small restaurant businesses. Application Deadline: Closed.

(This program is in progress.) Program Start Date: January 26, 2026. Duration: 6 Weeks (One session per week).

Focus: Small restaurant businesses. Application Deadline: Closed. (Participants announced soon.)

Program Start Date: March 3, 2026. Duration: 6 Weeks (One session per week). For more information about eligibility or the curriculum, please contact our help desk .

On an ongoing basis, the Chamber will issue complimentary toolkits and resource guides to help local businesses leverage AI and other digital marketing tools. The Chamber’s Tech & Innovation Circle curates intimate events that provide intel and high-level networking to growth-stage company founders in the three sectors driving New York City’s innovation economy: life sciences, tech, and the green economy.

Current activities include: Curated discussions. In 2024, we curated three sit-down morning meetings for ~50 attendees each on the following topics: The Future of NYC’s Entrepreneurial Tech Industry Capital Summit on The Skyline: Exploring Funding Sources for Growth Climate Week NYC: Climate Leadership and Sustainable Infrastructure Founders Lounge mixers.

These evening mixers feature high-level guest speakers in a relaxing lounge environment. About 75 attendees. The co-chairs are Jason Dodier , CCO & Co-Founder of GRAIN EcoSystem and Jay Norris , CEO & Co-Founder of Guesst .

Both are Chamber Board members. Chamber membership level required to participate: Business Builder, Business Booster, Industry insider, or Chairman's Circle (NOT included at Networker membership level).