July 6, 2026
USDA-funded workshop series will help small-business owners use AI to reduce administrative work, improve customer service, and build long-term growth
PLATTEVILLE, Wis. — Small-business owners across southwest Wisconsin will have the opportunity to learn how to use generative artificial intelligence in their day-to-day operations through a new free training program launching this summer.
The Southwestern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission (SWWRPC), with support from a USDA Rural Business Development Grant and in partnership with the Wisconsin Small Business Development Center (SBDC), is rolling out AI for Small Business, a workshop series serving business owners in Grant, Green, Iowa, Lafayette, and Richland counties.
The series will be led by Michael Browne, founder of the Driftless-based AI consultancy Rise Above Partners, and begins July 13 at the Richland Center Community Center. All sessions are free and open to local business owners.
For many small and rural business owners, the challenge with AI is not awareness but implementation. While many have heard they should be using AI tools, finding the time to evaluate, test, and understand them remains a significant barrier. Organizers say the training is designed to bridge that gap by focusing on practical applications that can help owners reduce administrative workloads, save time, and operate more efficiently.
Rather than promoting specific platforms or the latest technology trends, the workshops focus on core concepts, including understanding what AI can and cannot do, identifying where the tools can provide value, recognizing potential risks, and developing the skills needed to adapt as technology evolves.
Participants will gain hands-on experience during the workshops and will also have the option to receive one-on-one coaching focused on their specific business needs.
“Small businesses are the backbone of this region, and they shouldn’t have to become a tech company to benefit from these tools,” said Troy Maggied, Executive Director of the Southwestern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission. “This challenge is why we sought USDA funding to build regional capacity for AI training. We want to help small businesses develop sustainable, effective skills and avoid being late-adopters of this powerful technology. SBDC has a history of helping businesses compete and remain strong, and Michael Browne has hands-on experience with AI. This grant lets us put their expertise to work — at no cost — right in our communities, so an owner can learn something today and use it tomorrow.”
Browne said the program is centered on helping business owners make informed decisions about AI rather than relying on outside experts.
“Every week I sit down with owners who’ve been told they should be using AI and have no idea where to start,” Browne said. “My job is to cut through that: show them what actually saves time in a business like theirs, where the real risks are, and how to keep up as the tools change. My goal in training is to enable individuals to make their own calls instead of depending on others. That’s what we do at Rise Above Partners.”
The AI for Small Business 101 Series runs from July through mid-August and is designed for both beginners and business owners who have already experimented with AI but want a stronger foundation. A virtual session will be available to participants across all five counties, and Spanish-language sessions will be offered in Monroe and Darlington.
A follow-up 201-level series is planned for late August, with dates expected to be announced separately.
Workshop Schedule
| Date | Location | County | English Session | Spanish Session |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| July 13 | Richland Center Community Center, Richland Center | Richland | 8:30 a.m.–11:00 a.m. | — |
| July 21 | Green County Family YMCA, Monroe | Green | 12:30 p.m.–3:30 p.m. | 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. |
| July 27 | Lafayette County Ames Multi-Purpose Building, Darlington | Lafayette | 12:30 p.m.–3:30 p.m. | 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. |
| August 3 | Virtual (Zoom) | All Counties | 12:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m. | — |
| August 10 | Iowa County Health and Human Services Community Room, Dodgeville | Iowa | 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. | — |
| August 17 | Huff Family Innovation Center, Platteville | Grant | 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. | — |
According to Nora Roughen-Schmidt, Business Consultant with the Wisconsin Small Business Development Center, Browne’s practical approach made him a natural choice for the initiative.
“When SWWRPC asked who could deliver this training, Michael Browne was an easy recommendation,” Roughen-Schmidt said. “He has a unique ability to connect with business owners, simplify complex concepts, and provide practical tools they can use right away. This program is a great example of how strong partnerships can expand opportunities for entrepreneurs across southwest Wisconsin.”
She added that the collaboration allows small businesses to access expert instruction free of charge while also connecting participants to the consulting services and resources available through the SBDC.
Registration is now open, and organizers say space is limited. Business owners can reserve a seat at rise-above.net/ai101. There is no cost to attend.
The program is funded through a Rural Business Development Grant from USDA Rural Development and SWWRPC.
Add comment