SBDC – Boost your Business: Smart Tech, Secure Future

More than 25 small business owners gathered for the highly anticipated Boost Your Business conference, an event designed to equip entrepreneurs with the latest technological strategies to protect, optimise, and grow their businesses.

Proudly subsidised by the Small Business Development Corporation (SBDC) with funding from the Western Australian Government, the conference provided invaluable knowledge on generative artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, and cybersecurity.

The event featured expert-led sessions covering essential topics tailored for small business success in an increasingly digital world:

1. Generative AI & Prompt Design: A deep dive into AI capabilities, practical applications, and best practices for crafting effective prompts to enhance efficiency and decision-making. Delivered by Dr Ross Yates who is a Lecturer in Project Management in the School of Business and Law
2. Data Analytics for Customer Targeting: Attendees explored how to leverage data analytics to identify high-value customers, gaining hands-on experience with AI-powered analytics tools to refine marketing strategies. Delivered by Dr Saalem Sadeque who is the Course Coordinator of Marketing and a Lecturer in Marketing in the School of Business and Law.
3. Cybersecurity & Risk Management: Experts guided business owners through best practices for minimising cybersecurity threats, recognising vulnerabilities, and responding effectively in the event of a cyberattack. Delivered by Mr Matthias Kaeser, phD candidate
4. AI-Driven Marketing & Productivity Tools: This session showcased the latest AI tools designed to enhance marketing efforts and streamline business operations through automation and content generation. Delivered by A.Prof Suku Sukunesan Associate Dean, Strategic Partnerships

With a strong focus on real-world application, each session provided actionable takeaways that attendees could immediately implement in their businesses. From “CRISPER” and “CO-STAR” prompt engineering to, Quishing warnings and customer analysis for improved marketing segments, the event’s success was marked by the insightful discussions and live demonstrations that empowered small business owners to embrace technology confidently.

Quoting Professor Karim Lakhani, Harvard Business School, Dr Saalem Sadeque reaffirmed the importance of continuous learning, innovation and adoption for small business “AI Won’t Replace Humans—But Humans With AI Will Replace Humans Without AI”. 

For more information on the work of the Small Business Development Corporation and workshop and skill development opportunities, visit https://www.smallbusiness.wa.gov.au/workshops