Thursday Sep 11, 2025
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM CDT
Auditorium at: 200 Tri-State Dr, Lincolnshire
Complimentary
Whether you're curious, cautious, or already dabbling—this 90-minute power lunch is your practical introduction to using AI in small business. Hosted by BankFinancial, this hands-on session is designed for business owners, marketers, and individuals who wear multiple hats and want to work smarter, not harder.
What to Expect:
Join us for boxed lunches, networking, and an interactive program that breaks down today’s top AI tools—with no jargon, no hype, and plenty of real-world examples.
🔹 Welcome & Networking Warm-Up
Kick things off with lunch and conversation. We’ll introduce our sponsors and speakers and prompt you to think: “What’s one task you’d love to automate in your business?”
🔹 Why AI, Why Now?
Mike Bigda sets the stage with quick, relatable insights on how AI is helping small businesses save time, increase revenue, and stay competitive.
🔹 Top AI Tools for Small Business
Discover what these tools do, how they help your bottom line, and how real businesses are using them today.
🔹 Interactive Demo: “Can AI Do That?”
We’ll show you live how fast and effective these tools can be. Watch a blog post get written in 30 seconds or a flyer built in 2 minutes—and bring your ideas to test live.
🔹 Getting Started Without Getting Overwhelmed
A five-step roadmap for introducing AI into your business, from first tool to future-proofing.
🔹 Closing: Learning Together
We’ll wrap with a reminder that AI isn’t just about technology—it’s about working together to stay current, relevant, and competitive.
Bonus:
All attendees receive a printable AI Tool Cheat Sheet + access to speaker slides and resources via QR code.
Speaker:
Chris Higgins is an experienced IT Solutions Architect and Cyber Security Analyst with extensive experience in AI, Cyber Security, and Compliance. Chris is with CCS Technology Group, Chris has been helping companies for over 20 years on protecting their business from today’s threats and leveraging technology to be more productive.
Chris holds certifications in CMMC Compliance as well as Ai, Chris is dedicated to improving system stability and compliance standards. Chris's expertise in technology innovation, change management, makes them a sought-after speaker in the industry. Chris is passionate about transforming businesses through holistic approaches to technology and risk management.