Description

The Catalyst Series: July 21st, 2026

Topic: AI for Small Businesses

From Idea to Action. From Growth to Sustainability.

Small business ownership is a journey, and having the right map makes all the difference. The Catalyst Series is a collaborative development program designed to provide clear, practical pathways for entrepreneurs.

This isn't a lecture—it’s a working session. You’ll leave with actionable tools to build a focused marketing strategy and a sales approach that centers on value rather than price.

Meet Your Expert:

Trenton Ford, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor of Data Science, William & Mary

Dr. Trenton W. Ford is an Assistant Professor of Data Science at William & Mary, where his teaching and research span artificial intelligence and machine learning, the evaluation of large language models, and human–AI teaming. His work connects academic research with applied practice, including collaborations with defense and security partners such as DARPA and NATO, He teaches courses on data science and the societal implications of generative AI, challenging students to think critically about how these tools are reshaping work, decision-making, and everyday life.

Key Takeaways

Demystifying AI: Strip away the technical jargon to understand what AI tools actually mean for a lean, local small business.

Practical Automation: Identify simple, real-world frameworks to safely integrate data tools into your daily marketing, operations, and customer engagement.

Navigating the Digital Landscape: Learn how data science and social media trends impact your market visibility and how to protect your brand from digital misinformation.

Immediate Application: Walk away with actionable steps to evaluate which tools are worth your time and which ones to skip.

Event Details

Date: Tuesday, July 21, 2026

Time: 9am - 10:30am

Location: James City County Law Enforcement Center — Community Room

4600 Opportunity Way, Williamsburg, VA 23188

Cost: FREE (Registration Required)

🅿️ Important Parking Notice: Attendees are required to park across the street at Virginia Peninsula Community College, located at 4601 Opportunity Way, Williamsburg, VA 23188. Please allow a few extra minutes to park and cross over to the Law Enforcement Center.

Disclaimer: At this event, photos and videos may be recorded. By attending this event you may be included in these photos and videos. Your attendance at this event grants your permission to be in these photos or videos, which may be used for marketing and promotional purposes.

Collaborative Partners

This series is a signature collaboration designed to strengthen our regional economy.

About the Hosts:

SCORE Williamsburg is dedicated to fostering small business success by providing free, confidential mentoring and educational resources to small businesses at every stage of their journey. 

Through personalized guidance and community workshops, they support local workforce development and help strengthen the regional economy. SCORE Williamsburg contributes to the summit by sharing expert insights and practical guidance drawn from real-world mentoring experience, empowering entrepreneurs and small business owners to build resilient, sustainable ventures.

City of Williamsburg Economic Development strives to be aware of the needs and concerns of City businesses and to identify, encourage, and assist in the implementation of programs and activities that will contribute to the City's economy.

The Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce serves James City County, the City of Williamsburg, and York County. Our mission is to advocate, collaborate, and create an environment in which business can grow and succeed.

Virginia began as a business venture on the shores of the James River more than 400 years ago, and James City County Economic Development continues to attract innovators today. Modern day founders discover a lifestyle and business climate in which they can prosper.

The primary mission of York County's Department of Economic and Tourism Development is to create a diverse economic base by the recruitment, expansion and retention of businesses, industries, and tourism, thus expanding the tax base and capital investment in the County and providing new employment opportunities for its citizens.

Registration is required to attend, and space is limited. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to connect, learn, and grow!