#USA #Phoenix #Integro Bank #ASU #SMB growth

Introduction

Integro Bank is teaming up with Arizona State University (ASU) to host a pivotal event for business leaders titled "Cracking the Code: How ASU AI Research Is Unlocking the Next Wave of SMB Growth." This initiative aims to bridge the knowledge gap for small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) as they navigate the complexities of artificial intelligence (AI).

Event Overview

Scheduled for February 26, 2026, the CEO Club event will feature Hitendra Chaturvedi, a Professor of Practice in the Department of Supply Chain Management at ASU's W. P. Carey School of Business. The session is set to deliver key findings from ASU's latest research focusing on the practical application of AI for SMBs, enabling attendees to transform academic insights into implementable strategies that can drive measurable growth.

Addressing Challenges Facing SMBs

As businesses grapple with rapidly evolving technology landscapes, the application of AI remains underutilized, particularly among SMBs. Often, these organizations find themselves caught between the opportunities AI presents and the effective strategies for its implementation. ASU's research sheds light on several ways businesses can harness AI to enhance their operations, including:

• - Identifying core AI use cases that effectively enhance revenue and efficiency.
• - Boosting supply chain resilience through advanced data analytics.
• - Implementing responsible AI frameworks that consider compliance and governance.
• - Enhancing competitive positioning against larger corporations with more resources.

Elaine Szeto, the Chief Innovation Officer at Integro Bank, emphasizes the importance of this partnership in equipping Arizona's SMB community with actionable insights. "This research brings clarity to a space that often feels overwhelming for business owners," she notes. Szeto advocates that innovation should translate into significant growth, vibrant employment opportunities, and substantial community benefits.

A Multi-faceted Approach

The event is designed not only as an informative session but as a call to action for various stakeholders in the local economy, including:

• - SMB Owners: Owners will learn about direct applications of AI that influence pricing strategies and operational efficiencies, helping them to adapt and compete effectively.
• - Strategic Partners & Service Providers: Insight from the research will aid partners in anticipating the needs and challenges faced by SMB clients amid AI adoption hesitancy.
• - Policymakers & Economic Leaders: The findings will provide valuable data regarding workforce readiness and barriers to innovation, assisting in the creation of supportive policy frameworks to aid local businesses in responsible AI integration.

As Professor Chaturvedi aptly states, "AI is no longer a future concept; it is a present competitive differentiator." The upcoming event is geared toward making AI accessible, allowing business leaders to recognize where it adds the most value while understanding responsible implementation practices.

Event Logistics

Date: February 26, 2026
Time: 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Location: Integro Bank Headquarters, 16215 N 28th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85053

Attendees will have the chance to engage in research highlights, strategic discussions, and networking opportunities with fellow business leaders. Given the limited seating, interested parties are encouraged to RSVP quickly to ensure their spot at this transformative event.

Final Thoughts

The partnership between Integro Bank and ASU represents a significant commitment to fostering growth and innovation within Arizona's SMB sector. By providing tools, strategies, and knowledge through events like the CEO Club, they are setting the stage for a more resilient and competitive economic future. For more details and to RSVP, visit Integro Bank's official website.

Conclusion

The upcoming event at Integro Bank promises to be not just a forum for discussion but a catalyst for real change as Arizona prepares to harness the transformative power of AI across its SMB landscape.