Long Beach Entrepreneurs Say AI Could Leave Small Businesses Behind Without Access to Technical Support and Training

Long Beach entrepreneurs warn AI could widen the gap for small businesses without access to support, training, and resources.

LONG BEACH, CA, UNITED STATES, June 8, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Long Beach entrepreneurs concerned that artificial intelligence could widen the gap between large companies and small businesses unless owners receive the support, training, and resources needed to adapt.

As AI continues to reshape the business landscape, many small business owners are asking how they can keep pace with larger companies that often have more staff, more budget, and more technology resources. For many entrepreneurs, the concern is not whether AI will continue to grow, but whether small businesses will be given a fair chance to benefit from it.

“AI is already changing how businesses market, communicate, and compete,” said Sharifah Hardie, Founder of The People’s Chamber of Commerce. “The concern I keep hearing is that small businesses are expected to adapt without being given the same access to training and support.”

Business owners say the conversation around AI often focuses on innovation, but not always inclusion. For many small businesses, the challenge is not whether to use AI, but how to use it effectively without losing the personal relationships, local trust, and community connection that help them stay competitive.

The People’s Chamber of Commerce says the issue is not simply technology adoption, but economic fairness. Chamber leaders believe that if small businesses are not included in the AI conversation, the gap between large and small enterprises could grow even wider.

“Small businesses are the backbone of local communities,” Hardie said. “They deserve a real seat at the table, and events like our June 22 Business Growth and Lead Generation Summit help create that space while connecting them with practical support, training, and resources.”

The People’s Chamber of Commerce will continue the conversation at its Business Growth and Lead Generation Summit on Monday, June 22, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Sports Basement, 2100 N. Bellflower Blvd., Long Beach, CA 90815. The summit will bring together entrepreneurs, small business owners, and community partners for discussions focused on funding, housing, business programs, AI tools and training, grants, and lead generation.

The chamber is encouraging a broader discussion about how AI affects entrepreneurship, workforce development, business visibility, and local economic opportunity. Leaders say the goal should be to help business owners understand the technology, protect their competitiveness, and identify practical ways to adapt without being left behind.

The People’s Chamber of Commerce continues to support entrepreneurs, small business owners, and community members through visibility, connection, and resource-driven programming focused on growth and opportunity.

For more information, visit PeoplesChamber.org or contact The People’s Chamber of Commerce at 562-822-0965.

About The People’s Chamber of Commerce
The People’s Chamber of Commerce is a business organization committed to creating opportunities, strengthening networks, and helping everyday people and small business owners participate more fully in professional and business communities.

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Sharifah Hardie
The People's Chamber of Commerce
+1 5628220965
sharifah@peopleschamber.org
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