Small Business Technology & AI

Use technology to work smarter, serve customers better, and build systems that scale.

BUILD A STRONGER BUSINESS

Start with the fundamentals.

New tools promise to save time, but a confusing technology stack can create more work than it solves. From customer communications and cybersecurity to automation and artificial intelligence, OLP helps entrepreneurs evaluate technology based on business goals—not hype. The right system should solve a defined problem, protect information, and fit the team that will use it.

Guidance that fits your stage

Up to 10 hours of no-cost consulting per individual client, across the pillars—not 10 hours per pillar. Subject to program eligibility, scheduling and availability.

Your advisor helps you prioritize the work, develop or refine a business plan, and identify practical steps to execute.

What we help you work through

Technology readiness

Review essential tools for email, phone, internet, scheduling, documents, collaboration, and everyday operations. Consider the computers, laptops and tablets your team actually needs.

Business software choices

Compare needs for accounting, CRM, project management, customer service, and reporting before subscribing.

AI literacy and responsible use

Explore ChatGPT, Claude, AI-assisted workflows, and where human review, privacy, and data governance matter.

Automation and app building

Identify repetitive processes and consider automation or AI-assisted prototyping tools such as Lovable for suitable low-risk projects.

Cybersecurity basics

Build awareness around MFA, access permissions, backups, patching, phishing, vendor risk, and incident readiness.

Turn insight into next steps.

Depending on your goals and engagement, planning outcomes may include:

A simple business-technology inventory and gap assessment.
A prioritized software, security, and automation checklist.
One selected workflow with improvement opportunities mapped.
An AI-use policy starter checklist covering verification and sensitive information.

These are examples, not guaranteed deliverables. Execution and specialized services may require separate arrangements.

Learning, community and veteran support

Continue building your knowledge through OLP’s MicroMBA, with on-demand business fundamentals and live learning opportunities as offered. Connect with entrepreneurs and participating professionals for additional perspective.

Our Veterans Division offers a dedicated pathway for U.S. military veterans to connect military strengths with civilian business planning and a community of peers.

Explore veteran support

Common questions

Next pillar: Business Operations & Systems

Your next step doesn’t have to be a guess.

Bring your idea, your challenge and your goals. Start a conversation with an OLP advisor.