OpenAI Academy to host nationwide Small Business AI Jam across five U.S. cities

One-day event to bring 1,000 small business owners together with AI mentors for practical, hands-on learning.

OpenAI Academy has announced a new nationwide initiative aimed at helping small businesses explore practical uses of artificial intelligence. The Small Business AI Jam, set for November 20, will take place across San Francisco, New York City, Houston, Detroit, and Miami, bringing together 1,000 small business owners for a day of hands-on collaboration.

OpenAI, said the workshops are designed to make AI accessible for everyday business needs. The program is being delivered through OpenAI Academy in partnership with DoorDash, SCORE Mentors, and Small Business Majority.

AI mentorship and real-world business applications

The event will connect small business owners with OpenAI mentors to build AI tools tailored to their operations. Examples shared by OpenAI include café owners creating automated social media planners and salon owners developing AI scheduling assistants.

Each participant will leave with a ready-to-use AI solution and access to follow-up resources through OpenAI Academy. According to the post, the sessions are designed to make AI use “practical and accessible for ‘Main Street’ businesses.”

Registration for the in-person sessions is now open through local partners. OpenAI confirmed that virtual workshops will follow on December 4 and January 15, expanding access for those unable to attend one of the five hubs in person.

OpenAI Global Affairs wrote in the post: “Small businesses power local economies — but many don’t have the time, resources, or technical background to explore how AI can help with day-to-day work. That’s why on November 20, OpenAI Academy is teaming up with DoorDash, SCORE Mentors, and Small Business Majority to launch the Small Business AI Jam — a nationwide, hands-on workshop designed to make AI practical and accessible for ‘Main Street’ businesses.”