Small Business Tech Summit Nov 5, 2025

Small Business Tech Summit
November 5, 2025 • 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Akron Urban League (Odom Hall) • 440 Vernon Odom Blvd, Akron, OH 44307
About the Summit
Join the Akron Urban League’s Entrepreneur Empowerment Center and Minority Business Assistance Center for the Small Business Tech Summit — a full day of expert-led workshops designed to help small businesses embrace smart technology for growth.
Summit Schedule

Opening Session: Tech-Ready Mindset — Where to Start and Why It Matters
Speaker: Felicia Johnson, Global Executive Sales Director, Ohio Valley – SlalomTime: 9:30 AM – 10:15 AM
Before diving into the day’s breakout sessions, this opening conversation will ground us in the “why” behind technology adoption for small businesses. Whether you’re tech-savvy or tech-wary, digital tools are reshaping how we operate, serve our customers, and grow exponentially. Learn how to evaluate your systems, identify bottlenecks, and adopt AI technology that fits your needs.

Unified Communications: Connecting Your Business from Anywhere
Speaker: Terry Clark, Owner & President, Clarktel Communications, Inc.Time: 10:30 AM – 11:15 AM
In today’s hybrid world, staying connected has never been more important. Explore unified communication systems that combine email, messaging, video, and collaboration tools into one seamless platform. Learn how to simplify your tech stack, improve productivity, and maintain professionalism from anywhere.

CRM Tools: Simple Systems to Track Customers and Grow Sales
Speaker: Edward Jacak, Founder & Principal AI Consultant, Sixth City AITime: 10:30 AM – 11:15 AM
Customer relationships are vital to success. Learn how CRM tools can help track leads, follow-ups, and client details without the overwhelm. Discover how free tools like HubSpot CRM can help organize your pipeline and enhance customer communication.

Customer Service & AI Technology: Striking the Right Balance
Speaker: Marvin Montgomery, The Sales DoctorTime: 11:30 AM – 1:15 PM
AI is transforming customer service—but how do you use it without losing your human touch? Explore practical AI applications like chatbots and virtual assistants that help enhance response times and build trust, while keeping your service authentic.

Getting Started with AI: Becoming AI-Assisted
Speaker: Edward Jacak, Founder & Principal AI Consultant, Sixth City AITime: 1:30 PM – 2:15 PM
AI is reshaping every industry. In this session, learn how to become “AI-assisted” with practical use-cases, essential chatbots, and prompt-writing techniques. Perfect for small businesses looking to integrate AI responsibly and effectively.

From DIY to Done Right: Website Options that Fit Your Budget
Speaker: Lucia Arteaga, Founder, Market Me 24/7Time: 1:30 PM – 2:15 PM
Your website is your digital storefront. Lucia breaks down the pros and cons of popular builders like Wix, Squarespace, Shopify, and WordPress, helping you choose the best fit for your business goals and budget.

Paid in Full: Simple, Stress-Free Payment Solutions
Speaker: Cassie Wilkof, Payment Solutions Manager, U.S. BankTime: 2:30 PM – 3:15 PM
Getting paid should be simple. Learn how to streamline payments, invoices, and bank connections for smoother cash flow and easier bookkeeping—online and in-person.

Google Workspace: Getting Started
Speaker: George Vinson, Digital Navigator, Akron Urban LeagueTime: 2:30 PM – 3:15 PM
Learn the basics of Gmail, Drive, Docs, Sheets, Calendar, and Meet. Discover how Google Workspace helps small businesses collaborate efficiently and stay organized from anywhere—no tech background required.

Closing Session: Tech in Action — Your Next Move
Moderator: Marvin Montgomery, The Sales DoctorTime: 3:30 PM – 4:00 PM
We’ve explored tools and strategies—now it’s time to turn insight into impact. This closing conversation brings the day full circle, showing how small businesses are using technology to drive growth and what your next step could be.
Location
Akron Urban League (Odom Hall)
440 Vernon Odom Blvd
Akron, OH 44307
