PathStone launches free AI training to boost small businesses in Western NY

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Small businesses across Western New York are getting a new boost as The Enterprise Center at PathStone launches an initiative designed to help entrepreneurs adapt in a rapidly evolving digital economy. 

The FAiR Program—short for Financial + Artificial Intelligence Resilience—is a free, cohort-based training series designed to equip entrepreneurs with practical tools in artificial intelligence, strengthen financial management skills and provide individualized support. 

Backed by funding from the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York, the program serves small business owners in Monroe and Erie counties. 

Yahaira Zapata, New York deputy director of The Enterprise Center at PathStone, said the program is designed to demystify artificial intelligence and make it accessible for everyday business use. 

“AI is here and it’s a hot topic,” Zapata said. “This program focuses on how small businesses can use it as a practical tool to grow and operate more efficiently, while doing so responsibly.” 

The initiative comes at a time when many small businesses continue to navigate lingering pandemic impacts and ongoing economic uncertainty. Access to emerging technologies and advanced financial expertise remains uneven, particularly for smaller firms operating with limited resources. 

PathStone leaders say the FAiR Program is structured to directly address those gaps. 

“The FAiR Program makes technology accessible and practical for entrepreneurs in Buffalo and Rochester so they can strengthen their financial foundations and build businesses that are ready for whatever comes next,” said Javier Zapata, executive director of The Enterprise Center at PathStone. “Artificial intelligence is rapidly becoming one of the most powerful tools small business owners can use to compete and grow in today’s economy.” 

The four-week program is built around three core components: AI training, advanced financial education and one-on-one mentoring. Participants are introduced to AI-powered tools that can streamline operations, improve bookkeeping and forecasting and support more informed decision-making. 

Beyond exposure, the program emphasizes real-world implementation by helping business owners integrate new tools directly into their workflows. 

Financial workshops complement the technology training, focusing on building resilience through strategies such as establishing emergency savings, identifying revenue concentration risks and diversifying income streams. 

Each participant also receives individualized technical assistance tailored to their business model, enabling them to apply what they’ve learned—whether that’s adopting automation tools, refining financial practices or developing contingency plans. 

The FAiR Program will be delivered through a mix of virtual and in-person sessions, with each cohort capped at 30 participants to ensure a personalized experience. Eligible businesses must have been in operation for at least one year. 

Across four cohorts, PathStone aims to serve at least 100 entrepreneurs. Program leaders have set measurable goals, including at least 24 participants implementing AI or automation tools and 12 completing formal business resilience plans. 

Interest in the program has already been strong, with the virtual cohort currently underway. Registration information for upcoming in-person sessions in Buffalo is available at the organization’s website under the small business technical assistance section. 

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