Most small businesses are invisible in AI today—but that can change.

Join us for an interactive WeCafé session with WeBC Business Advisor Archana Samtani Singhania. She’ll explore AI Engine Optimization (AIEO), the new frontier of discoverability. You’ll learn practical steps to help AI “see” your business clearly so you can show up in answers, not just search results.

We’ll cover:

• What makes AI search different from traditional SEO
• How AI chooses businesses to recommend and the key signals it looks for (plus ways to strengthen them)
• How to make your business info clear and consistent, and use conversational content and FAQs to boost visibility
• Common mistakes that keep businesses hidden from AI, and how to avoid them

Join us for this informative, interactive session to learn actionable strategies to position your business for the AI era!

Wednesday, March 11 | 10am to 11am PT | Free Virtual WeCafé

Free and open to everyone!

Facilitator: Archana Samtani Singhania, WeBC Business Advisor

Register Here >>>

The post When Customers Ask AI: Make Your Business Part of the Answer appeared first on WeBC.

For entrepreneurs who are building their presence in a competitive market, this shift is a huge opportunity. AI doesn’t just provide a list of websites; it delivers direct answers, highlighting a few businesses that best match the request, and has now begun guiding users straight to specific webpages.

That means if your business information isn’t set up correctly, AI tools may skip over you. But the good news? With a few easy steps, you can help AI “see” your business and increase your chances of being recommended to potential customers.

What is the difference between a Google search and an AI search?

AI assistants work differently from traditional search engines. While Google scans millions of websites and shows you a list of options, AI assistants try to summarize the best answers for you conversationally.

For example, if someone asks: “What are the best women-led coffee shops in Vancouver?”

An AI assistant will not only consider Google results but also business directories, reviews, and trustworthy online mentions to create its answer. Businesses that appear consistently across platforms and show trust signals (like reviews, credibility, and local presence) are far more likely to be included.

How AI Chooses Which Businesses to Recommend

AI doesn’t “think” like a human, but it does weigh information from multiple places. Key factors include:

• Business Listings: Google Business Profile, Yelp, TripAdvisor, and local directories.
• Reviews and Ratings: Strong, recent, and authentic reviews across platforms.
• Website Content: Clear, relevant, and easy-to-understand text.
• Local Authority: Mentions in news articles, blogs, and local organizations.
• Consistency: Matching business name, address, and phone number (NAP) everywhere online.

This is why visibility isn’t just about having a website anymore. It’s about being findable, trustworthy, and consistent across AI’s data sources.

Step 1: Make Sure Your Business Basics Are Online and Accurate

Have you done the most elementary task of claiming your Google business profile yet? If you haven’t then this is your number one priority. AI assistants often pull data directly from Google Business Profiles. Make sure yours is:

• Verified and complete (business hours, address, website, services).
• Updated regularly (holiday hours, promotions, new photos).
• Engaging (encourage happy customers to leave reviews).

One key “mistake” that many folks make us to not keeping their information consistent across directories! If your website says “Suite 101” but Yelp/Google says “#101,” AI may treat that as two different businesses. Audit your listings and keep your Name, Address, and Phone number (NAP) identical everywhere.

Also, while you are at it, don’t forget to register in local and industry-specific directories. In British Columbia, valuable directories include:

• Local Chamber of Commerce directories (e.g., Vancouver Board of Trade, Surrey Board of Trade).
• Tourism BC directories if your business is in hospitality, food, or attractions.

These listings give AI multiple “signals” that your business is legitimate and active.

Step 2: Speak the Language of AI (and Your Customers)

The idea is to use natural language and FAQs on your website. AI tools are designed to understand everyday, conversational questions. That means your website should reflect the way real customers ask for information. An easy way to do this is by creating a simple FAQ page. Think about the common questions you hear from customers, such as:

• “What’s the process to book an appointment?”
• “Do you offer delivery or local pickup?”
• “How much does your service cost?”

By writing out these questions (and your answers) in plain language, you make it easier for AI to connect your business with someone searching for the same thing.

Beyond FAQs, aim to write blog posts, product descriptions, and even social media updates that provide clear, straightforward answers. For example, instead of saying: “We deliver holistic culinary experiences for local communities.”

You could say: “We provide healthy, ready-to-eat meal kits for families in Vancouver.” That kind of clarity makes your business easier for AI and people to understand.

Step 3: Optimize for Both Search Engines and AI Assistants

Here is another important question to ponder: does SEO still matter in the AI Era?

Even though AI is growing, it still relies heavily on traditional search engines like Google. That means basic SEO keywords, titles, and meta descriptions still matter.

Don’t overcomplicate your keywords. Think of keywords as the questions people ask AI or Google. Use natural, everyday phrases that sound like something your customers would type or say, such as:

• “Where can I find eco-friendly clothing in Nanaimo?”
• “What’s the best place to get freshly-baked croissants in Kelowna?”
• “How do I book a mobile hairstylist in Surrey?”

By weaving these kinds of real-world questions into your website and content, you help AI connect your business to the customers who are looking for exactly what you offer.

Another great idea for creating conversational content for chatbots is writing in a Q&A style. Imagine how you’d answer a friend’s question about your business and put that into words on your website.

Step 4: Build Trust Signals That AI Can Recognize

Did you know that customer reviews and testimonials are gold? Encourage satisfied clients to leave reviews on Google, Yelp, or Facebook. AI assistants scan these reviews, and a business with strong ratings is more likely to appear in results.

Look for opportunities to partner with local organizations and ask for a mention. Links from reputable local organizations are very helpful. If your business is mentioned on a university blog, nonprofit site, or government resource, AI considers you more credible.

Step 5: Keep Your Business Active Online

Posting regular updates on social media and websites goes a long way. AI tools look for signs that your business is active. An updated blog, a new Instagram post, or a recent news mention all help.

Continue to share educational content and success stories. Ensure to highlight customer success stories, tips for entrepreneurs, or updates about your industry. This positions you as an authority, which AI notices.

Some Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Your Business AI-Searchable

• Ignoring your Google Business Profile.
• Using inconsistent business information across platforms.
• Writing only for humans, not for AI (forgetting to include FAQs or conversational content).
• Neglecting reviews and online mentions.
• Assuming a one-time setup is enough. AI prefers businesses that stay active

FAQs on Getting Your Business Found by AI

Q1: Do I need a website, or is a Google Business Profile enough?

A website gives you more control and credibility. Ideally, you should have both.

Q2: How do reviews impact AI recommendations?

Reviews are one of the strongest signals. More positive, recent reviews = higher chance of being recommended.

Q3: Is social media activity important for AI searchability?

Yes. Consistent, recent activity shows that your business is active and relevant.

Q4: Do AI tools cost money to list my business?

No. Most AI assistants pull data from existing free directories, search engines, and reviews.

Q5: How often should I update my business information?

At least quarterly or any time your hours, services, or location change.

Q6: Can small businesses really compete with big brands in AI searches?

Yes! In fact, AI often prioritizes local and specific results, which is a big win for small businesses.

Getting AI to find your business isn’t about complex technology; it is about being clear, consistent, and visible online. By keeping your information accurate, using conversational language, and staying active on trusted platforms, you give AI the right signals to recommend your business.

For entrepreneurs in BC, this is more than just a marketing trend; it’s a chance to make sure your business stands out, reaches new audiences, and competes on an equal playing field. The future of business discovery is here, and AI can be one of your strongest allies if you set yourself up properly.

The post Will AI recommend YOUR business? Here’s how to make sure it does. appeared first on WeBC.

Why it matters:

AI isn’t coming; it’s already here. Whether you’re ready or not, generative AI tools like ChatGPT are transforming how we work, communicate, and compete. This series will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to embrace AI, reduce your workload, and focus on what matters most.

What you’ll learn:

Over three 1-hour sessions, you’ll gain a strong foundation in how to use ChatGPT strategically and effectively. You’ll leave with real-world skills you can put to use right away. You’ll learn how to:

• Explain basic principles of AI
• Write better, more effective prompts
• Practice using ChatGPT live in-session
• Discover ways to implement AI in your business or daily work immediately

This series also includes pre- and post-work and a live Ask Me Anything (AMA) session in December, your chance to check in, ask follow-up questions, and continue building your skills.

Series Schedule

• October 17th, 2025 – 10:00am- 11:00am
• October 24th, 2025 – 10:00am- 11:00am
• October 31st, 2025 – 10:00am- 11:00am
• AMA – December 5th, 2025: 10:00am – 11:00am

Open to everyone!

Register Here >>>

The post AI Made Simple: Using ChatGPT to Drive Your Business Forward appeared first on WeBC.

Why it matters:

AI isn’t coming; it’s already here. Whether you’re ready or not, generative AI tools like ChatGPT are transforming how we work, communicate, and compete. This series will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to embrace AI, reduce your workload, and focus on what matters most.

What you’ll learn:

Over three 1-hour sessions, you’ll gain a strong foundation in how to use ChatGPT strategically and effectively. You’ll leave with real-world skills you can put to use right away. You’ll learn how to:

• Explain basic principles of AI
• Write better, more effective prompts
• Practice using ChatGPT live in-session
• Discover ways to implement AI in your business or daily work immediately

This series also includes pre- and post-work and a live Ask Me Anything (AMA) session in December, your chance to check in, ask follow-up questions, and continue building your skills.

Series Schedule

• October 17th, 2025 – 10:00am- 11:00am
• October 24th, 2025 – 10:00am- 11:00am
• October 31st, 2025 – 10:00am- 11:00am
• AMA – December 5th, 2025: 10:00am – 11:00am

Open to everyone!

Register Here >>>

The post AI Made Simple: Using ChatGPT to Drive Your Business Forward appeared first on WeBC.

Why it matters:

AI isn’t coming; it’s already here. Whether you’re ready or not, generative AI tools like ChatGPT are transforming how we work, communicate, and compete. This series will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to embrace AI, reduce your workload, and focus on what matters most.

What you’ll learn:

Over three 1-hour sessions, you’ll gain a strong foundation in how to use ChatGPT strategically and effectively. You’ll leave with real-world skills you can put to use right away. You’ll learn how to:

• Explain basic principles of AI
• Write better, more effective prompts
• Practice using ChatGPT live in-session
• Discover ways to implement AI in your business or daily work immediately

This series also includes pre- and post-work and a live Ask Me Anything (AMA) session in December, your chance to check in, ask follow-up questions, and continue building your skills.

Series Schedule

• October 17th, 2025 – 10:00am- 11:00am
• October 24th, 2025 – 10:00am- 11:00am
• October 31st, 2025 – 10:00am- 11:00am
• AMA – December 5th, 2025: 10:00am – 11:00am

Open to everyone!

Register Here >>>

The post AI Made Simple: Using ChatGPT to Drive Your Business Forward appeared first on WeBC.

If you’re waiting for the perfect time to get started, you’ll miss the moment entirely. Whether you’re 28 or 58, AI is already reshaping your industry, your role, and your business. In this one-hour fireside chat, Jennifer Hufnagel, AI Educator, Trainer and AI Readiness Specialist, offers a no-fluff conversation about what’s really happening, why it matters, and what tools you need in your suitcase to ride with confidence instead of scrambling to catch up, or worse, missing the train entirely.

This session is for women who want to stay informed, be proactive, and understand the real opportunities (and risks) AI brings. You’ll learn why women are uniquely equipped to thrive in this era, not because of technical skills, but because of adaptability, communication, and curiosity.

We’ll explore:

• How AI is reshaping every industry (yes, yours too) – what’s happening in AI?
• What you need to carry with you to stay ahead, and what you might need to leave behind
• Why “soft skills” are actually power skills in the age of AI
• What you can do right now to prepare for your ride on the AI Freight Train

If you’ve been waiting for permission, a roadmap, or just one more reason to start learning, this is it. This conversation sets the stage for our fall 3-part hands-on series where you’ll learn how to actually use AI (especially ChatGPT) to save time, generate ideas, and take control of your future (registration link coming soon!).

This session will be presented in English, with closed captioning available in French.

Register Here >>>

The post The AI Freight Train Is Here: What’s in Your Suitcase? appeared first on WeBC.

It seems like every day there’s a new tool, update, or trend in artificial intelligence (AI). If you’re feeling like you’re missing out or unsure where to start, you’re not alone! AI can be a powerful tool to save time, boost productivity, and enhance your business—if you know how to use it effectively.

This spring, WeBC is excited to partner with Jennifer Hufnagel, Business Consultant, Learning & Development Specialist, and AI Futurelab Certified Trainer, to offer a practical and hands-on workshop series: “ChatGPT for Entrepreneurs: Work Smarter, Not Harder.”

Jennifer brings over 25 years of professional experience in corporate training, instructional design, and business development. She has spent the last two years specializing in AI, leading ChatGPT and LLM training for over 1,000 participants globally.

AI is set to be the most transformative, disruptive, and exciting technology of the 21st century, impacting every industry, every job, and every aspect of our lives. This is not the time to “put your head in the sand”—AI is happening, whether we like it or not.

This practical, hands-on, series prepares you to thrive, succeed, and stay relevant in your business. As you take in the power of ChatGPT and its practical applications, you will be able to immediately reduce your workload, save time, become more efficient, and prioritize what truly matters.

We’ll focus on three key areas:

• Understanding AI & ChatGPT Basics – Learn the basic principles of AI
• Mastering Effective Prompting – Develop strategies to create prompts that generate accurate, insightful, and useful responses.
• Implementing AI for Business & Productivity – Discover real-world applications of ChatGPT to reduce workload, enhance efficiency, and integrate AI into your daily operations.

Series Schedule

All sessions are on Thursdays, from 10am to 11am PT.

• April 3 | Understanding AI & ChatGPT Basics
• April 10 | Mastering Effective Prompting
• April 17 | Implementing AI for Business & Productivity

Join us in a supportive and interactive environment where you can unlock the potential of AI and gain practical experience using ChatGPT!

A recording will be available for 30 days after each live session.

Open to everyone but only 20 spots are available so register today!

Series cost: $95; free for WeBC Loan clients and Vancity Women Entrepreneur Program clients.

Register Here >>>

The post ChatGPT for Entrepreneurs: Work Smarter, Not Harder appeared first on WeBC.

It seems like every day there’s a new tool, update, or trend in artificial intelligence (AI). If you’re feeling like you’re missing out or unsure where to start, you’re not alone! AI can be a powerful tool to save time, boost productivity, and enhance your business—if you know how to use it effectively.

This spring, WeBC is excited to partner with Jennifer Hufnagel, Business Consultant, Learning & Development Specialist, and AI Futurelab Certified Trainer, to offer a practical and hands-on workshop series: “ChatGPT for Entrepreneurs: Work Smarter, Not Harder.”

Jennifer brings over 25 years of professional experience in corporate training, instructional design, and business development. She has spent the last two years specializing in AI, leading ChatGPT and LLM training for over 1,000 participants globally.

AI is set to be the most transformative, disruptive, and exciting technology of the 21st century, impacting every industry, every job, and every aspect of our lives. This is not the time to “put your head in the sand”—AI is happening, whether we like it or not.

This practical, hands-on, series prepares you to thrive, succeed, and stay relevant in your business. As you take in the power of ChatGPT and its practical applications, you will be able to immediately reduce your workload, save time, become more efficient, and prioritize what truly matters.

We’ll focus on three key areas:

• Understanding AI & ChatGPT Basics – Learn the basic principles of AI
• Mastering Effective Prompting – Develop strategies to create prompts that generate accurate, insightful, and useful responses.
• Implementing AI for Business & Productivity – Discover real-world applications of ChatGPT to reduce workload, enhance efficiency, and integrate AI into your daily operations.

Series Schedule

All sessions are on Thursdays, from 10am to 11am PT.

• April 3 | Understanding AI & ChatGPT Basics
• April 10 | Mastering Effective Prompting
• April 17 | Implementing AI for Business & Productivity

Join us in a supportive and interactive environment where you can unlock the potential of AI and gain practical experience using ChatGPT!

A recording will be available for 30 days after each live session.

Open to everyone but only 20 spots are available so register today!

Series cost: $95; free for WeBC Loan clients and Vancity Women Entrepreneur Program clients.

Register Here >>>

The post ChatGPT for Entrepreneurs: Work Smarter, Not Harder appeared first on WeBC.

It seems like every day there’s a new tool, update, or trend in artificial intelligence (AI). If you’re feeling like you’re missing out or unsure where to start, you’re not alone! AI can be a powerful tool to save time, boost productivity, and enhance your business—if you know how to use it effectively.

This spring, WeBC is excited to partner with Jennifer Hufnagel, Business Consultant, Learning & Development Specialist, and AI Futurelab Certified Trainer, to offer a practical and hands-on workshop series: “ChatGPT for Entrepreneurs: Work Smarter, Not Harder.”

Jennifer brings over 25 years of professional experience in corporate training, instructional design, and business development. She has spent the last two years specializing in AI, leading ChatGPT and LLM training for over 1,000 participants globally.

AI is set to be the most transformative, disruptive, and exciting technology of the 21st century, impacting every industry, every job, and every aspect of our lives. This is not the time to “put your head in the sand”—AI is happening, whether we like it or not.

This practical, hands-on, series prepares you to thrive, succeed, and stay relevant in your business. As you take in the power of ChatGPT and its practical applications, you will be able to immediately reduce your workload, save time, become more efficient, and prioritize what truly matters.

We’ll focus on three key areas:

• Understanding AI & ChatGPT Basics – Learn the basic principles of AI
• Mastering Effective Prompting – Develop strategies to create prompts that generate accurate, insightful, and useful responses.
• Implementing AI for Business & Productivity – Discover real-world applications of ChatGPT to reduce workload, enhance efficiency, and integrate AI into your daily operations.

Series Schedule

All sessions are on Thursdays, from 10am to 11am PT.

• April 3 | Understanding AI & ChatGPT Basics
• April 10 | Mastering Effective Prompting
• April 17 | Implementing AI for Business & Productivity

Join us in a supportive and interactive environment where you can unlock the potential of AI and gain practical experience using ChatGPT!

A recording will be available for 30 days after each live session.

Open to everyone but only 20 spots are available so register today!

Series cost: $95; free for WeBC Loan clients and Vancity Women Entrepreneur Program clients.

Register Here >>>

The post ChatGPT for Entrepreneurs: Work Smarter, Not Harder appeared first on WeBC.

So how do you identify where AI can be most helpful for you, how much should you budget, and how much time does it take to set up? Join us to hear from two tech entrepreneurs who are leveraging AI to grow their businesses:

• Lawrence Lewis is the CEO and Founder of OneFeather, Canada’s only Indigenous technology company specializing in electronic voting and community engagement solutions.

• Maya Adly is the CEO and founder of ROAR, a one-stop booking platform for service-based businesses.

They’ll share key AI tools, how they’ve integrated them into their workflows, and some lessons learned along the way.

Join us for this free fireside chat to ask your questions and explore how AI tools can support your business growth!

Thursday, September 19 | 1pm to 2pm PT | Free Virtual Fireside Chat

Facilitator: Andrea Jacob, WeBC Business Advisor

Panelists:
• Lawrence Lewis, CEO & Founder, OneFeather
• Maya Adly, CEO & Founder, bookwithroar.com

This session is available with simultaneous French interpretation. To request this service, please email skillsdevelopment@we-bc.ca by September 10.

Register Here >>>

The post Fireside Chat: AI Tools for Business Growth appeared first on WeBC.