AI can help you work smarter, but it can also help scammers work smarter too. Fun times, right?
If you’re an entrepreneur trying to harness technology without getting burned by cyberthreats, fraud, or financial missteps, LAFCU and Grassroots Giving Lansing have your back. They’re hosting a free workshop called “Securing Success: Cyber Smart, Business Strong” on Saturday, September 12, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at LAFCU headquarters (106 N. Marketplace Blvd. in Lansing).
This isn’t your typical death-by-PowerPoint business seminar. The event is part of LAFCU’s Entrepreneurship Mixer Series, and it’s designed to give you actual, usable strategies for growing your business while keeping the bad guys out of your systems and your bank account.
What You’ll Learn
The workshop tackles three critical areas that keep business owners up at night:
- How artificial intelligence is changing the game (for better and worse)
- Cybersecurity essentials to protect your business and customer data
- Financial planning strategies to build wealth beyond your business
You’ll hear from people who actually know their stuff: Kyle Anderson (security engineer at LAFCU), John Clifford (network engineer at LAFCU), and Russell Dawson (investment representative at LAFCU Investment Services).
“Technology can open new doors for entrepreneurs, but taking advantage of those opportunities also means understanding the risks that come with them,” says Tamera Carter, vice president of membership growth and development at LAFCU. “We want business owners to leave with practical information they can use right away — whether that means protecting themselves from AI-enabled fraud, strengthening cybersecurity or making smarter decisions that support the future of their business.”
More Than Just Learning
The best part? This isn’t a “grab your handouts and run” situation. You’ll also get to network with fellow entrepreneurs and local business leaders over lunch. Sometimes the most valuable insights come from casual conversations with people who’ve been in your shoes.
The workshop is completely free, which is a pretty sweet deal considering you’re getting expert advice on protecting your business, your data, and your financial future all in one shot.
Whether you’re worried about the latest phishing scams, trying to figure out if AI tools are worth the hype, or wondering how to actually pay yourself from your business, this workshop covers the essentials. And you’ll walk away with strategies you can implement immediately — no complicated jargon or theoretical mumbo jumbo.