Entrepreneur AI Technical Assistance Program

The Vendor is required to provide the entrepreneur artificial intelligence (AI) Technical Assistance (TA) Program is an initiative designed to strengthen state’s small business ecosystem by equipping entrepreneurs and small business owners with AI literacy and practical applications to improve business operations, competitiveness, and sustainability.
- Provide to promote a vigorous and growing state economy, encourage business investment and job creation, and support diverse, prosperous local economies across state through the efficient use of loans, grants, tax credits, real estate development, marketing and other forms of assistance.
- The Fiscal Year 2025 Enacted Budget includes up to $280,000 to support one Specialist center who will be responsible for both providing technical assistance and the development and integration of an AI curriculum into the centers Learning Management System (LMS).
- Entrepreneurs Served
•    Target: Provide AI-focused one-on-one technical assistance to at least 150 unique entrepreneurs and small business owners during the 18-month program period.
•    Definition: “Serving” shall mean direct one-on-one technical assistance, group training, or LMS module completion facilitated by the Specialist centers.
•    Reporting: All engagements must be logged in the Development-approved reporting system, including type of service (training, TA, referral), hours provided, and outcomes.
- Eligible activities include but are not limited to:
•    Salaries and fringe benefits for AI Specialist(s) and program staff.
•    AI software tools, subscriptions, and licenses.
•    Development and delivery of workshops, showcases, and one-on-one technical assistance.
•    Outreach and marketing materials (excluding promotional merchandise such as clothing, mugs, or other giveaways).
•    Travel and convening expenses related to program delivery.
•    LMS content creation, curriculum testing, and integration; and
•    Other costs as approved by Development.
- Ineligible Uses of Funds
•    Capital construction, renovations, or improvements.
•    General operating expenses not directly tied to program activities.
•    Legal fees unrelated to program implementation.
•    Non-program related technology purchases (e.g., laptops, phones).
•    Food, beverages, or general hospitality.
•    Marketing or promotional merchandise (e.g., clothing, mugs, bags); or
•    Any expenses incurred outside of the program period.

- Contract Period/Term: 2 years
- Questions/Inquires Deadline: November 14, 2025