A new four-part professional development series aimed at helping small businesses better understand and manage technology will launch in Owensboro later this winter.
The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation, in partnership with the Kentucky Small Business Development Center in Owensboro, the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce, and Fastek, has announced Plugged In: A Tech Series for Small Businesses, a lunch-and-learn program focused on practical technology topics for small and mid-sized businesses.
The series is geared toward business owners, managers, and decision-makers and will address topics such as basic technology planning, cybersecurity, productivity tools, and practical applications of artificial intelligence. Sessions are designed to be discussion-based and accessible, with an emphasis on practical information.
The sessions will be held at the Holiday Inn Owensboro Riverfront from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on January 27, February 24, March 17, and April 21. Lunch will be provided.
“Most small businesses know technology matters, but they don’t always know where to focus or who to trust,” said Chris Murphy, Founder and CEO at Fastek. “Plugged In is about cutting through the noise and giving business owners practical guidance they can actually use — how to protect their data, work more efficiently, and make smarter technology decisions without needing to be an IT expert.”
Each two-hour session will include instruction, interactive discussion, and course materials. Session topics will be finalized based on a pre-event survey of registrants.
“We’re excited to partner with the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation to offer this training to our business community,” said Dave Kirk, President & CEO of the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce. “As an added benefit, our Chamber members will get a price break on this learning opportunity. We look forward to continuing to grow our collaboration with the EDC on future endeavors.”
Businesses that attend all four sessions will receive a complimentary cybersecurity vulnerability assessment from Fastek, valued at $950, along with a certificate of completion.
“Small business owners juggle a lot of responsibilities, and technology can feel like unfamiliar territory,” said Jody Hulsey, Director of the Kentucky Small Business Development Center in Owensboro. “The Plugged In series offers a practical approach to IT that will help business owners protect what they’ve built, save time, and make the most of the tools that support their growth.”
Registration for the full series is $100 per person, with Chamber members receiving a $25 discount. Discounts are available for businesses registering multiple employees. Attendance is limited to 30 participants.
“Strong businesses need strong tech,” said Claude Bacon, President & CEO of GOEDC. “Plugged In will help our local businesses understand and use technology in ways that make them more efficient, more secure, and better positioned for growth in Greater Owensboro.”
Registration information is available online here or by calling the Chamber at 270-926-1860.
By: Ryan Richardson The Owensboro Times