April 9, 2026
This event listing is sponsored by Expansion Capital Group.
Looking to understand how AI applies to small and medium-sized businesses? Upcoming free events will provide expert advice on where to start.
Sponsored by Expansion Capital Group Beyond the Hype – Panel Discussion on AI for Small Businesses. It will be held on May 7th from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Your Sioux Falls location will be shared during registration.
“We designed this event to uplift the entire Sioux Falls small business community,” said Expansion Capital Group CEO Tim Mages. “While AI is dominating the headlines, many executives are still sorting out what the real value is and what the hype is.”
He said Expansion Capital Group, a Sioux Falls-based fintech company focused on access to capital, has heard genuine but cautious interest in AI from companies.
“Executives want to understand how AI can help them improve efficiency, control costs, and remain competitive without taking unnecessary risks,” said Mages. “Our goal was to respond to their current situation with honest dialogue, examples, and a focus on practical application during a time of great economic uncertainty.”
The program includes case studies that use AI to solve cash flow gaps and automate administrative burdens.
Additionally, our panel of experts provides a carefully selected combination of insights and support networks as technology-advanced business leaders.
- Tim Mages, Expansion Capital Group CEO: A 20-year fintech veteran and former investment banker, Mages leads ECG’s mission to provide rapid, data-driven capital to thousands of small and medium-sized businesses across the country.
- Scott Meyer, CEO and Co-Founder, Chipp.ai: A leader in low-code AI, Meyer helps companies build and monetize custom AI agents, making advanced automation accessible to non-technical founders.
- Joel Sylvester, Partner and Chief Customer Officer, Five Star Call Centers: With 25 years of industry expertise, Sylvester specializes in sentiment tracking and champions AI as an efficiency tool that shortens hiring cycles by up to 70%.
- Andy Jorgensen, Founder, AiEdge: A cornerstone of the region’s technology scene, Jorgensen’s advisory firm and annual AiEdge Summit help business leaders bridge the gap between AI theory and practical application.
- Jacob West, Founder, DelegateIQ: Mr. West leverages his background in data engineering and enterprise sales to focus on driving measurable ROI through highly effective custom software systems.
“Attendees can expect an energetic and very practical conversation about what AI really means for small and medium-sized businesses today,” said Mages.
“This is not a technical dive or speculative discussion; it’s about real use cases, real decisions, and real outcomes. Equally important, this event is about investing in and celebrating Sioux Falls’ small business community.”
Many small businesses wonder where to start with AI, but “my first recommendation is to make learning and engagement a priority across the organization,” says Mages.
“AI should not coexist with one person or one department. Companies that advance fastest are those that encourage their employees to understand the tools, responsibly experiment, test and refine, and apply them in their daily work.”
Business owners don’t have to solve this alone, he added.
“Bringing in experienced experts sharpens decisions and accelerates progress. These advisors can help you see how AI is being used across companies and industries, eliminate guesswork, and avoid mistakes.”
From there, continue in a practical manner, the magician continued.
“Focus on the areas where speed and efficiency are most important. AI should be a people multiplier, not a replacement. When teams are involved and supported by the right expertise, AI can help companies move faster, make better decisions, and accelerate time to market.”
The goal is for participants to leave the program energized, informed and ready to take the next step, he said.
“Executives will leave with a clearer understanding of where AI can create immediate value, how to get started without getting too complicated, and the right questions to ask when evaluating tools and opportunities,” Mages said.
To register, go here.
Expansion Capital Group will also award the inaugural $25,000 Small Business Spotlight Award to help one Sioux Falls-area company accelerate its next chapter of growth.
“We join other local leaders in shaping the future of this region and would like to celebrate their vision,” Mages said. “Through Small Business Spotlight, we shine a light on the region’s committed entrepreneurs, creating a space for meaningful connections, learning, and momentum. This reflects who we are at ECG: empowering bold business owners, supporting smart growth, and leveraging innovation in ways that have real impact.”
The deadline to submit contest entries or nominate businesses is April 15th. To learn more and apply, go here.
