North Georgia Rural Business AI Competitiveness Initiative

Save time on daily administration, streamline marketing, and automate routine tasks using practical artificial intelligence (AI) tools. Funded by a nearly $100,000 USDA grant, the North Georgia Rural Business AI Competitiveness Initiative delivers free, hands-on digital training designed by UNG Evergreen Learning and Intel Digital Readiness.

  • 100% Free Training: Earn the AI for Georgia Professionals Certificate (12 hours total).
  • $1,000 Tech Grant: Direct funding for your business to adopt approved AI software tools.
  • 1:1 Technical Coaching: Personalized office hours to solve your specific operational bottlenecks.
  • Hardware Support: Loaner laptops provided if needed.
  • Flexible Learning: Attend on campus at Evergreen Learning (25 Schultz Ave) or 100% online from home or your office.

Practical Skills You Will Learn

  • Drafting customer updates, social media posts, and local marketing in minutes
  • Automating vendor and customer communication
  • Streamlining scheduling, farm records, and administrative paperwork
  • Planning seasonal operations and budgeting with AI assistance
  • Navigating data privacy and responsible AI practices
  • How to confidently use AI to help with nearly every aspect of your business

Who Qualifies?

To participate, your business must meet three criteria:

  1. Located in Lumpkin County, GA (farms, ranches, and rural small businesses welcome)
  2. Fewer than 50 employees
  3. Under $1 million in annual gross revenue

Apply for Free