News Summary
Jacksonville is enhancing its JAX Bridges program for local entrepreneurs by incorporating artificial intelligence technology. The program, led by Carlton Robinson, aims to improve support for small and medium-sized businesses through personalized AI-driven advice, reducing business plan preparation time significantly. By integrating AI while maintaining human counselor roles, the program facilitates effective entrepreneurial guidance and has drawn national attention for its innovative approach.
Jacksonville has embarked on an innovative path to support local entrepreneurs through the JAX Bridges program, now enhanced with an artificial intelligence component. This update aims to refine the support provided to small and medium-sized businesses in the area by leveraging the latest AI technology.
The integration of AI into the JAX Bridges program marks a significant transformation in how entrepreneurial assistance is delivered. Carlton Robinson, the chief innovation officer at JAX Chamber and head of JAX Bridges, spearheaded the development and implementation of this capability. The AI acts as a “cognitive companion,” enhancing the aid entrepreneurs receive rather than replacing human advisors.
JAX Bridges offers complimentary classes twice a year for entrepreneurs, welcoming participants regardless of their chamber membership status. The program’s funding is sourced from the state of Florida, various grants, and generous contributions from local businesses.
Begun in 2022, Robinson’s vision for integrating AI into the program took shape in 2023. The technology operates through the well-known ChatGPT platform, with Robinson creating a tailored subset of AI designed to provide informed advice to business owners, leveraging his expertise. This customized AI interface is available to both entrepreneurs and program staff, allowing for comprehensive interaction and support.
Prior to their first class meeting, program participants can interact with the AI through a dedicated phone line to discuss their businesses. During this initial engagement, they receive personalized AI-generated business and marketing plans, which offer suggestions ranging from streamlining operations to forming new partnerships. This process dramatically reduces the time required to compile traditional business plans—previously a labor-intensive task taking up to 75 hours—now completed in just four hours with AI assistance.
After the first session, participants have the opportunity for one-on-one meetings with program staff to delve into implementing their tailored, AI-assisted strategies. The emphasis on the human aspect of counseling ensures that AI serves to complement the expertise of human advisors, rather than replace them.
Furthermore, staff members can be rapidly trained to interpret AI data, enhancing their efficiency in advising entrepreneurs. The program also encourages peer-to-peer counseling, allowing participants to prepare using AI-generated reports before meeting new entrepreneurs to foster networking and collaboration.
Jacksonville’s commitment to integrating AI into its entrepreneurial development programs has garnered national attention, with recognition from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and interest from other organizations. Demonstrations of the AI technology are planned for local entrepreneurial resources to extend the reach and impact of the program.
Looking ahead, Robinson envisions expanding JAX Bridges to provide services in neighboring counties through collaboration with local chambers of commerce. Entrepreneurs benefit from flexible access to AI support at any time, allowing them to engage with the technology as needed.
Despite initial skepticism about the AI’s effectiveness, feedback from participants has indicated a marked increase in satisfaction with the support they received. Many have noted the usefulness of AI-generated transcripts and summaries, leading to a more efficient and valuable experience overall. This growing interest highlights the program’s capacity to save time and enhance the quality of entrepreneurial support provided to local businesses.
The JAX Bridges program represents a pioneering effort in Jacksonville, combining the strengths of human counseling with advanced AI technology, ultimately creating a more impactful and efficient pathway for entrepreneurial development.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Jacksonville Celebrates Community Spirit with Local Events
Jacksonville Celebrates Pride Month with Family Literacy Event
Jacksonville Launches Initiative to Support Small Businesses
Jacksonville Prepares for Winter Weather Challenges
Jacksonville’s Black History Month Event Canceled
Jacksonville Appoints First Hispanic Outreach Coordinator
Additional Resources
- Jacksonville Daily Record: JAX Bridges and AI for Entrepreneurs
- Action News Jax: Behind the Scenes of Jacksonville’s Bridge Inspections
- Wikipedia: Entrepreneurship
- First Coast News: Jacksonville Bridge Closures
- Action News Jax: Main Street Bridge Closed After Incident
Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
