AI for Marketing

2026 Oakland Small Business Week

This workshop shows how Generative AI can strengthen your marketing strategy. Participants will learn how to use AI tools to create targeted content and turn data into clear insights for smarter, more effective decisions.

This is Town Business

From Sunday, May 3 through Saturday, May 9, 2026, Oakland will celebrate Small Business Week with a dynamic lineup of free workshops, events, and activities—both in-person and virtual—designed for small business owners and entrepreneurs across the city.

This year’s theme, “This is Town Business,” highlights the small businesses that power Oakland’s neighborhoods every day. In partnership with local organizations, the City of Oakland’s Economic & Workforce Development Department is curating a week of programming that offers practical tools, real-world strategies, and meaningful connections to help businesses grow and succeed.

The 2026 schedule will feature workshops and panels on topics such as access to capital, marketing and digital tools (including AI), financial management, permits and licensing, and business growth strategies. Participants can expect hands-on learning, expert guidance, and opportunities to connect with resources and partners that support Oakland’s business community.

2026 Oakland Small Business Week Workshops

Funded by the City of Oakland, East Bay SBDC offers a series of 7 Small Business Workshops designed to assist entrepreneurs and small businesses to learn AI for business, AI for Marketing, Start a Business, Business Planning, Financing your Business and Marketing your Business.