As artificial intelligence (AI) tools become increasingly integrated into everyday business operations, many organizations are adopting them faster than they can assess the associated legal, regulatory, and operational risks. This workshop is designed to help entrepreneurs, business owners, and other non-lawyers close key knowledge gaps related to the responsible use of AI in a business environment.

Through practical examples and accessible discussion, participants will gain a better understanding of how AI intersects with data protection, privacy obligations, copyright and intellectual property rights, customer communications, vendor relationships, and emerging compliance considerations. Rather than focusing on whether businesses should use AI, this workshop focuses on how SMEs can use AI responsibly while protecting their assets, customers, and reputation.

The workshop will provide practical guidance on:

• Protecting business and customer data when using AI tools
• Understanding copyright, intellectual property, and ownership issues associated with AI-generated content
• Managing privacy and confidentiality risks
• Evaluating AI vendors and service-provider agreements
• Identifying and mitigating legal and operational risks arising from AI use
• Developing practical governance and risk-management approaches for SMEs

Workshop Format:

Each session will be led by Dr. Uchenna F. Ugwu and the Entrepreneurial Law Clinic research team, drawing on current research and practical insights, to help Canadian SMEs assess and manage contemporary AI-related legal, compliance, and risk-management considerations. This workshop will be delivered in a hybrid format, allowing participants to attend either in person or virtually. Lunch/Dinner will be provided for in-person attendees.

Attendees who RSVP and successfully complete one of the sessions will receive a certificate.