AI: Adapt, Ignore or Lead?

Artificial Intelligence is changing how businesses attract customers, create content, make decisions, streamline operations, and compete in the marketplace. Some entrepreneurs are already using AI to save hours each week, improve marketing results, automate repetitive tasks, and uncover new opportunities for growth. Others are wondering where to start, what tools to trust, and whether they’re falling behind. The reality? AI isn’t just a technology trend. It’s becoming a business advantage. Join the Town of Whitby and the Business Advisory Centre Durham for a dynamic and interactive panel discussion featuring three experts with different perspectives on AI adoption, business growth, automation, privacy, and security. Hear from: Sara Norton, Reply All Founder Technology, Automation & AI Advisor Business strategist and AI advocate helping businesses to integrate and use AI and technology to work better and create more value. Monifa Brooks, Garabyte Co-Founder Privacy, Data Governance & AI Risk Advisor AI governance, privacy, and security expert helping organizations embrace innovation while protecting their data, reputation, and customers. Mike Libbey, Your Bottom Line (YBL), CEO AI, Automation & Business Growth Strategist Helping businesses use technology to work smarter, make better decisions, and scale more efficiently What You’ll Learn Gain practical insights into where AI is delivering real business results today and where the hype ends. Our experts will share ways businesses are using AI to save time, increase productivity, reduce administrative workload, improve marketing efforts, and streamline operations. You’ll learn how small businesses can leverage AI-powered tools to compete more effectively, what every business owner should understand about privacy, security, and risk, and how emerging technologies such as AI agents and automation are transforming everyday business processes. The panel will also explore how business functions and workforce roles are evolving, the skills and leadership mindset needed to stay competitive in an AI-driven economy, and the simple, practical steps you can take immediately to begin exploring AI opportunities within your own organization. Whether you’re AI-curious, actively experimenting with new tools, or wondering how AI might impact your business and industry, this discussion will help you separate fact from fiction and identify opportunities that make sense for your organization. Come prepared to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and leave with ideas you can apply right away. Free for Durham Region businesses. Enjoy coffee, refreshments, networking, and a lively discussion overlooking the beautiful Whitby waterfront. One question remains: Will AI become your competitive advantage… or someone else’s? Do It In Durham Entrepreneurship Week November 16 – 20st 2026 Join us for the 14th year of ‘Do It In Durham Entrepreneurship Week’. Durham Region’s celebration of entrepreneurship is held each November during Global Entrepreneurship Week. Do It In Durham Entrepreneurship Week is a collaboration of Durham’s business support, educational and networking organizations who have come together to encourage and support entrepreneurs, job creators and innovators who create economic growth in the Durham Region. Together We Build