Finale features live recording of POV with SEG podcast: “AI for Good: The Social Entrepreneur’s Guide to Human-Centered Innovation”
PROVIDENCE, RI – Social Enterprise Greenhouse (SEG) celebrated the graduation of its inaugural AI Capacity Catalyst Program cohort on November 20, marking the culmination of a 10-week initiative designed to help Rhode Island’s social entrepreneurs and small business owners integrate artificial intelligence into their operations in practical, ethical, and human-centered ways.
Developed in partnership with Ascend Impact Advisors and funded by Rhode Island Commerce, the program equipped over 30 local founders with the skills and confidence to use AI tools to streamline operations, improve communication, and expand impact. To learn more about each of the graduates and check out the innovative prototypes they built, click here.
The celebration concluded with a live recording of POV with SEG, a podcast hosted by SEG CEO Julie Owens. The episode, titled “AI for Good: The Social Entrepreneur’s Guide to Human-Centered Innovation,” featured Owens and Sam Azar, Founder and CEO of Ascend Impact Advisors, reflecting on how artificial intelligence can be leveraged responsibly to advance equity and strengthen Rhode Island’s small business ecosystem.
“This program shows that AI doesn’t have to be intimidating or abstract,” said Owens. “When we focus on human-centered innovation, we can use technology to expand opportunity, not replace it. Our graduates are proof that small businesses and social ventures can lead the way in shaping what ethical, inclusive AI looks like.”
Azar added, “We’ve seen firsthand how quickly entrepreneurs can apply AI when it’s grounded in real-world needs. The organizations in this cohort are already using these tools to amplify their missions, from improving client services to analyzing data in ways that make their work more efficient and impactful.”
During the finale, Christopher Antao and Dr. Brooke Tubbs, joined the discussion to highlight how their venture, Gnome Surf, is already using AI to advance its mission, showcasing both the program’s early impact and its potential to influence Rhode Island’s broader social impact community. They also shared how they’ve been teaming up to develop innovative new programming that will bring innovative, unique, and truly exciting experiences directly to the homes of Gnome Surf athletes and their caregivers.
The event marked the fifth episode of the POV with SEG series, which brings together thought leaders and changemakers to explore the intersections of business, innovation, and social good. All episodes can be found here. The series will continue into 2026 with new episodes and themes to be announced.
About Social Enterprise Greenhouse:
SEG accelerates impact by providing inclusive support and networks for entrepreneurs and businesses committed to positive societal and economic change. SEG fosters an ecosystem of diverse stakeholders who work to enable a more just, equitable, and resilient economy that works for all. SEG is based in Rhode Island and operates statewide virtually and from sites in Providence, Newport, Woonsocket, and Pawtucket/Central Falls. Its network of 2,000+ enterprises and 200+ business and community leaders contributes time, expertise, and funding to grow Rhode Island’s social impact ecosystem. To learn more, visit www.segreenhouse.org.
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Media Contact (For SEG)
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