Consumable AI: The What, Why & How for Small Teams

Presented by Arun Srinivasan, Head of The Company and Vivek Sai, Head – Strategic Growth at Sustern Inc.

This workshop is designed to introduce businesses with small teams and entrepreneurs to the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) across key sectors such as manufacturing, retail, e-commerce, and supply chain.
Key takeaways will include:

• The Case for AI: Current statistics on AI adoption among small teams, and the accelerating digital transformation across sectors.
• Why Now: Online shopping trends, rising customer expectations, and the growing need for automation in the D2C and retail ecosystem.
• How It Works: A simplified breakdown of how AI functions and what makes it effective in decision-making and business optimization.
• Real-World Applications: How AI is currently being used in supply chains, inventory management, e-commerce personalization, and predictive analytics.
• Getting Started: Practical steps for small businesses to adopt AI from affordable tools to building a phased roadmap.
• Impact: Quantifiable benefits of AI adoption; cost savings, time efficiency, and growth acceleration.

Ideal for solopreneurs, founders, and small business teams looking to build future-ready operations with minimal overhead.

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Arun Srinivasan is a veteran of the software industry, someone who’s seen from scrappy startups to massive corporations.
With over 18 years under his belt, he’s truly a problem solver, innovator, and leader.
He’s been a critical force behind some truly disruptive technologies. In fact, he played a pivotal role in the design and development of the SDWAN product at VeloCloud, which of course, was eventually acquired by VMware. He understands how to build groundbreaking solutions from the ground up.
Beyond his hands-on expertise, Arun’s a bit of a renaissance man. He holds 14 patent claims, has a strong background in operational analytics and sustainability management, and is even passionate about organic farming, a testament to his commitment to a better future.
Speaking of a better future, he holds a master’s in management sciences from the University of Waterloo, where he honed his skills in quantitative problem-solving, sustainable business practices, and leading high-performing teams. He leverages systems thinking to create forward thinking creative solutions.
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Vivek Sai is a seasoned business builder who’s been in the thick of it all, from early-stage, bootstrapped ventures to VC-backed tech startups and fast-scaling SMEs. With over 16 years of experience, he’s a hands-on leader, growth strategist, and product visionary who’s taken multiple SaaS and virtual staffing businesses from zero to scale.
He’s been the engine behind high-impact product launches, built agile marketing teams from scratch, and helped founders and brands grow sustainably in competitive markets. Vivek’s roots in e-commerce, agency models, and digital transformation give him an edge in building systems that perform quickly and purposefully.
But his drive goes beyond performance. Vivek is deeply curious and mission-driven, constantly learning and experimenting to leave behind a legacy of meaningful innovation. With a mindset wired for hustle and heart, he believes that great businesses aren’t just built they’re crafted with clarity, creativity, and conviction.

https://www.waterlooregionsmallbusiness.com/event/consumable-ai-the-what-why-how-for-small-teams/