Afro-Caribbean Business Network | Fireside Chat with Diacre Bayishime, Board Director, Black Professionals and Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan | Saturday, October 24, 2026 | Online: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/2000172024368?aff=oddtdtcreator
Most small business owners have heard that AI can save them time. Far fewer know where to start. As a result, many either avoid it completely or try a few tools, get overwhelmed and give up.
That is why practical AI training for small business owners is one of the smartest investments an entrepreneur can make right now. Rather than chasing every new tool, the goal is to learn a few that solve real problems in your business, and use them well.
So on Saturday, October 24, the Afro-Caribbean Business Network continues the Black Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Conference 2026 with a virtual fireside chat featuring Diacre Bayishime, business strategist, AI trainer and Board Director of the Black Professionals and Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan (BPES), on AI, innovation, leadership, growth and emerging opportunities for Black entrepreneurs.
Who Is Diacre Bayishime?
Diacre is a Saskatoon-based business strategist, AI trainer and growth advisor. Today, he helps entrepreneurs and organizations build stronger, future-ready businesses through AI training, public speaking and strategic growth planning.
His background spans technology and entrepreneurship. For example, he has worked in product engineering in the tech sector, and he was a finalist in the University of Saskatchewan’s Tech Venture Challenge. In addition, he coaches new business owners who want a clear roadmap, with a focus on marketing strategy and building an effective online presence.
As a Board Director of BPES, he also helps shape one of the most active Black business communities on the Prairies. (Read our Day 22 spotlight on BPES co-founder Michelle Christian.)
AI and Digital Innovation on the Prairies
Diacre’s work connects directly to a major new initiative. In May 2026, the Government of Canada announced nearly $1.4 million for BPES, including an AI and Digital Innovation Program to increase technology readiness and digital skills among Black entrepreneurs in Saskatchewan. Over four years, BPES expects to serve at least 300 businesses and train 400 participants.
Why This Conversation Matters for the Black Community
1. AI can multiply a small team
At ACBN, we name the Four Strikes™ that hold Black entrepreneurs back. The first is small teams: most Black-owned businesses have fewer than five employees. Fortunately, AI tools can help with writing, marketing, customer service and planning. In other words, AI can give a solo founder hours back every week.
2. Training beats trial and error
Many entrepreneurs give up on AI because they try it without guidance. By contrast, a structured approach helps you choose the right tools, write better prompts and avoid common mistakes. Consequently, you get results faster and with less frustration.
3. Leadership still matters most
AI is a tool, not a strategy. Therefore, founders still need to lead: set direction, make decisions and build relationships. Diacre’s focus on leadership alongside AI is a reminder that technology works best in the hands of a clear-thinking owner.
4. Future-ready businesses win
Businesses that adapt early to new technology often gain an edge that lasts. So for Black entrepreneurs, getting comfortable with AI now is a way to compete on equal footing instead of catching up later. (Explore the rest of our AI series: AI economic opportunity, ethical AI, responsible AI and digital equity.)
5. Clarity turns tools into growth
Before adopting any tool, you need to know what you want it to do. This is where ACBN’s 3C Framework™ comes in: Clarity → Connection → Capital. First, get clear on the biggest time-wasters and growth opportunities in your business. Next, connect with trainers, peers and resources. Finally, access capital to invest in the tools and people that help you grow.
Ready to build a future-ready business? ACBN’s Growth Pathway program walks you through the 3C Framework™ with coaching, community and a direct route to funding. We are welcoming 100 entrepreneurs into the program.
What You Will Walk Away With
- Practical ways to start using AI in your business this week
- How to choose AI tools that solve real problems
- Why leadership and strategy still matter in an AI world
- Emerging opportunities for Black entrepreneurs in Saskatchewan and across Canada
- A live Q&A with a business strategist and AI trainer
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should a small business owner start with AI?
Start with one repetitive task, such as writing social media posts, answering common customer questions or drafting emails. Then, test one AI tool on that task for a few weeks before adding more.
Is AI training worth it for a small business?
Generally, yes. Even a few hours of practical training can help you save time every week and avoid costly mistakes with privacy or accuracy.
I missed the live session. Can I watch the replay?
Yes. Replays of BEEConference sessions will be shared on the ACBN YouTube channel.
Join Us on Day 24
Day 24 continues a full month of workshops through October as part of the Black Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Conference 2026. So if you are ready to make AI work for your business, this conversation is for you.
Fireside Chat with Diacre Bayishime | BEEConference Day 24
Saturday, October 24, 2026 | Online
Can’t make it live? Subscribe to our YouTube channel so you never miss a replay, workshop or conversation: youtube.com/@acbn_canada
Connect. Build. Grow.
