Can AI break barriers for underserved communities? On this episode of Digital Transformation Success, host and Little Bird Marketing CEO, Priscilla McKinney talks with brothers Ifiok and Monk Inyang, co-founders of 1st Street Partnerships, about empowering entrepreneurs and creators of color through the emerging technology of generative AI. Growing up in a poorer, working-class environment in Newark, NJ, the Inyang brothers understand the challenges faced by underserved communities. They recognize that a lack of resources often means these communities have no cushion to fail, with minor setbacks potentially setting them back years if not decades. But there is a solution, and it lies not just in providing hardware like laptops, but in harnessing the power of generative AI. Their approach involves providing strategies for modern problem-solving, identifying necessary tools, and teaching how to use them effectively. This education-focused method helps build a supportive community, fostering B2B-cross-team collaboration.   "The way [underserved communities] interact with AI can be a very embracing moment,” Ifiok explains. “We can use it to break down the biases that we have… that keep brilliant minds out of certain industries." McKinney and the Inyang brothers also highlight the compounding barriers these communities face, noting that most industry gatekeepers are not people of color. They see AI as a game-changer, offering entrepreneurs less expensive, entry-level solutions. Their vision extends to partnering with academia, government, and public service organizations to increase access and expand the community of AI users. Sponsors: Looking for the right space to mix and mingle with corporate researchers and insights professionals who are moving the industry forward? Ready to take your skills to the next level and get connected within the consumer insights space? Join Little Bird Marketing at the Corporate Researcher's Conference, presented by the Insights Association. This conference is designed specifically for client-side insights leaders and practitioners who are committed to advancing the profession. We’ll talk about shifts in society, buyer’s beliefs, preferences and advances in technology.  You’ll hear from innovative researchers and insights visionaries showcasing their groundbreaking work and sharing strategies to manage change and innovation. Visit insightsassociation.org/events for more information. Register today and let us at Little Bird Marketing know you’re coming. We’d love to meet up in person. Get your research done anywhere around the world quickly and efficiently with Gazelle Global!  Are you looking for experts and tools to collect research data worldwide? Global sampling, field management, data collection? These are just some of the services that Gazelle Global provides with much, much more!  Visit gazelleglobal.com to learn more about how our expertise can help you unearth quality data that drives meaningful insights. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices