This spring, the Triad Business Journal featured Ravenox founder Sean Brownlee in an article highlighting how small businesses can harness artificial intelligence (AI) to drive efficiency, innovation, and growth. The story, “Triad business owner to speak to Congress about AI best practices,” explores how Sean uses AI in his Burlington-based manufacturing company and why he believes smart policy can help more small businesses thrive.
Read the full feature on the Triad Business Journal here
Connecting Advocacy and Action in Washington, D.C.
Sean’s feature follows his recent participation in the Intuit Small Business Council’s 2024 D.C. Fly-In, where he and other small business owners met with Members of Congress, the Small Business Administration (SBA), and other agencies to discuss policies affecting entrepreneurs.
You can read about that trip here
The Council’s goal is to ensure that the voices of small business owners, those who power local economies and create jobs, are represented in national conversations about digital transformation and the future of work. Sean’s message in both Washington and the media is clear: artificial intelligence isn’t a threat to small businesses, it’s a tool for empowerment.
AI in Action at Ravenox
At Ravenox, AI isn’t just a buzzword, it’s part of daily operations. Sean has integrated intelligent systems to improve:
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Inventory Management & Forecasting: Predicting material needs months in advance to avoid supply chain disruptions.
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Production Planning: Optimizing manufacturing workflows to save time and reduce waste.
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Social Media & Customer Engagement: Automating content creation, research, and scheduling across platforms.
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Research & Development: Using AI to explore new product applications and potential market opportunities.
“AI doesn’t replace people,” Sean said during his interview. “It helps them do more. Businesses that embrace digital tools become more efficient and resilient.”
Closing the Information Gap
While AI offers incredible advantages, Sean also addressed a critical challenge: access to trustworthy information.
For many entrepreneurs, knowing which tools to adopt, and which companies to trust, can be overwhelming. He believes the SBA should play a stronger role in helping small businesses identify reputable, secure, and effective AI solutions.
“Small business owners don’t always have the time or expertise to evaluate every tool,” he said. “That’s where the SBA can step in, guiding entrepreneurs toward trusted resources and away from bad actors trying to sell overpriced or unnecessary services.”
Driving Policy for Digital Readiness
Sean’s advocacy supports legislative efforts like the Small Business Technological Advancement Act, which would allow businesses to use SBA 7(a) loan-guarantee funding to adopt digital tools, including AI systems.
His goal is to help policymakers understand that the adoption of these technologies isn’t optional, it’s essential to keeping U.S. businesses competitive and sustainable.
“Research shows small businesses that use digital tools grow faster and create more jobs,” he said. “AI can level the playing field if we ensure access, education, and fair policy.”
The Future of Small Business Innovation
From reshoring U.S. manufacturing to improving operations through technology, Ravenox continues to blend craftsmanship with innovation. As Sean shared in the Triad Business Journal feature, small business owners are uniquely positioned to demonstrate how AI can be used responsibly to create jobs, strengthen local economies, and modernize American industry.