2024 has been a year of proving the power of AI to reshape the way small and medium businesses work, grow, and succeed. From hosting our inaugural AI for SMBs Conference to traveling coast-to-coast delivering practical AI strategies, this year has been nothing short of monumental. Join us as we recap the highlights, milestones, and the people who made 2024 unforgettable.
2024 Milestones
AI for SMBs Conference
GCM hosted the first-ever AI for SMBs Conference in Summerville, South Carolina, powered by REV, providing hands-on AI training for small and medium businesses.
We partnered with 12 local chambers and community organizations to democratize access to AI.
We received glowing feedback from attendees, including impactful testimonials from local leaders and businesses, including this one:
"The first AI for SMBs conference was an incredible experience! I walked away with so many actionable tips and insights on how AI can transform small and medium-sized businesses. The event was not only informative but also inspiring, showing just how accessible AI can be for businesses of any size. GCM put together an outstanding day packed with practical takeaways that I’m excited to apply. I highly recommend attending if you’re serious about using AI to drive growth and innovation!" - Jamie DeMent, Director of Technology & Cybersecurity Initiatives, SC Competes
Expanding Thought Leadership
Zach delivered a well-received TEDx talk at TEDxHiltonHead, inspiring audiences with a message about embracing AI.
We also shared practical strategies for leveraging AI to solve real-world business challenges and enhance operations at numerous events, including:
AGC Executive Leadership Council Conference
Arizona Chamber Executives 2024 Annual Conference
Vision Northwest North Carolina Opening Keynote
National Reach
GCM traveled coast-to-coast delivering workshops and presentations, equipping businesses, associations, and chambers across the U.S. with actionable AI strategies.
Recognization & Growth
GCM was recognized as the Small Business of the Year in Summerville.
Zach was recognized as one of Charleston’s 40 Under 40 and joined the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Institute for Organization Management Curriculum Committee, showcasing leadership in AI education.
Testimonials
“We’ve got people ChatGPTing the heck out of their daily tasks! GCM’s training has helped us work smarter. From office staff to field staff, everyone has found ways to make their work faster and more efficient with AI. The enthusiasm has been incredible, and I’d say it was a wild success as I’d hoped!” - Steven Wells, President, Dallas-Fort Worth Division at Key Construction
"Zach and his team conducted an AI training session with us, and I cannot speak highly enough about their grasp and expertise on AI strategies and products, especially as they relate to how Chambers can grow and expand using these new tools. The time they spent with us was incredibly valuable, and the information we learned has already received positive feedback from our staff. We look forward to the next steps and continuing our collaboration." - Michael Guymon, President & CEO, Tucson Metro Chamber
"The AI for SMBs Conference was an absolutely epic experience. For a first-time event, it was mind-blowing. The breakout sessions were top-notch, and the entire event was incredibly well-structured. Major props to Zach Giglio, Emma Giglio, and the entire GCM team for putting it all together. It's one of the best conferences I've attended anywhere in the country, and I can't wait to see how it evolves and look forward to the next one!" - Zac Streelman, Chief Technology Officer, REV Federal
Note from Zach & Emma
Two years ago, we made a bold decision: to pivot from being a traditional communications agency to becoming AI strategists for small and medium businesses. It was a big leap — one that took equal parts excitement and courage. This year proved that leap was worth it.
2024 has been our proof of concept. From hosting the AI for SMBs Conference in Summerville to crisscrossing the country for workshops, trainings, and keynote presentations, we’ve seen firsthand how AI can transform businesses and empower people. It’s been a whirlwind of flights, new faces, and shared ideas, but most importantly, it’s been about proving that this new chapter for GCM isn’t just an idea — it’s a reality.
The wheels are officially off the runway, and we’re continuing to climb. Each stop this year — every chamber, conference, and client — has been like a new destination on this journey, building momentum for what’s ahead.
In 2025, we will reach more businesses, creating more impactful resources, and bringing even more practical AI strategies to the table. Thank you for being part of this ride — whether you’ve been with us since the beginning or joined somewhere along the way, your trust fuels us to keep going.
Here’s to the next destination — together.
Warmly,
Zach & Emma
Co-Founders, GCM
Looking Ahead to 2025
We are building on the momentum of 2024 with two key initiatives designed to drive even greater value for our clients and partners:
Group Chamber Training Program
In January, we’ll kick off our first Group Chamber Training Program in Southern Arizona. This hands-on program is designed to empower chambers of commerce with practical AI tools and strategies to enhance operations, deepen member engagement, and scale marketing efforts. With a focus on collaboration, chambers will gain insights and actionable workflows that deliver immediate impact.
Accelerated AI & Automation Integration Package
For our current clients who have already completed our initial AI training, we’re launching the Accelerated AI & Automation Integration Package, a streamlined, four-stage approach to expanding your AI capabilities. From assessing automation opportunities to implementing and scaling AI-driven workflows, this package is designed to boost productivity and efficiency, helping your business achieve even greater results.
In Closing
If you’ve already started your AI journey with us, let’s build on that foundation in 2025.
For those who haven’t yet explored AI training, now is the perfect time to take the first step.
Visit our website to learn more about our foundational offerings and how we can help you streamline operations, boost productivity, and drive business growth.
Whether you’re just getting started or ready to deepen your integration, we’re here to partner with you every step of the way.
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