NEW YORK, NY – The highly anticipated AI Small Business Forum 2026 wrapped up yesterday, leaving a trail of enthusiastic press releases and a lingering sense of technological bewilderment among its 3,000 attendees. Billed as a pivotal moment for minority entrepreneurs in New York City, the forum successfully highlighted 'technology, collaboration, and support,' though precisely how AI factored into any of it remains a subject of intense debate.

“It was truly inspiring to see so many bright minds come together, all eager to leverage the power of... well, you know, AI,” stated forum co-chair Dr. Evelyn Chen, founder of 'Synergy Solutions & Beyond.' “We covered everything from blockchain-powered smart contracts to quantum-enhanced predictive analytics. The future is now, or rather, it will be in 2027, give or take.”

Attendees, many of whom run local bodegas, dry cleaners, and catering businesses, expressed a mix of hope and profound confusion. “I learned a lot of new words,” admitted Maria Rodriguez, owner of 'Maria’s Empanadas.' “Like 'neural network' and 'machine learning.' I still don’t know if it will help me make more empanadas, but I have a very nice tote bag.”

Another participant, Jamal Adebayo, whose barber shop 'Cuts & Code' was promised a 'bespoke AI solution,' reported that the solution involved a new Instagram account. “They said the AI would 'optimize my social media presence.' Turns out, it's just a guy named Kevin who posts pictures of haircuts.”

Organizers assured the public that the forum's success would be measured in the 'long-term societal impact' and the 'potential for future partnerships,' conveniently delaying any concrete accountability until at least 2030.