Overview:
The Palau Small Business Development Center is expanding responsible artificial intelligence training to help local institutions and entrepreneurs strengthen operations, safeguard data, and build long-term resilience.
Through hands-on workshops for the Palau Red Cross Society and small business owners in Airai, the Center is equipping Palau’s workforce with practical AI skills — from improving communications and workflow systems to developing what some participants describe as “institutional memory” for long-term operational stability.
KOROR, Palau — During the first quarter of 2026, the Palau Small Business Development Center (SBDC) delivered targeted trainings aimed at strengthening digital readiness and supporting small business operations through responsible artificial intelligence (AI) adoption.
On February 23, Palau SBDC conducted an “AI for Business Operations” session for the Red Cross Society at the Palau Civic Center office from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The training equipped staff with practical skills to use AI in administrative functions, communication systems, outreach coordination, and workflow management.
Participants included Oleb Sengebau, Isireli Roganivatu, Ibuuch Kumaichi, Myra Melilt Mayer, Zoe Leemanksy, Icely Kuterbis, J. Maireng Sengebau, Margie Ngirmidol, Sephanie Minor, Ronnie Morante, Stanislaus Tellei, and Belbult Rubasch.
The session covered AI fundamentals, ethical considerations, and real-world applications tailored to business-related operations. Staff explored how AI tools can assist with drafting communications, organizing reports, strengthening outreach strategies, and improving efficiency while maintaining professional standards and data security.
Among the participants was communications staff member Myra Mayer, who shared her perspective on integrating AI into her work.
“I personally am very comfortable with AI tools only for written work and feedback. Canva AI mainly tells me what I need to adjust on whatever I create. I am anti-ai when it comes to art (because I have an art degree) but I use AI to give me structured feedback to improve. What changed is that I am more aware of the information I give to AI for security reasons.”
“For my position, I think it’s really important to make my writings readable and legible. And to create visual concepts simple to understand for visual learners.”
Her remarks reflect a measured approach — using AI as a support tool for clarity and refinement, while remaining conscious of artistic values and responsible data use.
Ronnie Morante, Finance Manager, offered a broader institutional perspective on how artificial intelligence could strengthen operational continuity.
“I’ve learned that responsible AI must prioritize knowledge continuity. I propose shifting from ‘Personal AI’ to ‘Institutional AI’ – training models on department-specific workflows and housing them within our private infrastructure. This transforms individual expertise into a permanent institutional memory, ensuring that when people move on, the organization’s ‘DNA’ and operational stability remain intact.”
His perspective underscores a forward-looking approach — viewing AI not merely as an individual productivity tool, but as a long-term strategy for institutional resilience and continuity.
Just days earlier, on February 17, Palau SBDC conducted an “AI for Small Businesses” training from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Palau SBDC training facility in Ngetkib, Airai. The workshop focused on helping entrepreneurs apply AI in marketing, customer communication, planning, and operational efficiency.
Participants included Rivers Reklai, Everson Imetengel, Michael Mekilt Kual, Ilebrang Olkeriil, Maireng Sengebau, Wynona Ewatel, Bouveau Anastacio, Samantha Bells, and Ingeang Remirch.
The session emphasized practical business applications and responsible implementation, demonstrating how AI can reduce time spent on repetitive administrative tasks and allow business owners to focus more on growth and customer engagement.
Facilitated by Eustoria Marie Borja, Center Director of Palau SBDC, the trainings reflect the Center’s continued commitment to strengthening and supporting economic resilience through digital innovation.
As industries evolve, Palau SBDC remains focused on equipping businesses across the Republic with tools that enhance operational efficiency, competitiveness, and long-term sustainability, strengthening the broader economic structure of the Republic.