Episode 5: From Corner Shop to Cloud: How AI Can Elevate the Future of SMBs

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Executive Summary

In this insightful episode, Monica French, and Abbas Merchant, dives into the unique challenges and opportunities facing small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in today’s fast-evolving technology landscape. She discusses how SMBs often struggle to get the attention and support they need when navigating complex tech decisions, and how Microsoft is working to bridge that gap by providing tailored, AI-powered solutions designed specifically for their needs.

The conversation covers everything from demystifying AI and “copilots” to helping SMBs make smart technology investments that scale. Monica sheds light on the concept of “frontier firms” and the competitive pressures SMBs face. The episode wraps with practical steps for SMBs looking to begin their AI journey and predictions on how the role of technology—and students entering the workforce—will evolve over the next 2–3 years.

About Monica French

Monica French, SMB Director, Microsoft

Monica French is the USA SMB Director at Microsoft, where she leads the company’s strategy to accelerate growth in the U.S. small and medium business (SMB) market. With a focus on enabling an AI-ready ecosystem, she collaborates closely with partners and customers to drive digital transformation and scalable impact. Backed by over 15 years of experience in sales, marketing, and go-to-market execution, Monica has a strong track record of launching and scaling tech products globally, while leading high-performing, multicultural teams across regions.

Her passion for empowering SMBs is rooted in her own entrepreneurial journey, including co-founding a talent startup that was a finalist in the 2019 MassChallenge competition. Monica has held leadership roles at LinkedIn, PayPal, and GE Capital, and brings a bicultural perspective shaped by her extensive work across Latin America. She is also the co-founder of MBA Mujeres de México, a professional network for women leaders, and a member of the International Women’s Forum (IWF), championing inclusive leadership and innovation throughout her career.

About Abbas Merchant

Abbas Merchant, Senior Executive Advisor, Data & AI, Prowess Consulting

Abbas Merchant is the Founder & CEO of i2a Advisors, where he leads strategic growth and marketing advisory services. With over 20 years of experience driving double-digit growth at Fortune 500 financial institutions, Abbas specializes in blending data science, technology, and creative marketing to build high-performing teams and scalable capabilities. His recent leadership roles include Chief Marketing Officer and Executive Vice President at Regions Bank and senior marketing roles at M&T Bank and U.S. Bank.

Abbas is known for developing innovative digital ecosystems, AI-powered decisioning, and acquisition engines that deliver measurable business impact. He is also recognized for his expertise in brand strategy, M&A integration, and creating campaigns that strengthen brand equity. Committed to leveraging analytics and technology, Abbas drives customer-centric marketing strategies that foster sustainable growth.

What You'll Learn

How AI is transforming the way small businesses operate, compete, and grow
Common challenges SMBs face with technology adoption—and how to navigate them
Microsoft’s approach to making AI and digital tools accessible for SMBs
How to start your AI journey and prepare for the future of work

Who Should Watch

Industry leaders looking for strategic insights in data, AI, and marketing to guide high-level initiatives and innovation.
Working professionals seeking practical, actionable knowledge to build expertise and stay ahead in their fields.
General audience interested in AI trends and thought leadership, including early-career professionals and curious learners.

Databytes Enabling AI: Series Overview

Episode 1: Digital Marketing Excellence – Amit Jivani reveals how AI is transforming retail and e-commerce through personalization, smarter supply chains, and improved customer experiences.
Episode 2: Banking Analytics – Nagendra Sastry explores the evolution of banking analytics, the skills needed to succeed, and how AI is shaping the future of financial decision-making.
Episode 3: AI Evolution – Nikhil Shah shares his journey into AI, exploring its role in public good, ethical use, and the skills professionals need in an AI-driven future.
Episode 4: Banking Evolution Through AI – Dawn Zappetti discusses how AI is reshaping marketing in banking, from hyper-personalization to the future skills marketers need to thrive.

Stay tuned for more episodes!

Rahul Nawab

Rahul Nawab, a senior leader with over 25 years of experience in data analytics. His impressive background includes leading Data & AI roles at Capital One, US Bank, IQR and EXL. Rahul's expertise will ensure engaging discussions and resonate with our audience.