Small business owners are under constant pressure to keep up with technology, protect their data, and run more efficient operations, often without internal IT support. To help address those challenges, the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC), in partnership with the Kentucky Small Business Development Center in Owensboro, the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce, and Fastek, has launched Plugged In: A Tech Series for Small Businesses, a new four-part professional development series.
The series is ideal for owners, managers, and key decision-makers at small and mid-sized businesses who want practical guidance, not technical jargon. Planned topics include small-business technology fundamentals, cybersecurity, everyday tools to improve productivity, and practical ways to use artificial intelligence to enhance the customer experience. The series is delivered in a practical, discussion-driven lunch-and-learn format designed specifically for small and mid-sized businesses.
The series will take place at the Holiday Inn Owensboro Riverfront and will be held on the following dates:
- Tuesday, January 27
- Tuesday, February 24
- Tuesday, March 17
- Tuesday, April 21
Each session will run from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and will include lunch.
“Most small businesses know technology matters, but they don’t always know where to focus or who to trust,” said Chris Murphy, Founder and CEO at Fastek. “Plugged In is about cutting through the noise and giving business owners practical guidance they can actually use—how to protect their data, work more efficiently, and make smarter technology decisions without needing to be an IT expert.”
Designed specifically for small and mid-sized businesses, Plugged In will be delivered in a casual lunch-and-learn format. Each 2-hour session will include practical instruction, interactive Q&A, and course materials focused on strengthening operations, protecting digital assets, and improving efficiency. Session topics will be finalized based on a pre-event survey sent to registrants, ensuring the content reflects the real needs of participating businesses.
“We’re excited to partner with the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation to offer this training to our business community,” said Dave Kirk, President & CEO of the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce. “As an added benefit, our Chamber members will get a price break on this learning opportunity. We look forward to continuing to grow our collaboration with the EDC on future endeavors.”
A key incentive of the series is its completion benefit. Businesses that attend all four sessions will receive a complimentary cybersecurity vulnerability assessment from Fastek, a service valued at $950. Participants who complete the full series will also earn a certificate of completion recognizing their commitment to strengthening their technology knowledge and operations. The program will wrap up with a brief, graduation-style conclusion celebrating participating businesses and the progress they’ve made throughout the series.
“Small business owners juggle a lot of responsibilities, and technology can feel like unfamiliar territory,” said Jody Hulsey, Director of the Kentucky Small Business Development Center in Owensboro. “The Plugged In series offers a practical approach to IT that will help business owners protect what they’ve built, save time, and make the most of the tools that support their growth.”
Registration for the full four-part series is $100 per person, with Chamber members receiving a $25 discount. Additional discounts are available for businesses registering more than one employee. Attendance is limited to the first 30 participants.
“Strong businesses need strong tech,” said Claude Bacon, President & CEO of GOEDC. “Plugged In will help our local businesses understand and use technology in ways that make them more efficient, more secure, and better positioned for growth in Greater Owensboro.”
Registration is now open, and space is limited. You can register online using the link below or by calling the Chamber at 270-926-1860.
Link to register: https://business.chamber.owensboro.com/events/details/plugged-in-small-business-tech-series-presented-by-fastek-3872
About the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation
The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) is committed to fostering economic growth by supporting entrepreneurship, business expansion, and workforce development.
About the Kentucky Small Business Development Center
The Kentucky Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in Owensboro provides no-cost consulting, training, and technical assistance to entrepreneurs and small business owners throughout the region. As part of a statewide network, the SBDC helps businesses start, grow, and succeed by offering expertise in areas such as business planning, financial management, marketing, and operations. The Owensboro SBDC is committed to strengthening the local economy by supporting sustainable small business growth.
About the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce
The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce works to support, connect, and advocate for businesses across Greater Owensboro. Through networking opportunities, professional development, policy advocacy, and strategic partnerships, the Chamber helps create a strong business climate and a thriving local economy. Serving businesses of all sizes and industries, the Chamber plays a key role in advancing workforce readiness, entrepreneurship, and regional growth.
About Fastek
Fastek is a technology solutions provider based in Owensboro, Kentucky, specializing in managed IT services, cybersecurity, and strategic technology support for businesses. Founded with a focus on proactive service and long-term partnerships, Fastek helps organizations protect their digital assets, improve efficiency, and confidently navigate an increasingly complex technology landscape. Fastek works with businesses across multiple industries to deliver scalable, secure, and practical IT solutions.
Media Contacts
GOEDC – Summer Aldridge, 270-926-4339
SBDC – Jody Hulsey, 270-574-9990
GO Chamber – Dave Kirk, 270-926-1860
Fastek – Brandon Cox, 270- 240-2840