Workshop Three: The Digital Main Street | Social Media & Storytelling for 2026 and Beyond

About this workshop

The rules of social media have changed, and authentic businesses are winning. In this forward-looking workshop, attendees will explore the biggest social media and AI trends shaping 2026 and 2027, including short-form video, community storytelling, authentic content, and strategic use of artificial intelligence.

You’ll learn how to:

• Explore the biggest social media and AI trends shaping 2026 and 2027.
• Create engaging content using short-form video, community storytelling, and authentic content.
• Use artificial intelligence strategically to support your marketing efforts.
• Build a digital presence that attracts customers while showcasing the best of your community.
• Collaborate with other businesses to strengthen your online reach and reputation.

Who should attend

This workshop is designed for small business owners, entrepreneurs, marketers, and organizations looking to strengthen their social media presence, improve customer engagement, and prepare for the future of digital marketing.

What you’ll walk away with

Participants will leave with practical tools to create engaging content, strengthen their online reputation, collaborate with other businesses, and build a digital presence that attracts customers while showcasing the best of their community.

Presented by

Andy Gyurisin, Director, Laurel Ridge Small Business Development Center

Registration

There is no fee to attend, but registration is required.

Funding Disclosure

The Virginia SBDC Network is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration, Commonwealth of Virginia, George Mason University, and local host institutions. Full disclosures regarding federal funding are available at virginiasbdc.org/funding-sources. The Virginia SBDC is nationally accredited by America’s SBDC.