Headway BPO of America LLC (HBS) hosted the “AI Powered Small Business & Economic Growth Forum 2026” on March 6, 2026, at Bhartiya Vidya Bhavan USA in Manhattan. The event aimed to bridge the gap between “cutting-edge technology and small business success,” attracting more than 100 business leaders, policymakers, and global innovators.
The forum opened with welcoming remarks by Director of Headway BPO of America LLC, Anupam Dutta. As the event’s host and presenter, Dutta emphasized the mission of HBS, described as a global tech-enabled services provider specializing in AI workforce training, digital transformation, and business consulting. According to a statement from Headway BPO, the organization focuses on empowering small and medium enterprises through sustainable growth models.

Executive Chairman of the Indian American International Chamber of Commerce (IAICC), Appen Menon, attended the forum as Guest of Honor. He highlighted the “Collaborative Ecosystem” created through the partnership among HBS, IAICC, the Women’s Federation for World Peace International (WFWPI), and Bhartiya Vidya Bhavan USA.
The keynote address was delivered by Man-Li Lin, an Economic Development Specialist with the Small Business Administration (SBA). Her presentation offered insights into SBA programs and public-private partnerships designed to support women- and minority-owned businesses, the statement noted. The session was followed by a question-and-answer segment that allowed entrepreneurs to engage directly with government initiatives.

A segment titled “Government & Tech Insights” featured several experts from government and industry. Ebony Young, Deputy Queens Borough President, spoke about local economic and community development initiatives. Rajneesh Kumar, Director of Vaani Technology, discussed practical technology solutions that can help businesses remain competitive in a rapidly evolving marketplace. Carmen Skipworth, Global AI Speaker and Advisor for HBS, addressed the growing role of AI automation in everyday business operations.
During the “Global Commerce & Leadership” segment, representatives from international chambers and business organizations discussed the importance of fostering a diverse and inclusive business ecosystem.

Speakers included James S. Kim of the Korean American Chamber of Commerce USA, Eliza Prendzov of Prend Capital, and Jenny Low of Empire State Development, who outlined pathways for minority business development and state-level support for emerging enterprises.
The forum also featured a curated Fashion Runway Showcase that blended lifestyle and technology. “This segment celebrated women-led brands that are utilizing sustainable, technology-driven growth models to redefine the fashion and wellness industries,” the statement noted. The showcase underscored how innovation can extend beyond software to shape new creative and commercial business models.
Certificates of appreciation were presented to the speakers and distinguished guests in recognition of their contributions to the small business community. The presentation was led by Dutta, who also expressed gratitude to Menon for his leadership and continued support.



