Pasadena Chamber expands webinar lineup, adds AI training

The Pasadena Chamber is adding more webinars, including sessions about a Japan trip, tariff refunds, and using AI in business. The AI webinar may help companies understand both the benefits and limits of automation, with topics such as chatbots and bookkeeping. There is also a special focus on small businesses, as many appear to be interested in using AI tools, though some workers reportedly worry about its impact on company reputation. The Chamber's schedule includes over 30 events in May, both online and in-person. Businesses might be able to get tariff refunds if they meet certain conditions set after a court ruling, but there could be waiting times and taxes on the refunds.

The Pasadena Chamber is expanding its webinar lineup, adding new AI training and other key virtual business sessions to support local companies. This initiative combines traditional networking with focused digital education, covering topics from a Japan trip preview and tariff refunds to leveraging AI, as detailed in a Pasadena Now report. Alongside its growing digital menu, the Chamber maintains a full schedule of in-person gatherings throughout the month.

New Webinars: A Closer Look

The Chamber is introducing several new online sessions to complement its in-person events. The new webinars include a preview of a group tour to Japan, a clinic on securing potential tariff refunds, and a practical workshop on implementing artificial intelligence tools for small business operations and growth.

Japan Trip Preview - A free preview on May 12 at 5 p.m. for a nine-day tour of Japan. The $3,699 price covers round-trip airfare and accommodations.
Tariff Refunds Clinic - An upcoming session for firms that may be eligible for duty refunds, detailing the step-by-step refund process.
AI in Business - Part of the BizBoost series, this webinar features strategist Greg Clarke on practical AI use cases. The session will guide companies through AI's capabilities and limitations.

May Highlights Beyond the Screen

May 14: PFC Matthew K Guyon Golf Tournament supporting community programs.
May 18: Board Meeting, open to members for policy updates.
May 28: Industrial Appreciation Membership Luncheon connecting the region's largest employers.

Tariff Refunds: Key Eligibility Checkpoints

Recent regulatory developments may allow for refunds on certain duties collected under specific trade regulations. The Chamber's clinic will align with federal guidance. Businesses should verify eligibility requirements before filing:

You were the importer of record and paid tariffs directly during the specified timeframe.
Relevant entries have been liquidated within the required timeframe.
Refunds do not apply to sectoral tariffs like Section 232 or antidumping duties.
The original customs broker must submit claims via the appropriate portal system.
Refunds may take several months and are taxable if the duty was previously deducted.

AI Session Focuses on Small-Company Impact

The BizBoost AI webinar addresses key business trends. Industry reports indicate that a growing number of small firms are investing in AI, with managers reporting significant time savings through automation. The session will cover:

Lead Qualification: Using agent-style chatbots to manage leads.
Automated Bookkeeping: Reducing error rates and saving time.
AI Generalists: How to leverage AI in lean teams for broad impact.

Speakers will also address common concerns, as many workers express worry that over-reliance on AI could harm a company's brand reputation.

How to Register

Registration for these webinars is free. To reserve your spot, find one-click registration links for each session on the Pasadena Chamber's events calendar. For more information, you can also call the Chamber at 626-795-3355.

What new webinars is the Pasadena Chamber adding to its calendar?

The Chamber is rolling out three focused webinars this quarter:
- Japan group tour preview (May 12, 5 p.m.) - 9-day September package at $3,699 including airfare, hotels and most meals
- Tariff refund workshop - step-by-step help for companies that may be eligible for duty refunds
- AI for everyday operations - hands-on session on affordable tools that automate marketing, bookkeeping and customer service

Who qualifies for tariff refunds that will be covered in the webinar?

Only businesses that were the importer of record and personally paid the applicable tariffs during the specified timeframe are eligible. If you used a customs broker or simply absorbed higher vendor prices, you may not qualify to file. The webinar will show how to check entry summaries and upload proof of payment through the appropriate portal system.

How much time can AI tools really save a small team?

Industry reports suggest that employees can save significant time after basic AI adoption, with managers typically seeing greater time savings. Applied to a small firm, this could equal substantial capacity gains without a new hire.

What will the Japan trip webinar cover besides price?

The May 12 session walks through the day-by-day itinerary, airline options from LAX, accommodation star ratings, included meals, optional excursions and group visa support. Attendees also receive a $100 early-bird coupon valid for registrations completed within 48 hours of the webinar.

How do I sign up for these webinars?

All three webinars are free to attend live. Reserve a seat through the Pasadena Chamber events calendar where each listing has a one-click "Register" button. Recordings are provided only to members.