PORCH Talk | Transforming your Business with AI

Free Event

Date

Friday, July 24, 2026

Time

1:00 AM - 1:45 AM

Type
In-person

About this event

Transforming Your Business with AI: Practical Strategies for Entrepreneurs
Join Porch for a 45-minute virtual session with the CEO of RooTree Analytics Inc. as we explore how entrepreneurs can leverage artificial intelligence to improve their businesses, streamline operations, and unlock new opportunities.
AI is rapidly changing the way businesses operate, from automating everyday tasks to improving customer experiences and making smarter decisions. In this session, you’ll learn practical ways to integrate AI into your business, regardless of your industry or stage of growth.
What you’ll learn:
How AI can help you save time and increase efficiency
Practical AI tools and strategies entrepreneurs can start using today
How to identify opportunities for AI within your business
Common mistakes to avoid when adopting AI
Future trends entrepreneurs should be paying attention to.
Whether you’re a founder, small business owner, or aspiring entrepreneur, this session will give you actionable insights to help you work smarter and grow your business with AI.
Speaker- Ashiesh Gndhi
Having spent 20+ years founding and running ventures across Canada, the UAE, and India - agencies, a data and analytics SaaS, a few bets at the edge of AI and cybersecurity. Somewhere along the way, he stopped being the person who wants the spotlight and became the person who figures out what to build, why, and who should build it. Lately, almost all of that energy goes into AI - the practical kind. Not the demo that wows a boardroom and quietly dies in a pilot. The boring, valuable kind: finding where a business leaks time and money, designing the automation or AI workflow that plugs it, and making sure it actually ships and keeps running. What he's good at:
Walking into a messy operation and finding where the real bottlenecks are.
Designing AI and automation that solves a specific problem - n&n, LLMs, CRM, and data pipelines - without the bloated scope.
Leading the people who build it, so the thing gets done instead of getting reported as done.
Translating between the business side and the technical side. That seam is where most projects actually break.

He's currently the founder of RooTree Analytic, co-founder and Chief AI Officer at Intruxion X (OT/loT security), and an Entrepreneur-in-Residence at VentureLAB - where he works with founders on the unglamorous questions: what's real, what's next, and what's actually worth their money.
About PORCH

PORCH is an exclusive club of international entrepreneurs who have been there, done that, and are still doing it. They have come together to support one another on the personal side of the journey (from living to finance to relationships) to learn and grow, and to share their superpowers.
From ongoing virtual and IRL events to 24/7 discussion, learning, and relationships, PORCH levels the playing field and gives you a greater chance at success.
More on PORCH | JOIN THE CLUB TODAY

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Networking Tips & FAQ

How do I start a conversation with someone new?

Starting a conversation at a networking event can feel intimidating, but remember that everyone is there for the same reason. Here are some effective approaches:

  • Ask open-ended questions: "What brings you to this event?" or "What industry are you in?"
  • Find common ground: Comment on something in the environment or mention a shared experience from the event
  • Be genuine: Authentic interest in others is more memorable than a rehearsed pitch
  • Listen actively: Show genuine interest in their response and ask follow-up questions
What should I talk about during networking conversations?

Focus on building genuine connections rather than immediately selling yourself. Great conversation topics include:

  • Their work and interests: Ask about their current projects, challenges, or what excites them professionally
  • Industry trends: Discuss recent developments or changes in your shared field
  • Common experiences: Share insights about the event itself or similar networking experiences
  • Future goals: Talk about aspirations and how you might help each other achieve them
  • Avoid: Controversial topics, complaints, or dominating the conversation
How do I craft an effective elevator pitch?

An elevator pitch should be concise, memorable, and tailored to your audience. Structure it like this:

  • Who you are: Your name and current role or expertise (10 seconds)
  • What you do: A clear, jargon-free explanation of your work or value proposition (15 seconds)
  • What makes you unique: A distinctive quality, achievement, or perspective (10 seconds)
  • What you're looking for: How others can help you or how you can help them (5 seconds)

Pro tip: Practice your pitch until it sounds natural, not rehearsed. Adapt it based on who you're talking to.

How should I follow up after the event?

Following up within 24-48 hours is crucial for maintaining the connections you made. Here's how to do it effectively:

  • Personalize your message: Reference something specific from your conversation to show you were paying attention
  • Add value: Share a relevant article, introduce them to someone, or offer to help with something they mentioned
  • Be clear about next steps: Suggest a coffee meeting, phone call, or collaboration if appropriate
  • Connect on LinkedIn: Send a personalized connection request mentioning where you met
  • Keep it brief: Respect their time with a concise, friendly message

Remember: Quality over quantity. It's better to have meaningful follow-ups with a few people than generic messages to many.

How many business cards should I bring?

While business cards are still useful, the approach has evolved:

  • Bring 20-30 cards: Enough for meaningful connections without being excessive
  • Focus on quality exchanges: Only exchange cards after a genuine conversation, not as a handshake replacement
  • Use digital alternatives: Consider LinkedIn QR codes or digital business card apps for instant connection
  • Take notes: Jot down a reminder on the back of cards you receive about what you discussed
  • Follow up promptly: Use the card as a prompt to connect within 24-48 hours
What's the best way to exit a conversation gracefully?

Leaving a conversation politely is an important networking skill. Here are some effective strategies:

  • Express appreciation: "It's been great talking with you. I really enjoyed learning about..."
  • Exchange contact information: "Let's stay in touch. Can I get your card?"
  • Give a reason: "I should probably mingle a bit more" or "I see someone I've been meaning to connect with"
  • End on a positive note: "I look forward to continuing our conversation" or "Let's connect on LinkedIn"
  • Be honest but kind: If you need a break, it's okay to say you're stepping away for a moment

Remember: Most people appreciate a natural conversation flow. Aim for 5-10 minute conversations, then move on to meet others.

How can I make the most of this networking event?

Maximize your networking success with these strategies:

  • Set goals: Aim to make 3-5 meaningful connections rather than collecting dozens of cards
  • Arrive early: Smaller crowds make it easier to start conversations
  • Be present: Put away your phone and focus on the people around you
  • Ask for introductions: If you meet someone interesting, ask if they can introduce you to others
  • Take breaks: Networking can be draining—step outside or grab water when needed
  • Follow up: The real value comes from maintaining relationships after the event