Business Briefs: Coast360 powers up Maite; AI training for Rota business owners

 Coast360 backs Maite's solar initiative

The Municipality of Mongmong-Toto-Maite has partnered with Coast360 Federal Credit Union to help fund the installation of solar-powered streetlights across key areas in the village. Coast360 donated $5,000 in support of this initiative.

“With Coast360’s financial support, we were able to complete the installation of the 10 new lights around key bus stops and our well-used playground area. What was once dim and overlooked is now brighter, safer, and more welcoming for families," Mayor Rudy Paco said. "These improvements not only enhance visibility but also help deter crime and promote a stronger sense of security for our residents."

Coast360 emphasized the importance of supporting both safety and sustainability within local neighborhoods.

“Our commitment to ‘People helping people’ defines us as a credit union and drives our efforts in the community,” said Gener Deliquina, CEO of Coast360.

The street light project aims to improve safety, energy efficiency, and sustainability, aligning with broader efforts to embrace renewable energy solutions across the island. 

Rota SBDC wraps up AI training for small business owners 

Rota— Twelve local small business owners representing various industries and skill levels participated in the training on artificial intelligence applications hosted on July 10 by the Rota Small Business Development Center at the Northern Marianas College Rota campus.

The training, billed “Let AI Handle Your Day-to-Day Grind,” was designed to teach participants how AI can transform their business operations.

Participants learned how to create strategic social media content, generate compelling marketing materials, batch and schedule posts efficiently, and use data to measure success.

"This training was about making AI approachable for business owners at all levels," said Roman Tudela, CNMI SBDC marketing manager, who facilitated a session focused on helping entrepreneurs streamline their marketing strategies.

Participants also engaged in hands-on demonstrations and real-time content creation, proving that no matter the size or experience of a business, technology can help lighten the load. 

“This training has been transformative for streamlining my business operations with AI tools. Learning to automate marketing tasks and measure results strategically freed up invaluable time to focus on growth," said Joseph Camacho, a CNMI SBDC client.