Apparo & Regions Bank Help 9 Nonprofits Supporting Small Businesses Strengthen Technology, Cybersecurity, & AI Readiness

Ten-week cohort helps nonprofits build technology plans, strengthen cybersecurity, and prepare for AI adoption.

CHARLOTTE, NC, UNITED STATES, September 3, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Apparo, in partnership with Regions Bank, has successfully completed a 10-week Technology Foundations Cohort that equipped nine nonprofits serving small businesses with the tools, knowledge, and strategic guidance needed to strengthen their technology practices and better support their communities.

"Strong communities depend on strong nonprofit organizations," said Gina Sian, Head of Making Life Better Institute at Regions Bank. "Through this partnership with Apparo, our associates were able to share their expertise in ways that help nonprofits plan for the future and operate more effectively. We are proud to support organizations that are creating opportunities for small businesses and helping their communities thrive."


The cohort, which ran from May through July 2026, paired nonprofit organizations with Regions Bank senior technology leaders who provided mentorship, technology assessments, and strategic planning support. Participants also attended workshops covering cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, user experience, and data management, helping them build a stronger foundation for long-term growth and operational effectiveness.


Participating organizations included: Community Enterprise Investments, Inc. (CEII), Conexion Americas, Entrepreneurship Center for Growth and Excellence, Main Street Alabama, MMBC Continuum, Pinellas County Urban League, Project Prosper, Inc., Project Restart Atlanta, Inc., The Allapattah Collaborative CDC


Throughout the program, participating nonprofits developed technology roadmaps and identified opportunities to improve operations, cybersecurity, digital tools, and future planning. “Before this program, we had never had a technology plan and didn't know where to start,” said Faye Steinhauser, Project Prosper, Inc. “Now, we have tangible goals, including creating an AI policy and planning ahead for equipment needs. With a four-person staff, even one computer going down can have a big impact, so this helped us think proactively. We're grateful to Apparo, Regions Bank, and our mentor KaSandra Smith for giving us a clear starting point.”


The program was also helpful for newer organizations to validate and strengthen their technology strategies. “As a new organization, the assessment reassured us that we're on the right track and helped me feel more confident in my role as the IT liaison,” said Danielle Tipton, Entrepreneurship Center for Growth and Excellence. “Apparo's resources, especially the policy templates and focus on AI and cybersecurity, have been incredibly helpful. I'm grateful to Apparo, Regions Bank, and our mentor Tom Butler for the guidance and support.”


For Regions Bank volunteers, the experience created opportunities to apply professional expertise in service of meaningful community impact. “It was so fulfilling to support Project Restart, a nonprofit that focuses on helping people with criminal records transition back into society,” said Keith Cain, Regions Bank technology mentor. “The work they're doing is amazing, selfless, and humbling. Using my technology skills from Regions to address an immediate need was incredibly rewarding. I appreciated seeing how much Tiffany Kirk has to juggle and what a great job she is doing. I appreciate Apparo for the opportunity to be part of this experience as a mentor.”


Working alongside Community Enterprise Investments, Inc., Shannon Powers helped address several key technology priorities. “It was meaningful to work with CEII and support an organization focused on affordable housing,” said Shannon Powers, Regions Bank technology mentor. “Together, we tackled significant technology goals, including creating a plan to move from Windows 10 to Windows 11, improving payment processes for tenants, and strengthening document retention and cybersecurity policies. It was great to help them build a clearer path forward.”


“Technology should never be a barrier to nonprofit impact,” said Kristen Reed, VP of Advancement, Apparo. “Through our partnership with Regions Bank, these organizations gained practical tools, strategic guidance, and trusted relationships that will help them make more informed technology decisions in the years ahead. We are grateful for the expertise and commitment Regions volunteers brought to this cohort and proud of the progress each participating nonprofit achieved.”


This Technology Foundations Cohort reflects Apparo and Regions Bank's shared commitment to strengthening nonprofit capacity through technology expertise, skilled volunteering, and strategic support. By helping nonprofits build stronger technology foundations, the program ultimately expands their ability to serve entrepreneurs, small businesses, and communities throughout and beyond the Southeast.


About Apparo

Apparo is a Charlotte-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit that empowers nonprofits through technology, business process improvements, and skilled corporate volunteer partnerships. By connecting organizations with strategic consulting, technology expertise, and implementation support, Apparo helps nonprofits strengthen operations, improve efficiency, and expand their community impact. Since its founding, Apparo has supported hundreds of nonprofits in building greater resiliency and sustainability, enabling them to adapt to evolving community needs and create lasting social impact. Learn more at www.apparo.org.

Alyssa Maynard
Apparo
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