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WCIA to Host Exclusive AI & Marketing Seminar for Local Business Leaders

EducationCommunityPress Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WCIA to Host Exclusive AI & Marketing Seminar for Local Business Leaders
Complimentary Event Will Help Businesses Stay Visible, Competitive, and Prepared for the Future of AI Search
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — August 4, 2026 — As artificial intelligence continues to transform how consumers discover and choose businesses, WCIA 3 is inviting local business owners, marketing professionals, and community leaders to attend an exclusive educational seminar designed to help organizations stay visible and competitive in an evolving digital landscape.
The event, "Can AI Find Your Business? Stay Visible. Stay Competitive.", will take place on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at the State Farm Center in Champaign and will feature industry experts from Nexstar Media Group and WCIA.
Attendees will gain valuable insights into emerging trends impacting marketing, search visibility, customer acquisition, and digital attribution in a rapidly changing AI-driven environment.
"Consumers are searching differently than they did even a few years ago," said Emily Ramey, Local Sales Manager at WCIA. "Businesses that understand how AI is influencing discovery and decision-making will be better positioned to attract customers and grow. This event is designed to provide practical strategies that organizations can begin implementing immediately."
Featured Speakers
The seminar will feature presentations from:

  • Jon Bodnar, Regional Director of Digital, Nexstar Media Group
  • Abbie Ritchie, Digital Lead, WCIA
  • Emily Ramey, Local Sales Manager, WCIA
Topics will include:
  • Why your leads cost more
  • Why your attribution may be incomplete
  • Whether your current marketing strategy is outdated
  • The impact of AI-powered search tools on local businesses
  • Proven strategies to maintain visibility and generate demand
Event Schedule
Brunch & Learn
  • 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
  • Breakfast provided
  • Overview of key marketing trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping 2026
Luncheon & Learn
  • 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
  • Lunch provided
  • A deeper dive into actionable strategies and real-world success stories
Location: State Farm Center
1800 S. First Street
Champaign, IL 61820
Exclusive Attendee Benefits
Businesses that attend will receive:
  • A custom commercial created upon arrival
  • One ciLiving segment to utilize during 2026
  • Entry into a raffle for tickets to an Illinois Fighting Illini football game
Attendance is invitation only and space is limited.
For additional information or to reserve a spot, interested businesses should contact their WCIA Account Executive.
About WCIA
WCIA 3 is the CBS affiliate serving Central Illinois and is part of Nexstar Media Group, Inc., America's largest local television broadcasting company. WCIA provides local news, weather, sports, and integrated marketing solutions that help businesses connect with consumers across broadcast, digital, streaming, and emerging media platforms.
Media Contact:
WCIA 3 Sales Department
WCIA-TV
Champaign, Illinois
www.wcia.co

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