Shirt Lab announces AI Summit for apparel decorators

Shirt Lab, a training community for decorated apparel professionals, announced the launch of the Shirt Lab AI Summit, taking place Aug. 7–8 in Chicago, proudly hosted by M&R.

This two-day interactive event is designed for shop owners, sales pros, and marketers who want to stop guessing and start using AI tools to sell smarter, market better, and operate more efficiently.

“The future isn’t knocking. It’s kicking in the door,” said Shirt Lab Co-Founder Ali Banholzer, who will open the summit with a session designed specifically for attendees who are starting from zero. “I’m not a tech whiz. I’m a shop owner who figured out which AI tools truly move the needle. Each of us speaking at the summit wants others to see how AI can help them get unstuck, take action, and grow with confidence.”

According to the company, the Shirt Lab AI Summit is not a trade show and not a webinar. It’s a working session focused on real applications, clear direction, and the shared challenges of modern print shops and merch brands.

The event will be hosted at M&R’s facility, where attendees will not only experience Shirt Lab’s signature education sessions but also enjoy hospitality, networking, and a behind-the-scenes look at “one of the most respected names in the industry.” M&R will also be providing on-site food options throughout the summit, including Thursday evening happy hour with food trucks and Friday morning breakfast.

Five industry pros. Five ways to level up!

Attendees will learn from five decorated apparel leaders who are already using AI tools to drive results inside real businesses:

• Ali Banholzer (Wear Your Spirit Warehouse): AI for beginners — where to start, what to use, and how to get past the overwhelm.
• Mark Coudray (Catalyst Plan): Developing a future-focused mindset that helps leaders adapt and thrive.
• Brittany Long (Win With Systems): Building repeatable sales systems using AI without losing the human touch.
• Lori Feldman (The Database Diva): Using AI to create marketing that connects, converts, and sounds like you.
• Jon Ladd (Terminus Tees): Streamlining shop operations with automation, scheduling tools, and internal AI workflows.

What’s included:

• A tour of M&R, the Innovation Lab, and demos of new technology
• Micro trade show with tech-forward solutions and tools
• Guided AI sessions on sales, marketing, ops, ethics, and mindset
• Panel discussion with all five presenters and a Q&A session
• All meals, networking, and a closing celebration dinner

Registration & details:

Capacity is limited to 80 attendees to maximize learning and connection. Tickets are available now at $495, with a discounted rate of $295 for Shirt Lab Tribe members.

There is a virtual option to view the education sessions as well.

Visit shirtlabtribe.com/AiSummit or contact [email protected] for media inquiries, sponsorship opportunities, or to reserve your seat.