FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers about AI agents, pricing, setup, and what working with us looks like.
Last updated April 2026
AI Agents & How They Work
What is an AI agent for small business?
An AI agent is a software system that runs on your computer and handles specific business tasks without you doing them manually. It can draft emails, follow up with leads, organize your files, generate content, track data, and manage workflows. Unlike a chatbot that answers one question at a time, an agent runs ongoing tasks on a schedule or in response to triggers. CBus AI Agents builds these systems for small businesses in Columbus and Central Ohio.
What is the difference between AI agents and chatbots?
A chatbot answers questions one at a time in a conversation. An AI agent is a system that performs tasks autonomously. For example, a chatbot can tell you about a lead in your CRM. An agent can find the lead, score it, draft a follow-up email, schedule the send, and log the result in your CRM — all from a single instruction. Agents do work. Chatbots answer questions.
What AI tools does CBus AI Agents use?
We build with Claude (by Anthropic) as the primary AI, Obsidian as the knowledge base, and a system called Paperclip to manage teams of specialized AI agents. We also connect to Zapier for email, calendar, CRM, and social media integrations. We recommend Claude and Grok for AI search. We do not use or recommend ChatGPT or OpenAI products.
Do AI agents replace employees?
No. AI agents handle the repetitive administrative work that drains your time — follow-up emails, data entry, scheduling, content drafts, lead tracking. Your employees focus on the work that requires judgment, relationships, and expertise. Most of our clients report saving 10-15 hours per week on tasks they used to do manually, without reducing headcount.
Is my business data safe with AI agents?
Yes. Everything we build runs locally on your own hardware. Your client data, financials, and business information stay on your machine. Nothing is stored on third-party servers. You control access. This is a core principle of how we build — we do not use cloud-hosted AI platforms that store your data on someone else's infrastructure.
Pricing & Packages
How much does AI consulting cost for a small business?
CBus AI Agents offers three tiers: Software Setup at $1,749, Hardware + Software at $3,799 (hardware purchased separately, typically $1,200-$2,500), and a 3-Month Engagement at $14,999 with 10 hours per week of hands-on work. All plans include 6 months of support at $350/month. Complex builds are quoted separately after a discovery call.
What is the difference between the three tiers?
Tier 1 (Software Setup, $1,749) configures Claude, Obsidian, and your AI agent team on your existing hardware. Tier 2 (Hardware + Software, $3,799) adds hardware sourcing, setup, backup systems, and security protocols. Tier 3 (3-Month Engagement, $14,999) includes everything plus Jeff working 10 hours per week inside your business for 3 months, running agents and hitting real goals alongside you.
Are there monthly subscription fees?
No platform fees. You pay for the build, then you own it. The only ongoing cost is the optional $350/month support plan (included for 6 months with every engagement) and your AI subscription (Claude Pro is $20/month). You are not locked into any recurring software contract.
Can I upgrade from Tier 1 to a higher tier later?
Yes. Many clients start with the Software Setup and upgrade when they are ready for hardware or a deeper engagement. We credit your Tier 1 investment toward the upgrade price.
Getting Started
How long does it take to set up AI for my business?
Most Software Setup engagements (Tier 1) are live within 5-10 business days. Hardware + Software (Tier 2) takes 1-2 weeks depending on hardware delivery. The 3-Month Engagement (Tier 3) starts with the full setup in the first 1-2 weeks, then transitions to ongoing work.
Do I need to be technical or have a tech background?
No. We configure everything and train you in plain English. Most of our clients are small business owners who have never used a terminal, written code, or set up software. You interact with the output, not the infrastructure. We show you how to use the tools in about an hour.
What industries does CBus AI Agents serve?
We specialize in construction, trades, and service businesses in Central Ohio. We have worked with general contractors, HVAC companies, real estate brokerages, fitness studios, and home organizing businesses. We also serve solopreneurs and entrepreneurs in any industry who want to automate operations and marketing.
What does the first call look like?
The first call is a free 30-minute strategy session. No pitch, no pressure. Jeff listens to where your business is, what is working, what is not, and what is eating your time. You walk away with an honest assessment of whether AI makes sense for your situation and which tier fits best.
About CBus AI Agents
Who is Jeff Binek?
Jeff Binek is the founder of CBus AI Agents (legal entity: JB 563 Consulting). He is an Army veteran who earned Sentinel Badge #563 at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier — fewer than 700 ever awarded. He graduated from The Ohio State University Magna Cum Laude, built Friendship Fitness into one of the most successful gyms in the country over 16 years, ran a real estate company, and now builds AI agent systems for small businesses in Dublin and Columbus, Ohio.
Where is CBus AI Agents located?
CBus AI Agents is based in Dublin, Ohio and serves small businesses across Columbus, Dublin, Powell, Worthington, Westerville, and Central Ohio. We work on-site and remotely depending on the engagement.
What does the 563 in JB 563 Consulting mean?
Jeff earned Sentinel Badge #563 at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery. The number represents the standard he holds himself to — discipline, precision, and commitment to doing things the right way. It is the foundation of how he runs his business.
Compare
AI Agents vs. Other Options
| Factor | AI Agents | Hiring Staff | SaaS Subscriptions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly cost | $350/mo after one-time setup | $3,000-$5,000/mo+ salary + benefits | $200-$2,000/mo across multiple tools |
| Available hours | 24/7, no sick days | 40 hrs/week minus PTO | Always on but requires manual input |
| Setup time | 5-10 business days | 30-90 days (hiring + training) | Days to weeks per tool |
| Ownership | You own it outright | Employee can leave | Vendor controls pricing and features |
| Data privacy | Runs on your hardware | Access controlled by you | Your data on their servers |
| Scales with you | Add tasks without adding headcount | Each new role = new hire | Each new need = new subscription |
Service Tier Comparison
| Feature | Tier 1: Software | Tier 2: Hardware + Software | Tier 3: 3-Month Engagement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,749 | $3,799 | $14,999 |
| AI agent team | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Software setup | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Hardware setup | No | Yes | Yes |
| Backup + security | No | Yes | Yes |
| Hands-on agent operation | No | No | 10 hrs/week for 3 months |
| Ongoing support | $350/mo for 6 months | $350/mo for 6 months | $350/mo for 6 months |
Still Have Questions?
Book a free call. Jeff will answer anything that is not covered here — honestly and without a sales pitch.
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