HoW Teen Entrepreneurs plan to leverage AI
Imagine a future where small businesses thrive without employees—powered entirely by AI. For today’s teens, this isn’t just a possibility—it’s their plan. As they enter the workforce, these young innovators are turning to AI tools to streamline operations and cut costs, reshaping how businesses operate.
With National Entrepreneurship Month approaching, new insights from Junior Achievement (JA) reveal that 47% of aspiring teen entrepreneurs plan to use AI tools—like ChatGPT or MidJourney—instead of hiring employees. They see these tools as a way to boost efficiency and build smarter businesses.
A Positive Shift Toward AI-Driven Entrepreneurship
“At first glance, it may seem concerning that teens want to use AI instead of hiring employees,” says Dr. Les McCabe, JASoCal President and CEO. “But many small businesses don’t require a full staff, so using AI for cost-effective growth is actually a positive trend.”
This approach aligns with broader business trends: 81% of U.S. small businesses operate without employees, according to the Small Business Administration (SBA). The next generation is ready to leverage AI to handle operations, giving them more time to innovate and create.
Key Data on Teen Entrepreneurship and AI
In a survey of 1,004 teens aged 13-17, JA found several significant trends in teen entrepreneurship and the role of technology in their plans:
- 71% of teens intend to start a business, though this is down from 76% in 2023.
- 29% cite social media influencers as a source of entrepreneurial inspiration, with 22% crediting school programs.
- Top business interests include influencer careers (19%), service-based businesses (12%), and retail (10%).
These findings show that influencer culture and service-based businesses are becoming more popular among young people. While formal programs still play a role, many teens turn to social media role models for practical, achievable ideas.
Teen entrepreneurs see AI tools as essential for reducing startup costs and boosting efficiency. Popular AI applications they plan to use include:
- Chatbots to handle customer service 24/7
- Design software for creating social media content, ads, and logos
- Content generation tools for blog writing and product descriptions
By automating repetitive tasks, teens aim to focus on innovation and customer relationships, two factors that will help them scale without significant hiring or overhead.
JA is Empowering the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs
As we celebrate National Entrepreneurship Month, it’s clear that teens’ entrepreneurial spirit remains strong. However, lasting success requires more than technology; it relies on skills like leadership, financial literacy, and mentorship. Junior Achievement programs—such as JA Finance Park, JA Job Shadow, JA Company Program, and the innovative 3DE education model—are essential for developing these skills.
These programs provide real-world, practical education that equips teens to succeed in both business and life. By combining foundational skills with advanced tools, JA helps students become tomorrow’s innovators and leaders, prepared to navigate the challenges of a rapidly evolving business landscape.
