How To Make Money With AI: 19 Ideas (2026)

Artificial intelligence has become an essential tool in many industries. Generative AI completes repetitive tasks like answering customer questions, while the latest AI tools perform complex processes like designing product schematics and writing software. These advancements make AI a great opportunity for making money online.

The best part: You don’t need expensive AI technology to start earning. You can launch an AI-powered business using accessible tools like Google Gemini or ChatGPT. The key is using AI to solve real problems faster and more efficiently than before—not trying to invent new technology.

Here’s an overview of AI business ideas and artificial intelligence tools, and tips on how to make money with AI.

TL;DR: Quickest ways to earn with AI

Here’s how different skills translate into AI income streams and how fast you can expect to see results.

What is AI? 

Before diving into money-making opportunities, let’s clarify what we mean by AI. Artificial intelligence refers to computer systems designed to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence. Like the human brain, AI systems can learn from experience (known as “training”), adapt to changes, and improve over time.

Today’s AI landscape includes:

• Generative AI. Tools that create text, images, code, or audio based on what they’ve learned. Think ChatGPT (text), DALL·E (images), and GitHub Copilot (code).
• Machine learning (ML). The broader concept of computers learning from data to make decisions or predictions. Most AI writing/art tools are powered by ML under the hood.
• Deep learning. A type of ML that uses multilayered neural networks. It’s why machines are good at things like image recognition and speech to text.

Can you use AI to make money?

Yes, you absolutely can use AI to make money. AI can help you earn by speeding up content and design work, automating customer service, improving marketing performance, and powering new products. You don’t need to build the next ChatGPT or have a computer science degree to cash in, either—commercial tools let you turn skills into services, launch faster, and work more efficiently. 

• Create and sell AI-assisted content
• Offer AI graphic design and video editing services
• Build chatbots or automations for small businesses
• Launch an AI-optimized online store and marketing funnel
• Provide AI data analysis and dashboards 

“More recently, I’m using [AI] to understand my analytics,” says Shari Gail Chua, founder of Soft Life Sleepwear. “I love seeing how I can improve. I ask it questions like ’How can I increase my conversion rates?’”

How to make money using AI: 19 ideas

1. AI ecommerce
2. AI software development
3. AI data analytics
4. AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants
5. AI written content
6. AI prompt engineer
7. AI graphic design
8. AI website creation
9. AI video editing
10. AI digital marketing
11. AI affiliate marketing
12. AI translation services
13. AI-powered predictive analytics in finance
14. AI-based training programs
15. AI hiring and recruitment
16. AI cybersecurity
17. AI inventory management
18. AI agricultural management
19. AI in supply chain optimization

The speed at which artificial intelligence has developed has allowed it to transform countless industries, from writing to data analytics. Market trends have fueled a surge in AI applications throughout the economy, making it easier than ever to find ways to make money using AI. In fact, Statista predicts that the AI market size will reach $1.01 trillion by 2031.

Here are a few ideas to explore if you’re looking to monetize AI.

1. AI ecommerce

AI is revolutionizing online selling, making it easier than ever to launch and scale an ecommerce business—no technical expertise or big budget required. Today’s AI-powered ecommerce platforms handle everything from store design to product descriptions, letting you focus on what matters: building a brand that connects with customers.

Some entrepreneurs are making thousands of dollars monthly by combining AI with smart product selection and targeted marketing. AI is expected to add $9.01 billion to the ecommerce industry this year, meaning more opportunities for savvy business owners. The key is using AI to handle the heavy lifting while you bring your unique vision and customer knowledge to the table.

For example, you can use Shopify’s AI website builder to create a free store design in minutes. Enter a quick description of your business or products to generate custom themes with a unique look tailored for your industry. Try any theme and customize it further to fit your brand.

Once your store is live, Shopify Magic can help write product descriptions and marketing copy, while Sidekick acts as your built-in assistant for answering setup questions and handling everyday tasks. Together, these AI tools let you move from idea to first sale faster.

Timeline: You could get your first sale in two to eight weeks (faster with paid ads).

2. AI software development 

AI tools can write the code that powers all kinds of software applications, from websites to mobile apps to automation tools. 

This saves time and brainpower, cutting out the tedious parts of coding and letting you focus on strategy and user experience. You could build a freelance business around this by offering software development or automation services while using AI coding assistants like GitHub Copilot or ChatGPT to speed up your work and take on more clients.

The software you create with AI can also include AI models. For example, you could use machine learning models to build an automated bookkeeping app that categorizes expenses and generates financial reports on its own. Or you could design custom chatbots, AI writing assistants, or niche tools for specific industries.

Timeline: Land a first paid build in two to six weeks (if you already have a portfolio) or one to three months from scratch.

3. AI data analytics

AI data analytics services turn raw data into insights using deep learning, natural language processing, (NLP) and sometimes computer vision (depending on the nature of the data and the insights sought) to deliver data-driven marketing. You can use AI technologies to gain insights, optimize processes, produce data visualization, and create new industry opportunities.

According to McKinsey, 78% of companies now use AI in at least one business function, driving strong demand for data-driven insights. Many businesses pay for actionable information that can drive decision-making. Some of the leading AI data analytics products include RapidMiner, DataRobot, and Domino.

Because this kind of information is so valuable, data analysts get paid well. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, data scientists earn a median annual salary of $112,590 a year. 

Timeline: You could get your first paid analysis in three to six weeks via freelance platforms or warm leads.

4. AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants

There’s strong demand for customer service AI chatbots. Unlike human representatives, powerful AI bots can generate thousands of replies per minute, letting you respond to customers quickly and efficiently.

Create and provide AI chatbots or virtual assistants to businesses looking to enhance their customer service operations. You can make money with AI by personalizing your chatbots to automate responses and improve customer satisfaction on clients’ websites or platforms.

Timeline: Minimum viable product (MVP) in one to three weeks, first client in four to eight weeks.

5. AI written content

Thanks to NLP, AI writing tools can specialize in content creation that mimics human-like style with impressive accuracy. For example, freelance writers can use AI writing tools to generate ideas and write faster than they could unassisted. AI-powered content generation streamlines the creative process, which opens up writers’ bandwidth to offer their services to more freelance clients, leading to higher pay without much additional effort.

In today’s business landscape, where AI tools like OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google Gemini contribute to content creation, the role of an editor becomes crucial to ensure content quality, coherence, and alignment with brand values. That means even if you don’t use AI applications for content creation, you could make money with AI by becoming an editor of AI content—offering a human touch to the large-volume output of AI tools.

Here are some examples of how prompts can get different results:

Prompt:Write a paragraph about the beaches in Ibiza

Output: 

Ibiza’s beaches are as diverse as the island itself—from long, golden stretches perfect for sunbathing to hidden coves tucked between rugged cliffs. On the north coast, spots like Cala Xarraca and Benirràs offer crystal-clear waters and a slower, more tranquil vibe, ideal for snorkeling or watching the sunset drums. In contrast, the south and west coasts buzz with energy—think Playa d’en Bossa’s beach clubs, chilled beats at Cala Jondal, and vibrant sunsets at Cala Comte. Whether you’re after quiet turquoise waters, bohemian beach bars, or postcard-perfect views, Ibiza’s coastline delivers a little piece of paradise for every kind of traveler.

Prompt: Write a paragraph about the beaches in Ibiza for an audience of 20- to 30-year-olds, including some history. Use a fun and inspiring tone of voice. 

Output: 

Ibiza’s beaches have been drawing free spirits since the hippie movement of the 1960s—and that laid-back, sun-soaked energy is still alive today. Picture golden sands, turquoise water, and music drifting from a nearby beach bar as you sip something cold and fruity. From the legendary sunset at Cala Comte to the party vibes of Playa d’en Bossa and the hidden coves of Cala Saladeta, every stretch of coastline has its own personality. Whether you’re here to dance till dawn, swim in crystal-clear water, or just watch the sky turn orange with friends, Ibiza’s beaches are where history, freedom, and fun all collide.

Timeline: First paid assignment in one to two weeks with samples and steady pipeline in one to three months.

6. AI prompt engineer

Another growing opportunity in this space is prompt engineering, a.k.a. the art of writing instructions that get AI tools to produce exactly what you want. 

Prompt engineers get paid to design prompt systems and guardrails and connect prompts to business outcomes. You can package it as a service (e.g., “AI content system in two weeks,” “sales inbox triage with prompts + automations,” or “analytics brief generator”) and price on the value you unlock.

Here are some examples of prompts:

Before: “Write a blog post about customer onboarding.”

After: “You are a senior B2B SaaS content strategist. Create a detailed outline (H2/H3) for a 1,200-word post on ’Customer Onboarding for Mid-Market SaaS.’ Audience: product marketers. Tone: practical and concise. Include: (1) a 5-step framework, (2) 3 real examples, (3) KPI list, (4) a checklist CTA.”

Before: “Summarize these notes.”

After: “Turn the interview notes below into (1) a 5-bullet executive summary, (2) a table with pain > desired outcome > exact quote, (3) 3 headline options under 60 characters. Keep brand voice: plainspoken, no hype.”

Before: “Write a Python script to remove duplicate emails.”

After: “Write a Python script that reads subscribers.csv, de-duplicates by email (case-insensitive), keeps the most recent updated_at, and writes subscribers_clean.csv. Print how many rows were removed.”

Timeline: First client in two to six weeks with strong case studies; retainers in one to three months.

7. AI graphic design

Many AI-powered tools can produce AI-generated art for a variety of purposes. For example, you can use AI image generators for digital artwork like logos, web design, t-shirt graphics, and more. Use a powerful tool like Midjourney or DALL-E to speed up the process of creating digital art for your clients. Once clients sign off on a concept, you can use your editing skills to customize and perfect the AI-generated artwork.

Typically, you only need to prompt an AI art generator with a text description of your design idea, and the tool can create images based on your words. You can also use an AI-assisted design tool like Adobe Sensei or Canva to develop your visual concepts.

Timeline: First paid design in one to two weeks; repeat clients in one to two months.

8. AI website creation

AI tools can design and build websites with remarkable speed. Using AI tools, you can create a custom website that aligns with your objectives, such as an ecommerce site or photography portfolio. This might mean building sites for clients, or designing your own website to represent your business.

Timeline: First client site delivered in one to two weeks; referrals kick in around one to two months.

9. AI video editing

AI tools can now cut and edit videos based on a series of written inputs. AI video editing software like Pictory AI and Animoto works on everything from low-budget YouTube videos to professional films, TV shows, and commercials.

If you have foundational skills in video editing, incorporating AI tools can enhance your efficiency, helping you speed up the editing process. This productivity boost can help you accommodate more clients. While a human editor’s oversight remains valuable, advances in machine learning have enabled software to generate AI video content with reduced need for manual intervention.

Timeline: First project in one to three weeks; ongoing gigs in one to two months.

10. AI digital marketing

There are AI tools to handle nearly every aspect of digital marketing and even help you manage social media brands. You can integrate AI solutions that aid in content creation, or to schedule and optimize paid advertising campaigns using data analysis, predictive analytics, and automation. Use tools to help write blog posts, optimize sites for search engines, draft sponsored social media posts, and help with conversion rate optimization.

Many AI-powered marketing campaigns start with a set of human-crafted digital marketing materials. From there, AI tools can create and disseminate more content to help promote your clients or sell products and services thanks to AI content creation.

“There are so many [SEO] apps, tools, and resources,” says Jeremiah Curvers, co-founder and CEO of Polysleep. “You don’t need to be an expert, especially now with the advent of so many AI tools. It’s very easy to build a keyword list based on competitiveness.”

Timeline: First paying client in two to four weeks.

11. AI affiliate marketing 

Make money with AI tools by getting into the affiliate marketing game. As an AI-powered affiliate marketer, you can generate income by promoting other companies’ products or services and earning commission. AI tools can help you set up an affiliate marketing website by analyzing search trends to figure out what products are worth featuring.

Once your website is up and running, affiliate marketing can become a form of passive income, but it’s not instant or truly “hands-off.” 

While this can be a good AI side hustle, you’ll need to put in the initial work: setting up the site, creating quality content, optimizing for SEO, and building an audience. The reality is that AI makes the setup process faster and maintenance easier, but consistent earnings still depend on strategy, patience, and regular updates to keep your content fresh and ranking.

Timeline: First commissions in four to eight weeks; meaningful AI passive income typically in three to six months.

12. AI translation services

Large language models (LLMs) have a deep understanding of many languages, making them useful as translation tools. If you’re multilingual, you can offer AI translation and localization services. 

When you start an AI-assisted translation service, the AI translation tools produce a basic translation. Then you review the machine’s output, checking for accuracy and syntax before delivering to clients.

Timeline: First paid job in one to two weeks; repeat clients within one to two months.

13. AI-powered predictive analytics in finance

Financial analysts now use AI for predictive modeling. This could involve building AI algorithms for stock market predictions, risk assessment, or fraud detection in financial transactions. Learn more about these data analysis applications by checking out the existing AI finance software in this space, including Kensho, H2O Driverless AI, and Palantir Foundry.

Timeline: Pilot or proof of concept in two to three months; paid engagement in three to six months (longer if compliance reviews are required).

14. AI-based training programs

Using AI, you can create online courses, training programs, and workshops. Use AI to create an outline for a course and flesh it out with unique content, relying on your expertise to finesse the AI’s output and tailor it to your target audience. 

On a business-to-consumer (B2C) basis, these courses can cater to individuals looking to upskill; on a business-to-business (B2B) basis, they could serve businesses looking to educate employees about their industry or buyer personas.

Timeline: Launch in three to eight weeks; steady course sales in two to four months.

15. AI hiring and recruitment

Develop custom AI solutions for automating the hiring process, including résumé screening, candidate matching, and interviews. This can save HR departments time and resources. Many of the nation’s leading job recruitment platforms already use AI-powered software to sort through applicants. Consider building custom AI tools for niche businesses looking to hire rare skill sets.

Timeline: First placement fees in four to 12 weeks, depending on role seniority.

16. AI cybersecurity

AI-powered cybersecurity solutions help businesses detect threats and anomalies and monitor for these in real time. With cyberattacks on the rise, businesses increasingly invest in advanced security measures.

If you enter this field, your target audience likely will be companies storing large troves of customer data. For example, you would work to protect sensitive financial data that would have significant consequences if compromised.

Timeline: Small-biz engagements in four to eight weeks; enterprise pilots in two to four months.

17. AI inventory management

Inventory management is a complex process that AI tools can simplify and help you save time on. With AI-powered software, you can track the movement of products through a supply chain, predict stocking needs based on customer behavior, and update inventory records as products are sold and restocked.

As a digital entrepreneur, you can use an AI-powered all-in-one inventory management solution. Or, you can make more money by concentrating on a specific niche like warehousing or shipping logistics.

Timeline: Measurable savings in six to 12 weeks after implementation.

18. AI agricultural management

AI applications can now help with precision agriculture, crop monitoring, and yield prediction. These solutions can help farmers optimize their operations and improve crop yields. If you work in agriculture, you can join farmers, seed producers, and resource managers already using AI tools to improve food production.

Timeline: Field results in one to two growing cycles (roughly three to 12 months, crop-dependent).

19. AI in supply chain optimization

Businesses that use AI for supply chain and inventory management are seeing real results, like faster deliveries and lower costs. 

You can use AI to optimize inventory systems, streamline routes, improve quality control, predict and manage potential risks, and forecast demand more accurately. 

Timeline: Operational wins in two to six months as models learn and teams adopt.

How much can you realistically earn with AI?

AI employment salaries and job market data

Lightcast found that roles mentioning AI skills offer roughly 28% higher salaries, which is about $18,000 more per year on average, than similar roles without AI.

A 2025 PwC report also saw a strong wage premium for people using AI, with wages rising two times faster in industries most exposed to AI than in those least exposed. In other words, the more your industry leans into AI, the more likely pay is to grow.

For specialized AI roles, Glassdoor’s salary data shows that AI and machine learning engineers earn an average of $170,768 per year in the United States, with a base salary of $125,436 plus additional compensation.

Demand is real, too. Lightcast tracks unique job postings for generative-AI skills growing from 55 in January 2021 to nearly 10,000 by May 2025, with new roles like generative AI engineer popping up across sectors.

Of course, the transition isn’t without challenges. The Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis notes higher unemployment increases in occupations more exposed to AI (correlation approximately 0.47 from 2022 to 2025), suggesting some short-term adjustment pains as industries evolve.

Still, opportunities are expanding in high-value sectors. Autodesk’s 2025 AI Jobs Report shows especially strong AI-related role growth in design, manufacturing, architecture, engineering, and media, which is good news if you have domain expertise plus AI skills.

Freelancing and consulting rates

According to a 2024 Upwork report, data science and analytics is one of the fastest-growing work categories, with AI modeling and machine learning skills in particularly high demand.

There isn’t one “AI freelancer rate,” but you can price smarter using the market data above. 

As a baseline, that 28% AI salary premium is a useful anchor when setting consulting packages or adding an “AI acceleration” line item to existing services. 

If similar non-AI projects in your niche sell for $X, positioning your work as AI-enhanced can justify about 1.25 to 1.3 times pricing, provided you tie it to measurable outcomes (hours saved, quality lift, higher conversion rates).

Also consider industry momentum: Sectors with faster wage growth and AI adoption tend to support higher consultant fees because clients already expect AI-driven productivity. Position your offer where that willingness to pay is growing fastest.

AI business revenue potential

If you’re building a product or agency, AI can expand margins and revenue per employee, but it can also be a good way to make passive income. 

PwC finds industries most exposed to AI are seeing much faster growth in revenue per employee, suggesting room to scale lean teams with smart automation. That dynamic can translate into healthier retainers, usage-based pricing, or higher average revenue per user (ARPU) if your AI features directly improve client outcomes.

Hiring signals also remain strong. The surge in generative-AI job postings shows ongoing buyer demand, and there’s a wide surface area for niche products (think AEC automations, M&E asset workflows, or manufacturing QA tools).

However, it’s important to stay realistic about volatility in certain roles and skills as adoption spreads. Diversifying your offer (e.g. strategy + implementation + training) helps protect revenue if one AI tool or tactic gets commoditized.

AI tools comparison: finding the right fit for your business

With hundreds of AI tools available, choosing the right ones for your business is key. Here are some of the most popular AI applications and their main use cases:

Content creation tools

These AI tools help you write faster, stay on brand, and publish more content in less time.

Visual content tools

Use these to generate and edit brand visuals—everything from social graphics to product photos—in minutes.

Business automation tools

Automate repetitive workflows and free up time for higher-value work with these no-code AI automation platforms.

Customer service tools

Streamline support, personalize responses, and improve customer satisfaction using these AI-powered chat and helpdesk apps.

When selecting AI tools, consider these factors:

• Integration capabilities. Does it work with your existing systems?
• Learning curve. How much time will you need to invest in mastering the tool?
• Customization options. Can you adapt the tool to your specific business needs?
• Data privacy. How does the tool handle your and your customers’ data?
• Scalability. Will it grow with your business?

Remember that the most expensive tool isn’t always the best fit. Start with a free trial when available, and focus on tools that solve your specific business challenges rather than those with the most features.

Tips for making money with AI tools

Now that you’re familiar with how to use AI across a variety of industries, here are a few quick tips to consider as you get started.

• Find pain points or inefficiencies. Research your niche and its broader industry to spot problems AI can help solve. The strongest ideas come from use cases where AI services can add measurable value and reduce friction for customers.
• Test your ideas early. Use no-code platforms or AI-powered APIs to design a simple product prototype before you commit too much time or money. If you use Shopify, test AI integrations by adding AI-powered Shopify apps to your store.
• Ask for feedback and make continuous refinements. It’s important to ask for feedback and refine your products or services based on that constructive criticism, especially as you’re just starting out.

Getting started with AI: beginner road map

If you’re new to AI and excited about its potential, here’s a practical road map to help you get started without feeling overwhelmed:

1. Develop AI literacy (1 to 2 weeks)

Start by understanding AI fundamentals and capabilities. You don’t need to become a technical expert, but you should understand:

• Different types of AI and what they’re good at
• Common AI applications in business
• Basic terminology and concepts

Resources like DataCamp’s AI learning guide can help you build this foundation quickly.

✅ Done when you can explain how AI might fit into your work or business.

2. Explore AI tools (2 to 4 weeks)

Experiment with user-friendly AI tools that don’t require technical expertise, like:

• AI writing assistants for creating marketing materials
• AI image generators for visual content
• AI research tools for market analysis

Focus on understanding what these tools can and can’t do well, and how they might fit into your workflow or business model.

✅ Done when you’ve tested at least two tools and found one that improves your workflow.

3. Identify your opportunity (2 to 4 weeks)

Based on your skills, interests, and market research, look for ways AI can help you solve a specific problem or serve a particular niche. Choose a specific direction:

• Apply AI to your existing business to improve efficiency or offerings
• Develop a new AI-enhanced service based on your expertise
• Create AI-powered products to solve specific problems

The best opportunities often lie at the intersection of your unique skills and emerging AI capabilities.

✅ Done when you’ve defined a clear use case for AI that aligns with your skills and audience.

4. Build a minimum viable offering (4 to 8 weeks)

Start small and create a simple, functional version of your product or service that delivers clear value:

• Define exactly what you’ll provide and to whom
• Set up the necessary tools and workflows
• Create a simple website to showcase your offering
• Develop a basic marketing strategy to reach your first customers

✅ Done when you’ve built your first AI prototype or MVP that a real customer can use.

5. Launch, learn, and iterate

The final step is to get your offering in front of real customers:

• Start with a small launch to gather feedback
• Measure results and identify improvement areas
• Continuously refine your offering based on customer input
• Gradually scale as you validate your approach

Monitor results, track metrics, and make continuous improvements.

✅ Done when you’ve tested your MVP with real users and made measurable improvements based on their feedback.

Remember that successful AI entrepreneurs rarely get everything right on the first try. The key is to start small, learn quickly, and adapt based on real-world feedback.

AI in business: case studies

While many articles promise easy money with AI, the reality is more nuanced. As discussions on entrepreneurship forums reveal, successful AI entrepreneurs don’t typically ask “how to make money” questions—they’re focused on building and scaling their products and services.

So what separates successful AI entrepreneurs from the dreamers? It’s not technical expertise, but strategic application and problem-solving. Research from Precedence Research shows that businesses finding success are applying AI to specific commerce challenges. 

Successful approaches typically include:

• Domain expertise and AI efficiency. Combining industry knowledge with AI’s scaling capabilities.
• Problem-first approach. Identifying specific market needs before determining how AI can help.
• Value-added services. Packaging AI capabilities within broader service offerings.
• Continuous learning. Staying current with AI developments while focusing on customer outcomes.

How real businesses are using AI 

Here’s how some real companies are leveraging AI to drive measurable results.

Sephora’s AI-powered personalization

Sephora, the global beauty retailer, has implemented an AI-driven personalization strategy that transformed its customer experience.

Sephora’s AI system analyzes customer data, including purchase history, browsing behavior, and quiz responses to generate tailored product recommendations. 

The brand also includes consumer AI features, such as its virtual artist tool, which uses facial recognition to let customers virtually try on makeup.

Sephora’s approach shows how AI helps brands offer personalized shopping experiences without large teams—an opportunity to monetize through AI-driven marketing services or ecommerce consulting.

Wayfair’s AI-powered product tagging

Wayfair, the online home goods retailer, faced a significant challenge with its massive catalog of more than 40 million products. Manual tagging was slow and inconsistent, making it difficult for customers to find relevant items.

According to Snorkel AI’s customer story, Wayfair implemented a machine learning solution to automate and improve their product tagging process. 

The results:

• 10 times faster product labeling compared to manual methods
• Significantly improved accuracy in automated product tagging
• Better search results for customers

The system works by analyzing product images and descriptions to automatically tag items with attributes like color, style, material, and function. This enables more precise search results and better product recommendations.

Wayfair’s automation shows how AI can save hours of manual catalog work. Freelancers or small agencies could offer AI data-labeling or product-categorization services to online stores and marketplaces.

H&M’s AI inventory management 

H&M, the global fashion retailer, was struggling with excess inventory and inefficient stock distribution across its stores worldwide. According to a case study by DigitalDefynd, H&M implemented an AI-driven demand forecasting system analyzing multiple data points, including:

• Historical sales data
• Social media trends
• Local events and weather patterns
• Economic indicators

The implementation helped H&M reduce excess inventory, decrease markdowns, and optimize its supply chain—getting the right products in the right stores at the right time.

H&M’s forecasting success shows that AI doesn’t just improve creativity—it reduces waste and increases profit margins. Entrepreneurs could build or resell AI inventory and forecasting tools for small retailers seeking similar efficiency.

These case studies highlight a crucial insight: successful AI implementation isn’t about replacing human decision-making but enhancing it with data-driven intelligence. The companies seeing the greatest return on investment (ROI) are those that use AI to solve specific business problems while maintaining their unique brand.

Common pitfalls to avoid when making money with AI

While AI offers exciting opportunities, there are several common mistakes that can derail your success. Being aware of these pitfalls can save you time, money, and frustration.

Overestimating AI capabilities

Many entrepreneurs fail because they have unrealistic expectations about what AI can do. According to the Project Management Institute, about 70% to 80% of AI projects fail due to misaligned expectations and technical limitations.

Current AI excels at pattern recognition, content generation, and data analysis. It still struggles with common sense reasoning and creative problem-solving that requires human judgment. Before building a business around AI, thoroughly test the technology’s capabilities for your specific use case rather than relying on general claims about AI performance.

Neglecting legal and ethical considerations

AI raises complex questions about copyright, data privacy, transparency, and bias. TechTarget highlights how businesses using AI may face ethical and legal challenges related to data privacy, security, and intellectual property.

Before launching your AI business:

• Research relevant regulations in your industry and target markets
• Create clear policies for data handling and AI usage
• Consider how you’ll address potential bias in AI outputs
• Be transparent with customers about how and where AI is used

Building technology-first instead of customer-first

The most common mistake is developing an AI solution and then searching for a problem it might solve. Successful entrepreneurs do the opposite—they identify customer problems first, then determine if and how AI can help them.

Start by understanding your target audience’s pain points through market research, surveys, and direct conversations. Only then should you consider which AI tools might help address those needs most effectively.

Commoditizing your AI services

With AI tools becoming increasingly accessible, offering “AI-powered services” alone isn’t enough. 

To avoid becoming a commodity:

• Develop proprietary methodologies or frameworks to enhance AI outputs
• Build industry-specific knowledge to inform how you apply AI
• Create unique datasets or training approaches to improve results
• Focus on outcomes and results rather than the technology itself

Neglecting the human experience

While AI can automate many tasks, the human touch remains essential for building trust and delivering exceptional customer experiences. 

The most successful AI businesses:

• Maintain clear communication about where and how AI is used
• Provide human oversight and intervention at critical points
• Use AI to enhance rather than replace human creativity and judgment
• Focus on building relationships technology alone cannot create

Remember that AI should serve your customers and your business goals—not the other way around. The technology is a means to an end, not the end itself.

Future-proofing your AI business

As AI technology evolves rapidly, building a sustainable business requires thinking ahead. Here are strategies to ensure your AI-powered venture remains relevant and competitive:

Stay adaptable with a hybrid approach

Instead of betting everything on a single AI technology or platform, develop a hybrid approach combining multiple tools and methodologies. According to MIT Sloan Management Review, the most resilient AI implementations combine automated systems with human expertise.

This could mean:

• Using different AI models for different tasks
• Maintaining human oversight for critical decisions
• Developing processes that can adapt as technologies change

Focus on solving problems, not selling technology

Businesses that depend too heavily on one AI technology may become obsolete as those technologies evolve. Instead, focus your business on solving specific customer problems that will persist regardless of technological changes.

For example, rather than marketing yourself as a “GPT specialist,” position your business as helping clients “increase conversion rates through personalized customer experiences.” This need will remain even as the underlying technology changes.

Invest in continuous learning

The half-life of AI skills is shorter than in many other fields, with Harvard Business Review research finding technical skills in some fields can become outdated in as little as two and a half years. 

Set aside dedicated time each week to:

• Experiment with new AI tools and techniques
• Follow industry publications and research
• Participate in relevant communities and forums
• Take courses on emerging technologies

Build proprietary assets

While AI tools themselves may become commoditized, you can build lasting value through:

• Proprietary data. Collect and curate unique datasets that improve AI performance.
• Custom workflows. Develop unique processes that combine AI with human expertise.
• Industry-specific knowledge. Apply AI to specialized domains where general solutions fall short.
• Brand trust and relationships. Build credibility that lasts beyond specific technologies you use.

By anticipating these changes, you can position your business to adapt quickly rather than being caught off guard.

Start your AI business using Shopify

Considering how far artificial intelligence tools have come in recent years, you have access to a lot of AI solutions to help turn your entrepreneurial dreams into reality. Shopify’s commerce-driven AI makes it easier than ever for you to start and grow an online store that can compete in your industry.

Whether you’re writing product descriptions or need help turning live chats into checkouts, Shopify Magic supports you 24/7 with the powerful AI tools to help your ecommerce business thrive.