Alexa von Tobel, during a recent CNBC podcast, emphasized that AI is lowering the barriers to entrepreneurship, allowing more individuals to start their own businesses with less time, money, and specialized skills. She believes that in the AI era, entrepreneurship could become a common career path, with anyone able to turn their skills into a business.
Recent data supports this trend, showing a rise in solo business formations, particularly in sectors influenced by AI, with a reported 26.8% increase in business applications without hiring expectations from Q1 2024 to Q1 2026.
Von Tobel's venture capital firm, Inspired Capital, focuses on startups with the potential for significant growth, while also supporting platforms like ShopMy, which helps creators monetize their skills through AI-driven tools. This shift towards entrepreneurship could provide flexible income opportunities for individuals balancing other responsibilities.
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman echoed this sentiment, predicting a boom in small business startups. Von Tobel's insights highlight the evolving landscape of work and the importance of adaptability in the face of technological advancements