AI Tools Help Solo Business Owners Operate With Expanded Capabilities

A new generation of solopreneurs is using AI to operate as a business of one. The term now describes individuals who manage client communication, scheduling, service delivery, partnerships and back-office workflows through a mix of AI tools, automation, contractors and digital platforms.

Zoom's inaugural Solopreneur 50 program recognizes independent business builders using AI and digital tools. The accompanying Rise of the Solopreneur report, drawn from nearly 3,000 program applicants across 48 states and 12 industries, shows how this segment is building and operating businesses.

According to the Zoom + Upwork Small Business AI Report, 91% of solopreneurs say AI has reduced their administrative work, and 74% have scaled without hiring. Kimberly Storin, chief marketing officer at Zoom, said AI is decoupling growth from hiring.

Services and consulting represented the largest share of Solopreneur 50 applicants at 20%. Among applicants, 82% used AI for client communication and meetings, 78% used it for automation and operational efficiency, 71% used it to collaborate with partners and contractors, and 46% used it to deliver services or products virtually.

Only 18% of applicants cited leaving traditional employment as a primary motivation. By contrast, 77% cited creative expression or passion, 53% cited mission or community impact, and 50% cited turning expertise into independence. When asked how they measure progress, 63% of applicants pointed to revenue and financial performance, and the same share pointed to community and human impact.

Growth over time followed at 59%.