Chegg CEO Nathan Schultz presents Ángela Elena Olazarán Laureano from Mexico with the Chegg.org … [+]
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Artificial intelligence isn’t just a trend—it’s changing how people work, create, and make money. From automating mundane tasks to opening doors for new ventures, AI has become a tool nearly anyone can use to earn an income. Here’s how you can take advantage of the AI boom.
Create A Side Hustle
Graphic design and video production used to be time-consuming and technical. AI-powered platforms like Canva and Runway have made it simpler for people to create eye-catching visuals and videos. Freelancers are using these tools to offer design services on platforms like Fiverr, and others are selling templates and custom designs on sites like Etsy. If you’ve got an eye for design, AI can help you turn it into a business.
Developing AI-Driven Apps
Creating an app sounds like a big task, but platforms like Microsoft Azure and IBM Watson allow small teams—or individuals—to build AI-powered apps. Entrepreneurs are developing everything from chatbots for customer service to tools that help with scheduling and task management. If you spot a problem that an app can solve, there’s a good chance you can build a solution with AI.
One of the most inspiring examples of AI innovation comes from 17-year-old Angela Elena Olazaran Laureano, who has changed lives in her hometown of Papantla, Veracruz, Mexico and made money.
Angela saw firsthand how limited healthcare access was affecting her community. The nearest medical center could be over an hour away, and people hesitated to make the trip. During the pandemic, this issue became even more urgent. So, she took action and developed Ixtlilton, an AI-powered medical assistant that provides basic health assessments and suggests whether users should seek further medical care.
Unlike most apps, Ixtlilton can function without an internet connection—which is essential for rural areas with limited access. Angela’s innovation earned her the Chegg.org Global Student Prize 2024 and $100,000, which she plans to use to build a STEM classroom in Veracruz. She’s showing how AI can be more than a tool for profit; it can be a force for good.
Consulting
Businesses everywhere are trying to figure out how to use AI and are willing to pay for guidance. If you take the time to learn how popular AI software works, you can offer consulting services to companies looking to integrate these tools into their workflows. You don’t need to be an expert programmer—just understanding how AI can enhance efficiency can put you in high demand.
Investing in AI Stocks
Companies leading the AI revolution, like NVIDIA
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and Microsoft, are seeing significant growth. By investing in these companies, you can benefit from the expansion of AI technology without needing to build a product yourself. However, it’s essential to research thoroughly and diversify your portfolio.
Getting Started with AI: Tips for Beginners
Ready to dive in? Here are some quick tips to help you start using AI to make money:
- Start Small: You don’t need to overhaul your entire workflow. Begin by incorporating AI tools to streamline tasks and see where they can impact the most.
- Stay Connected: Join online communities and attend industry events. Networking will help you learn from others profiting from AI and update you on new opportunities.
- Educate Yourself: Take introductory courses on AI from platforms like Udemy or Coursera. A basic understanding will make it easier to see where you can use AI in your business or freelance work.
AI is opening doors across industries, from content creation to healthcare. The key is finding how it can best serve you—whether starting a new venture, enhancing your current business, or simply investing wisely. Angela’s story shows how innovation can create real change and proves that anyone with a vision can make a difference.
With the right approach, AI can be more than a tech trend. It can be a valuable part of your business and your future.