Renowned investor and “Shark Tank” star Kevin O’Leary has a bold message for aspiring entrepreneurs: the biggest startup goldmine today lies in training people to use artificial intelligence (AI). In a recent statement, O’Leary emphasized that while AI is transforming industries, most people—and businesses—don’t know how to harness its power. This gap, he argues, is a massive opportunity for service-based startups to step in, solve a critical pain point, and rake in millions.
Why AI Training Is a Hidden Gem
Key Points:
- Most individuals and businesses lack AI expertise
- Service startups can bridge this knowledge gap
- Solves a universal pain point with high demand
O’Leary points out that AI is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s here, reshaping everything from marketing to manufacturing. Yet, the average person or small business owner remains clueless about how to implement it effectively. This creates a lucrative niche for startups offering AI training services. By teaching people how to use AI tools for tasks like data analysis, automation, or customer engagement, entrepreneurs can tap into a market desperate for solutions. Service businesses, O’Leary notes, thrive when they address real problems—and this is one of the biggest.
The Profit Potential of Service Businesses
Key Points:
- Service startups can “make a fortune” with AI training
- Low overhead, high scalability
- Appeals to diverse industries
According to O’Leary, service-based startups are often underestimated, yet they hold immense profit potential. An AI training company doesn’t need to invent a new product or secure massive funding—it can start small, teaching clients step-by-step, and scale quickly as demand grows. From local retailers wanting smarter inventory systems to professionals seeking to automate workflows, the applications are endless. O’Leary’s insight? “When you solve a pain point, you make a ton of money,” and AI training fits that formula perfectly.
AI’s Growing Role in Everyday Life
Key Points:
- AI adoption is skyrocketing across sectors
- Lack of skills slows progress
- Training bridges the gap to widespread use
The urgency of this opportunity stems from AI’s rapid expansion. Businesses of all sizes are under pressure to adopt AI to stay competitive, but without proper guidance, they’re stuck. O’Leary sees this as a chance for entrepreneurs to become indispensable. Whether it’s helping a small business owner use AI for targeted ads or training a corporate team to leverage chatbots, the demand for practical, hands-on education is exploding. Startups that act now can lead this revolution.
How Entrepreneurs Can Seize This Opportunity
Key Points:
- Start with niche expertise in AI tools
- Offer tailored, hands-on workshops
- Scale with online courses or consulting
So, how can you get started? O’Leary’s advice aligns with his no-nonsense approach: focus on what you know and deliver value fast. Entrepreneurs can begin by mastering popular AI platforms—think ChatGPT, Google Bard, or industry-specific tools—and offering workshops or one-on-one coaching. As expertise grows, they can expand into online courses, subscription models, or even consulting for larger firms. The key is to keep it practical and results-driven, ensuring clients see immediate benefits.
A Call to Action for Aspiring Founders
Key Points:
- AI training is a “biggest opportunity” now
- Don’t overlook service-based startups
- Act quickly to lead the market
O’Leary’s parting wisdom? Don’t sleep on this. “I think one of the big startup opportunities being overlooked right now is training people on AI,” he said in a recent Instagram post. For entrepreneurs willing to dive in, this isn’t just a trend—it’s a chance to build a business that’s both profitable and future-proof. As AI continues to dominate, those who teach others to wield it will hold the keys to success.
