Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the global economy at unprecedented speed. For young entrepreneurs, especially those in underserved and under-resourced settings, this moment presents both a breakthrough opportunity and an immediate risk. With intentional action, AI can be a powerful enabler of inclusive growth. Without it, we risk further entrenching existing inequalities in entrepreneurship.
Youth Business International (YBI), the world leader in youth entrepreneurship, considers this challenge in its policy document. Empowering young entrepreneurs with AI and digital solutions. The paper claims that The choices companies, policymakers, investors, and support organizations make today will determine whether AI will be an equalizer or a divider for the next generation of entrepreneurs.
AI’s transformative potential — and the risks of exclusion
AI has the ability to reduce barriers to entrepreneurship more dramatically than any technology in recent decades. From content creation to data analysis, tasks that once required specialized staff can now be automated or simplified using accessible AI tools. For young entrepreneurs with an idea and an internet connection, this can be a game-changer.
However, access to these benefits is not equal. Even among digitally connected populations, AI literacy remains widely lacking. According to the World Economic Forum, 58% of students feel unprepared for an AI-enabled workplace, and nearly half say they have insufficient knowledge about AI.
These differences aren’t just about connectivity or hardware. These reflect deeper systemic divides around skills, affordability, confidence and inclusion. This divide determines who participates in and shapes the digital economy.
AI skills: A new frontier for inclusive entrepreneurship
world economic forum Future of Employment Report 2025 It is estimated that emerging technologies could create 170 million new jobs and displace 92 million by 2025. Entrepreneurs with the most AI literacy and digital capabilities are in a position to adapt, innovate, and compete.
Recognizing this, YBI developed the AI Accelerator Curriculum, a hands-on initiative that helps young entrepreneurs integrate low-cost, no-code AI tools into their daily business operations. Rather than focusing on technical complexity, the program blends AI literacy with practical system building to help founders use AI for marketing, lead generation, customer engagement, and operational efficiency.
Importantly, this curriculum is designed for resource-constrained entrepreneurs who often lack reliable infrastructure, funding, and technical support. By prioritizing affordability, practicality, and inclusivity, the accelerator aims to transform young founders from passive observers of technological change into active innovators equipped with the tools to grow their businesses.
Addressing the gap: inclusion and access
Despite rapid innovation, gaps in infrastructure, affordability, and training continue to hold back many young entrepreneurs, especially those from rural, low-income, or underrepresented groups. These entrepreneurs often face unreliable connectivity, limited access to training, and uncertainty about how to apply AI safely and effectively.
To maximize the benefits of AI, business leaders and policymakers need to consider not only technical access, but also the environment surrounding AI, including responsible data use, comprehensive training, and long-term support systems.
What policymakers and investors can do
YBI’s policy paper outlines key actions to reduce the risk of exclusion and support underserved young entrepreneurs to fully participate in the AI-enabled economy. These include:
1. Expand affordable digital infrastructure
Public-private partnerships can help ensure reliable broadband access in rural and low-income areas, reduce cost barriers, and support business continuity.
2. Incorporate inclusive AI education
Schools, TVET institutions, and entrepreneurship programs need to integrate AI literacy and ethical understanding using local languages and accessible tools.
3. Provide targeted business support
Incubators, accelerators, and enterprise networks can incorporate AI tools into their programs and provide mentorship that bridges both business and technical expertise.
4. Developing AI regulations that are friendly to small and medium-sized enterprises
Balanced, risk-based governance helps small businesses experiment safely without facing exorbitant compliance requirements.
5. Promote collaboration across borders and disciplines
Regional hubs and youth learning networks will accelerate knowledge sharing and help close the AI skills gap around the world.
Each of these actions relies on collaboration and requires collective leadership from businesses, civil society, governments and investors.
A generation ready to lead
Young entrepreneurs around the world are already proving that AI can be a catalyst for innovation, resilience, and inclusive economic growth. AI gives young founders new avenues to scale and compete by automating administrative tasks, expanding access to information, and improving efficiency.
However, that opportunity is not guaranteed. For AI to become a tool of empowerment rather than exclusion, decision makers must act now to close skills gaps, build inclusive digital ecosystems, and invest in solutions that satisfy entrepreneurs where they are.
If we get this right, AI can help usher in a future where all young entrepreneurs, regardless of geography, background, or income, have the tools and confidence to shape tomorrow’s economy.
Read the full YBI policy document. Empowering young entrepreneurs with AI and digital solutions, here.
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