If you’re looking for your next big career move, the advice from a successful entrepreneur can be invaluable. Kevin O’Leary, a star of Shark Tank, suggests that tapping into the booming artificial intelligence (AI) sector could lead to immense opportunities for your future.

O’Leary, who has built his success on savvy investments, believes that understanding and implementing AI for small businesses is a key avenue for growth. With the right focus, you could be at the forefront of a revolution that helps shape how companies operate in the coming years.

The Promise of AI for Small Businesses

In a recent discussion, O’Leary emphasized the significant gap between what small businesses want from AI and their ability to leverage it effectively. He pointed out that nearly 36 million small businesses represent a hefty portion of the U.S. economy. Despite their desire to utilize AI tools, many struggle to adapt, making this a prime opportunity for those skilled in tech implementation.

O’Leary suggests that if he were starting his career today, he would concentrate on helping these smaller firms integrate AI into their operations. The key, according to him, lies in addressing their unique challenges and offering solutions tailored to their size. Small businesses may be willing to invest in technology that enhances their efficiency and data management.

By focusing on implementation rather than traditional consulting, O’Leary believes entrepreneurs can bring real value to these companies, filling the existing gaps in AI deployment. Instead of offering generic advice, the goal is to help set up structured systems that allow small businesses to reap the benefits of AI.

Capitalizing on Data Centers

The second major opportunity O’Leary identifies is in the development of data centers. These facilities are vital for the resource-heavy demands of AI technologies, yet there is currently a shortage of capacity in this realm. With an insatiable demand for data processing power, the gap between supply and demand presents an opportunity for those willing to invest.

O’Leary has already taken steps in this direction, backing multimillion-dollar projects aimed at building scalable data center solutions. For instance, he is involved in a $70 billion project in Alberta, Canada, which aims to provide a significant boost in computing power. While these projects come with challenges, they are also aimed at meeting a growing need that technology giants like Amazon, Microsoft, and Google are keen to fulfill.

As the market for AI grows, the demand for data centers is expected to increase by over 165% by the end of this decade, according to estimates from Goldman Sachs. This means that now might be the perfect time to consider a career in this area, whether that involves direct investment or the development of new data center facilities.

A Holistic Approach to the AI Economy

Both paths O’Leary suggests focus on the foundational aspects of the AI ecosystem. While they may not be as glamorous as pitching innovative tech on a TV show, they present genuine business opportunities for young entrepreneurs. By helping small businesses implement AI tools or investing in data centers, individuals can contribute to a robust economy fueled by advancements in technology.

Though O’Leary’s focus on these less flashy areas may not capture the limelight, they play a crucial role in making the future AI economy a reality. Entrepreneurs willing to venture into these spaces stand to gain significantly in both impact and income.

Machine learning, cloud computing, and data management are paving the way for future growth, and being a part of that transformation can be both rewarding and profitable. O’Leary’s insights serve as a reminder that success often lies in recognizing and filling unmet needs.

What this means for you

If you’re contemplating a future in business, exploring opportunities in AI implementation or data center development could be wise. Learn about how these technologies work and the challenges faced by businesses.

If you ever need to review contracts or agreements related to your future endeavors, such as partnership contracts or real estate documents, AI legalese decoder can help translate them into plain English in seconds.

Source: https://fortune.com/article/kevin-oleary-ai-career-advice-small-business-implementation-data-centers-25-year-olds-get-rich/