Mark Cuban predicts AI will become essential for entrepreneurs in five years

Billionaire investor and Shark Tank star Mark Cuban predicts that AI will become as essential as email or Excel within five years, urging entrepreneurs to embrace it or risk falling behind. In an exclusive email Q&A with Fortune, Cuban emphasized that AI proficiency will soon be a non-negotiable skill for business owners, with its strategic use determining their success.

AI as the Ultimate Equalizer

Cuban believes AI will empower solo founders to operate like full teams, thanks to AI assistants that act as "VP of ops, sales reps, data analysts, and legal counsel"—all without the payroll. He warns, however, that entrepreneurs should treat AI like a "smartest intern," verifying its outputs while leveraging its speed and insights.

ZenBusiness and the Rise of AI Assistants

Cuban, an advisor to ZenBusiness, highlighted its new AI agent, Velo, as a game-changer for small businesses. Launched this week, Velo automates tasks like regulatory filings, research, and website creation while offering personalized, 24/7 advice at no extra cost. ZenBusiness CEO Ross Buhrdorf confirmed the chatbot includes human support for added reliability.

The Future of Entrepreneurship

Despite a 6.9% drop in new business applications in 2024 (5.12 million vs. 2023’s record 5.5 million, per U.S. Census data), Cuban sees AI as a solution to two key barriers: fear and funding. By reducing hiring costs, AI could democratize entrepreneurship, enabling more people to start businesses.

AI as a Multiplier, Not a Replacement

Cuban stressed that AI won’t replace entrepreneurs but will amplify their capabilities. "AI is a multiplier," he wrote. "Use it, but don’t be used by it." His message is clear: The most successful entrepreneurs will be those who master AI integration—turning it into leverage for faster, smarter decisions.

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