2026-07-15 MONEY☀ AM
Well, Actually: 5.6 Million Americans Started Businesses Last Year, and You Can Blame ChatGPT
📰 THE BRIEF
New U.S. business applications reached 5.6 million in 2025. Citadel Securities noted this represents a 24% increase since ChatGPT launched. The research firm attributes this surge to AI reducing startup costs.
💡 WHY IT MATTERS
This teaches you that generative AI functions as capital substitution for entrepreneurs. Lower barriers to entry mean you can test business ideas with fewer resources. The principle: automate operational tasks before hiring, not after.
👥 WHO'S DOING IT
Citadel Securities published the July research note tracking this trend. The 5.6 million figure reflects actual U.S. business applications filed.
⚡ TRY IT
- Identify one business task you would have paid someone to do, such as writing a business plan or creating a website. Use a free AI tool to generate a draft in 10 minutes.
- Compare the AI output against your own manual attempt or a past freelancer invoice. Note the time and money differential.
- File a formal business application through your state's Secretary of State portal if the cost savings justify proceeding.