How To Use AI To Make Money in 2025

Since the launch of ChatGPT in 2022, most business owners have increasingly accepted artificial intelligence (AI) as one of the best ways to increase revenues. AI technologies also make workflows simple. 

Stats show that AI can increase productivity by 40%, while about 60% of business owners state that it will increase their efficiency. This adoption shows that AI is no longer just a hype or trend. It is changing how people create, work, and make money. 

You can use AI technologies to launch an AI-based business or get into AI careers.  And the best part is you don’t have to invest in expensive AI tools. 

This guide explains the essential AI developments and offers insights into the various AI business ideas you can use to make money online in 2025.

Table of Contents
What is AI?
How to make money using AI
Final takeaway

What is AI?

AI is the ability of machines to imitate human cognitive processes. It uses computer systems to perform duties that traditionally required human thinking capabilities. These activities can include solving complex problems, making decisions, learning, and understanding natural language. 

This technology uses AI algorithms, computational power, and large datasets to recognize patterns and predict future events. AI tools have become the foundation of modern technology. They are reshaping industries and redefining how we interact with the world.

AI entails various subsets, including machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing (NLP), and computer vision. Each of these contributes to its capabilities in unique ways. 

Machine learning (ML) involves training machines to learn from data and improve performance over time without being explicitly programmed. Deep learning is a specialized branch of ML that uses artificial neural networks modeled after the human brain to analyze data and generate insights. 

NLP allows machines to understand, analyze, and answer human language. It powers AI technologies like chatbots and voice assistants. Finally, computer vision focuses on enabling machines to use visual data to interpret and make decisions. This includes tasks like recognizing faces or detecting objects.

How to make money using AI

The growth of AI presents numerous opportunities for individuals and businesses to make money. In an interview for CNBC, Harvard Business School professor, Karim Lakhani, advises small business owners to use AI tools, saying,

“I think about generative AI for small businesses in three different categories: one is in all your consumer contact; one is as a thought partner with you to think about your business and new ideas; and the third is as your super assistant, being able to do many things that are drudgery for you.“

This highlights that AI can help entrepreneurs and individuals make money in many ways. Below is an analysis of the most common ways AI can help one make money:

AI software development

AI software development involves creating AI-driven applications designed to solve specific problems. They can also enhance efficiency in various industries. Skilled developers can capitalize on the increasing demand for intelligent software to develop AI tools. 

These AI-powered tools may range from predictive analytics to designing AI-powered customer service solutions. For example, Fernando Pessagno developed two AI tools that make him USD 15,000 per month. You can also build your tools and make money with the right idea and target customers.

AI affiliate marketing

Affiliate marketing becomes even more powerful with AI. In one of her videos, Sara Finance says she makes USD 50,000 per month with AI affiliate marketing. 

Using AI-powered tools to analyze audience behavior and automate campaigns. You can then use these insights to improve targeting and conversion rates, and personalize offers. AI tools like ChatGPT can assist in writing compelling copy. Analytics platforms can identify the most profitable niches and strategies.

AI content creation

AI has revolutionized content creation. It offers tools to generate high-quality blog posts, videos, and artwork. Platforms like ChatGPT and Jasper AI enable content creators to produce engaging AI-generated content at scale. Others like MidJourney and DALL·E create stunning AI-generated art for marketing materials, websites, and social media.

Businesses need cost-effective and fast content solutions. This makes AI content creation a lucrative field. You can offer comprehensive services to brands or monetize your own creative projects.

AI content writing

If you are a freelance writer, you can use AI writing tools to boost productivity and quality. These tools assist in producing AI-generated content for various purposes, including books, blogs, and social media content.

You can also use AI for keyword research, to generate drafts, or editing. These tasks allow you to take on more projects and increase your earnings.

AI cybersecurity

There has been an increase in cyber threats in recent years. Statistics show that about 2,200 cyberattacks happen every day, that is, one every 39 seconds. Data breaches cost approximately USD 9.44 million on average, with cybercrime reaching USD 8 trillion in 2023. As a result of these threats and their associated costs, AI-driven cybersecurity solutions are in high demand.

AI-powered cybersecurity tools can identify and address threats in real time. They offer businesses strong protection. If you have expertise in cybersecurity and AI, you can develop or sell these solutions. This means providing valuable services to companies concerned about data breaches and digital threats. 

AI digital marketing

AI is changing the digital marketing industry. It provides tools for optimizing campaigns, analyzing data, and automating routine tasks. With the help of AI tools like Google’s Smart Bidding or HubSpot’s AI features, you can offer services to businesses looking to enhance their online presence. 

You can help clients maximize ROI through AI-enhanced strategies, such as hyper-targeted ads or customer segmentation.

AI-driven product development

As a business owner, you can use AI for product development. AI technologies can analyze market trends, predict consumer needs, and optimize design processes.

Leveraging these AI-powered tools can help your business stand out in competitive markets.

AI-powered online courses and training

The World Economic Forum estimates that 6 in 10 workers will require training by 2027. 42% of the companies surveyed revealed the plan to use AI and big data for training programs. This report shows AI’s potential as a powerful training tool.

Online courses and training workshops present a significant opportunity to make money online using AI. For example, online courses generated USD 12 million in 2023 for creators using the Kajabi platform. This was an increase from USD 9.1 million generated in 2021. 

Get into high-demand AI careers

AI expertise is highly sought after in roles such as AI engineers, data scientists, and machine learning specialists. These careers often offer competitive salaries and potential for growth. 

Therefore, you can consider acquiring skills in AI development, data analytics, or neural network design. These can help you secure a lucrative position in the tech industry.

Final takeaway

AI isn’t just a buzzword anymore. It’s reshaping industries and creating new avenues for success. Whether you’re looking to enhance your career, start a business, or stay competitive, understanding how to leverage AI is essential. Its ability to automate tasks, personalize experiences, and unlock creative potential makes it a game-changer for anyone willing to adapt. 

Tapping into AI-driven opportunities doesn’t just mean keeping up with technological advancements; you’re positioning yourself to thrive in a future where AI plays a central role in economic growth and innovation.