economy

Entrepreneurship is booming in the U.S. Gen Zers are leading the way.

August 6, 2026 / 5:10 PM EDT / CBS News

Entrepreneurship is booming in the U.S. Gen Zers are leading the way.

TL;DR

  • Generation Z is leading a surge in new business applications, with a 66% increase compared to the previous year.
  • Advancements in artificial intelligence are lowering barriers to entry and reducing startup costs for young entrepreneurs.
  • Younger Americans are increasingly preferring to be their own bosses rather than working for others.
  • Lower-income households now account for a larger percentage of new businesses.
  • AI helps automate tasks, streamline information, and reduce expenses for startups, particularly in tech-focused fields like healthcare.
  • Job dislocation and difficulties in securing traditional employment are also factors driving young people toward entrepreneurship.