Top 5 Trends in Entrepreneurship Every Gen Z Founder Should Know
Gen Z Founders are in the middle of the transformation of the ever-faster changing entrepreneurship. The upcoming age of business is not only about making money, but it also revolves around solving problems, building communities, and creating something that lasts. If you’re a young entrepreneur, it’s vital to be aware of the trends that shape the world around you. These trends will help you plan better, grow faster, and stay ahead of the game.
In this article, I will walk you through the top 5 trends in entrepreneurship that every Gen Z founder should know. These trends are what’s moulding the future of startups, side hustles, as well as brand-building. You will also get useful insights, helpful tips, and real data to guide you on your journey.
Digital-First Business Models
It’s no surprise that most Gen Z founders are embracing digital-first strategies – and there’s a solid reason for it. Starting your business online allows you to reach a wider audience, test your ideas faster, and reduce upfront costs during the early stages of growth.
Why is this model trending?
If your business isn’t online first, you’re likely missing out on up to 80% of your potential audience. Your website becomes your company’s public space, while platforms like Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) act as your word-of-mouth engines. Just look at creators selling digital products like e-books or courses directly to their followers: no middlemen, no physical storefronts.
Key advantages include:
Minimal startup costs using tools like Shopify, Canva, and Notion
Remote hiring gives access to global talent
Online platforms support brand building via social media, websites, and email
SEO keywords to include:
eCommerce
creator economy
online branding
customer experience
content marketing
💡 Tip: Want to build a powerful digital presence? Connect with the aboveA team to explore smart SEO and content marketing strategies.
Purpose-Driven Brands
As Gen Z, as much as we want to make money, we also want to make a difference. Today’s brand is built around values. Whether it’s protecting the environment, supporting mental health, or pushing for social justice. Whatever your mission is, it matters.
According to Zeno Group, 94% of consumers say that they’re more loyal to brands that stand for something. And what does this mean to you as a founder?
- Choose a cause that connects to your brand. For example, if you sell eco-friendly fashion, your cause might be reducing fast fashion waste.
- Talk about it openly. Share your mission on your website, social media, and in your content so customers know what you stand for.
- Take visible action. Don’t just talk, show proof. Partner with NGOs, donate a portion of profits, or run campaigns that support your cause. Actions build trust.
Here’s an example if you want to look more into it:
Brand type | Purpose Example | Impact |
Skincare Startup | Cruelty-free and vegan | Gains trust from eco-conscious buyers |
Fashion Brand | Sustainable fabrics | Attracts climate-aware Gen Z shoppers |
Food business | Donates meals per sale | Build community and customer loyalty |
A great example is Hyram Yarbro, founder of Selfless by Hyram. He built his skincare brand around sustainability, using ethically sourced ingredients and partnering with groups like Rainforest Trust and Thirst Project. His products help protect the environment and support clean water access, proving that purpose-led brands can truly stand out. Being purpose-driven isn’t just a nice-to-have. It’s part of building a brand people believe in and want to support.
Freelance, Side Hustles, and Creator Culture
Entrepreneurship in today’s world doesn’t always mean a full-time job; it’s often a flexible hustle. Many Gen Zers build their business alongside their job and schooling. The majority of them are doing it by turning their passions into income!
Examples of side-hustle businesses:
- Selling digital art on Etsy
- Monetize their YouTube channel
- Offering freelance design, writing, or marketing services
- Building a dropshipping business or print-on-demand stores
Over 50% of Gen Z professionals have freelanced in some way, according to Upwork. That’s more than any generation. I suggest starting small, like a micro-business first, then you can go on to build your big brand one day. Test your idea, learn what works, and grow slowly from it.
AI-powered Tools and Automation
AI tools make everything faster, cheaper, and easier. From automating emails to writing social media posts, this makes it possible for entrepreneurs to focus more on creativity and less on boring tasks.
Popular tools:
- ChatGPT – normally assists with writing blogs or social posts
- Canva AI – for fast, smart design
- Zapier – used to connect apps and automate tasks
- Notion AI – helps plan and organize work
If I’m being honest, I use AI every day. It’s like having a full-time assistant. Using AI helps save time, but you still need to review, edit, and add your voice. Remember, AI isn’t perfect, but it is powerful when combined with your human touch.
Here’s a list of what you can use AI for:
- Writing and editing content
- Responding to customer support messages
- Creating logos or branding
- Tracking website or sales analytics
- Managing social media calendars
Global Thinking from Day One
GenZ founders are not limited by location because they think “global” from the start. It is easy for small businesses to grow worldwide with tools like PayPal, Stripe, and Zoom. And yes, let’s not forget about our friend’s social media marketing. A one viral TikTok or Instagram reel can get you customers from places you’ve never been.
Key tips to go global:
- Offer your product in multiple currencies
- Translate your website using tools like Weglot
- Use platforms like Upwork or Fiverr to hire global freelancers
- Learn the basics of international SEO and shipping.
Think of your brand name, logo, and messaging. Will they work in different languages or cultures? If not, there’s no harm in changing it a little bit. I recommend testing new markets one at a time because it’s best to start small.
Final Thoughts: BE BOLD AND BE YOU.
Being a Gen Z founder today means you have access to endless tools and more creative freedom than any generation before you. But with great power comes great responsibility. The 5 threads that we’ve covered are just the beginning. To succeed, you must stay curious, test new ideas, and most importantly, always focus on solving real problems for real people. And if you’re ever unsure about the direction you’re heading with your startup, don’t forget that you can hit us up at aboveA academy.
If this article helped spark an idea or gave you a new perspective, that’s what matters. And remember your journey as an entrepreneur won’t look like anyone else’s, and that’s the magic of it.
Stay bold, keep it real, and dream loud. You’ve got this founder fam <3.
Meet the Author
Teerisra Donlunwad
She is our talented content marketing specialist from Thailand. Currently in her senior year studying marketing, she supports projects like the aboveA Academy and weekly TikTok content. Her creativity and dedication shine through each video, making her a key team member driving fresh, engaging content every week.