Starting a business as a young entrepreneur is challenging, and it can be even harder when internet access is slow, expensive, or unreliable. Many young people live and work in places where being online all the time is not possible. The good news is that Artificial Intelligence (AI) can still be useful in these conditions if it is approached in a realistic and practical way.
AI should be seen as a support tool, It will not run your business for you, but it can help you think through ideas, plan next steps, and solve problems. Used well, AI can act like a digital assistant that supports learning and decision-making.
Strong internet is not a requirement to benefit from AI. Many young entrepreneurs use AI during short moments of connectivity, save information for later, and continue working offline. Text-based tools are often more useful than videos, and preparing questions in advance helps make the most of limited access.
You also do not need expensive technology. Basic smartphones, second-hand laptops, shared computers in schools or community centers, and simple power solutions like power banks or small solar chargers are often enough. What matters most is having a reliable device that fits your daily reality.
AI is most useful when it helps with real business needs. Young entrepreneurs often use it to improve a business idea, think about pricing and costs, organize daily tasks, learn basic business skills, or find solutions to everyday challenges. Keeping AI practical and focused makes it more effective.
Large technology companies are also adapting their tools to low-connectivity environments. Google offers offline features in tools like Search, Maps, and Docs, allowing users to download content and sync it later. Microsoft supports low-resource solutions through its work on AI for education and entrepreneurship. Meta has developed lightweight, low-data apps such as WhatsApp, which many small businesses already use. IBM works on local and edge AI systems that reduce the need for constant internet access. These examples show that AI can be designed to work in real-world conditions.
It is important to remember that AI does not replace local knowledge. Your understanding of your community, your culture, and your customers is essential. AI should support your thinking, not make decisions for you.
Finally, AI works best when combined with people. Friends, mentors, youth groups, and community networks remain important sources of support. Technology is strongest when it complements human connection.
For young entrepreneurs with limited connectivity, the key is to use AI in a way that is simple, affordable, and adapted to real life. When approached this way, AI can help turn ideas into sustainable businesses — even in low-resource settings.
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Prepared by: Ariana Garcia, YYOUTH
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Kilder
Google – Offline and Low-Data Tools
Google has developed multiple offline-first and low-data features across its products.
- Google Offline Search & Products
https://www.google.com/search/howsearchworks/our-approach/ - Google Docs Offline Use
https://support.google.com/docs/answer/6388102 - Google Maps Offline Features
https://support.google.com/maps/answer/6291838
Microsoft – AI for Social Impact
Microsoft supports the use of AI in education, entrepreneurship, and low-resource contexts through its AI for Good initiatives.
- Microsoft AI for Social Impact
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/ai/ai-for-social-impact - Microsoft AI in Education
https://www.microsoft.com/education/ai
Meta – Low-Data and Lightweight Apps
Meta has invested in low-bandwidth solutions and lightweight applications widely used by small businesses.
- WhatsApp Business (used globally by small entrepreneurs)
https://www.whatsapp.com/business/ - Meta Connectivity and Low-Data Initiatives
https://connectivity.fb.com/
IBM – Edge AI and Low-Resource Computing
IBM works on AI systems that can function with limited connectivity through edge computing.
- IBM Edge Computing and AI
https://www.ibm.com/topics/edge-computing - IBM AI for Social Good
https://www.ibm.com/impact/ai
Optional general reference (context-aware AI)
- UNESCO – AI and Inclusion
https://www.unesco.org/en/artificial-intelligence
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