Chat GPT has been out for 3 months now and it is clearly changing the world. AI has finally reached the stage where its adoption can be considered mainstream and extremely useful. In fact, I would go so far as to say that it is revolutionary and the catalyst of the next big tech stage to bring in an AI boom.
Overseas AI is being used to solve complex problems in every industry and we have a few companies here in NZ that are doing the same or at least road-mapped it as part of the core of their tech stack but most of those are the big companies or companies with big ambitions. AI-powered predictive analytics can now enable companies to make better decisions based on data, and machine learning algorithms are making it possible to automate tasks that were previously done by humans. But where is the swift uptake of the Open AI toolkits & APIs creating new solutions for kiwi businesses?
Despite the enormous potential of AI, I am disappointed to see that there is a distinct lack of New Zealand-based startups that are being created to capitalize on this monumental opportunity. I would have expected hundreds of people to see the opportunity and start working on building companies that can help other businesses adopt and use AI technology. Sure, Chat GPT is still in its infancy but overseas there are thousands of people that have seen the opportunity that has arisen and started building innovative solutions with Open AI at the core of their business.
The ability to create an innovative tech company that can help people integrate AI tools into their workflow has never been easier. You don’t need to have a degree in machine learning or AI algorithms to build a tech solution that someone would be willing to pay for, most entry-level developers are able to use the APIs and start tailoring solutions for people.
I believe that there are still opportunities for New Zealand-based entrepreneurs to build successful AI startups. The easiest startup would be one that simply helps businesses use existing AI platforms, no code would be necessary, simply have a good finger on the pulse for AI platforms and become a consultant to help them integrate AI into their workflow. Another good option would be to focus on adapting AI solutions that can be tailored to the unique needs of the New Zealand market.
New Zealand has a reputation for being a hub of innovation, and there is no reason why AI startups based in New Zealand can’t compete on the global stage. In fact, New Zealand’s isolation could be an advantage when it comes to developing AI solutions that are unique and innovative.
While I am excited to see the potential of AI being realized on a global scale, I believe that there is still work to be done in terms of building an AI ecosystem in New Zealand. I hope to see more entrepreneurs taking on this challenge and creating the next generation of AI startups that will help drive innovation and growth in New Zealand and beyond.
