What are 'one-person companies' in China?

'One-person companies' or OPCs are businesses run by a single individual, often leveraging AI technology to reduce operational costs and increase efficiency.

How is the Chinese government supporting solopreneurs?

Local governments in China are actively promoting OPCs by establishing support alliances, offering office spaces, and providing computing resources to harness AI potential.

Can AI help solopreneurs in China earn significant income?

Yes, AI tools are empowering Chinese solopreneurs to achieve earnings competitive with those in traditional tech firms, with ventures ranging from e-commerce to AI-generated art.

Home / Business and Economy / China's AI Solopreneurs Rise Amid Job Woes

China's AI Solopreneurs Rise Amid Job Woes

6 Dec, 2025

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Summary

AI empowers Chinese solopreneurs, offering hope in a tough job market.
Local governments encourage one-person companies to harness AI.
Solopreneur ventures range from e-commerce to AI pet portraits.

China's AI Solopreneurs Rise Amid Job Woes

China's burgeoning artificial intelligence sector is catalyzing a significant rise in solopreneurs, individuals building businesses single-handedly with the aid of technology. This trend offers a beacon of hope amidst a challenging employment landscape, particularly for university graduates. Local authorities are increasingly championing these 'one-person companies' as a means to tap into the vast potential of AI.

Cities like Suzhou and Shanghai are taking proactive steps, establishing support systems and dedicated spaces for solopreneurs. These initiatives aim to provide essential resources, including office spaces and computing power. The proliferation of accessible AI models is a key enabler for these independent entrepreneurs.

Entrepreneurs like Karen Dai and Zay Gao exemplify this new wave. Dai's networking group for solopreneurs has garnered significant interest, while Gao, a designer, leverages AI tools to achieve earnings competitive with those at major tech firms. Their success highlights the viability and growing appeal of solopreneurship in China.