Believe it or not, the term “artificial intelligence” (AI) was first used back in 1956 by John McCarthy, an American computer scientist, at the very first AI conference.
Fast forward to 2024, and we’re in an exciting new era where AI, powered by advanced machine learning, is a big part of everyday life. What was once just a buzzword is now a game-changer. More small businesses and startups are jumping on the AI bandwagon to grow and succeed—and you definitely don’t want to miss out.
If you’re looking for the best AI tools to help streamline and improve your small business or startup, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll share 11 top AI tools that will not only get things done but also boost your business’s efficiency and profitability!
What Should You Look for in AI Tools for Startups?
When you’re choosing AI tools for your team, there are a few important things to keep in mind:
- Ease of use: The tool should be easy to use and intuitive, so you and your team can get up to speed quickly. You don’t want to waste time trying to figure it out. The more user-friendly, the better!
- Training and support: Just like any new tool, it’ll take some time to get familiar with it. Make sure the AI tool offers helpful resources like documentation, tutorials, and good customer support to assist you when needed.
- Integration: Check if the tool can easily work with the other software and systems your business already uses, like project management tools, communication platforms, and CRM systems.
- Scalability: Ensure the tool can grow with your business. It should be flexible enough to handle your future needs, like an expanding team, more customers, and larger amounts of data.
- Price: Don’t just go for the cheapest option. Look for a balance between cost and value. It should fit your budget and give you a solid return on investment.
The 9 Best AI Tools for Small Business & Startups
Let’s take a look at 11 AI tools that can really make a difference for startups or small businesses. These tools can streamline your workflow and help you save time while boosting productivity.
1. ClickUp
ClickUp is a project management tool that helps individuals and teams stay organized. It’s a cloud-based platform that allows for task planning, collaboration, and communication. Plus, it now includes an AI writing assistant! This feature works across the platform, whether you’re creating tasks, writing marketing copy, or planning events.
Best Features:
- Accessible on web, desktop, and mobile
- 100+ AI tools based on roles, with prompts to speed up your workflow
- Use the /Write With AI Slash command to brainstorm, outline, or write drafts
- Edit text quickly with AI commands
- Summarize content with one click
- Turn text into tasks
- Visualize ideas with mind maps and whiteboards
- Automate repetitive tasks
- Use a library of project templates
- Connect to tools like Slack, HubSpot, Zoom, and more
Limitations:
- The wide range of features may be overwhelming for new users
- AI is not available on the free plan
- You need to buy ClickUp Brain for your whole workspace
Pricing:
- Free forever: $0
- Unlimited: $7/month per user
- Business: $12/month per user
- Enterprise: Contact for pricing
Also Read: What are the Differences Between ChatGPT and Bard AI?
2. ChatGPT
ChatGPT is an AI chatbot that holds meaningful conversations and provides detailed responses. It can explain complex topics, help with research, and even generate code. It’s a helpful tool for content creation and brainstorming.
Best Features:
- Simple, easy-to-use interface
- Natural language processing for smooth conversations
- Supports 50+ languages
- Wide range of knowledge across different fields
Limitations:
- Sometimes the responses are generic or inaccurate
- Can be slow or crash at times
- May accept wrong answers, affecting future responses
Pricing:
- Free: $0
- Plus: $20/month
3. DALL·E 2
DALL·E 2 is an AI tool for generating images from text. You simply input a description, and it creates unique images based on your prompt.
Best Features:
- Easy-to-use interface
- Creates high-quality images from text in seconds
- Generates 4 variations per prompt
- Includes tools for editing and outpainting (extending images)
Limitations:
- Complex images can take time to generate
- Struggles with text or faces in images
Pricing:
- $15 for 115 credits (1 credit = 4 image variations)
4. Bricabrac
Bricabrac is a low-code/no-code platform for building apps. You can quickly turn your ideas into functional apps without needing to know how to code.
Best Features:
- Fast and cost-effective way to build apps
- Drag-and-drop editor to customize apps
- Export apps in formats like HTML, CSS, and Javascript
- Free web app hosting
Limitations:
- Limited customization compared to other platforms
- Complex apps may require developer help
Pricing:
- 2-day free trial
- Power plan: $68/month
Also Read: What are the Best Free AI Tools for Beginners?
5. Jasper.ai
Jasper.ai is a writing assistant that helps you create content faster. It can generate long-form content, like blog posts, or short-form content, like social media posts.
Best Features:
- Unique, plagiarism-free content
- 50+ templates for content creation
- Supports 30+ languages
- Integrates with tools like Grammarly and SurferSEO
Limitations:
- Takes time to learn
- Occasionally gives inaccurate information
- Needs human edits for the final output
Pricing:
- Free trial: 7 days
- Creator: $49/month
- Teams: $125/month
6. Tome
Tome is an AI tool for generating presentations. You can create slides, outlines, and stories based on text prompts.
Best Features:
- Convert documents into presentations
- Integrates with DALL·E 2 for AI-generated images
- Embed live website pages and apps like Airtable and Figma
Limitations:
- Lacks media libraries and advanced features like animations
- No export options—share via links
Pricing:
- Free: $0
- Pro: $10/month
7. Lumen5
Lumen5 is an AI-powered tool that turns text into engaging videos, perfect for marketing or educational content.
Best Features:
- Create videos quickly, even if you’re not a pro
- Large media library with stock images, music, and video clips
- Customizable templates and captions
Limitations:
- Free plan has limited templates and lower video resolution
- Limited video customization options
Pricing:
- Free: $0
- Basic: $29/month
- Starter: $79/month
8. GrammarlyGO
Grammarly is a tool that checks grammar and spelling, and with GrammarlyGO, it now helps you generate ideas, outlines, and drafts for your content.
Best Features:
- Generate content quickly using prompts
- Customize content voice and tone
- Plagiarism checker for originality
- Works in apps like Microsoft Word and Gmail
Limitations:
- Only available in English
- Limited prompts per month
Pricing:
- Free: $0
- Premium: $12/month
- Business: $15/member/month
9. Otter.ai
Otter.ai is an AI transcription tool that converts audio and video into text, perfect for transcribing meetings, podcasts, or interviews.
Best Features:
- Synced transcriptions with timestamps
- Automatically records and transcribes online meetings
- Export options include .txt, .pdf, and more
Limitations:
- Only supports U.S. and U.K. English
- Free version limited to 3 transcriptions per month
Also Read: How to Use Canva AI to Design Graphics?
Pricing:
- Free: $0
- Pro: $16.99/month
- Business: $30/user/month
These AI tools can help startups improve productivity, save time, and get things done more efficiently. Explore them and see which ones suit your needs!
