Best AI Side Gigs to Boost Your Income in 2024 with No Upfront Costs

Easy-to-Implement AI Side Gigs for Entrepreneurs and Freelancers

In today’s digital age, AI side gigs have become increasingly popular among entrepreneurs and freelancers looking to boost their income without significant upfront investments.

With the advent of powerful AI tools, creating content, designing graphics, and offering various services has become more accessible than ever before.

In this article, we’ll explore nine AI side hustles that you can start with zero investment in 2024, potentially earning you hundreds to thousands of dollars a day.

These AI side gigs range from the easiest to the more challenging, but all offer excellent earning potential for those willing to put in the effort.

We’ll be using Capcut, a free all-in-one video editing and graphic design tool, to demonstrate how these AI side hustles can be executed efficiently and effectively.

So, let’s dive in and discover how you can harness the power of AI to create a thriving side hustle in 2024.

We strongly recommend that you check out our guide on how to take advantage of AI in today’s passive income economy.

1. Photo Colorization

Black and white photos have a timeless charm, but adding color can breathe new life into them, making them more appealing to modern audiences.

Many seniors and their families are willing to pay for photo colorization services, which can be easily provided using AI tools like Capcut.

On freelance platforms like Fiverr, photo colorization services typically range from $5 to $10 per photo, which may seem modest at first glance.

However, considering that AI tools can colorize a photo in just 15 seconds, the earning potential becomes more attractive.

To colorize a photo using Capcut, simply select the photo colorizer tool, drag and drop the black and white image, and let the AI work its magic.

To increase your earnings, consider offering additional services like photo restoration and image upscaling, which can be done using Capcut’s old photo restoration and image upscaler tools, respectively.

While photo colorization is an easy AI side gig to start, it does come with considerable competition on platforms like Fiverr, which may limit your pricing power.

To overcome this, consider promoting your services offline to retirement homes, funeral homes, or other venues where there may be a demand for colorized photos.

2. Clothing Model Photos

Clothing brands constantly need photos of models wearing their products for marketing purposes, but traditional photoshoots can be expensive and time-consuming.

With AI tools like Capcut’s AI model feature, you can offer a cost-effective alternative to clothing brands looking to showcase their products.

To create a clothing model photo, simply upload an image of the clothing item, choose a model from Capcut’s library, and let the AI generate a realistic photo of the model wearing the clothing.

While clients may not pay as much for AI-generated model photos as they would for real model photoshoots, there is still a market for this service.

Offering AI-generated clothing model photos on platforms like Fiverr or directly to small clothing brands can be a viable AI side gig.

Pricing for this service may range from $20 to $100 per photo, depending on the client’s budget and the complexity of the request.

Keep in mind that most clients opting for AI-generated model photos may have limited budgets, so while you may earn less per photo, the volume of work could make this AI side gig worthwhile.

3. Captioning Videos

In today’s digital landscape, video content often includes captions to improve accessibility and engagement, making captioning services in high demand.

On Fiverr, video captioning services can range from $10 to $60 per video, depending on the length and complexity of the content.

Using Capcut’s auto-captioning feature, you can quickly and easily add captions to videos, making this AI side gig a breeze to execute.

After creating a video project in Capcut and placing the video on the timeline, simply click “Captions” and then “Auto Captions.”

The AI will generate captions for the entire video, which you can then review and edit for accuracy before exporting.

To increase your earnings, consider offering additional services like custom font and style options, in-and-out animations, and translations in multiple languages.

When offering translation services, ensure that you have a strong command of the target language to avoid any miscommunications or errors.

While Fiverr is a popular platform for offering captioning services, consider reaching out directly to potential clients, such as small to medium-sized content creators, podcasters, businesses that post webinars and interviews, and real estate agents who create property videos.

Building long-term partnerships with these clients can lead to a steady stream of work and income.

4. Product Photos

In addition to clothing, various other products require high-quality photos for marketing and e-commerce purposes.

Businesses often seek to add a classic white background to their product photos, which is where your AI side gig can come in.

Using Capcut’s online photo editor, you can easily remove the background from a product photo by uploading the image and clicking “Remove Background” on the side panel.

By toggling on “Auto Removal,” the AI will automatically cut out the background, leaving you with a clean, white-background product photo in seconds.

On Fiverr, adding white backgrounds to product photos typically costs around $5 per photo, which may seem low, but considering the minimal time investment required, it can add up quickly.

To increase your earnings, consider offering detailed, custom AI-generated backgrounds using Capcut’s “Change Background” tool.

This feature analyzes the product and generates a unique background that interacts with the item, allowing you to charge more for the added value.

If you want to maximize your earnings with product photos, consider working with businesses that don’t have existing product photos and offer a full-service package that includes both photography and editing.

While this may require some knowledge of photography and a higher time investment, it can lead to more substantial payouts.

Businesses of all sizes require eye-catching social media graphics to engage their audiences and promote their products or services.

As a freelancer offering social media graphic design services using AI tools like Capcut, you can tap into this growing demand and create a profitable AI side gig.

Capcut’s “Text to Design” tool allows you to generate custom graphics by simply describing the desired design and uploading a relevant image.

The AI will then create several graphic options for you to choose from, streamlining the design process.

Additionally, Capcut offers a library of customizable business image templates in various formats, including standard square posts and Instagram Story templates, giving you a solid foundation to work from.

To maximize your earnings with social media graphic design, aim to establish long-term partnerships with businesses that require a consistent flow of content.

Reach out to potential clients and pitch your services, emphasizing the value that your AI-powered designs can bring to their social media presence.

As an upsell, consider offering social media copy creation using tools like ChatGPT to provide a comprehensive content package for your clients.

While AI templates and tools can simplify the design process, having a basic understanding of graphic design principles will help you create more effective and visually appealing content, making this AI side gig slightly more challenging than some others on this list.

6. Content Repurposing

Content creators often struggle to repurpose their long-form content, such as YouTube videos or podcasts, into short-form content suitable for platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels.

As a freelancer, you can offer content repurposing services using AI tools, charging anywhere from tens to hundreds of dollars per edit, depending on the complexity and length of the content.

Repurposing video content typically involves adding captions, which can be easily done using Capcut’s auto-captioning feature, and resizing the video to fit the aspect ratio of the target platform.

Capcut’s online video editor makes it simple to switch between common social media aspect ratios and preview the content to ensure that important elements, such as captions, are not obscured.

To enhance the value of your content repurposing services, consider offering additional features like video effects and b-roll integration.

When starting, focus on reaching out to creators who produce simple talking-head, interview, or podcast-style videos, as these formats are often the easiest to repurpose and in high demand.

While content repurposing may require some basic video editing skills, the potential for steady work and substantial payouts makes this AI side gig worth considering for those with an interest in video content creation.

7. Thumbnails

YouTube thumbnails play a crucial role in attracting viewers and driving click-through rates, making thumbnail design a valuable skill in the creator economy.

On Fiverr, thumbnail designers can charge up to $50 per thumbnail, but many YouTubers are likely willing to pay even more for high-quality, click-worthy designs.

Using Capcut’s various design tools, including text, photos, and stickers, you can create eye-catching thumbnails that stand out in the crowded YouTube landscape.

The “Remove Background” tool is particularly useful for isolating key elements and creating clear, focused compositions.

However, designing an attractive thumbnail is only half the battle; creating a thumbnail that entices viewers to click requires a deep understanding of audience psychology and current trends.

To succeed in this AI side gig, invest time in researching and analyzing successful thumbnails in your target niches, identifying the elements that contribute to their effectiveness.

When pitching your thumbnail design services, reach out to a wide range of creators, from established channels to up-and-coming talent.

Develop a strong portfolio showcasing your best work, and consider creating personalized thumbnail examples for each potential client to demonstrate your understanding of their unique style and audience.

While thumbnail design may require a more advanced skillset than some other AI side gigs on this list, the potential for high payouts and ongoing work with successful creators makes it an attractive option for those with an eye for design and a passion for helping others succeed on YouTube.

8. Video Editing

Video editing is a highly sought-after skill, with businesses and content creators alike seeking talented editors to bring their vision to life.

As a freelance video editor using AI tools like Capcut, you can tap into this demand and create a lucrative side hustle that has the potential to earn you thousands of dollars.

Capcut offers a range of AI-powered tools that can streamline the video editing process, making it easier than ever to create professional-quality content.

For example, the “Product URL to Ads” tool allows you to generate custom video ads for products by simply pasting in a link to the product page.

The AI analyzes the website and creates several video ad options, complete with relevant visuals and text.

In addition to its AI tools, Capcut provides a library of customizable business video templates for various products and services, allowing you to create stunning videos with minimal effort by simply dragging and dropping your clips into the template.

However, to truly maximize your earning potential as a video editor, it’s essential to develop skills beyond the AI tools and templates offered by Capcut.

Investing time in learning advanced editing techniques, storytelling principles, and the unique requirements of different platforms and formats will set you apart from the competition and allow you to command higher rates.

When seeking clients for your video editing services, consider targeting both businesses and content creators, as both groups have a constant need for high-quality video content.

Building a strong portfolio that showcases your range and expertise will be key to attracting high-paying clients and establishing yourself as a go-to video editor in your niche.

While video editing may be one of the more challenging AI side gigs on this list, the potential for substantial payouts and ongoing work with established clients makes it an attractive option for those with a passion for visual storytelling and a willingness to invest in their skills.

9. Influencer

Becoming an influencer has long been a popular side hustle, with the potential to earn significant income through sponsored content, affiliate marketing, and other revenue streams.

In recent years, the rise of AI tools has opened up new possibilities for aspiring influencers, allowing them to create engaging content more efficiently and effectively.

One example of this trend is the emergence of AI influencers, or human influencers who leverage AI tools to create content at scale.

Using tools like Capcut’s “AI Character” feature, which generates a realistic human avatar that can be customized and animated to say anything you want, you can create a unique AI influencer persona and build a following around your niche.

To take your AI influencer side gig to the next level, consider using Capcut’s “Script to Video” tool, which generates an entire video based on a written prompt.

Simply input your desired video topic and let the AI create a script, complete with visuals, music, captions, and voiceovers.

While the generated content may be somewhat basic, it provides a solid foundation for you to build upon and customize to your liking.

As you develop your AI influencer persona and create content, focus on building a strong brand identity and engaging with your target audience.

Collaborate with other creators in your niche, participate in trending challenges and conversations, and consistently provide value to your followers to foster a loyal community.

While becoming a successful influencer is no easy feat, requiring dedication, creativity, and a deep understanding of your audience, the potential for significant income and the ability to turn your passions into a full-time career make it a highly appealing AI side gig for those willing to put in the work.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the rise of AI tools has opened up a world of possibilities for entrepreneurs and freelancers looking to create a profitable side hustle in 2024.

From photo editing and content repurposing to video creation and influencer marketing, there are numerous AI side gigs that you can start with zero investment and scale to earn hundreds or even thousands of dollars per day.

By leveraging powerful tools like Capcut, you can streamline your workflows, create professional-quality content, and tap into the growing demand for AI-powered services across various industries.

However, it’s important to remember that while AI tools can significantly enhance your productivity and creativity, they are not a substitute for human skills and expertise.

To truly succeed in any of these AI side gigs, it’s essential to continually invest in your own knowledge and abilities, staying up-to-date with industry trends and best practices and developing a deep understanding of your target audience and their needs.

By combining the power of AI with your own unique skills and passions, you can build a thriving side hustle that not only provides financial freedom but also allows you to make a meaningful impact in your chosen niche.

So, whether you’re a seasoned freelancer looking to expand your service offerings or a complete beginner eager to dive into the world of AI-powered entrepreneurship, there has never been a better time to start exploring the exciting opportunities that await you in 2024 and beyond.

FAQs:

How do you use AI for side hustle?

AI can be used in various ways to create a profitable side hustle. Some popular AI side gigs include:

Photo editing and restoration using AI tools like Capcut’s photo colorizer, background remover, and image upscaler.

Creating AI-generated clothing model photos for e-commerce businesses.
Offering video captioning and translation services using AI-powered auto-captioning features.
Designing social media graphics and video content using AI-driven design tools and templates.

Repurposing long-form content into short-form videos optimized for platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels.
Creating custom YouTube thumbnails using AI-assisted design tools.
Providing video editing services using AI-powered tools and templates for businesses and content creators.

Building an AI influencer persona and creating content using AI-generated scripts and animations.

How to use AI to earn passive income?

To earn passive income using AI, consider the following strategies:

Create an online course teaching others how to leverage AI tools for their own side hustles or businesses.

Develop and sell AI-powered templates, presets, or graphics packs for popular design tools like Capcut.
Build a YouTube channel or blog featuring AI tool reviews, tutorials, and case studies, monetizing through ads, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing.
Create and sell an e-book or digital product showcasing AI side hustle ideas and strategies.

Develop a niche website or blog that utilizes AI-generated content to attract organic traffic and monetize through ads, affiliates, or digital product sales.

How to earn money from AI?

To earn money from AI, focus on providing value to businesses and individuals through AI-powered services and products. Some ways to monetize your AI skills include:

Offering freelance services on platforms like Fiverr or Upwork, utilizing AI tools to create content, design graphics, or edit videos.

Partnering with businesses to provide AI-driven solutions for their content creation, marketing, or customer service needs.
Creating and selling AI-powered digital products, such as templates, presets, or graphic packs.
Building a personal brand as an AI expert, offering consulting, coaching, or training services to help others leverage AI for their own projects or businesses.

Developing and launching your own AI-powered tools, apps, or software, monetizing through subscriptions, licensing, or ads.

Which is the best AI tool?

The best AI tool depends on your specific needs, niche, and skill level. However, some popular and versatile AI tools include:

Capcut: A free, all-in-one video editing and graphic design tool with a wide range of AI-powered features for content creation and repurposing.

ChatGPT: A powerful language model that can assist with content creation, brainstorming, and research.
Midjourney or DALL-E: AI-driven image generation tools that can create unique visuals based on textual prompts.
Lumen5: An AI-powered video creation platform that turns blog posts or scripts into engaging videos.

Synthesia: An AI video generation tool that creates realistic avatars for presentations, explainer videos, or customer service.

Ultimately, the best AI tool for you will depend on your specific side hustle or project requirements. Experiment with different tools and platforms to find the ones that best suit your needs and workflow.