The Rise of Gen Z in Business: How Young Entrepreneurs Are Changing the Game

The Rise of Gen Z in Business: How Young Entrepreneurs Are Changing the Game

I remember when I first thought about starting a business. It wasn’t some grand dream I had since childhood, nor was it because I had a wealth of business knowledge at my disposal. It was more of a curiosity—a “let’s see where this goes” moment. But the more I researched, the more I realized that the business world was evolving, and a lot of that evolution was being driven by people my age. Gen Z. People like me.

What’s interesting is that Gen Z, often labeled as “digital natives,” is reshaping business landscapes. From India to the US, young entrepreneurs are not just following in the footsteps of their predecessors; they’re carving out their own paths. In my opinion, this new wave of entrepreneurs is characterized by their unique approach to technology, inclusivity, and purpose-driven enterprises.

I’ve learned that entrepreneurship, for Gen Z, is not just about making money—it’s about creating something meaningful, challenging the status quo, and leveraging digital tools to drive innovation. Let's dive deeper into how young entrepreneurs are changing the game and how we can relate to their journey.

1. The Digital Revolution: Leveraging Technology for Innovation

If there’s one thing that defines Gen Z entrepreneurs, it’s our comfort with technology. We grew up in a world where the internet and smartphones were already a part of our lives. We know how to use tech to not just connect, but to disrupt. For many of us, tech isn’t just an accessory; it’s a fundamental tool for doing business.

Take for instance Zerodha, India’s largest stock brokerage firm. Founded by Nithin Kamath and Nikhil Kamath in 2010, Zerodha revolutionized India’s trading space by offering a digital platform that made stock trading more accessible and affordable. In the early days, when online trading was still in its infancy, they identified a gap in the market. Today, Zerodha has become a go-to platform for traders, especially for younger investors like myself. What’s fascinating is how they’ve built their entire business with a focus on low-cost, efficient, and user-friendly technology.

I personally use Zerodha for my own stock market investments, and the ease with which I can access data, execute trades, and even learn from their educational content makes it so clear to me how digital tools can be leveraged for business success.

The Kamaths are just one example, but there are countless others. Take Ritesh Agarwal of OYO Rooms, for example. At just 19, Ritesh built OYO by utilizing digital technology to provide affordable and standardized hotel experiences across India. With a simple app and an understanding of the growing demand for budget accommodations, OYO’s tech-driven approach took the hospitality industry by storm. Today, OYO operates in 80+ countries and has raised billions in funding. For someone my age, this is truly inspiring.

I think the key takeaway here is that Gen Z entrepreneurs understand the power of digital tools in transforming traditional business models. Whether it’s fintech, edtech, or even food delivery apps, technology is the backbone of innovation in Gen Z businesses.

2. Purpose-Driven Businesses: A Focus on Social Impact

While many older generations view business as primarily a way to make money, I’ve noticed that Gen Z entrepreneurs tend to think beyond profits. We are motivated by a sense of purpose and social impact. As someone who's passionate about business but also cares about the world, I’ve come to realize that we are a generation that doesn’t just want to succeed financially; we want to make a positive difference.

Let’s talk about Aarogya Setu, the contact tracing app launched by the Indian government during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although technically not a business, it was developed by a group of young tech entrepreneurs who were motivated by the desire to solve a pressing problem. The app aimed to reduce the spread of the virus, and despite some controversies, its core mission was rooted in social responsibility.

On the business front, startups like Bitiya Enterprises in Bihar are proving that profit can go hand-in-hand with social good. Bitiya, founded by Aarti Verma, is a company that aims to empower rural women through skill development programs and self-help groups. The business produces handmade products while ensuring that the women involved in the process are financially independent and have access to better healthcare and education.

What I’ve learned from these examples is that many Gen Z entrepreneurs are keen on solving problems that matter. We recognize that our generation faces environmental challenges, social inequalities, and the need for more inclusive economies. A business today doesn’t just need to be profitable—it needs to be socially responsible.

3. Breaking the Norms: Redefining Success in Business

For Gen Z entrepreneurs, success doesn’t always mean building the next billion-dollar company. In fact, it’s often about redefining what success looks like. We’ve witnessed the rise of the gig economy, where flexible work options, remote jobs, and side hustles are becoming the norm. The traditional 9-to-5 office job is no longer the gold standard for many in my generation.

Take Vineeta Singh, the co-founder and CEO of SUGAR Cosmetics. Vineeta’s journey to success isn’t typical. She left a promising career at a top investment bank to pursue her passion for beauty. But what stands out most about her journey is her willingness to break norms and create a brand that spoke to the Indian woman who wanted high-quality, cruelty-free beauty products at affordable prices. SUGAR Cosmetics became a success not just because of Vineeta’s business acumen, but also because she understood what her audience wanted—a brand that resonated with their personal identity.

In my own experience, I’ve learned that success is subjective. It’s not just about financial milestones, but about creating a business that aligns with your values, passions, and lifestyle. That’s why I think so many of us are creating businesses around the things we genuinely care about, from eco-friendly products to platforms that promote mental health awareness.

It’s about having the freedom to fail, learn, and pivot without the fear of losing face. Gen Z entrepreneurs are breaking free from traditional definitions of success and embracing a more holistic, flexible approach to business.

The Future is Gen Z

The rise of Gen Z entrepreneurs is more than just a trend—it’s a cultural shift that’s changing the fabric of business. We are a generation that thrives on innovation, purpose, and breaking traditional norms. From tech-driven startups to socially conscious businesses, we’re rewriting the rules of what it means to be an entrepreneur.

Personally, this shift excites me. As someone in the early stages of my entrepreneurial journey, I find immense inspiration in the stories of young entrepreneurs who’ve dared to dream big and make a difference. If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur like me, my advice is to embrace technology, find a cause that matters to you, and don’t be afraid to redefine success.

The business world is changing, and Gen Z is leading the charge. So, my question to you is: How are you going to be a part of this change?