Why Creative Entrepreneurs Matter More Than Ever in an AI World
Lately, I’ve been talking a lot about entrepreneurship in the traditional sense, retail founders, restaurant owners, CPG makers, and the grit it takes to scale those businesses. But today, I want to shift the lens.
Because as the world leans harder into AI, automation, and technology-driven solutions, one truth is becoming clearer than ever: human connection is the new currency.
And the non-tech entrepreneurs who will thrive in this next chapter are the ones who create the experiential spaces where we can connect, vibe, and belong.
I’m talking about creative entrepreneurs: the musicians, artists, producers, and cultural visionaries who design the moments we crave most. The moments where we feel.
This truth hit home for me recently at the 55th birthday celebration of Rakiem Walker, saxophonist and musical director of The Rakiem Walker Project. Hosted by his wife, the incomparable songstress (and entrepreneur in her own right) Glyra Ry’ann, the event took place in the intimate lounge setting of The Seville in NYC.
The vibe was electric. The magic was real. The connection was palpable. That night wasn’t just a performance. It was an entrepreneurial act…creating a space where community, joy, and belonging came alive.
Because no algorithm can replace the magic of being in a room, vibing to music, feeling part of something bigger than yourself.
- Nikoa Evans
(Check out the live music videos below to see for yourself.)
So here’s the nitty gritty:
While AI will continue to scale efficiency, streamline operations, and even replace many roles in our economy, AI can never give us human connection.
“The future of entrepreneurship lives
in the magic of human connection.”
- Nikoa Evans
That’s why entrepreneurs in creative and experiential spaces like music, art, live events, hospitality, and even products that spark memory and feeling…these will be the ones to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
So what does this mean for entrepreneurs?
It means asking yourself:
How does my brand create connection?
How does my business feed belonging?
Because whether you’re building a restaurant, launching a CPG product, curating cultural programming, or producing music… your audience isn’t just buying a product or service.
They’re buying an experience, a feeling, a moment that creates a connection.
The Nitty Gritty On Where AI Does Fit:
Here’s the nuance: I’m not saying ignore AI. In fact, I believe entrepreneurs can (and should) use AI to:
Scale their back-end operations
Fine-tune marketing and messaging
Prototype and design products faster
Manage workflow, contracts, and financials
AI is a powerful tool. But it’s not the experience.
The entrepreneurs who understand this distinction, who use AI to build smarter businesses while doubling down on human connection, will be the ones who rise in the years ahead.
Human connection….that’s where the real magic lies.
And that magic? That’s where the future of entrepreneurship lives.
Let’s get gritty and grow together.
Nikoa
SEE BELOW FOR THE MAGIC OF LIVE MUSIC WITH
THE RAKIEM WALKER PROJECT & FRIENDS !
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