On January 8, 2026, Zoom Video Communications Inc. announced the opening of nominations for its Zoom Solopreneur 50 List (ZSP50), a unique recognition program aimed at honoring individuals who are reshaping the landscape of entrepreneurship. This initiative highlights the growing trend of solopreneurs—those who operate their businesses independently—especially in an era where artificial intelligence (AI) plays a pivotal role in enhancing business capabilities.

2. Nomination Details and Eligibility Criteria

Nominations for the ZSP50 will remain open until 5 p.m. ET on February 13, 2026. Individuals can nominate themselves or others by filling out a simple form available at zoom.com/solo50.

To be eligible for consideration, nominees must meet the following criteria:

Operate a U.S.-based business with no full-time employees

Have been in operation for a minimum of 12 months

Demonstrate innovation, independence, and measurable impact in their field

3. The Impact of AI on Solopreneurs

Kimberly Storin, Chief Marketing Officer at Zoom, emphasized the transformative role of AI in enabling solopreneurs to achieve greater efficiency and sophistication. “AI is expanding what a single person can accomplish,” she remarked. According to a recent survey conducted by Zoom in collaboration with Upwork, 64% of small businesses, including solopreneurs, indicated that they could not sustain their operations without AI.

The findings revealed that a staggering 91% of small businesses reported a return on their AI investments within just one year, with significant impacts noted in areas such as cost reduction (82%), customer acquisition (91%), and customer retention (87%).

4. Celebrating Innovation and Agility

The ZSP50 program is not just about recognition; it represents Zoom's broader commitment to supporting independent entrepreneurs. Lisa Scheiring, Zoom’s Global Small Business Advisor, highlighted that the most effective applications of AI are often seen among solopreneurs. “They’re using AI to solve real problems in real time,” she noted, emphasizing the agility and speed at which these entrepreneurs can operate.

Nominations will be evaluated by a jury of experts from Zoom's extensive network, focusing on five key dimensions:

Originality of idea or execution

Demonstrated financial performance

Measurable business impact

Authentic connection to culture and community

Influence in shaping conversations, markets, or communities

5. Opportunities for Honorees

The selected honorees will be announced in the second quarter of 2026 and will receive various benefits, including exposure through Zoom’s platforms and media ecosystem, access to a community of peers and mentors, and eligibility for financial grants awarded to the top five honorees. This initiative aims to accelerate their growth and enhance their impact within their respective industries.

6. Conclusion: A New Era of Entrepreneurship

The launch of the ZSP50 reflects a significant shift in the entrepreneurial landscape, where the capabilities of AI are enabling individuals to operate successful ventures independently. As the business world adapts to the growing influence of technology, Zoom’s initiative serves as a beacon for aspiring solopreneurs, encouraging innovation, creativity, and resilience.

For more information on the ZSP50 and to submit nominations, visit zoom.com/solo50.

Original press release