Social commerce: Effective AI tools for founders
How social media is replacing traditional websites and opening up new avenues for entrepreneurs
Digitalization has transformed the world of entrepreneurship, especially in its early stages. More and more people are starting their businesses part-time or as freelancers, not through a traditional website, but directly on Instagram, TikTok, or WhatsApp. They meet their customers where they already are and transform social networks from pure communication channels into functional business platforms.
According to the GoDaddy Global Entrepreneurship Survey 2025, almost one in five small business owners in the DACH region now primarily run their business via social media. This development clearly shows how much social commerce is gaining in relevance – especially for small businesses. Many of them use social media not only as a marketing channel, but as a genuine sales platform, including customer communication, product presentation, and payment processing.
Index
Social first instead of a website
Anyone starting a business today doesn’t need a complex shop system, but rather reach and relevance – and that’s where their target groups are. Social media is used to present products in reels, answer questions via direct message, and complete purchases via messenger. What used to be considered a supplement is now becoming the central business model for many in the form of social commerce.
But those who build their business exclusively on social networks quickly reach their limits. Although the reach is large, control and long-term security are lacking. Algorithm changes or new platform guidelines can quickly undermine your visibility – and thus your sales. In addition, many consumers want additional confirmation before making a purchase.
Trust plays a central role, especially in Germany. Having your own website can make all the difference here: according to a Bitkom study from 2023, 77% of German internet users are more likely to trust a company if it has a professional website in addition to social media.¹
Microtools close the gap
The market is responding with specialized tools tailored specifically to social-first businesses. Lightweight solutions such as GoDaddy’s “ShowInBio” make it possible to create digital mini-websites, product catalogs, or smart links without any technical knowledge. These can be easily integrated into Instagram and other platforms, while offering more control over your digital presence. This allows even beginners to quickly develop a consistent brand image without having to deal with complex content management systems.
Social commerce meets artificial intelligence
Artificial intelligence helps founders implement their ideas more quickly and in a more structured way – from text creation and pricing to the automation of customer inquiries. GoDaddy data shows that AI-powered tools can save up to 10 hours of work per week. This creates a real advantage for anyone starting a business alongside their main job or with limited time.
But AI doesn’t just save time. It also lowers the barriers to entry: people who previously had little chance without marketing or design expertise can now present themselves professionally in social commerce, test new concepts, and scale up more quickly. Many tasks such as product descriptions, advertising banners, and social media posts can now be automated with just a few clicks.
Digital, but not impersonal
Such digital tools are not just technological solutions – they also reflect a social development. Access to self-employment is becoming more democratic, flexible, and diverse. Today, people often start a business with little capital but a lot of attitude. The focus is on solutions that meet this demand and support the business where it makes the most sense.
And as important as social media is for getting started in business, in the long run, a solid foundation is what counts. Having your own website, supplemented by tools such as “ShowInBio,” ensures reliability, recognizability, and independence. Especially in a digital environment where fake accounts are not uncommon, many buyers check whether there is an official website before making a purchase.
Conclusion: The next generation of entrepreneurs is already here
The new generation of founders thinks digitally, pragmatically, and independently. They start where their target audience is active—on social networks—but are increasingly looking for solutions that offer them more control, flexibility, and their own identity.
The combination of a social media presence and a professional website not only creates more trust, but also secures the future viability of the business. With the right mix of AI and easy-to-use microtools, the step from side hustle to real business is easier and faster than ever before.
Today, successful entrepreneurship no longer means “starting big,” but “starting smart.” Those who focus on digital self-determination early on are better equipped for the long term and remain independent of platforms and trends.
The next generation of entrepreneurs is connected, pragmatic, open to technology – and they are shaping the digital commerce of tomorrow.
¹ Source: Bitkom e.V., “Trust in Online Providers 2023.”
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