In 2025, side hustles are no longer just a trend—they’ve become a financial necessity. With rising living costs, student debt, and stagnant wage growth, many workers—especially from Gen Z—are turning to second or even third jobs to make ends meet. A striking **71% of the workforce** is now actively seeking side gigs, with nearly **40% of Gen Z employees** already juggling extra income streams not for passion, but for survival.
Yet, what began as a means to survive is quickly evolving into something more: an entrepreneurial revolution led by young people who are redefining what it means to build wealth on their own terms.
The New Solopreneur Movement
Andy Kurtzig, CEO of Pearl.com, describes this shift as a “generational pivot in real time.” Gen Zers aren’t just taking on part-time jobs—they’re becoming **solopreneurs**, using digital tools, AI, and social media platforms to create businesses that were once only possible with institutional backing.
They're leveraging automation, online marketplaces, and artificial intelligence to monetize skills, build personal brands, and generate income beyond traditional employment. As Kurtzig puts it:
> “What used to take funding, mentorship, and institutional access, they’re now doing with a laptop and a chatbot.”
Investing as the Ultimate Side Hustle
Among these innovators are Eve Halimi and Anam Lakhani, co-founders of **Alinea Invest** (and Forbes 30 Under 30 honorees). They believe that while side hustles can help pay the bills today, **investing** is the key to building long-term wealth tomorrow.
Their platform was built specifically for Gen Z, focusing on three core principles:
- **Low-lift:** Set up automated investing in under five minutes.
- **Accessible:** Start with just $1 and get personalized guidance for $10/month.
- **Values-based:** Invest in causes you care about through custom investment "playlists."
Halimi and Lakhani argue that the future of financial freedom lies not in working more hours, but in making smarter money moves. They envision a world where your side hustle isn’t another job, but a smart, values-driven investment strategy that builds generational wealth.
Here’s how you can start transforming your hustle into lasting financial success:
#### 1. **Start Small—Even $5 Can Make a Difference**
You don’t need a big bankroll to begin. Thanks to **fractional investing**, you can own shares of major companies like Tesla or Amazon for just a few dollars. The earlier you start, the more time your money has to grow through **compound interest**—potentially setting you up to retire a millionaire.
#### 2. **Leverage Technology for Personalized Portfolios**
Modern investment apps use AI to tailor portfolios based on your **income, age, and risk tolerance**. Whether you want to support sustainability, women-led companies, or tech innovation, technology helps align your investments with your values, without hours of research.
#### 3. **Automate Your Investments Like a Pro**
Just like a side hustle requires effort, investing doesn’t have to. Set up **automated recurring deposits** and let AI handle portfolio rebalancing and optimization. This approach—known as **dollar-cost averaging**—means you stay invested over time rather than trying to time the market. For example, investing $160/month over 40 years could grow to over **$1 million**, based on historical S&P 500 returns.
#### 4. **Align Your Money With Your Values**
Gen Z is known for its strong values—whether around climate change, racial justice, or gender equity. Your investments should reflect that. When your portfolio supports causes you care about, you’re more likely to stay consistent and committed to growing your wealth.
#### 5. **Invest Socially, Not Solo**
Building wealth doesn’t have to be a solo journey. Join investment communities where you can share strategies, learn from others, and celebrate wins together. Platforms like Alinea offer **social investing features**, including shareable portfolios and educational workshops, helping you stay motivated and informed.
Bonus Tips: Avoiding Common Investment Mistakes
Adam Nasli, head analyst at BrokerChooser, offers ten practical tips to help avoid costly errors:
1. **Do your research** – Use trusted sources and comparison tools.
2. **Set clear goals** – Define realistic objectives before investing.
3. **Watch the fees** – Choose low-cost brokers and funds.
4. **Diversify** – Spread risk across different assets.
5. **Focus on time in the market**, not timing the market.
6. **Avoid overtrading** – Stick to your plan and review regularly.
7. **Understand what you invest in** – Avoid complex products until you’re experienced.
8. **Plan for taxes** – Know local tax implications to maximize gains.
9. **Stay disciplined** – Don’t let emotions drive decisions.
10. **Choose the right broker** – Especially important for beginners.
Gen Z is redefining work, wealth, and financial independence. While side hustles may be the starting point, the real opportunity lies in using those earnings to build long-term wealth through **smart, accessible, and values-aligned investing**.
As Halimi and Lakhani put it:
> “Financial freedom doesn’t require a side gig—it requires access and a little support.”
So, whether you're moonlighting as a delivery driver, freelancing, or selling handmade goods online, consider turning your hustle into a six-figure future—not just by earning more, but by investing wisely.