While California rolls out guardrails on AI, Mark Cuban is doing the opposite: 35+ free AI bootcamps nationwide this fall — no coding required. A capstone project. Real mentorship.
These teens graduate in a few years into an AI-saturated economy. The question isn't whether they'll use AI at work — it's how to use it well.
Here's the uncomfortable truth for big companies:
Large AI departments. They recruit at college events. They'll meet this talent in 4+ years.
Small businesses can meet them now — while they're still learning algebra.
The playbook:
1️⃣ Show up where they learn. These bootcamps need local mentors. Volunteer. Sit in on capstone presentations. Build the relationship years before the resume exists.
2️⃣ Don't ask for a portfolio. Ask for a project. A small paid task solving a real business problem. How they use AI reveals more than any resume ever could⃣ . Pay for AI fluency, not degrees. A 20-hour bootcamp isn't a CS's demonstrable skill. Build internship roles around it (within your state's teen labor rules), pay on ability, and offer a clear path to full-time work.
Gusto forecasts small businesses will hire ~974,000 new grads this season — third straight year near a million. AI makes small teams compete like giants.
The winners won't be whoever hires first whoever hires **smart** — and earliest.
Small business leaders: connect with these bootcamps now. First pick is yours.