A new type of AI-powered business is emerging in Shanghai's Jiading district, where a single entrepreneur can run an entire company with the help of artificial intelligence.

Known as a one-person company, the model is supported by AI tools that handle tasks such as customer service, finance, marketing and project management. Shanghai's 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30) identifies OPCs as a new form of AI-enabled entrepreneurship.

At the Intelligent Manufacturing and Robotics Global Joint Innovation Center, or iRIC in Jiading, several entrepreneurs are already using the model.

Zhao Huanhuan, founder of Zhaomeng Xishi (Shanghai) Technology Co, has developed AI agents to automate much of her business. She even created an AI chief financial officer that tracks cash flow and helps her make business decisions.

"The biggest advantage is efficiency," Zhao said. "AI allows me to focus on customers and business growth."

Another entrepreneur, Li Chuanming, runs a robotics company with more than 20 robots and almost no full-time staff. His company develops customized robotic applications and provides robot rental and performance services for concerts, exhibitions and other events.

Since moving into the innovation center late last year, the company has reached a monthly revenue of about 1 million yuan ($139,000), with net profits of around 500,000 yuan, according to Li.

Jiading is building an ecosystem to support OPCs. The iRIC provides office space, technical support and business connections. Since April, it has worked with nearly 20 OPC projects, with about five companies already based at the center.

Home to more than 100 robotics companies, Nanxiang is becoming a hub for AI-driven entrepreneurship, showing how AI can help individuals build businesses with fewer people and lower costs.