AI for the Little Guys: Thrive on a Budget

By Lisa Schaffer

Running a small business today can feel overwhelming. You're juggling endless tasks, competing with big companies, and trying to keep up with technology that changes overnight. But here's the truth: you don't need a Silicon Valley budget-or a computer science degree-to harness the power of AI.

In AI for the Little Guys: Thrive on a Budget, Lisa Schaffer, a former programmer and passionate advocate for entrepreneurs, shows you how to use practical, affordable tools to work smarter, save money, and reclaim your time. Written with warmth, humor, and real-life examples, this book makes AI approachable for every shop owner, freelancer, and dreamer trying to survive-and thrive-in a digital-first world.

Inside, you'll discover how to:

✅ Automate repetitive tasks so you can focus on what matters most

✅ Use free or low-cost AI tools to boost sales and customer engagement

✅ Streamline marketing, scheduling, and customer support-without losing your personal touch

✅ Avoid common pitfalls and start small with confidence

✅ Build a 30-day action plan for introducing AI into your business

With relatable stories, step-by-step checklists, and easy-to-follow strategies, this isn't just another tech manual-it's your roadmap to competing with the big guys while staying true to the heart of your business.

Practical. Encouraging. Budget-friendly.

Whether you run a café, a landscaping business, a boutique, or work as a solo consultant, this book will help you harness the power of AI to simplify your workload, grow your revenue, and build the business-and life-you've been working toward.