Start an AI Automation Agency

Introduction to AI Automated Agency

In this section, the speaker introduces the topic of starting and building an AI automated agency. They explain that there is a lack of readily available information on this topic and that existing content on YouTube is not sufficient.

What is Covered in the Mini Course

• The speaker mentions that they have structured the video as 10 main modules, each packed with valuable information.

• Topics covered include software used at Web Cafe AI, Excel sheets for calculating bottom line, approaching clients, and payment plans.

Module 1: Who We Are and What is Web Cafe AI

This section provides an introduction to Web Cafe AI as an AI automation agency. It emphasizes their experience in educating businesses and other agencies on integrating AI technology.

Key Points:

• Web Cafe AI is an AI automation agency that helps businesses integrate AI technology.

• The strategies and insights shared in this mini course are based on tried and tested methods.

• Subscribing to their channel provides valuable insights into developing and building an AI automated agency.

Module 2: Market Analysis

This section focuses on market analysis for starting an AI automated agency. It highlights the growth potential of the market share for AI technology.

Key Points:

• The market share for AI technology has been growing at a rate of 38.1% year over year.

• The projected market value is around $1.81 trillion dollars.

• There are still plenty of opportunities to integrate AI automation with small to mid-size businesses.

• Starting now allows for entering the industry at its inception, providing benefits such as increased efficiency, cost savings, improved accuracy, faster results, and scalability.

Module 3: Benefits of AI Automation Agencies

This section discusses the benefits of AI automation agencies and why removing employees can be advantageous.

Key Points:

• AI automation agencies offer attractive selling points to businesses, such as increased efficiency, cost savings, improved accuracy, faster results, and scalability.

• Removing employees becomes a selling point for businesses as it leads to long-term cost-effectiveness and better business structure.

• Hiring employees involves additional costs and responsibilities that can be eliminated with AI automation.

Module 4: Targeting Businesses in the United States

This section focuses on targeting businesses in the United States for AI automation services.

Key Points:

• Statistics from the U.S. Small Business Administration show that 25% of businesses are small businesses, while 35% are medium-sized businesses.

• The best approach is to target small to mid-size businesses for integrating AI automation.

• There is ample opportunity to enter this market and provide AI automation services.

The summary includes four sections based on the given transcript. Each section provides an overview of the topic covered and key points discussed within that module.

AI Automation for Time Management

In this section, the speaker introduces the concept of AI automation as a solution for time management. They propose using an AI chatbot to handle day-to-day tasks and suggest exploring partnerships with small businesses.

Benefits of AI Automation

• AI automation can save valuable time by handling various tasks.

• Small businesses can benefit from pre-made formulas and apply them on a larger scale.

• Understanding different business markets helps identify suitable niches for an AI automated agency.

Applications of AI Automation

• Content creation and finance are two areas where AI automation can be applied.

• Customer service can be improved by automating responses to inquiries.

• Triggers and flows can notify humans when customer interactions require human intervention.

• Legal processes, such as setting up statements of work in contracts, can be automated using transcription and summarization tools.

• Content creation can be enhanced through automatic caption generation and AI article generation.

Niche Selection

• It is recommended to narrow down the focus to one specific category, such as content creation, rather than trying to cover all areas.

• Specializing in a specific niche allows for expertise in that area and better client communication.

Approaching Clients with Niche Expertise

This section discusses how to approach clients with expertise in a specific niche. It emphasizes identifying problems faced by businesses related to the chosen niche and offering tailored solutions.

Problem Identification

• For a content creation AI automation agency, potential problems could include high costs associated with article generation or lack of copywriters on the team.

• Identifying these problems allows for targeted solutions that address specific pain points.

Tailored Solutions

• A cost-effective solution like AI article generation can be offered to businesses struggling with high costs or lack of copywriters.

• Implementing AI automation in the backend enables businesses to generate articles on specific topics, increasing viewership and credibility.

Structuring Payment Methods for Clients

This section explores different ways to structure payment methods when dealing with clients. It highlights the importance of payment methods in creating a successful AI automated agency.

Approaching Clients

• There are three main ways to approach clients when discussing payment methods.

• The chosen method should align with the needs and preferences of both parties.

Remember to use bullet points for key points and insights, keeping them concise and within 25 words.

Upselling and Pricing Strategies

This section discusses different upselling strategies and pricing models for an AI automation agency.

Upselling Strategies

• Offer maintenance packages as potential upsells, such as a subscription for $100/month for ongoing maintenance.

• Provide optimization packages to automatically update clients' AI systems with new features or improvements.

• Offer training packages to educate clients on new AI advancements or provide dedicated hours of support.

• Consider offering priority support as a separate package for direct assistance with any issues.

Pricing Models

• One-time fees can be charged based on the complexity and expected time spent on integrating the automation system. Hourly rates typically range from $150 to $250.

• Softball approach: Start with a one-time fee to make clients more inclined to do business, especially if hesitant about subscription fees upfront.

• Combine one-time fees with hourly rates for future repairs or optimizations requested by clients who did not opt for a subscription model.

Choosing a Payment Processor

This section discusses the recommended payment processor and its benefits for an AI automation agency.

Recommended Payment Processor - Stripe

• Stripe is suggested as the best option for payment processing due to its excellent customer service and seamless integration with Zapier.

• Stripe provides access to various API calls, allowing automation of tasks like generating invoices, subscriptions, and hourly fees.

• The best part is that Stripe is completely free, only charging transaction fees.

Essential Software Tools

This section highlights the essential software tools needed to run an AI automation agency effectively.

Top Six Software Tools

1. Basecamp (or any CRM): Used for project management and client communication.

2. Zapier: Enables building automations both for clients and internal business processes.

3. Open AI: Provides access to AI models and capabilities for creating automation solutions.

4. PandaDoc: Helps with contract management, including setting up payment methods connected to Stripe.

5. Trello: Useful for organizing tasks and workflows within the agency.

6. Google Workspace (formerly G Suite): Offers a suite of productivity tools like Gmail, Docs, Sheets, etc.

Timestamps are provided in the format .

Choosing the Right Software for an AI Automation Agency

In this section, the speaker discusses different software options for an AI automation agency and their benefits.

CRM and Automation Tools

• Basecamp is recommended for manual triggers in AI automation flows.

• Panda DOC is suggested due to its API access for AI automation flows and being free to start with.

• Stripe is recommended as a payment processor.

Cost of Software for an AI Automation Agency

This section focuses on the cost of software tools for an AI automation agency.

• Zapier offers a free plan, but the lowest tier starts at $20 per month.

• OpenAI has a usage-based pricing model.

• Google tools are completely free.

• Basecamp can be free if obtained through a deal or costs $12 per month.

• Panda DOC and Stripe are completely free.

Learning How to Leverage Software in an AI Automation Agency

Here, the speaker explains how to connect the dots and effectively leverage software tools in an AI automation agency.

Self-Education

• Self-education is essential to understand how to use different platforms effectively.

• A playlist dedicated to approaching all 5000 apps found on Zapier is recommended.

• The playlist covers setting up a Zapier account from scratch, setting up an OpenAI account, and connecting them together.

Marketplace for Pre-Built Automations

• Webcast AI offers a marketplace with pre-built automations that can be used directly in your own business or sold to clients.

• The marketplace provides context about each automation, including tasks per run, token usage, and license type (commercial license).

• With a commercial license, you can offer multiple services to businesses using these pre-built automations.

Powerful Tools for an AI Automation Agency

This section introduces powerful tools that can be used in an AI automation agency.

Replicate.com

• Replicate.com is a fundamental and powerful tool that provides access to different AI models and collections.

• It allows performing various tasks without an upfront subscription fee, but rather a usage-based fee.

• It can be helpful in searching for different tools and performing specific tasks, such as image generation or super resolution.

The transcript provided does not cover the entire video.

AI Automation Agency Tools

In this section, the speaker discusses various tools that are useful for AI automation agencies. These tools include an image upscaling service, ChatGPT, and BotBrew.io.

Image Upscaling Service

• An image upscaling service is mentioned that costs $10 per month.

• This tool allows users to upscale images and use different models on a usage basis.

• Running these models only costs fractions of pennies.

ChatGPT

• ChatGPT is highlighted as a powerful tool for AI automation agencies.

• The speaker encourages using both the API and the front-end UI of ChatGPT.

• Plugins such as Ask Your PDF, Stack Overflow Plus Web Pilot, and Zapier are recommended for use with ChatGPT.

• Each plugin has its own specific use case, such as searching through legal contracts or getting help with coding.

• Web Pilot is particularly useful for contextualizing information from websites or businesses.

BotBrew.io

• BotBrew.io is introduced as another important tool for AI automation agencies.

• It allows users to leverage their time by accessing expert knowledge in various categories.

• The platform consists of two main categories: Baristas.ai and Espressos.ai.

• Baristas.ai provides access to pre-engineered chatbots like ebook bot and business strategy bot.

• Espressos.ai offers pre-built prompts for better outputs, such as ranking espresso.

Website Development

• The importance of having a good website for an AI automation agency is emphasized.

• Platforms like Webflow, Weebly, Squarespace, and WordPress are mentioned as options for website development.

• Starting with Webflow is recommended due to its highly effective UI templates that attract clients.

Timestamps have been added to each section based on the provided transcript.

[t=0:26:07s] Finding Effective Templates for an AI Automation Agency

In this section, the speaker discusses the process of searching for templates on Webflow that would be suitable for an AI automation agency. They highlight the importance of previewing templates before making a purchase decision.

Searching and Choosing Templates

• The speaker suggests exploring different templates on Webflow to find one that fits well with the use case of an AI automation agency.

• Webflow requires a monthly subscription fee of $18.

• Previewing templates in-browser allows users to assess their suitability before purchasing.

• A template with a specific UI design can be customized and branded as an AI automation agency.

[t=0:27:00s] Importance of Using Web Design Software like Webflow

This section emphasizes the significance of using web design software like Webflow to create visually appealing websites that encourage higher conversion rates.

Benefits of Using Web Design Software

• Utilizing a user interface (UI) tool like Webflow can lead to higher conversion rates on websites.

• A well-designed website is more likely to attract visitors and generate leads compared to a poorly designed one.

• Users are encouraged to input their contact information when they find an aesthetically pleasing and professional-looking site.

[t=0:27:52s] Calculating Costs for Starting an AI Automation Agency

The speaker introduces an Excel sheet that helps calculate the costs associated with starting an AI automation agency. They explain each item in the sheet, including various software subscriptions required for running the business.

Cost Calculation Spreadsheet

• An Excel sheet is provided in the description below the video, allowing users to calculate startup costs for their AI automation agency.

• The spreadsheet includes different software subscriptions and associated costs:

• Webflow ($18/month)

• Basecamp or Slack (CRM tool)

• Zapier ($20/month)

• Google Console (for domain email customization)

• Calendly (free for scheduling client calls)

• ChatGPT ($20/month)

• Bobb.io (task automation tool)

• Stripe (transaction fee-based payment processing)

• PandaDoc (cloud-based contract management, free to use)

• The spreadsheet also includes a section for variable costs that may be incurred on a monthly basis.

• Users can edit the values in the spreadsheet to customize it according to their specific needs and budget.

[t=0:30:19s] Variable Costs and Final Summary

This section covers the "Variable Cost" section of the Excel sheet and provides a summary of the overall content discussed in the video.

Variable Costs and Summary

• The "Variable Cost" section in the Excel sheet allows users to input additional monthly expenses that are not included in the predefined software subscriptions.

• Examples of variable costs could include advertising expenses or other miscellaneous expenditures.

• By adjusting different values in the spreadsheet, users can see how it affects their monthly and annual costs.

• Starting an AI automation agency requires financial investment, but it is essential to spend money to make money.

• The speaker emphasizes transparency regarding costs and aims to provide accurate information for those interested in starting an AI automation agency.

Understanding Open AI Usage

In this section, the speaker discusses how to calculate the cost of Open AI usage and introduces the Web Cafe AI Marketplace for purchasing pre-built AI automations.

Calculating Open AI Usage

• To calculate Open AI usage, it is recommended to review your monthly bills and average out the expected costs.

• Input your monthly spending on AI usage into the calculation.

• The Web Cafe AI Marketplace offers pre-built AI automations for purchase.

Training Courses at Web Cafe AI

• Web Cafe AI also provides training courses on specific topics such as YouTube, Instagram, and business automation.

• Course materials are available for a variable cost.

Using the AI Automation Calculator

• Module 9 focuses on scaling costs in running an AI automation agency.

• The speaker introduces the AI Automation Calculator found on the Web Cafe AI Marketplace.

• Accessing the calculator is as simple as visiting webcafe software.com and navigating to "AI usage."

• A tutorial video is available for a more in-depth understanding of scaling costs.

Scaling Costs with the AI Automation Calculator

This section explores how to use the AI Automation Calculator to determine costs associated with scaling an automation project.

Setting Up Parameters

• Assume a plan that costs $133 per month, which equates to around 0.026 cents per task.

• Choose a specific model (e.g., gbt4) for reference.

• Determine the number of tasks or tokens required per run for a particular automation project.

Using an Example: Email Responder

• Use an example of an email responder that requires five tasks and 500 tokens per run.

• Enter these values into the calculator and press "calculate."

Analyzing Costs at Scale

• The calculator provides detailed breakdowns of costs, including total cost, AI cost, and Zapier cost.

• By running multiple instances of the automation (e.g., 86 runs), the total cost can be determined.

Understanding Automation Costs and Tips

This section concludes the mini-course on running an AI automation agency by discussing costs and providing a helpful tip.

Evaluating Automation Costs

• Building out automations with high costs per run may not be feasible.

• Consider adjusting the number of blocks or chat GBT usage to optimize costs.

Conclusion and Thank You

• The speaker expresses gratitude for completing the mini-course.

• Viewers are encouraged to like and subscribe to support Web Cafe AI's educational efforts.

• Subscribers will have access to future content on leveraging automation in business backends.

Bonus Tip: Visualizing Automation for Businesses

• When working with businesses, it is beneficial to visualize how automation can apply to their operations.

• Use a whiteboard or paper to create two buckets: one for tasks that can be automated and another for tasks requiring manual attention.

• List all business-related tasks in a box and categorize them accordingly.

The transcript provided does not include specific timestamps for each bullet point. However, I have organized the information based on the order of appearance in the transcript.

New Section

In this section, the speaker discusses the benefits of automation for business owners and encourages viewers to explore more technical aspects of automation.

Benefits of Automation

• The use of automation allows business owners to free up their time and focus on other areas of their business.

Technical Side of Automation

• Viewers are encouraged to check out a video at the end that covers the technical side of automation. This includes topics such as setting up a Zapier account, creating an Open AI usage account, and connecting APIs or secret keys.

Playlist on AI and Zapier Integration

• At the end of the video, there is a playlist available that explores how AI can be integrated with all 5,000 apps found on Zapier's backend.

New Section

In this final section, the speaker concludes the video and invites viewers to explore more content related to demystifying AI for personal and business life.

Conclusion

• The speaker thanks viewers for tuning in and mentions that they will see them in the next video. They also encourage viewers to explore more content at Web Cafe where they demystify AI for personal and business life.