Zach Yadegari: The Teen Who Built a $12 Million AI Startup Without a Degree

In an era where traditional education paths are often seen as prerequisites for success, Zach Yadegari's story stands out. At 17, he co-founded Cal AI, an AI-driven nutrition app that rapidly gained popularity, reaching $12 million in annual recurring revenue.​

Zach's journey began early; by age 10, he was teaching coding lessons, and during the COVID-19 pandemic, he created an unblocked gaming site that he later sold for $100,000. These ventures laid the foundation for his entrepreneurial mindset.​

Cal AI differentiates itself by using advanced AI to estimate nutritional content with over 90% accuracy. Features like barcode and meal scanning make it user-friendly, appealing to a younger demographic seeking efficient health solutions.

Marketing played a crucial role in Cal AI's success. Instead of traditional advertising, Zach leveraged direct relationships with influencers on platforms like TikTok, allowing for authentic promotion and rapid user base growth.​

Despite facing challenges common in the health app industry, such as user retention, Zach remains optimistic. Plans are underway to refine the app's features, expand its demographic reach, and explore international markets.

Zach's story exemplifies how passion, innovation, and determination can lead to remarkable achievements, even without formal education credentials.