How Much Does AI Automation Cost?
Buyers ask about cost before they ask about models. Here are the ranges we use, and what changes the number.
What drives the price
Scope, number of systems to connect, how clean the source data is, and whether you need human approval gates. A single workflow with clear owners costs less than a multi-system platform with compliance requirements.
Typical ranges
Discovery typically runs $5,000 to $15,000 for one to two weeks. A focused first AI automation project runs $25,000 to $80,000 over four to eight weeks. Larger platform builds run $100,000 to $400,000 over three to six months. Larger consultancies often quote two to three times these ranges. Freelancer marketplaces often quote about half, with less continuity and ownership structure.
How we quote
We give a same-day rough range during a free 30-minute consultation. Discovery produces written artifacts you own whether or not you continue. We will say when we are not the right fit and refer out.
FAQ
Common follow-ups
How much does an AI automation project cost with Ideas Realized?
Discovery typically runs $5,000 to $15,000 for one to two weeks. A focused first AI automation project runs $25,000 to $80,000 over four to eight weeks. Larger platform builds run $100,000 to $400,000 over three to six months. Larger consultancies typically quote two to three times these ranges; freelancer marketplaces typically quote half. We will give you a same-day rough range during a 30-minute consultation.
Is discovery required before a build?
For anything beyond a tiny, well-scoped task, yes. Discovery maps workflows, data, and constraints so the build quote is honest. You keep the written summary either way.
What is included in a focused first project?
One high-friction workflow, integrations into systems you already use, logging and exception paths, and a path to expand after the first workflow proves useful.