22 Best Business Ideas For Athletes & Sports Lovers (2024)
To be involved in the sports industry doesn't always mean you need to be an active athlete.
There are a variety of business opportunities for those who have the experience and those that just have a love for the game.
Regardless of your experience, you may have an opportunity to turn your passion into a profitable business venture.
We put together a list of 40 business ideas for sports lovers and athletes.
Here they are:
1. Start an online fitness business ($15.8K/month)
Thinking of starting an online fitness business?
Online fitness is growing rapidly in popularity because it’s convenient, affordable, and accessible to everyone. The best part is that you can stay in your home to start.
Starting an online fitness business can be a great way to make money and help people. When you start an online fitness business, you don’t have to worry about overhead costs like rent or maintaining a physical location - all you need is a computer and an internet connection to get started.
How much you can make: $2,000 — $108,333,333/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Do you want to start an online fitness business the right way? Learn how!
2. Create a new sport
How much you can make: $1,000,000/month
Learn about such a success story!
3. Start a ticketing platform business ($300K/month)
A ticketing platform business allows individuals or organizations to sell tickets to events online. This can include concerts, sports games, festivals, and more.
The ticketing platform handles all aspects of ticket sales, from setting up the event and ticket options to processing payment and distributing the tickets.
To run a successful ticketing platform business, it is essential to have a user-friendly website and a reliable ticket distribution system. Then, establish partnerships with event organizers and venues to expand the number of events available on the platform.
Marketing efforts to reach potential customers and regular updates to the platform to improve the user experience can also help drive sales. Overall, a ticketing platform can be a lucrative business opportunity for those with a strong understanding of the events industry and a knack for building and maintaining client relationships.
How much you can make: $10,000 — $1,500,000/month
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
Check some of the successful ticketing platforms to get an idea for your own business!
4. Start a sports podcast ($30K/month)
Sports podcasting is a business idea that involves creating and distributing a weekly or monthly audio show discussing various sports topics and events. This type of business is perfect for sports enthusiasts passionate about discussing and analyzing the latest news and developments in sports.
To start a sports podcast business, the first step is to create a solid business plan that outlines your goals, target audience, and marketing strategy. It’s essential to research the market and determine what type of content will be most appealing to your audience and how you will monetize your podcast.
One essential tip to running a successful sports podcast business is to consistently produce high-quality content that is engaging and informative. This can be achieved by conducting thorough research and staying up-to-date on the latest sports news and events. Additionally, it’s important to regularly interact with your audience through social media and other channels to build a strong following and keep them engaged.
Another tip for running a successful sports podcast business is to invest in good-quality audio equipment and software. This will help ensure that your podcast sounds professional and is easy to listen to. Building relationships with other sports industry professionals is also a good idea. This can help you secure guests for your podcast and generate additional income through sponsorships and partnerships.
Sports podcasting is a great business idea for those passionate about sports who want to share their insights and analysis with a broader audience. Founders can create a successful and profitable sports podcast business by consistently producing high-quality content and building relationships with industry professionals.
How much you can make: $30,000/month
How long does it take to build: 1 days (?)
Learn how to start a podcast!
5. Start a sports betting website
Sports betting has continued to become popular over the past years. Although sports betting is still not legal everywhere, the global betting market is huge and can be lucrative. If you love sports and looking for a profitable sporting-related business, you may consider starting a sports betting website.
However, before starting your sports betting website, make sure sports betting is legal in your state and that you have the required permits and licenses.
How much you can make: $30,000/month
How long does it take to build: 175 days (?)
If you want to start a sports betting website, here are 3 steps you have to do:
6. Start a sporting goods store ($25K/month)
Experts estimate that consumer preference for the latest techniques in sports equipment and fitness gadgets will increase rapidly over the coming years. If you intend to start a sporting good and equipment store, research the market and identify target customers. You can focus on sporting equipment or include sports clothing in your business. You need to make sure you offer a wide range of sports products and ensure the pricing is fair.
How much you can make: $20,000 — $1,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 135 days (?)
Learn how to start such business here:
7. Become an online fitness coach ($42K/month)
Online fitness coaching is using live or recorded video to offer fitness classes to an online audience at a fee. To become successful in business, online fitness coaches should possess the following personal qualities:
- Stay focused on clients’ needs and goals
- Be ready to walk the talk
- Ask the clients questions
- Focused on educating the client
- Adjust to a language clients understand
Increase in number of internet usersand more hours spent online, online businesses will keep thriving.
Therefore, fitness coaches looking to expand their businesses or venture into new markets can consider starting an online fitness coach business.
How much you can make: $250 — $39,875,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 142 days (?)
Here is all you need to become an online fitness coach:
8. Start a gym management software ($300K/month)
A gym management software business is a software-based solution that helps gym owners and managers streamline their daily operations and improve their overall efficiency. This type of software is designed to handle everything from membership management and billing to scheduling and class management.
Starting a gym management software business is excellent for any entrepreneur passionate about fitness and helping gym owners succeed. Here are some tips to help you run a successful business in this line:
Identify your target market: This is crucial for any business and is especially important in the gym management software industry. Make sure you understand the needs and challenges of your target market, so you can tailor your software to meet their specific needs.
Research your competition: Before you launch your business, it is important to understand the competitive landscape and see what other gym management software solutions are already on the market. This will help you differentiate your product and determine the best pricing and marketing strategies.
Focus on customer service: Your customers are the backbone of your business, so it is important to prioritize their satisfaction. Offer excellent customer service and ensure you are responsive to their needs and feedback.
Stay up-to-date with industry trends: The gym industry is constantly evolving, so it is important to stay informed about the latest trends and updates. This will help you stay ahead of the competition and ensure that your software is always relevant and in demand.
Invest in marketing: Marketing is crucial for any business and especially important for a gym management software company. Use a variety of marketing tactics, such as social media, content marketing, and email marketing, to reach your target audience and drive sales.
How much you can make: $50,000 — $300,000/month
How long does it take to build: 135 days (?)
Check this gym management software to see how it all works:
9. Start an athletic clothing line
An athletic clothing line is a great business idea for those interested in the fitness and sports industry. The business idea is to design and manufacture high-quality athletic apparel such as t-shirts, shorts, and leggings that can be worn during workouts and sports activities.
One of the essential tips for running a successful athletic clothing line is to focus on creating high-quality products. This means using durable materials, such as moisture-wicking fabrics, and paying attention to the fit and comfort of the clothing. Another tip is to stay up-to-date on the latest trends in the athletic clothing industry, as this will help you design clothing that appeals to your target market.
Another important aspect of running a successful athletic clothing line is to have a strong marketing strategy. This can include leveraging social media and influencer marketing, attending fitness and sports events, and collaborating with fitness studios and gyms.
Finally, it’s important to have a strong customer service team in place. This includes providing excellent customer service through email, phone, and social media, as well as offering returns and exchanges if necessary.
Starting an athletic clothing line is a great business idea for those passionate about fitness and sports. By creating high-quality products, staying up-to-date on industry trends, and having a solid marketing and customer service strategy, founders can run a successful business in this line.
How much you can make: $5,000 — $660,000/month
How long does it take to build: 475 days (?)
Starting an athletic clothing line have never been easier:
10. Start a sports coaching business ($4.76K/month)
Sports coaching is a fast-growing industry in all areas of the world.
If you have a sports coaching qualification and experience, you can turn those experiences into a profitable business.
You can offer coaching to teams or individuals depending on your preference and the nature of sports.
You may join sports associations or attend networking events to market your sports coaching abilities.
How much you can make: $4,759 — $8,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $550 (?)
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
Learn exactly how to start a sports coaching business...
11. Become a sports blogger ($11.2K/month)
The sports blogger business involves creating a website or platform where you write about various sports topics, share insights, and engage with an audience interested in sports.
To start this business on a budget, you’ll need a computer, an internet connection, and basic writing skills.
Begin by choosing a specific niche within sports (like a particular sport, team, or type of content) to focus on.
Consistently create high-quality, engaging content and promote your blog through social media and online communities to build an audience over time.
Monetize your blog through methods like affiliate marketing, sponsored content, and advertising once you have a steady flow of visitors.
How much you can make: $250 — $18,400/month
How much does it cost to start: $200 (?)
How long does it take to build: 10 days (?)
Learn more about becoming a sports blogger:
12. Start a facebook group
Facebook is one of the oldest and largest social networking sites out there. Facebook offers its users a Group feature where one can join a community of people with similar interests. As per statistics, around 1.8 billion people use Facebook Groups each month.
Groups allow the members to have organic discussions, post content, and share their valuable experiences & knowledge with each other. The shared knowledge helped startups, business owners, freelancers, and professionals with their social media growth, lead generation, and customer acquisition.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $600,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 272 days (?)
Learn how to make money with facebook groups!
13. Start a sports PR business
How much you can make: $16,000/month
Here is how to start your own PR business!
14. Start a gym bag brand
Starting a gym bag brand can be a lucrative business opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to tap into the fitness market. The idea entails creating a line of gym bags that cater to the needs of fitness enthusiasts and gym-goers. These bags should be designed with functionality, incorporating features like multiple compartments for organizing gear, durable materials for long-lasting use, and comfortable straps for easy carrying.
To run this business, you must have a strong sense of design and an understanding of the fitness market. You should also have some knowledge of manufacturing processes and be able to source materials and find a manufacturer to produce your bags. Marketing and advertising will also be crucial to get your brand noticed and driving sales.
One of the benefits of running a gym bag brand is the potential for high-profit margins. Fitness gear and accessories are often in high demand, and if you can create a product that stands out in the market, you can charge a premium price. You also have the opportunity to expand your product line and add other fitness-related items, like gym towels or water bottles.
Another benefit is the ability to reach a broad audience. By targeting fitness enthusiasts and gym-goers, you can tap into a large market of potential customers. Additionally, the rise of online retail has made it easier to sell your products to a global audience.
Starting a gym bag brand can be a rewarding and lucrative business opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make a splash in the fitness market. With the right design, manufacturing, and marketing strategies, you can create a successful brand that caters to the needs of fitness enthusiasts and gym-goers.
How much you can make: $771,000/month
Check exactly what people appreciate on a good gym bag!
15. Become a physical therapist
Physical therapists are trained professionals who evaluate and treat abnormal physical function relating to injuries, disability, or other health conditions. The professionals can diagnose and treat various injuries and health conditions and improve a person’s range of movement and quality of life, preventing further injury or disabilities.
A licensed physical therapist works in various healthcare settings, including private practice and fitness settings. To become a physical therapist, earn a doctor of physical therapy education and pass the licensure exams. Then, you can register your business and focus on growing the business.
How much you can make: $11,300/month
Learn how to start this business:
16. Start a fitness equipment manufacturer
Are you searching for a new business opportunity that will enable you to utilize your design and construction skills? Perhaps you should consider starting a business that manufactures fitness equipment. The main requirements for succeeding in this manufacturing business are a well-equipped workshop, design and construction experience, and good marketing skills.
The fitness equipment manufactured can include weight benches, weight stands, and squat stands, just to mention a few. Once the fitness equipment is constructed, selling can be wholesale to national and specialty retailers or directly to the public via a factory direct showroom or the Internet.
How much you can make: $240,000 — $771,000/month
How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)
Check how such factory looks like:
17. Become a bicycle manufacturer ($1M/month)
The global bicycle market will reach a CAGR of 8.2% in the next decade. Leisure needs, government initiatives, and increasing health consciousness among all ages are reasons bicycles have become a popular transportation method. Experts expect that that industry will continue growing at a significant rate globally.
Starting a bicycle manufacturing business can be rewarding and profitable. To start a bicycle business, consider your target market and research the competition. Narrow down the niche, create a website, and market your business.
How much you can make: $1,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 1230 days (?)
Check what it is like to make a handmade bikes:
18. Start a sports consulting business
How much you can make: $16,000/month
Learn exactly how to do so:
19. Start a discount golf equipment business
A discount golf store sells golf gear and equipment for less than the average retail price. Starting a discount golf store can be a profitable business.
However, you ought to find manufacturers and wholesalers that sell at extremely low prices to transfer the discounts to your target audience. To succeed, stock items with mass appeal and ensure they are high-quality equipment and not cheaply made.
To maximize the sales potential, study the pricing of competitive retail stores and set the prices per what target customers expect to enjoy from a golf equipment discount stores.
How much you can make: $1,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 395 days (?)
Wanna know how to start such business? Here is how:
20. Become a sports app developer
The fan base in the sports industry is growing continuously. The audience relies on mobile sports apps for news, live watching, fantasy games, and much more. If you are an entrepreneur willing to understand the latest app trends, you may consider building an efficient app that attracts sports enthusiasts.
How much you can make: $35,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Check if you can be a developer too!
21. Become a toy maker ($200K/month)
The toys market is growing at a CAGR of 2.5% and will reach a market size of $103 Billion in the next few years. Toys play a critical role in a child’s growth and development. They help in brain development, enabling the kids to acquire logical and reasoning skills.
Besides, toys help kids develop spatial reasoning and social and communication skills. Therefore, starting a toy-making business today could be the best decision you are about to make.
To start your toy-making business, identify a potential niche, and focus on delivering suitable toys.
How much you can make: $9,999 — $200,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 95 days (?)
Check an interview with someone who did this!
22. Start a sports promotion business
A sports promotion business uses sporting marketing strategies to popularize sporting activities and appeal to the target audience. The sports promotion businesses may focus on marketing:
- Sporting activities
- Sports businesses
- Individual athletes
- Stadium and sports facilities
To start a sports promotion business, choose a niche, define the target audience and create a website. Then, create appealing marketing content and post it on your website. Launch a social media marketing campaign to expand the reach and accelerate results.
How much you can make: $16,000/month
Learn more:
- 4,818 founder case studies
- Access to our founder directory
- Live events, courses and recordings
- 8,628 business ideas
- $1M in software savings
- 4,818 founder case studies
- Access to our founder directory
- Live events, courses and recordings
- 8,628 business ideas
- $1M in software savings
- 4,818 founder case studies
- Access to our founder directory
- Live events, courses and recordings
- 8,628 business ideas
- $1M in software savings
- 4,818 founder case studies
- Access to our founder directory
- Live events, courses and recordings
- 8,628 business ideas
- $1M in software savings
- 4,818 founder case studies
- Access to our founder directory
- Live events, courses and recordings
- 8,628 business ideas
- $1M in software savings
- 4,818 founder case studies
- Access to our founder directory
- Live events, courses and recordings
- 8,628 business ideas
- $1M in software savings
- 4,818 founder case studies
- Access to our founder directory
- Live events, courses and recordings
- 8,628 business ideas
- $1M in software savings
- 4,818 founder case studies
- Access to our founder directory
- Live events, courses and recordings
- 8,628 business ideas
- $1M in software savings
