29 Businesses You Can Start With $100k [Updated for 2024]
If you're looking to start a business on a budget, you'll be pleased to know that there are plenty of options out there. You can start many businesses for under $100k.
So if you're ready to take the plunge, here are some great ideas to get you started.
1. Start an auto repair business ($415K/month)
Many people just love to tinker with, fix and repair cars. This is an all-consuming hobby for some people. They like to take things apart and figure out how things work. The process of fixing and repairing cars is almost therapeutic for them.
An auto repair business is a rewarding way to make extra money or build an entire business.
You can do it in the comforts of your own home, working around your schedule and getting paid handsomely for it. The United States automotive service market is expected to reach $75B by 2026.
How much you can make: $415,000/month
How long does it take to build: 40 days (?)
2. Start an auto electronics shop
Starting an auto electronics shop can be a great business idea for those who have a passion for cars and want to help others improve the functionality and enjoyment of their vehicles.
In this business, you specialize in installing and repairing car electronic components, such as audio systems, navigation systems, and safety features. You would also be responsible for sourcing and stocking high-quality products and offering expert advice to your customers on the best options for their specific needs.
To start an auto electronics shop, you will need to understand how these systems work and the tools and equipment needed to install and repair them. You may also need to obtain the necessary licenses or certifications to operate in your area.
One of the biggest challenges of this business will be staying up to date on the latest technology and products in the market, as well as keeping up with any changes in laws and regulations. However, if you are dedicated and committed to providing excellent service, your business has the potential to thrive and grow.
Starting an auto electronics shop can be a rewarding and fulfilling business idea for those who love cars and want to help others enhance their driving experience.
How much you can make: $1,000,000 — $1,200,000/month
3. Start a drone delivery service
Drones support the logistics industry in different ways. For instance, delivery drones have the potential to bypass ground-based traffic congestion by lifting a share of ground transportation into the airspace. Besides, drones have made delivery possible in otherwise difficult-to-reach areas like ports, terminals, areas with floods, etc.
Delivery drones are applicable in many areas. Examples include:
- Courier delivery
- Medicine delivery
- Hyperlocal delivery
- Food delivery
- On-demand local shipping
But before you invest in the drone courier delivery business, take time to learn the laws governing the industry and research out how other players are operating. Then launch and market your drone delivery business.
4. Start a food truck chef
Want to bring your culinary talents directly to the people without being tied down to a restaurant? Consider starting a food truck. The concept is straightforward: you offer delicious, chef-quality meals from a mobile kitchen.
Running a food truck allows you to test menus, explore different locations, and directly engage with your customers. It's not all about cooking; you'll handle logistics like securing licenses, sourcing ingredients, and maintaining your vehicle. Marketing through social media is essential to build a following and draw crowds to your locations.
While it's demanding and requires careful planning, the freedom and ability to instantly see customer reactions make it highly fulfilling. If you have a passion for cooking and want to experience the flexibility of running your own business, a food truck might just be the perfect meal ticket.
5. Start a digital marketing education
Dive into the rapidly evolving world of digital marketing education. As businesses increasingly shift their marketing efforts online, there’s a growing demand for skilled professionals who can navigate this dynamic landscape.
Starting a business focused on digital marketing education means creating courses, workshops, or one-on-one training sessions to teach individuals and companies about SEO, social media marketing, email campaigns, and more. With a wealth of tools and platforms available, learners can quickly apply what they learn to real-world scenarios.
This business idea taps into a continuous need for up-to-date skills resulting from constant changes in digital marketing trends. Educational providers can develop and update content to stay relevant.
If you have expertise in digital marketing, there’s significant potential to foster growth in others. Sharing your knowledge can empower individuals to advance their careers or businesses, building a community of skilled marketers and generating a steady stream of income.
How much does it cost to start: $999 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
6. Start a mobile nail salon business
Starting a mobile nail salon business can provide you with the freedom and flexibility you can't get from traditional brick-and-mortar nail salon shops. Also, clients do not need to spend time driving to a salon, spend on gas or wait for an appointment. This setup is attractive to busy customers.
Listed are the steps on how to start a mobile nail salon business.
- Secure all needed permits and registrations to run your business
- Obtain needed licenses, training certificates, or credentials
- Purchase needed materials, equipment, and supplies
- Promote your business
7. Start a finance & accounting app business
Imagine having an app that simplifies complex finance and accounting tasks—welcome to your next business idea. Creating a finance & accounting app involves developing a platform that helps individuals and small businesses manage their financial transactions, track expenses, and generate reports with ease.
This business idea stands out because financial management is a universal need. Your app could include features like budget tracking, invoicing, tax preparation, and real-time financial analytics. With the increasing reliance on digital solutions, there’s a significant market for a well-designed finance app that saves time and reduces errors.
Developing this app requires a combination of coding skills, financial knowledge, and an understanding of user experience design. Although it demands effort and technical expertise, the potential rewards are substantial. If you’re looking for a tech-driven venture with lasting demand, building a finance & accounting app could be the ideal opportunity.
How much you can make: $50,000/month
How long does it take to build: 45 days (?)
8. Start an event organizing business ($255K/month)
Here's an idea for those who excel at bringing people together and crafting unforgettable experiences: an event organizing business. Simply put, this venture involves planning events - be they weddings, corporate conferences, or intimate family celebrations - down to the last, memorable detail.
It's the ideal line of work for individuals who have a knack for multitasking, negotiating, and curating aesthetic elements. With each event you plan, you not only construct a tangible experience but also create delighting memories for your clients.
An event organizing business does not necessitate an enormous initial investment. It does demand keen attention to detail, tireless energy, and a skill for juggling diverse tasks. And the payoff? The satisfaction of making dreams come true and the chance to shape unforgettable moments.
But while it is rewarding, this business is not for the faint-hearted. It requires a resilient spirit, ready to face unforeseen challenges around every corner. But fear not, these challenges are nothing but stepping stones paving your path to mastery in event management.
How much you can make: $3,000 — $500,000/month
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
9. Start a crafts business ($900/month)
If you're interested in starting a crafts business begin by gathering the necessary materials, tools, and a dedicated workspace to create your unique products.
In addition to crafting expertise, it’s important to possess basic business skills such as marketing, pricing, and customer service.
To sell your items, you can participate in local craft fairs take advantage of online platforms like Etsy, or create your own website.
It’s crucial to keep track of your expenses and profits to ensure that you’re making a profit. Nevertheless, running a crafts business can be a fulfilling and creative way to channel your passion for making things.
How much you can make: $600 — $1,200/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
10. Become a personal chef
If you’re looking for a career that allows you to work within your own schedule, look no further. Becoming a personal chef means setting your own hours, planning your own schedule, and taking on as much or as little work as you want.
Not everyone has the time to prepare meals for themselves. If you love cooking, you can start a personal chef business in your area and earn a good income from the side gig. The side hustle can fit into your schedule easily, and you can offer delivery and pick-up or curbside options to ensure more people are buying your services.
Personal chefs can work at various locations, including their client’s homes or restaurant kitchens. They may have regular clients who call on them to prepare meals for them weekly, or they may get called in to prepare meals for special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays.
How much you can make: $5,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $50 (?)
How long does it take to build: 360 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 15 hours/week
11. Start a cryptocurrency exchange service ($36.7K/month)
The cryptocurrency market is growing exponentially. A good business idea you can start in this line is a cryptocurrency exchange. A cryptocurrency exchange is an online marketplace where users trade cryptocurrency. A cryptocurrency exchange works similarly to an online brokerage. Users can trade crypto for fiat or crypto for crypto.
How much you can make: $25,000 — $50,000/month
How long does it take to build: 150 days (?)
12. Start a web design & online marketing business ($123K/month)
If you know about website design and marketing concepts then starting your own web design and online marketing business could be the perfect opportunity for you to do so.
The online marketing industry is the second largest industry in the United States and continues to grow. The online marketing industry is massive. It is estimated to grow by 30% annually, reaching $400B in the next four years.
How much you can make: $8,000 — $800,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
13. Start an online marshmallow business
Ever thought about selling marshmallows online? Start an online marshmallow business, a sweet and simple concept that allows you to cater to a niche market with a timeless treat.
You can craft these sugary delights in an array of flavors, shapes, and sizes—or even create custom designs for special occasions. Building your brand involves developing unique recipes, sourcing high-quality ingredients, and establishing an engaging online presence through a sleek website and active social media profiles.
Though it requires attention to detail and a commitment to quality, the low overhead cost makes it an attractive option for aspiring entrepreneurs. If you have a knack for baking and enjoy creating delightful confections, an online marshmallow business could be a rewarding venture.
How much you can make: $108,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $101 (?)
How long does it take to build: 95 days (?)
14. Start a food truck ($125K/month)
Food trucks are a highly profitable business that offers customers a variety of meal options out of a mobile truck. This basically operates inside a large vehicle equipped with kitchen and food products. Starting a food truck is a dream for many people, but it's more challenging than it looks. To make it work, you need the ideal location and menu.
To start a food truck business in a particular city, it is mandatory to check what kind of food trucks are already operating, identify a gap, and bring in some new experiences. Then, with the right plan and the right approach, you can be on your way to starting your own food truck empire.
How much you can make: $30,000 — $1,500,000/month
How long does it take to build: 75 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week
15. Start an electronics repair business ($4K/month)
The electronics industry itself is worth more than $2 trillion. And electronics repair is a lucrative business that can be started with little to no money.
One of the most important things an electronics repairman must do is to make sure they have the right tools and equipment for the job. This will include everything from soldering irons, wire cutters, screwdrivers and more. A good way to save money on these tools is by buying them used or refurbished.
It's also important for an electronics repairman to have a solid understanding of how electronics work, including the basics of circuit boards and electricity, so they can troubleshoot problems and fix them as efficiently as possible.
How much you can make: $4,000/month
Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week
16. Start a healthy meal delivery service ($96K/month)
Meal prep delivery services offer healthy and nutritional meals to customers via e-commerce sites.
These services provide either DIY meal kits or Ready-to-eat meals, saving time and eliminating food waste.
They are particularly beneficial for busy people and health-conscious millennials who prefer nutritional food at home.
There are two types of meal services: online meal kits and fast food delivery services.
A meal prep delivery business can be profitable, especially when compared to restaurants, as they save costs on a storefront.
To make a good profit, one should invest less in groceries and ensure they have many customers.
How much you can make: $60,000 — $130,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 7 days (?)
17. Start an ecommerce retailing business ($482K/month)
Starting an ecommerce retailing business can be your gateway to the vast online market. At its core, this business involves selling products directly to consumers through an online store.
Combine your passion for products with a user-friendly e-commerce platform like Shopify or WooCommerce, and you’re well on your way. The beauty of ecommerce is its flexibility—you can choose products that align with your interests or tap into trending consumer demands.
From setting up a professional website to managing inventory and handling marketing strategies, expect to wear many hats. Yet, the rewards are compelling: a global customer base, potential for scaling, and control over your brand.
If you’re eager to blend creativity with commerce, ecommerce retailing offers a promising avenue to explore. Dive in to create your own online retail empire.
How much you can make: $2,500 — $3,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
18. Start a keto/specialist bakery business ($57.5K/month)
Thinking of tapping into the growing demand for health-conscious food options? Consider starting a keto and specialist bakery business.
This business focuses on creating baked goods tailored to specific dietary needs, such as keto, gluten-free, and paleo. By offering delicious alternatives to traditional bakery items, you cater to a niche market of customers who prioritize their health but don't want to sacrifice taste.
With the right recipes and quality ingredients, you can turn dietary restrictions into a culinary adventure. Establishing a loyal customer base will involve meticulous attention to ingredient sourcing, recipe development, and consistent quality.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or a passionate home cook, launching a keto and specialist bakery can be a rewarding venture. It not only capitalizes on current diet trends but also contributes to a healthier lifestyle for your community.
How much you can make: $25,000 — $90,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $6,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
19. Start a bookkeeping service
As the nature of business changes, bookkeeping is an essential function that is on-demand across all business sectors.
Bookkeeping services support businesses by handling their accounts receivables, creating and sending invoices to the correct accounts, and processing accounts payable to ensure business owners settle them when due.
To become a bookkeeper, pick the niche market, choose a bookkeeping software, and set up the necessary business infrastructure. You need a website, an address, client database software, and file-sharing tools where your clients can access records on demand.
How much you can make: $8,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $515 (?)
How long does it take to build: 7 days (?)
More business ideas
- 20. Start a private jet booking service business
- 21. Start a dental job consultant
- 22. Start an online store for the disabled business
- 23. Start a tropical smoothie cafe franchise business
24. Start a pet insurance business
Pet insurance is a type of insurance that provides financial protection to pet owners by covering veterinary expenses in case their pets become ill or injured.
The coverage typically includes treatments, surgeries, medications, and sometimes preventive care.
As pets are becoming more and more important to people, the demand for pet insurance is on the rise, making it a lucrative business opportunity for entrepreneurs.
The cost of veterinary care is constantly increasing, making pet insurance an attractive option for pet owners who want to ensure that their pets receive the best care possible without breaking the bank.
Providing peace of mind to pet owners while creating a sustainable and profitable venture, pet insurance is becoming an increasingly important component of the growing pet care industry.
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 61 days (?)
25. Start a seo training business
How much you can make: $20,000 — $100,000/month
26. Start a drive-thru car washing business
Are you looking for a unique business idea that combines the convenience of a drive-thru with the ever-important task of keeping cars clean? Look no further than a drive-thru car washing business!
This innovative concept allows customers to drive their vehicles through a series of automated washing stations without ever having to leave the comfort of their cars. From bare exterior washes to complete detailing services, the options are endless.
But what goes into operating a successful drive-thru car washing business? Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Location, location, location! Choose a spot that is easily accessible and visible from major roads. Bonus points for being in a busy, high-traffic area.
Offer various services and packages to cater to customers’ needs and budgets. This can include basic exterior washes, complete detailing services, and add-ons like tire shining and air fresheners.
Invest in top-of-the-line equipment and technology. This will ensure a high-quality cleaning for customers and make the washing process more efficient.
Keep the customer experience in mind. This can include simple things like having a friendly and knowledgeable staff, providing clear instructions for using the drive-thru, and even offering loyalty rewards for repeat customers.
Utilize social media and online marketing. Advertise on various platforms to reach customers, show them the value of your services and promote your business.
Keep your business green. Being eco-friendly will not only help your business to be socially responsible but will also appeal to a significant number of customers who care about the environment.
Starting a drive-thru car washing business can be lucrative if you stay organized and focused and adapt to new technology and customer needs. With ingenuity, your business can be a shining example of convenience meets clean. Happy washing!
More business ideas
- 27. Start a drive-thru coffee shop
- 28. Start an event planning training business
- 29. Start a pet food business
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Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
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