41 Creative Flea Market Business Ideas

Updated: July 24th, 2023

Seeking to start a flea market business but not quite sure what to start?

The good news is, there are so many opportunities to become an entrepreneur and build an innovative product/service in this line of work.

If you're looking to start your own flea market business, there are several low-investment options you can choose from.

We put a list together below of the most creative flea market business ideas you can start today!

Here they are:

1. Start a fulfillment by amazon business

Looking to tap into ecommerce with minimal hassle? Consider a Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) business.

In simple terms, you source or manufacture products, send them to Amazon's warehouses, and let Amazon handle storage, packaging, and shipping to customers. This streamlines logistics so you can focus on growing your brand and scaling your product line with ease.

Starting an FBA business can be particularly enticing when you realize the vast customer base Amazon offers. You don’t need to worry about setting up payment gateways or managing shipping carriers—Amazon's infrastructure is robust and well-established.

To kick off, you'll need to invest time in product research and ensure you comply with Amazon's guidelines. It's not a get-rich-quick scheme, but with dedication and smart planning, FBA can provide a sustainable income stream.

Ready to dive in? Consider this a balanced, manageable entry into the bustling world of ecommerce.

How much you can make: $2,300 — $500,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,700 (?)

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

How We Started A 4.8M E-Commerce Skincare Company

Tree To Tub, a natural skincare company, solves the painful problem of people with delicate skin, resulting in $3M revenue on their third year; their signature products include shampoo, body wash, and facial cleanser made from the gentle Soapberry, and they have since grown to $4M and plan to reach $10M in 2020.

Read by 19,360 founders

2. Start a home decor business

Are you a talented interior designer? Do you know you can turn your hobby into a side income opportunity? Home décor as a side hustle is a great opportunity to build a brand as you earn extra income. You first need to work on your portfolio to launch a successful home décor side hustle.

The portfolio communicates to your potential customers your potential when it comes to home décor. You may use your home as an example or request a friend for an opportunity to do their home décor as a sample for your portfolio. Once you have a portfolio, market your business, and remember to include photos from your previous gigs to increase the chances of closing a sale.

How much you can make: $400 — $415,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 48 days (?)

Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week

How I Started A $8K/Month Home Organizing Service

Less is More Organizing Services, founded by Sarah Giller Nelson, is a home organizing service that operates in two states, serving an average of 95 households per year with an 85% repeat customer rate, offering services by the hour with a 4-hour minimum, and using a guided decluttering process to help customers achieve their goals.

Read by 16,337 founders

3. Start an electronics repair business

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

Finding and Repairing Retro Radios Turned into a Successful Side Hustle

Retro Radio Farm founder, Allen Chiang, earns $50k per year as a side business restoring old radios and offering Bluetooth MP3 upgrades, with the business growing 20% every year.

Read by 8,270 founders

4. Start an antique business

Owning an antique and vintage business can be fulfilling and profitable for those targeting the elite.

Antique businesses focus on procuring items at a low price and restoring them, then selling them at a profit. The items can include old toys, cars, bikes, household items, crafts, vintage jewelry, etc.

Opening an antique item store may seem somewhat daunting. However, once you have researched the items available and acquired the necessary skills and expertise, you will be ready to kick off.

For some, a storefront with enough storage for antique items might fit the bill. For others, an online store will work pretty well. Regardless of your approach, the secret is applying your entrepreneurship strategies to an overall framework for success.

How much you can make: $15,000/month

How I Left A 25-Year Career To Start A $15K/Month Antiques Restoration Business

How a former educator built a successful antique restoration business from scratch, growing from a 2-car garage to a 2200 sq. ft. space over seven years, thanks to communication skills, dedication to organization, regular website updates, and utilization of Google My Business and Maps.

Read by 9,800 founders

5. Start a brewery

If well-planned, a brewery can be a profitable business. However, starting a brewery is not a walk in the park.

Opening a brewery requires a lot of planning, involves many decisions, and is capital intensive.

If you have decided to start a brewery, you must comply with the legal requirements. Then, understand the startup costs involved in starting a brewery.

Your brewery business plan must indicate the brewery concept and outline the brewery funding plans.

How much you can make: $56,000 — $120,000/month

How long does it take to build: 365 days (?)

How This Entrepreneur Started A $2M Craft Brewery

Progress Brewing, a craft beer company in South El Monte, saw continuous growth of 12-14% every month for 16 months straight and hopes to break $2M revenue in 2019 with a focus on high-value non-hype beer, excellent customer service, and providing an overall enjoyable experience.

Read by 7,595 founders

6. Start a seeds distribution business

The seed distribution business involves delivering seeds, seedlings, growing supplies, and farmer's starter kits to farmers across the nation or within a preferred geographical location.

To start, partner with a seeds company or a seedlings distribution business near you, and request to offer logistics solutions to them or their customers. As your business grows, you can start your online seeds and seedlings business.

How much you can make: $400,000/month

How We Started A $400K/Month Business Selling Seeds And Growing Supplies

True Leaf Market, an independent seed company offering heirloom, non-GMO, and organic seeds, growing supplies, and starter kits, has grown to a profitable $400k/month business, with revenue diversified across their website, 3rd party online sellers, Amazon, eBay, brick and mortar health food stores, and fulfillment services, and plans to continue growth through acquisitions and onboarding 50 to 100 new SKUs monthly.

Read by 37,415 founders

7. Start a sunglasses business

Love stylish accessories? Starting a sunglasses business might be your perfect venture. It’s all about sourcing high-quality shades, creating a unique brand, and selling directly to consumers.

You'll handle selecting designs, working with manufacturers, and setting up an online store. Focus on marketing through social media and partnerships with influencers to gain traction.

This business requires a blend of creativity and practical management, but it offers the exciting opportunity to build a brand people love. If you’ve got an eye for fashion and an entrepreneurial spirit, sunglasses could be your ticket to a rewarding business.

How much you can make: $14,000 — $190,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $4,750 (?)

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

Woodies Sunglasses: $3.5 Million Per Year With One Employee

Woodies, a wood sunglasses brand founded by Cory Stout, reached over $3.5M in revenue in 2018, despite starting with only $15K from a failed business and has succeeded through Amazon sales, spending $50K monthly on PPC and keeping ACOS at 30%.

Read by 21,769 founders

8. Start a jewelry making business

The global jewelry market size was valued at $278B in 2018 and is expected to reach $292B by 2025.

The industry comprises manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, and jewelry designers. Unlike many other industries that have gone through leaps in technology, the jewelry industry has remained untouched for over 40 years.

If you know how to make jewelry, then this might be a great way to make some extra money.

How much you can make: $1,000 — $2,000,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $3,500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)

How A Teacher Started A Successful Handmade Jewelry Business Online

A primary school teacher found his passion for jewelry-making, turning it into a successful business generating $2500-3000 per month through sales at the Creative Queenstown Arts and Crafts Market, online, and through stockists, with plans to expand and eventually make it his full-time profession.

Read by 43,212 founders

9. Start a phone case business

With the number of mobile phone users increasing, there are opportunities for accessory makers such as phone case manufacturers to make a profit. Building a business around making and selling phone cases is relatively easier to produce. You can print labels on-demand, starting with a lower risk, or buy them in bulk and sell them online.

The global mobile phone protective cover market is expected to reach 75.62 billion in the next few years.

Phone protective covers often make a statement and reflect a person’s social and cultural preferences. Phone case manufacturers take advantage of such considerations and keep their products relevant and up-to-date to attract a more extensive customer base.

Remember, as with any industry with a low entry barrier, there will be competition. Therefore, you must study customers’ tastes and preferences and offer customized phone cases.

How much you can make: $120,000 — $125,000/month

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

How I Started And Grew A $50K/mo Phone Case Business

Felony Case, a Toronto-based company designing unique iPhone cases, started as a small shop on Etsy and has grown to become an internationally recognized fashion iPhone case brand sold in top tier retailers like Nordstrom, Holt Renfrew, Indigo, Urban Outfitters, Revolve, Free People, and made over half a million dollars in revenue last year.

Read by 28,595 founders

10. Start a vintage housewares business

Starting a vintage housewares business might be the perfect gig if you’re a lover of all things vintage and antique. This type of business is about sourcing, curating, and selling a wide range of retro and vintage home decor items, such as vases, dishes, textiles, and even furniture.

To get started, you’ll need to do a bit of research on what types of vintage housewares are currently in demand. This can include scouring estate sales, thrift stores, and online marketplaces for unique finds or even sourcing items from private collectors or dealers. Once you’ve found some great pieces, it’s all about presenting them in the best light possible. This means taking high-quality photographs, providing detailed descriptions, and perhaps even showcasing the items in a beautifully styled setting.

To make your vintage housewares business successful, here are a few tips:

  • Be consistent in your branding and styling. People will come to know you for your unique vintage aesthetic, so make sure you stick to it throughout all your marketing and packaging efforts.

  • Be patient. Finding truly special and one-of-a-kind vintage housewares takes time, so don’t expect to have a complete inventory overnight.

  • Be knowledgeable. As an expert in your field, you must know the history and value of your selling items. Be prepared to answer questions and provide context for your pieces.

  • Be engaging. The world of vintage and antique housewares is fascinating, so don’t be afraid to tell the stories behind the pieces you’re selling. This will help build trust and loyalty with your customers.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to operating a thriving and thriving vintage housewares business. Happy hunting!

11. Start an upcycled furniture business

Are you looking for a unique and eco-friendly business idea? Look no further than starting an upcycled furniture business! Upcycling is the process of taking discarded or unwanted items and giving them new life by repurposing them into something functional and beautiful.

Starting an upcycled furniture business involves finding unwanted or unused furniture, such as old dressers, desks, or chairs, and giving them a fresh look. This can be done by sanding, staining, painting, or repurposing the furniture with different hardware or embellishments. The end result is a one-of-a-kind piece of furniture that is not only functional but also adds character and charm to any room.

One tip for running a successful upcycled furniture business is to have a clear vision and aesthetic. Develop a consistent style that is easily recognizable and appealing to your target market. This can be achieved using a specific color palette or incorporating certain design elements such as mid-century modern or farmhouse styles.

Another tip is to have a solid online presence. Today, most consumers search for products and services online, so it’s essential to have a website and social media accounts to showcase your work and connect with potential customers. It’s also essential to have high-quality images of your work to showcase your craftsmanship and help attract potential customers.

In addition, it’s essential to have a wide variety of items on hand. Creating various furniture styles, sizes, and price points will appeal to a broader range of customers and make it more likely that they will find something they love. Lastly, have excellent customer service, and be responsive to clients’ needs, even if it’s more work than expected.

Starting an upcycled furniture business is a fulfilling and innovative way to turn discarded items into something beautiful and valuable. It is also a great way to help the environment by keeping unwanted items out of landfills and giving them a new lease on life. With a clear vision, consistent aesthetic, and strong online presence, your upcycled furniture business can be a success.

12. Start an used fitness equipment and gear business

Are you looking for a unique business idea that combines your love for fitness and entrepreneurship? Look no further than a used fitness equipment and gear business!

The idea behind this business is simple: purchase high-quality, gently used fitness equipment and gear from individuals and resell it at a discounted price. This can include treadmills, ellipticals, weights, and yoga mats.

One of the benefits of this business is the low start-up cost. Instead of investing in brand-new equipment, you can purchase used items for a fraction of the price. You can also save even more money by operating the business out of your home.

To ensure success, it’s essential to be selective in the items you purchase. Make sure to thoroughly inspect each piece of equipment for any damage or wear and tear before making a purchase. Establishing relationships with local gyms and personal trainers is crucial to gain access to new inventory.

Another great way to stand out in the market is to offer repair and maintenance services for the equipment. This can be a significant value-add for customers who are hesitant to purchase used equipment, as they know they have a trusted source for any repairs.

In this business, you can also offer a variety of classes, such as yoga and cycling, for the local communities and people looking for a place to exercise.

In summary, the used fitness equipment and gear business is a lucrative opportunity for fitness enthusiasts with an entrepreneurial spirit. With some research and clever marketing, you can make this business a roaring success. Go forth and get your sweat on, my fellow fitness entrepreneurs!

How much you can make: $10,000/month

How I Started A $10K/Month Online Fitness Training Program

Haley Perry, founder and CEO of Endorphitness, built an online platform offering at-home health and fitness programs that has grown to garner $10K in monthly revenue through a one-stop-shop for all things health and fitness related and a loyal customer base that values the sense of community fostered through the platform.

Read by 8,046 founders

13. Start an used book store

Starting a used book store may seem quaint and outdated in today’s digital age, but it can be a thriving and lucrative business.

For bibliophiles and avid readers, a used book store offers a treasure trove of pre-loved books at affordable prices. Not only do customers get to add to their libraries, but they also get to support sustainable practices by giving these books a second life.

A used book store can also serve as a community hub, providing a space for book clubs, readings, and other literary events. So why not dust off the old business plan and open the doors to your used book emporium?

How much you can make: $50,000/month

How I Started A Six-Figure Niche Book Blog

OrderOfBooks.com is a website that lists books in both publication and chronological order and generates six-figure revenue after starting off as a resource for the founder and his friends, serving as a valuable resource for book readers.

Read by 17,891 founders

14. Start a second-hand shoes and bags business

If you’re looking for a thrifty business idea, look no further than the world of second-hand shoes and bags. This innovative venture involves scouring thrift stores, garage sales, and online marketplaces for gently used footwear and accessories and reselling them to customers looking for a stylish bargain.

The beauty of this business is that it can be run from the comfort of your home with minimal overhead costs. You only need a computer, internet access, and a keen eye for fashion. It’s a great way to make money while indulging your passion for fashion.

One of the critical aspects of running a flourishing second-hand shoes and bags business is to source high-quality, well-maintained products. Inspect each item thoroughly before buying, paying particular attention to any signs of wear and tear.

Another important tip is to offer a wide variety of products, catering to different styles and budgets. This can include everything from designer shoes and bags to vintage finds and trendy streetwear.

Another way to maximize profits is by offering customers free shipping or a local pickup option. This way, you can reduce the cost and maximize the revenue.

Finally, good customer service is critical. Make sure to respond promptly to customer inquiries and complaints, and keep in touch with your customers to inform them about new arrivals and sales.

15. Start a gaming, sports and entertainment center

A gaming, sports, and entertainment center is a business that offers a wide range of interactive activities for customers to participate in. This can include video game consoles, virtual reality games, laser tag, miniature golf, sports courts, and more.

Running a successful gaming, sports, and entertainment center requires focusing on customer satisfaction and offering patrons a clean and safe environment. It is essential to regularly update and maintain equipment to ensure it is functioning properly and offer various activities to attract a diverse customer base.

Marketing is also key in attracting new customers and promoting the business. This can include advertising through social media, local flyers and brochures, and partnerships with local schools or community organizations.

Another important aspect of running a successful gaming, sports, and entertainment center is managing finances effectively. This includes setting competitive prices, accurately tracking expenses and revenue, and regularly analyzing financial performance to make necessary adjustments.

Overall, a gaming, sports, and entertainment center can be a fun and lucrative business for entrepreneurs passionate about creating an enjoyable experience for their customers.

How much you can make: $1,250 — $1,000,000/month

How long does it take to build: 265 days (?)

I Acquired An Online Card Game And Solo Run It [$4K/Month Revenue]

This case study article follows the journey of a designer-turned-programmer who acquired a multiplayer card game website, World of Card Games, and managed to increase its revenue to $4,000 per month within a year, sharing insights on building the product, launching the business, and attracting and retaining customers.

Read by 5,996 founders

16. Start a painting business

If you are looking for a self-employment opportunity that gives you a chance to define your working schedule, consider starting a painting business. Painting is one of the low startup costs craft businesses with a high-profit margin. However, only some have the patience or the skill to do painting tasks.

To start a painting business, craft a business plan and register your business. Then, get insurance cover for your business and apply for licenses. Finally, get the right painting equipment and focus on marketing your business.

How much you can make: $4,000 — $61,583/month

How much does it cost to start: $4,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)

How I Started A $25K/Month Paintable Coolers Business While Having A Full Time Job

How a recent college graduate started COOLERSbyU, a paintable cooler and accessories business geared towards Greek life and DIY crafting, growing from a few thousand dollars to an average of over $25k per month in just four years through mostly organic growth and a focus on SEO.

Read by 9,872 founders

17. Start an eco-friendly toy business

The toy industry is one of the most plastic-intensive industries globally. People who appreciate the need to be environmentally friendly are switching to sustainable toy options.

A sustainable toy features renewable, natural materials like wood, fabric, rubber, or bamboo.

Sustainable and eco-friendly toys are in high demand across the globe as they promote environmental conservation goals.

Identify a supplier and stock your shop if you want to start an eco-friendly toy business. Be sure to partner with environment-conscious manufacturers. Alternatively, you can start the production of sustainable toys and sell them at wholesale or retail prices.

How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)

18. Start an ice cream shop

Starting an ice cream shop can be a fun and rewarding business idea. Whether you're looking to open a small shop in your local neighborhood or a larger franchise, there are a few key things you'll need to consider when starting your ice cream shop.

First and foremost, you’ll need to decide on the type of ice cream you want to serve. There are many different flavors and styles, ranging from traditional vanilla and chocolate to more exotic flavors like mango and green tea. You’ll also need to consider whether you want to offer both soft, hard, or a combination.

Next, you’ll need to find a location for your shop. Look for a location with high foot traffic and good visibility, such as a busy street corner or a shopping mall. You’ll also want to consider factors such as parking availability and competition from other ice cream shops.

Once you’ve found a location, you’ll need to purchase or lease the necessary equipment, such as ice cream makers, freezers, and cash registers. You’ll also need to stock up on supplies such as cups, cones, spoons, and napkins.

To run your ice cream shop successfully, you'll need a strong marketing strategy. This can include advertising through social media, local newspapers, and flyers and offering special promotions and discounts to attract customers. You’ll also need to hire and train employees to serve customers and handle transactions.

Starting an ice cream shop can be a fun and rewarding business venture as long as you have a clear business plan and are prepared to put in the hard work and dedication required to make it a success.

How much you can make: $400,000/month

How long does it take to build: 730 days (?)

How I Started A $400K/Month Ice Cream Brand With Presence In 400+ Stores

Founder of Ice Cream Factory Shannon Imler started her company with 10 total ice cream containers, and has since expanded to over 400 stores and opened a second location with a goal to hit $863.2 million in revenue, utilizing an effective social media marketing strategy and employee appreciation for success.

Read by 8,169 founders

19. Start a fresh farm produce business

The fresh farm produces business is a fast-growing one. Starting a fresh farm produce business can be an exciting and profitable adventure if you are prepared. Everyone loves fresh food. Healthy foods are never out of fashion.

Listed are the steps to start a fresh farm produce business.

  • Plan your business
  • Secure permits and licenses needed
  • Get financed
  • Hire staffs
  • Find a client and promote your business

How much you can make: $85,000/month

How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)

How We Started An $85K/Month Hot Sauce Brand

Small Axe Peppers is a thriving hot sauce manufacturing business that partners with over 200 community gardens in the United States, growing locally sourced produce and producing an impressive 70,000 bottles of hot sauce per year; the success is the result of a genuine mission, a great story, an online business, and active social media channels.

Read by 6,411 founders

20. Start a tattoo removal business

21. Start a dress mending business

Dress mending can be a lucrative business opportunity. This is because tailoring will remain an essential service regardless of the economy. If you love sewing, consider starting a clothing mending business. Your ideal customers can range from students and staff who wear uniforms to residential and commercial clients such as hotels, lodgings, and restaurants.

22. Sell car accessories

A car accessories business is a retail store or online shop selling various automobile products and services. These include car stereos, GPS systems, seat covers, dashboard covers, floor mats, and more. Running a successful car accessories business requires a good understanding of the automotive industry and a keen eye for the latest trends and technologies. It is also essential to have a wide selection of products available for customers to choose from and to be able to offer installation services if necessary.

One essential tip for running a successful car accessories business is establishing relationships with local auto repair shops and dealerships. This can help to increase customer traffic and provide a steady stream of business. It is also essential to focus on customer service and to be able to offer advice and recommendations to customers based on their specific needs and preferences.

Another tip is to stay updated on the latest products and technologies in the automotive industry. This can help attract and retain customers looking for the most current and advanced products. Overall, a car accessories business can be a lucrative and fulfilling venture for entrepreneurs who are passionate about automobiles and want to help customers enhance and personalize their vehicles.

How much you can make: $5,000 — $202,000/month

How long does it take to build: 365 days (?)

How We Created A $60K/Month Innovative Car Seat Buckle Release Tool And Got Featured On Shark Tank

UnbuckleMe is a profitable business that has created an innovative tool to open kids' car seat buckles, generating a monthly revenue of $60K and attracting a range of customers from grandparents to parents with freshly done nails.

Read by 6,811 founders

23. Start a herbs business

How much you can make: $2,000/month

This Mother And Daughter Started A Side Hustle Selling Chutneys And Spices

Karachi Kitchen Foods saw over 200% growth in sales in the past year, offering seven different chutneys and spices, and plans to launch an online subscription box and publish recipes on their website in coming months.

Read by 2,002 founders

24. Start a seasonal items business

Seasonal items are always in demand, and starting a seasonal items business could be your ticket to tapping into a consistent stream of eager customers.

This venture involves rotating your inventory to match the needs of each season—think holiday decorations, summer beach gear, winter sports equipment, and more. You’ll need to source products, manage inventory transitions, and market your goods effectively across different times of the year.

Why consider it? Seasonal items often spark excitement and drive impulse buys, leading to brisk sales. Plus, the rotating stock keeps your business fresh and ever-relevant, attracting repeat customers eager to see what’s new each season.

If you're strategic about your product choices and marketing efforts, a seasonal items business can be both rewarding and constantly engaging.

25. Start an essential oils business

Essential oils can be a lucrative business. However, you must invest in the necessary oil extraction tools and equipment. If you are interested in selling essential oils, you may consider a white-label actual oils business.

Under a white label agreement, your package and label essential oils by another company with your logo and brand name. To start an essential oils white label business, identify a reliable oil supplier and complete the customer application form. Then, place the minimum order, repackage the products, and resell.

How much you can make: $2,000 — $29,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $2,610 (?)

How long does it take to build: 75 days (?)

How I Created A $2K/Month Natural Oils Brand

RealDrop Natural Oil saw success in educating customers about organic and natural products to improve hair, skin, and overall health, with goals to expand their local reach in India and potentially Chicago, Illinois in the future.

Read by 5,178 founders

26. Start a spices business

Globally, spice shops bring in billions of dollars annually. Starting the herbs and spices business is not as difficult as it may seem. Using vertical farming technology, you can start a spices and herbs garden in your backyard.

When your spices and herbs mature, you can process them easily and package them for sale locally or online.

How much you can make: $2,000 — $125,000/month

How long does it take to build: 360 days (?)

How We Left Our Jobs At Tech Companies To Sell Farm Fresh Cocktail Ingredients

Simple Goodness Sisters is a lifestyle beverage brand that produces "farm to bar" cocktail mixers and accessories made with natural, sustainable ingredients, growing at a rate of 4 times their original production.

Read by 9,168 founders

27. Start a stamps and coins business

28. Start an used electronics business

You can sell pre-used electronics online or set up a brick-and-mortar establishment. You can choose to specialize in a niche or sell everything from used computers, televisions, stereos, and gaming systems.

What is essential is researching the pre-owned electronics business. Set specific goals and limits for your business and work towards the goals. Find the niche that works best for you and explore it until you find success.

29. Start a wall clock and alarm clock business

30. Sell junk

31. Start a hairstyling business

A hairdresser maintains and styles clients’ hair. Hairdressing is a busy professional on the streets and does not require a hefty budget to start. To start a hairdressing business, you can rent cheaper shop premises on the streets or operate as a mobile hairdressing business.

How much you can make: $550,000/month

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

How I Went From Hairstylist To Running My Own $3.3M Salon Business

This case study follows the founder of Urban Betty, who started her salon business with only one contractor, and now has two locations with over 50 employees, growing from 1.5 million to 3.4 million in revenue from 2014-2018, and investing around 2% of its gross income every year in Yelp, Google, and Facebook Ads.

Read by 20,978 founders

32. Start a restaurant

If you love cooking and are passionate about entrepreneurship, starting a restaurant can be a fun and lucrative business.

To get started, choose a great location, and hire an excellent support team. You will need a chef to inspect the food and line cooks, waiters, and waitresses to serve the customers. No matter the restaurant type, you need great culinary and business skills to make your dream come true.

If you plan to open a restaurant , gain insight from consumer preferences and focus on serving modern consumers what they need.

How much you can make: $124,998 — $2,000,000/month

How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)

Starting A $1.5M Healthy Meals Delivery Business

One Life Meals is a Toronto-based healthy meal delivery service that made 14,500 meals per month and generated $130k in monthly sales in 2018 through their one-on-one consultation, lean protein and seasonal veggies-based meals, and their focus on the client experience.

Read by 21,219 founders

33. Start a perfume business

A fragrance or perfume business creates and sells products made from various ingredients, such as oils and extracts, which are mixed together to produce a pleasant smell.

And perfumes are no small business: the industry is expected to reach over $40B in the next few years.

There are a few ways to get started with creating your own perfume. You can start by choosing which ingredients you would like to use and then find recipes that will work for those ingredients. Or, you could start with a fragrance that you already love and try to recreate it as closely as possible with natural ingredients.

How much you can make: $19,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

How I Started A $19K/Month Personal And Home Fragrances Brand

Founder Rafael Hernandez launched Alfred Lane, a line of handcrafted personal and home fragrances, generating $19k in monthly revenue with 50% attributed to online and wholesale sales, while expanding to 65 stores across 6 countries and expanding to Europe and South America.

Read by 8,198 founders

34. Start a key accessory brand

35. Start a kitchen utensils business

The demand for kitchen utensils is and will be evergreen. With some capital and a planned distribution channel, starting such a business does not have to be daunting.

As you source or manufacture the utensils you want to sell, decide on your selling channels, whether through door-to-door sales, wholesale, or an online store. Set competitive prices and aim to meet a niche demand whether for a certain utensil or in a certain geographical location.

Balancing quality, affordability, and customer satisfaction will be key to the success in this business.

How much you can make: $2,000 — $78,000/month

How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)

Leaving A Career In Design And Marketing To Start Making Handmade Custom Knives

Chris Sofia shares how he turned his passion for knives and his marketing and design background into a bespoke knife-making business with a focus on authenticity and customer service, using social media as his primary marketing tool.

Read by 5,534 founders

36. Start a smoothie business

Smoothie is a blend of whole fruits containing bananas, yogurt, honey, ice cream, and other ingredients.

Smoothie businesses attract health-conscious consumers, and their mass appeal has grown tremendously.

In the US alone, smoothie bars are a 3-billion-dollar industry. Therefore, starting your smoothie business can be a great idea from an entrepreneur’s standpoint. To start your smoothie bar, consider an ideal location, and ensure a proper shop format. The alternative smoothie shop formats include:

  • Dine in Plenty of seating space: customers order and pay at the counter.
  • Window only: Serves takeaway smoothies with customers ordering and paying at the counter
  • Food truck: Mobile smoothie shop allowing you to connect with a more extensive customer

The rising popularity of healthy juices and the low startup cost makes the smoothie industry an appealing frozen food business idea.

How much you can make: $30,000/month

How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)

How One Woman Went From WIC To CEO Of Her Own Smoothie Empire

Simple Green Smoothies boasts a free 7-day smoothie challenge that has helped over 2 million people take control of their health and generates revenue with programs ranging from a 21-day cleanse to a plant-based meal planner, bringing in as much as $30k a month and also working to help women farmers in Cambodia build mushroom farms through World Hope International.

Read by 11,238 founders

37. Start a baseball caps business

Looking for a unique way to express personal style while tapping into a thriving market? Consider starting a baseball caps business. In simple terms, this business involves designing, manufacturing, and selling baseball caps that cater to various tastes and preferences.

With countless options for customization, from team logos to personal artwork, there's a vast potential customer base ranging from sports fans to fashion enthusiasts. Starting out will involve market research to identify your niche, sourcing quality materials, designing your products, and setting up an efficient supply chain.

The work is real and requires dedication, but the rewards can be substantial. With effective branding and marketing strategies, particularly leveraging social media platforms, you could build a loyal customer base who love and promote your unique designs. If you have a knack for fashion and a drive to create, this business idea could be a perfect match for you.

How much you can make: $2,000 — $325,000/month

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

Reaching $2,000/mo With a Comfortable, Environmentally-Friendly Hat

Snappies hats, made with leather and brass instead of traditional plastic straps, have helped to plant thousands of trees in the US; Facebook ads, lookalike audiences and retargeting campaigns helped to find customers, while a Shopify store provided a professional looking outlet and Reddit offered information from subforums such as r/entrepreneur.

Read by 7,882 founders

38. Start an african black soap business

How long does it take to build: 400 days (?)

39. Start an artworks business

Turning passion into profit with an artworks business can be deeply gratifying. Essentially, this business involves creating, curating, and selling unique pieces of art, whether your own or from other artists.

Starting out, you'll need to identify your niche—be it abstract, contemporary, or mixed media—and source high-quality materials. Marketing plays a crucial role, as you'll have to leverage online platforms like Etsy or your own e-commerce site to reach a wider audience.

The appeal lies in the blend of creative expression and commerce. With a bit of effort, you can establish a reputable brand, win loyal customers, and, perhaps best of all, watch people connect with your work on a personal level. If you have an artistic inclination and a knack for business, an artworks business might just be the perfect entrepreneurial venture for you.

How much you can make: $876 — $100,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 165 days (?)

On Developing A Career As An Independent Artist And Graphic Designer

Independent artist Justin Erickson earns between $500-$1500 a month and offers advice on developing a career as an independent artist and graphic designer, from building a brand through printmaking, launching a business, attracting and retaining customers, and learning from other resources.

Read by 7,675 founders

40. Start a second-hand clothing business

41. Start an athletic footwear business

Data shows that the global athletic footwear market will grow at a compound annual rate of 4.9% in the next few years.

Awareness and growing enthusiasm regarding the health benefits of sports and fitness activities fuel the market growth. Thus, more people are shopping for athletic footwear on the streets and online. Setting up an athletic footwear business online or at a strip mall can be a successful venture.

How much you can make: $2,500 — $12,500/month

How long does it take to build: 5280 days (?)

How I Created A $12.5K/Month Patented Heelless Running Shoe

The DIFFERENCE co-founder developed a patented heelless running shoe that eliminates heelstrikes, grossing an average of $12,500 per month within the last two months, primarily targeting runners and the medical community.

Read by 8,220 founders

meet the author
Pat Walls

I'm Pat Walls and I created Starter Story - a website dedicated to helping people start businesses. We interview entrepreneurs from around the world about how they started and grew their businesses.