55 Media Related Business Ideas You Can Start Today [2024]
Interested in starting a media industry business in 2024?
We put together 55 of the best media industry businesses you can start in today.
For each business idea, we’ll show you real-world examples of other media industry businesses to help you see what it really takes.
Here's the full list:
1. Start a tv show ranking business
Looking to tap into the binge-watching craze? Consider starting a TV show ranking business. This concept is simple—provide detailed ratings and reviews of television shows, helping audiences discover what to watch next.
Curating lists, gathering user feedback, and analyzing trends will be your bread and butter. You can monetize through ad revenue, sponsored posts, or even premium subscriptions. The potential to partner with streaming services for exclusive content adds another layer of opportunity.
The demand for trusted recommendations is high, and your knack for identifying hit shows can translate into a profitable venture. Establish a strong online presence, leveraging SEO and social media to attract a dedicated following.
If you’re passionate about TV and can offer insightful, reliable content, this idea has room to grow. Your TV show ranking business could be the go-to resource for the ever-expanding world of entertainment.
How much you can make: $1,300/month
Episode Ninja is a successful side project that has steadily grown, currently making over $1,000 in revenue per month from advertising and TV streaming affiliate programs and with steady traffic of over 200,000 unique visitors a month, providing a great example for founders starting their own businesses.
2. Start a film production company
A film production company is responsible for producing video content for social media, corporate promotions, television programs, commercials,s or other media-related fields. Ideally, the responsibilities of a video production company include scripting, location scouting, and also logistics to ensure a successful film.
Starting a film production company can be a daunting task. However, you can set up your business for success with proper guidance. Here are important steps for creating a video production company:
- Determine the company niche
- Choose a suitable company name
- Draft a solid business plan
- Hire an advocate to lead all legal matters of starting a company
- Fund your business
- Acquire video production equipment and skills
- Create a website and market your film production company
If you are starting a video production company from scratch, consider creating some proof-of-concept projects so you can market the business. Alternatively, you may buy a franchise or an existing business.
How much you can make: $10,000 — $1,500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 65 days (?)
Lemonlight CEO, Hope Horner, co-founded an on-demand video production company that has produced over 7,000 videos for more than 3,000 brands, generating over $6 million in sales and growing to a 45-person team, all without taking any outside capital and being recognized in Inc 5000 and Entrepreneur 360 for three years in a row.
3. Start an animation business
Animated posts and animated ads have become more prevalent today than ever before. Starting an animation business focusing on helping brands create animated ads and illustrations can be fun and profitable.
The animated videos can be posted on Instagram and other social media platforms. To start an animation studio, you should start by hiring some specialists. You need a pair of illustrators, animators, and a scriptwriter to bring the idea to life.
As an animation artist, you can create animation and visual effects for films, gamers, ads, etc.
How much you can make: $500 — $85,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 577 days (?)
An animation company owner generates between $75,000 and $100,000 annually from producing custom explainer animations for start-ups and marketing companies for between $5,500 and $7,500; logo animations for companies that market using videos at $200 to $500; and Instagram Stories stickers beginning at $350.
4. Become a proofreader
Proofreading business is a service that helps customers review their written work and ensure it is ready for publication. Typically, a proofreader corrects grammatical errors and provides the written piece meets any relevant style guide.
As a proofreader, you can work online, allowing you to choose what time to work.
If you plan to start a professional proofreading business, make sure you possess the following skills:
- Have an excellent grasp of grammar
- Ability to correct mistakenly capitalized words
- Familiarity with the proper use of capitalization
- Use spell-checkers to flag misspelled words
Proofreading is a great way to enhance content quality. With the increased use of written content marketing to reach a broader market, the demand for professional proofreaders has grown tremendously. Professional proofreaders earn an average of $12/hr. And $30/hr.
Therefore, consider proofreading as a business if you are looking for a great side hustle idea or simply looking for ways to increase your income.
How much you can make: $2,000/month
A proofreader was able to build a consistent income of ~$2,000 per month from scratch with zero experience in the field, no expenses, and barely any upfront costs by targeting bloggers and content creators who want their content to be copy edited and proofread.
5. Start a website development business
Website developers create websites for their clients. as a website developer, your responsibility is to ensure a website is visually appealing and easy to navigate. Web developers also focus on improving the website’s performance and capacity.
To become a website developer, learn different web programming languages. Your customers can be eCommerce business owners or brick-and-mortar businesses looking to have an online presence.
How much you can make: $200 — $8,500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
How a founder turned his passion for marketing and technology into a successful Boston-based web design and SEO company, generating over $20k in sales each month by focusing on serving the niche market of small businesses through affordable and personalized services, while establishing his reputation through B2B networking and online initiatives.
6. Start an online video editing business
Video editors manage camera footage, dialogue, sound effects, graphics, and special effects to produce the final film or video product. To become an online video editor, you must have media production and communication knowledge and the ability to work with others.
To start a video editing business, you can outsource video editing skills from an experienced professional. Your role will be to pick video footage from the customers and upload them for the video editor to do the magic.
How much you can make: $2,000 — $100,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
VEED.IO, a London-based start-up co-founded by Sabba and her partner, offers a simple online video editing platform using batch job cloud architecture to help social media managers across the world auto subtitle, filter, rotate videos and much more, earning the company $5,300 MRR and the founders Ramen profitability within just a year of starting.
7. Start a stock photography business
Stock photography is typically sold on an exclusive basis to one buyer for a single usage fee. Stock photos are often available in different sizes, resolutions, and file formats. Businesses most commonly use stock photos for marketing purposes.
Stock photography is the supply of photographs often licensed for specific uses. Stock photos are the perfect marketing and advertising resource for website owners and bloggers.
You can build an impressive portfolio and earn a passive income by uploading high-quality stock photos.
To start a stock photography business , invest in some good photography gear and learn how to take stock photos. An excellent online presence can help you sell your stock photos faster and at profitable margins.
How much you can make: $1,200 — $45,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $3,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Pro Photo Studio founder Tsour Lee Adato shares how she turned a $5k investment into a business that services over 500 clients annually and makes approximately $350k per year with plans to expand and become a 7-figure business while offering advice to fellow entrepreneurs to always be innovating, learning and growing, and not to undervalue themselves.
8. Start an online newspaper
Starting an online newspaper doesn't just mean reporting the news; it means shaping how stories are told and consumed in the digital age.
This business involves creating a virtual platform where readers get daily updates, in-depth analyses, and engaging content anytime, anywhere. Whether you focus on niche topics like tech, lifestyle, or local news, there's an audience waiting to be informed.
You'll need a proficient team of writers, editors, and designers to ensure quality content and appealing visuals. Combining robust SEO practices with captivating social media marketing will help your newspaper reach a broader readership.
Driven by the affordable costs of digital publishing, an online newspaper can offer an attractive return on investment. As the demand for real-time news continues to grow, now is an opportune time to create a platform that informs and influences the masses. If you're passionate about storytelling and journalism, this might just be your calling.
How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)
9. Start a consulting business
Consulting businesses are booming, more so than ever before, and seeing year-over-year growth. With an accumulated value of about $250B, the global consulting industry is one of the biggest markets within the professional services sector.
If you want to start your own consulting business with valuable insights from industry experts, reading about their entrepreneurial journey will help you decide how you should go about it.
How much you can make: $100 — $1,500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Cybersecurity consulting firm Eden Data, launched in March 2020, scaled to four team members and generated over $45k MRR without large startup costs through their unique Virtual CISO offering, which outsources cybersecurity and compliance needs for a flat monthly price, rather than charging by the hour or for long-term commitments.
10. Start a youtube channel
For anyone looking to start a successful YouTube channel, there are plenty of YouTube channel success stories that can be used as inspiration and encouragement. In addition, YouTube has an established monetization system and boasts incredible popularity, making it a potential platform for revenue generation.
In this article, we'll look at different approaches you can use to help promote your channel and grow your viewers. While there's no quick and easy way to success, you can take these tips to build your own YouTube Channel Success story. If you love content creation, you can capitalize on YouTube's popularity to earn extra income.
If you want to join the Youtube partner program to monetize your channel, you will need to reach a minimum of 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours in the previous 12 months.
How much you can make: $800 — $1,000,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $750 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week
Learn how this entrepreneurial couple made $5-7k a month by helping others find legitimate work from home jobs and creative ways to make money online through their blog and YouTube channel, as well as offering two flagship products designed to help beginner freelancers and new bloggers accelerate growth.
11. Start a career coaching business
A career coaching business involves providing personalized guidance, support, and strategy services to help clients navigate professional transitions and growth opportunities.
As a career coach, you design custom sessions to assist with resume building, interview prep, and workplace advancement goals tailored to each client’s aspirations.
With flexibility for in-person or virtual meetings, building a client base lets you empower breakthroughs through specialized advice and accountability.
Launching a coaching practice can be a great opportunity for those with speaking talents and human resources expertise to monetize their natural motivational abilities while setting their own schedule.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $235,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Wall Street Oasis, the largest online community focused on careers in finance, has over 100 million visitors during its 14-year history and is currently receiving over 2 million visits per month, offering interview courses and mentorship services, in addition to building and investing in a thriving online community.
12. Create an online course
An online course business involves creating and selling digital classes teaching specialized skills or knowledge to subscribed students.
As an entrepreneurial course creator, you identify educational gaps around topics you have expertise in and develop engaging video lessons and supplementary materials.
With flexibility around self-paced or cohort-based structures, building a student base provides passive income potential.
For founders who enjoy information-sharing, launching an online course platform presents a lucrative way to monetize your instructional talents with small startup costs by serving eager lifelong learners seeking convenient access to emerging subjects.
How much you can make: $350 — $1,000,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 87 days (?)
Learn how one couple created a successful personal finance blog, The Savvy Couple, that now makes over $20,000 per month and has sold thousands of digital workbooks and courses, by focusing on purposeful content and optimizing their ROI with efficient time management.
13. Start a video production company
A video production company (VPC) also known as a video production agency or film production company, creates videos for clients to use in their marketing strategies. These videos can be commercials, online ads, product showcases, corporate videos, and employee training videos.
How much you can make: $10,000 — $1,500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 72 days (?)
Lemonlight CEO, Hope Horner, co-founded an on-demand video production company that has produced over 7,000 videos for more than 3,000 brands, generating over $6 million in sales and growing to a 45-person team, all without taking any outside capital and being recognized in Inc 5000 and Entrepreneur 360 for three years in a row.
14. Start a podcast
The podcast business involves creating and producing audio content that people can listen to online.
It’s a popular form of entertainment and information-sharing.
To start a podcast business on a budget, you'll need a few key steps.
First, choose a niche or topic that you're passionate about and that has an audience.
Next, get basic recording equipment like a microphone and headphones.
Then, find a free or affordable hosting platform to publish your episodes.
Finally, promote your podcast through social media, online communities, and word of mouth to build an audience and potentially attract sponsors or advertisers.
How much you can make: $400 — $1,020,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 2 hours/week
A successful podcast production company that grew from one client making $15/hour to a team of 10 contractors producing over 30 shows per week with revenue of over $10k/mo, primarily through referrals and with a focus on providing high personal touch and being picky about working only with clients who are a good fit.
15. Start a freelance writing business
Freelance writing can be a good career choice if you are looking for a flexible online job.
Working as a freelancer gives you the flexibility to define your work schedule. You can work from home at any time. Freelance writers work across various niches, writing about various topics assigned by the client,
To earn good money as a freelance writer, you need the following personal qualities:
- Strong writing skills
- Ability to meet deadlines
- Stay on the cutting edge
- Be a self-starter
- Be up-to-date with the current writing tools & writing trends
- Proper communication skills
How much you can make: $700 — $500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 56 days (?)
How David Tile turned a freelance writing gig into an $80k/month business, discussing lessons learned through managing growing demands and maintaining a remote team operation.
16. Start a web development business
A web development business is a company that builds and takes care of websites. They typically use coding and design skills to create online spaces that meet the needs of individuals or businesses.
These businesses help ensure websites work well and look good, playing a key role in the online presence of their clients.
How much you can make: $3,000 — $700,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $4,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Vuetify is a popular open-source user interface library, built with the Vue.js framework, that generates revenue through digital content and services such as paid digital content in the Vuetify store, direct support through consulting, ad revenue from Carbon ads on the documentation pages, and donations/sponsorships via GitHub and Patreon, generating an average income of $6,500 per month.
17. Build an iPhone app
The iPhone is the most popular mobile device in the world. It has changed how we interact with information, entertainment, and communication.
The iPhone has also changed the way we interact with each other. Since its release in 2007, it has become a staple in most people’s lives. It is more than just a phone; it is a tool for staying connected to friends and family and creating new connections.
The iPhone app market is an ever-changing landscape of innovation: it’s not just about making something that works well; it’s about creating something that stands out from the crowd.
It would help if you had something that appeals to your audience to succeed in this market. This can be as simple as ensuring your app has a catchy name or as complex as developing an entire brand identity around your app’s functionality.
How much you can make: $150 — $2,000,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $6,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week
Payment.co, an app built on top of the Stripe payment gateway for creating card-present charges, has grown to process over $70M in volume annually since launching in 2015, with the app collecting a 1% service fee on every single charge.
18. Start a journal brand
A journal is a newspaper or a magazine that covers a particular subject or a professional activity based on the author's thoughts and feelings. The beauty of journaling is there is no right or wrong way to start.
The approach depends on your personal experience and can take many forms.
Find a journaling habit that works for you and create a writing routine. Get creative and journal about anything that comes to mind, so long as it interests your target audience.
How much you can make: $200 — $150,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 105 days (?)
Chasing Planner Peace is a planner company that has expanded from selling planner inserts on Etsy, to offering a one-stop shop customizable planner experience with over 300 inserts, a planner line, and various other related products, gaining a monthly revenue of around $25,000 at its busiest time of year.
19. Start a web development business
A web development business is a company that builds and takes care of websites. They typically use coding and design skills to create online spaces that meet the needs of individuals or businesses.
These businesses help ensure websites work well and look good, playing a key role in the online presence of their clients.
How much you can make: $3,000 — $700,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $4,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Vuetify is a popular open-source user interface library, built with the Vue.js framework, that generates revenue through digital content and services such as paid digital content in the Vuetify store, direct support through consulting, ad revenue from Carbon ads on the documentation pages, and donations/sponsorships via GitHub and Patreon, generating an average income of $6,500 per month.
20. Start a desktop publishing tutorials business
21. Start a short story vending machine business
22. Start an e-learning apps business
Imagine creating a platform that positively transforms the way people learn. This is the essence of an e-learning apps business. In simple terms, this idea revolves around creating educational applications that make learning accessible, enjoyable, and effective right from one’s fingertips.
These days, more people are adopting digital learning methods due to their convenience and flexibility. You can capitalize on this rising trend to create an e-learning app that caters to a specific niche, like languages, coding, or even soft skills.
What's exciting in this space is the capacity for growth and innovation - from gamified learning experiences to AI-driven personalized curriculums. Starting an e-learning app business isn't just about creating another app, it's about crafting a transformative educational tool that empowers users to learn at their own pace and on their terms.
Indeed, it will require critical thinking, technical prowess and pedagogical insight. But the reward? A product that has the capacity to impact countless lives whilst being a sustainable and scalable business model in the continually booming tech industry.
23. Start an online journalism business
Thinking about making a mark in the digital world? Consider starting an online journalism business. Online journalism involves creating, curating, and distributing news and stories through digital platforms like websites, social media, and newsletters.
By focusing on producing well-researched, high-quality content, you can attract a dedicated readership eager for reliable information. This business offers the flexibility to cover niche topics that traditional media might overlook, thus engaging specific and often underserved audiences.
Starting an online journalism business does require dedication; you'll need strong writing skills, an eye for detail, and a commitment to ethical reporting. Over time, advertisers and subscribers can become major revenue sources.
If you have a passion for storytelling and a drive to inform the public, this could be a rewarding and impactful venture. The digital age is ripe for innovative journalists ready to offer fresh, trustworthy perspectives.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $45,000/month
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Ariella started Lioness, a storytelling company, that currently makes $45k a month working with startups, corporations, non-profits, and individuals by democratizing access to the news media using a journalistic approach to public relations to bridge a gap helping people bring their stories forward.
24. Start a copywriting business
A copywriter creates clear, compelling copy to sell products and/or educate and engage consumers.
To become a copywriter, focus on covering the basics, plan your copywriting business and choose the services you intend to offer.
To develop your brand, establish a marketing strategy, and offer quality services to your audience. Email marketing, newsletters, and other digital marketing tools can help you create a successful copywriting business.
How much you can make: $700 — $160,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 54 days (?)
How David Tile turned a freelance writing gig into an $80k/month business, discussing lessons learned through managing growing demands and maintaining a remote team operation.
25. Start a youtube channel
For anyone looking to start a successful YouTube channel, there are plenty of YouTube channel success stories that can be used as inspiration and encouragement. In addition, YouTube has an established monetization system and boasts incredible popularity, making it a potential platform for revenue generation.
In this article, we'll look at different approaches you can use to help promote your channel and grow your viewers. While there's no quick and easy way to success, you can take these tips to build your own YouTube Channel Success story. If you love content creation, you can capitalize on YouTube's popularity to earn extra income.
If you want to join the Youtube partner program to monetize your channel, you will need to reach a minimum of 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours in the previous 12 months.
How much you can make: $800 — $1,000,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $750 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week
Learn how this entrepreneurial couple made $5-7k a month by helping others find legitimate work from home jobs and creative ways to make money online through their blog and YouTube channel, as well as offering two flagship products designed to help beginner freelancers and new bloggers accelerate growth.
26. Become a graphic designer
Graphic designing involves creating sketch designs and materials for corporate clients, advertising agencies, public relations firms, and publishers. Besides, graphic designers provide visual solutions to specific company images, log design, and branding problems.
Graphic design is an excellent career for creative thinkers who enjoy using their talent and artistic skills combined with technology and communication abilities to come up with unique solutions for their clients.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $81,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $600 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
This case study features Md. Yousuf Ali, the founder of Rank Trends, who shares how he started a successful digital marketing agency, which generated a revenue of over $6k per month through SEO and video production services.
27. Become a freelance journalist
Think you have a knack for storytelling and investigative work? Becoming a freelance journalist might be your calling.
In simple terms, a freelance journalist writes news stories, articles, and features for various publications without being tied to any single employer. You pitch your story ideas to magazines, newspapers, or online platforms, then conduct the research and interviews needed to produce compelling content.
This career offers the chance to explore a range of topics, from hard-hitting news to lifestyle trends. Your days will be varied; expect to dig through archives, interview sources, and meet tight deadlines. The real allure lies in the freedom to choose your assignments and the potential to see your byline in prestigious outlets.
It's not the simplest path, but for those with strong writing skills and a curiosity about the world, freelance journalism can be exceptionally rewarding. If you crave flexibility and the thrill of the chase, this could be the ideal business for you.
How much you can make: $45,000/month
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Ariella started Lioness, a storytelling company, that currently makes $45k a month working with startups, corporations, non-profits, and individuals by democratizing access to the news media using a journalistic approach to public relations to bridge a gap helping people bring their stories forward.
28. Become a music tutor
Are you passionate about music or looking for a profitable coaching business? How about becoming a music tutor?
To start a music coaching business, decide your target audience and location and set your rates. For example, you can meet new students through a community event, online, or a music club, or target the local community. Set rates for your music classes and advertise your business to get as many clients as possible.
How much you can make: $30,000 — $70,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,035 (?)
How long does it take to build: 160 days (?)
Piano In 21 Days built a low pressure and flexible online piano course, bringing in 5 figures every month while allowing the founder to spend time on other interests and family while its profitable business runs itself.
29. Start a business directories business
Starting a business directory might be more exciting than you think. Business directories are online or printed listings that compile and organize information about companies within specific industries or niches.
At its core, this business is about providing a valuable resource to consumers and companies alike. For businesses, it's a way to get discovered, while consumers use it to find services and products quickly. You'll curate contact details, locations, reviews, and other relevant data, becoming a go-to source for industry-related information.
Building a business directory requires upfront work—researching businesses, verifying information, and maintaining an easy-to-navigate platform. But the payoff can be substantial. Monetize your directory with listing fees, advertising spaces, or premium memberships, turning it into a steady revenue stream.
If you possess strong organizational skills and an eye for detail, this could be a rewarding venture with real long-term potential.
How much does it cost to start: $480 (?)
How long does it take to build: 7 days (?)
30. Start a record label
31. Start an e-book writing business
An eBook business is profitable and flexible, letting you start a business from anywhere, while it is a low-cost business that is easy to start. You can make a living self-publishing and selling eBooks online as long as you are ready to invest your time and money in it.
Anyone can start an eBooks business! Just choose a niche that interests the target audience, and ensure in-depth research.
How much you can make: $2,000 — $62,500/month
How much does it cost to start: $67 (?)
How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)
Content-Whale, a content curation agency, has achieved a Rs. 4 crore ($514k/year) turnover 4-5 years after being started with just Rs. 2500 ($35), and has a pool of more than 500 writers, aiming to become a market leader in the global content market.
32. Start a voice over service
Voiceover artist is an auditory performer who uses their voice in scripted presentations. The role of a voiceover artist is only to be heard but not to be seen.
Working as a voiceover artist is an opportunity to choose the projects you enjoy engaging in. The role of a voiceover artist is also fun and can help you meet new people.
To become a voiceover artist, start practicing aloud reading so you familiarize yourself with your sound. Then, create your recording studio where you can practice your voiceover skills. It would help if you had a quality microphone, professional recording software, a computer, and soundproofing materials.
How much you can make: $400 — $85,000/month
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Voice Crafters, a multilingual voice-over agency and marketplace founded by Mony Raanan, doubled their revenue to over $765,000 in 2022 with a bottom line of around 30% after transitioning to an online marketplace and carefully vetting their network of over 1,000 professional voice actors in more than 80 languages.
33. Start a billboard rentals business
34. Start a dance reality show business
35. Start a tv show program
The television show program business idea involves creating and producing original television shows for networks or streaming platforms. This business requires a lot of creativity, and a strong understanding of the entertainment industry and what types of shows will appeal to audiences.
To start this business, you must have a team of creative professionals, including writers, directors, producers, and actors. You will also need a budget for production costs, including equipment, locations, and salaries. Marketing and promotion will also be essential to ensure that your show gets noticed by the right people.
For success in the business, staying up-to-date on industry trends and what types of shows are popular will be essential. It will also be crucial to have strong relationships with networks or streaming platforms and to be able to pitch your show effectively. Continuously working on new ideas and developing a strong brand will also be crucial to success in this business.
36. Start a speech writing business
Starting a speech writing business can be a lucrative and fulfilling career for those passionate about language, public speaking, and crafting compelling narratives.
The business involves writing custom speeches for clients in various industries, including corporate, political, academic, and personal events. These speeches can range from formal presentations to wedding toasts and may be delivered to small or large audiences.
To start a successful speech writing business, it is vital to have strong writing skills and an ability to understand the needs and goals of each client. Researching and understanding current events and relevant industry topics can also be beneficial in crafting appropriate and engaging content.
In terms of marketing and building a client base, networking and relationships with event planners and public speaking coaches can be helpful. An online presence, including a professional website and social media accounts, can also help attract potential clients.
To succeed in this business, it is essential to meet tight deadlines and have excellent communication skills to collaborate with clients and deliver high-quality work effectively.
A willingness to continuously learn and improve writing skills is also essential in staying competitive in the market.
Starting a speech writing business can be a rewarding and flexible career for those with a love of language and a desire to help others effectively communicate their ideas and messages.
How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)
37. Start a sports radio station
A sports radio station is a business idea that creates a platform for sports enthusiasts to get updated on their favorite sports teams, players, and events. This business idea can be started by setting up a radio station that broadcasts sports-related content or by creating a digital platform, such as a sports radio app. Listeners can access that on their phones or computers. You will need a team of sports experts who can provide commentary and analysis and a source of funding to cover the costs of setting up the station or app.
You can start by conducting market research to determine the demand for sports radio in your area and reach out to potential sponsors and advertisers to help support your business. With the right team and marketing strategy, you can quickly build a loyal audience of sports fans and turn your sports radio station into a profitable business.
38. Become a sound effects producer
Sound effect editors recreate the realistic ambient sounds that films portray. To become a sound effect producer, complete a sound engineering course or a relevant course to earn sound designer skills. Secure an internship to practice and hone your skills.
How much you can make: $20,000 — $50,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 227 days (?)
ProductionCrate, a virtual studio offering royalty-free music, video effects, graphics and sound assets, bootstrapped to $600k/year with over 10 million downloads, and one million users, thanks to loyal customer retention rates of around 80% YoY growth at 120%.
39. Become a ghost blogger
A ghost blogger is simply a writer who specializes in producing blogs for other people.
As a ghost blogger, you can earn between $300 and $1,500 per week, depending on word count and topic.
Ideally, the ideas and knowledge contained in the article originate from the publicly named author.
Therefore, as a ghostwriter, your role is to put the ideas into words.
How much you can make: $450 — $24,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $125 (?)
How long does it take to build: 62 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week
Content strategist Lacy Boggs leveraged her love of blogging and desire for a more flexible schedule to grow her business from a solo "Ghost Blogger" to a full agency with four writers and a cabal of contractors that helps businesses create bespoke content strategies and consistent traffic, yielding over a ($300k) year in revenue.
40. Start a shooting video games development business
Are you passionate about gaming and tech? Consider starting a shooting video games development business. This venture involves creating engaging and immersive shooter games, ranging from first-person shooters (FPS) to tactical combat scenarios.
You'll need a blend of creativity, technical skills, and a keen understanding of what gamers desire. Begin by assembling a team of talented designers, programmers, and artists. Equip them with cutting-edge tools and software to bring your game concepts to life.
The market for shooting games is vast and continuously growing, offering significant potential for profitability. With a good game concept, you can attract a dedicated player base and monetize through sales, in-game purchases, or ads.
This business requires dedication, consistent updates, and strong marketing efforts to stand out in a crowded market. If you have the drive and vision for game development, this could be a rewarding and lucrative path.
How much you can make: $100,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
Construct 3, a browser-based game engine that allows anyone to create games without coding, has grown from a pay-once model to generating $100k per month in revenue through a subscription-based system, after launching with the help of early-adopter customers and a focus on organic growth, customer feedback, and white-hat SEO.
41. Start a theater productions business
42. Start a jingle writer business
43. Start a 360-degree cameras business
360-degree cameras are required for photographing panoramas and other large visual areas. Virtual and augmented reality's prevalence in video games and other forms of interactive entertainment are some factors behind the rising popularity of 360-degree cameras.
A 360-degree camera lets users capture every event aspect for later viewing. Thus, customers easily acquire 360-degree cameras to capture a complete view of their surroundings.
According to recent research, the global 360-degree camera market will reach a compound annual growth rate of 34.4 percent.
Therefore, launching your 360-degree camera business can be a great business venture.
44. Start a comic writing business
Ever dreamt of turning your knack for storytelling into a viable business? Consider a comic writing business. At its core, this endeavor involves creating compelling comic scripts and partnering with artists to bring those stories to life.
Start by honing your writing skills and understanding the nuances of comic scripting—dialogue, pacing, and visual storytelling. Then, network with illustrators and graphic designers who can transform your words into engaging visual narratives.
This business doesn't require a hefty initial investment; your primary tools are your creativity and a reliable computer. Platforms like Kickstarter or Patreon can help fund your projects, while social media can attract and engage your audience.
Starting a comic writing business means consistent effort in writing and collaboration, but the reward is seeing your imaginative worlds captivate readers. If you've got a passion for storytelling and the drive to make it happen, this could be your next creative venture.
How much you can make: $62,500 — $90,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,517 (?)
How long does it take to build: 165 days (?)
Content-Whale, a content curation agency, has achieved a Rs. 4 crore ($514k/year) turnover 4-5 years after being started with just Rs. 2500 ($35), and has a pool of more than 500 writers, aiming to become a market leader in the global content market.
45. Start a music writing and production business
Dream of crafting musical masterpieces and helping others bring their soundscapes to life? Consider starting a music writing and production business.
In simple terms, this business involves writing, composing, recording, and producing music for various clients, such as artists, filmmakers, and advertisers. The beauty of this venture lies in its versatility and the potential for creative expression.
You’ll need a mix of technical skills and artistic flair, plus a decent setup with a computer, digital audio workstation (DAW), and possibly some instruments. The work involves collaborating with clients to bring their vision to life, editing tracks, mixing sounds, and ensuring the final product meets high-quality standards.
For those passionate about music and sound, this business offers a fulfilling career path. It allows you to be at the heart of the music industry, exploring diverse genres and styles while creating memorable auditory experiences. Turn your musical talent into a thriving business.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $50,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $3,507 (?)
How long does it take to build: 103 days (?)
ProductionCrate, a virtual studio offering royalty-free music, video effects, graphics and sound assets, bootstrapped to $600k/year with over 10 million downloads, and one million users, thanks to loyal customer retention rates of around 80% YoY growth at 120%.
46. Start an ad film making business
Breaking into the ad film making business could be your next big move. Essentially, this involves crafting short, persuasive films designed to promote products, services, or brands.
You'll leverage your storytelling skills and cinematic techniques to create compelling ads that capture audience attention and drive engagement. This isn't just about wielding a camera; it involves pre-production planning, scriptwriting, casting, filming, and post-production editing.
For those passionate about both film and marketing, ad film making offers a unique blend of creative artistry and strategic thinking. Plus, the increasing demand for high-quality video content in digital marketing makes this a timely venture.
Starting in this field requires a solid understanding of the commercial landscape, an eye for creativity, and a knack for project management. If you have the means to acquire some basic filming equipment and software, this can be a highly rewarding and profitable business to explore.
How much you can make: $95,000/month
ADYOUNEED is a marketing tech platform generating over $95,000 MRR monthly recurring revenue offering simplified ad creation and management, boasting over 10,000 users globally, with the company planning to raise a Series A to advance future growth.
47. Become a social media influencer
Social media has become integral to people's lives and daily routines. Given the importance of social media, brands are flocking to different social media platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok in the hope of connecting with their target audience.
A popular approach taken by these brands is engaging social media influencers. A social media influencer has established credibility in a specific industry and has access to a vast audience they can persuade to act based on recommendations.
Anyone can become a social influencer so long as they have the right strategy. Choose a popular niche based on your interests and start creating relevant content.
How much you can make: $2,500 — $166,666/month
How much does it cost to start: $800 (?)
How long does it take to build: 155 days (?)
How one mother built a profitable frugal motherhood, life, and travel blog from scratch, using Instagram, Pinterest, and paid sponsorships to grow from 0 to 18.5K followers and generate $1,500-$3,000 per month in less than two years.
48. Start a video arcade business
49. Become a sports news anchor
50. Start an aviation tv program
How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
51. Start a catalogues business
A catalog is a list or record of items used for introducing new ideas. Businesses use catalogs to create awareness and inspire consumers to purchase.
As more businesses come up nowadays, entrepreneurs are taking advantage of digital printing in helping to grow digital or brick & mortar enterprises. If you are a graphics designer, you can earn money by applying those skills in designing catalogs to help businesses maximize exposure.
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
52. Start a sports PR business
Looking to influence the sports world without stepping onto the field? Consider starting a sports PR business. Sports PR is about managing the public image and communications for athletes, teams, and sporting events.
Your primary tasks will include crafting press releases, coordinating with media outlets, and developing promotional strategies to keep your clients in the spotlight. It’s not just about flair; it requires a deep understanding of the sports industry, strong communication skills, and the ability to build robust relationships with journalists and influencers.
The appeal lies in the growing demand for skilled PR professionals who can help athletes and organizations navigate the complex media landscape. If you have a passion for sports and a knack for storytelling, this field offers a dynamic, rewarding career.
How much you can make: $16,000/month
Athlo agncy co-founder Jay Fuller shares the story of how the personal branding startup for college athletes navigating NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) was able to generate brand awareness through strategic partnerships and grassroots marketing initiatives, securing athlo ambassadors, event participation, and on-campus workshops with two different universities in pre-launch mode.
53. Start a campus newspaper business
54. Start a Digital Printing Business
Digital printing is a more flexible and cost-effective option than offset print. It is popular for its quality and ease of use. You don’t need to take the mechanical steps that are essential in offset printing, which makes it much more popular.
Digital printing is a fast-growing industry that allows you to print high-quality images, text, and symbols on your own products. It also allows you to customize printed products with various materials, such as different inks and paper, or you can use pre-made pages and print them using a digital printer.
A Digital printing business is a simple and easy way to start a small business. It requires less investment as compared to other types of printing business ideas.
The average hourly wage for a Digital Print Operator in the United States is $17, but salaries can range from $16 to $19 per hour.
How much you can make: $30,000 — $1,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 92 days (?)
FilterGrade is an eCommerce platform offering digital assets such as photo filters and video templates; attracting over 450,000 monthly users and generating approximately 30k a month, the founders worked hard to build a valuable marketplace for creators while focusing on digital marketing, partnerships, and content creation.
55. Start a drive-by broadcasting 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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