60 Business Ideas in Military Defense You Can Start Today [2024]

Updated: July 24th, 2023

Interested in starting a military defense business in 2024?

We put together 60 of the best military defense businesses you can start in today.

For each business idea, we’ll show you real-world examples of other military defense businesses to help you see what it really takes.

Here's the full list:

1. Build a home security system

Home security systems are an effective way to deter criminal activities and safeguard valuable possessions.

Homeowners opt for high-quality security systems to monitor their homes remotely, while also enjoying the added benefit of lower insurance premiums, up to 20%.

Starting a home security systems business can be a profitable venture, especially as more homeowners prioritize safeguarding their investments.

To start, you can partner with a home security systems manufacturer as a distributor or technical expert. Alternatively, you can create your own line of security systems from scratch.

To become a successful business owner in the home security industry, it’s important to have a basic understanding of technology and electrical systems.

This knowledge will enable you to install the systems correctly and earn recommendations from satisfied customers.

How much you can make: $70,000/month

How A Solution To My Own Problem Turned Into A $70K/Month Smart Home Security System

Konnected founder Nate Clark shares how he developed an open-source solution to his own home security struggles, growing the business to generate an estimated $1 million in sales annually.

About
Nate started Konnected Inc. almost 7 years ago
Revenue
Nate grew the business to $70K/month
Read by 10,106 founders

2. Start a private escort firm

How much you can make: $200,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)

How I Started An Escort Service At 21 That Now Generates $200K/Month

Founder of a high-end escort service in The Netherlands discusses the ups and downs of running a controversial business, with revenue reaching multi-million dollars annually and a focus on creating a professional and intimate experience for clients.

About
Marike started Society Service about 18 years ago
Revenue
Marike grew the business to $200K/month
Costs
It cost Marike $5000 to start the business
Read by 80,560 founders

4. Start an extreme adventure trips business

5. Start a self defense instructor business

6. Start a customized security software business

Many organizations have cybersecurity gaps that off-the-shelf products cannot address due to legacy systems, industry-specific threats, regulatory obligations, modern attack tactics, and complex global IT environments.

To tackle this issue, a customized security software business can develop tailored and proprietary cybersecurity solutions that cater to the specific needs of each organization. Starting a customized security software business requires careful planning and execution. Here are some steps to help you get started:

To start the security software business, conduct thorough research on the current state of the cybersecurity industry. Identify the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities. Also, research your competitors and their offerings.

Focus on providing secure software purpose-built for each customer’s infrastructure, workflows and objectives, this business can both fulfill pressing protection needs cost-effectively and scale growth rapidly across countless industries lacking adequate safeguards.

How much you can make: $8,000/month

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

How long does it take to build: 15 days (?)

I Built A Backup SaaS Tool With 50+ Customers In Just 8 Months

Learn how a founder built a profitable backup SaaS tool with 50 customers in just 8 months by identifying a niche demand for an Azure DevOps backup service, pricing it slightly higher than usual, and focusing on SEO with targeted articles and backlinks.

About
Courtenay started Backrightup over 3 years ago
Revenue
Courtenay grew the business to $8K/month
Costs
It cost Courtenay $1000 to start the business
Read by 2,074 founders

7. Start a firearms training business

Starting a firearms training business is an excellent opportunity for those passionate about gun safety who want to help others learn how to handle firearms properly. The demand for firearms training has increased significantly recently as more people purchase guns for personal protection and sport shooting.

To start a firearms training business, you’ll need to understand firearms and their proper handling techniques thoroughly. Understanding firearms includes knowledge of gun laws and regulations and teaching others how to handle firearms safely. You’ll also need to have strong attention to detail and be able to communicate instructions to your students.

In addition to your knowledge and expertise, you’ll need to invest in crucial equipment to start your business. Necessary equipment includes firearms, ammunition, targets, and protective gear for you and your students. You’ll also need to secure a location to hold your training sessions, which could be an indoor or outdoor range or a classroom setting.

Marketing your firearms training business will be vital in attracting new students and building a successful business. You can use social media, local advertising, and word-of-mouth referrals to do marketing. It’s essential to continuously educate yourself and stay up-to-date on the latest gun laws and safety techniques to provide the best training possible to your students.

Starting a firearms training business is an excellent opportunity for those passionate about gun safety who want to help others learn how to handle firearms properly. You can build a successful business in this growing industry with the proper knowledge, equipment, and marketing efforts.

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

How A Firearms Blog Side Project Became A $180K/Year Business

Gun Made, a media business founded by Brady Kirkpatrick, started as a COVID side project and now generates about $15k per month in recurring revenue from affiliate marketing, with plans to help retailers generate over $2.5M in sales in 2022 through their new e-commerce platform that aggregates pricing from hundreds of retailers.

About
Brady started Gun Made almost 4 years ago
Revenue
Brady grew the business to $15K/month
Costs
It cost Brady $70000 to start the business
Read by 3,000 founders

8. Start a residential security consultant business

9. Start a breeding and selling of security dogs business

10. Start an emergency preparedness and disaster service business

How much you can make: $20,000/month

How long does it take to build: 248 days (?)

Traveling In An RV To Promote Our $240K/Year Waterproof Changing Garment [As Seen On Shark Tank]

Shower Toga, the world's first and only waterproof changing garment, invented by Kressa, has found success in the outdoor hygiene market, with notable sales to camping, surfing, and healthcare workers for decon, and the company recently donated $100,000 in Shower Togas to healthcare workers and first responders.

About
Kressa started Outdoor Adventure Solutions Inc Shower Toga almost 7 years ago
Revenue
Kressa grew the business to $20K/month
Costs
It cost Kressa $30000 to start the business
Read by 6,042 founders

11. Start a security gadgets installation business

12. Become a security recruiter

A security recruiter is a business that helps companies find qualified candidates for security positions within their organization. This can include positions such as security guards, security managers, and security consultants.

To run this business, you will need a deep understanding of the security industry and the qualifications and skills required for various security positions. You will also need strong networking skills to connect with potential clients and candidates.

One of the benefits of running a security recruiter business is that there is a constant demand for qualified security professionals. Companies are always looking for ways to improve their security and are willing to pay for suitable candidates. Additionally, as a security recruiter, you have the opportunity to positively impact your candidates’ lives by helping them find fulfilling and lucrative careers in the security industry.

Overall, a security recruiter business is an excellent opportunity for entrepreneurs who are passionate about the security industry and want to help companies and individuals find the right security professionals for their needs.

13. Start a security training business

A security training business provides education and training on various security measures and practices. This could include personal safety, self-defense, emergency preparedness, and security protocols for businesses or events.

To run this type of business, you must have a strong understanding of security practices and possibly a background in law enforcement or security work. It may also be helpful to have certifications or qualifications in areas such as first aid and CPR.

One of the benefits of running a security training business is the opportunity to educate and empower individuals and organizations to protect themselves and their assets. This type of business can also be in high demand, as security concerns are always a top priority for individuals and businesses.

In addition, a security training business can be flexible regarding the services offered, and the audience served. For example, you could offer training for individuals looking to improve their personal safety or companies looking to improve their security protocols. You could also offer online courses or in-person training sessions, depending on your clients' needs.

Overall, a security training business can be a rewarding and fulfilling venture for aspiring entrepreneurs passionate about helping others stay safe and secure.

How much you can make: $25,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $100 (?)

How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)

My Security YouTube Channel Hit 100K Subscribers & Makes $25K/Month

All Things Secured is a personal security and privacy brand with over 100,000 YouTube subscribers, 160 written guides, and 110 videos that have reached 11 million people worldwide; the founder's goal is to make online security and privacy attainable to anyone regardless of their age or technical proficiency.

About
Josh started All Things Secured about 7 years ago
Revenue
Josh grew the business to $25K/month
Costs
It cost Josh $100 to start the business
Read by 5,889 founders

14. Start a special event security

The event security business takes care of event venues’ safety and security. The event security team works towards enhancing the guest experience and takes care of security strategies, risk assessment, threat and vulnerability protection, and more services to enhance the guest’s experience.

To start an events security business, hire staff who understand crowd-handling strategies and how to respond to emergencies. A good security company commits to safeguarding event attendees’ cash and valuable items.

16. Start a self defense book author business

17. Start a survival and outdoor self defense training business

18. Start an off road tours business

19. Start a bodyguard security service business

20. Start a security gadget store business

21. Start a security doors installation and sales business

22. Start a security uniform business

The security uniform business is a promising idea for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to tap into the growing demand for security services. This business involves designing and manufacturing uniforms for security personnel, such as guards, bouncers, and private investigators.

To run a successful security uniform business, you must understand your target market’s needs and preferences. You should be able to design comfortable, durable, and professional-looking uniforms. You will also need a reliable supply chain for materials and a team of skilled sewers or tailors to manufacture the uniforms.

One of the key benefits of running a security uniform business is the opportunity to cater to a wide range of clients. You can sell uniforms to security companies, schools, hospitals, hotels, and other businesses that require security personnel. You can also offer customization options to meet the specific needs of your clients.

Another benefit of this business is the potential for high-profit margins. Security uniforms are typically sold at a premium price, as they are designed to withstand harsh conditions and provide protection for the wearer. You can build a solid customer base and enjoy consistent revenue streams with the proper marketing and sales strategy.

Overall, the security uniform business is a rewarding and lucrative opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to enter the security industry. With the right skills and resources, you can build a successful business that meets your client's needs and generates substantial profits.

23. Start a drone surveillance business

How much does it cost to start: $200 (?)

How long does it take to build: 59 days (?)

24. Start a survival training business

25. Become a cybersecurity blogger

Every day, businesses and private systems are targeted by cyber attacks.

Highlights of the Check Point Cyber Security Report show that cyberattacks against corporate networks increased by 50% in the past year.

Therefore, IT professionals and all computer users are interested in understanding the changing cybersecurity landscape.

If you're interested in earning a good income by teaching cybersecurity, starting a cybersecurity blog is a great idea.

However, the cybersecurity niche is vast, dynamic, and can be overcrowded.

To ensure success, you'll need to identify your target audience and understand their pain points.

Research your competition to find out what type of content they are covering, and focus on creating even better content to engage and educate your readers.

How much you can make: $25,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $100 (?)

How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)

My Security YouTube Channel Hit 100K Subscribers & Makes $25K/Month

All Things Secured is a personal security and privacy brand with over 100,000 YouTube subscribers, 160 written guides, and 110 videos that have reached 11 million people worldwide; the founder's goal is to make online security and privacy attainable to anyone regardless of their age or technical proficiency.

About
Josh started All Things Secured about 7 years ago
Revenue
Josh grew the business to $25K/month
Costs
It cost Josh $100 to start the business
Read by 5,889 founders

26. Start a bullion van services business

How much you can make: $1,700,000/month

Digits Wants to Replace Quickbooks, $30m Raised, 4 years of Building Distribution, Launch is Next

Digits is the fintech company that aims to revolutionize small business finance management with an AI-generated dashboard that offers interactive financial reports, quick answers, error detection, and practical suggestions.

About
Wayne started Digits over 6 years ago
Revenue
Wayne grew the business to $1.7M/month
Read by 587 founders

27. Start a CCTV camera installation business

As the demand for innovative and intelligent surveillance systems intensifies, CCTV installation businesses have begun registering a high demand for their services.

According to a market survey report, the global AI CCTV market size is projected to register a CAGR of 14.9% to reach $55.22 Billion.

This significant growth potential is attributed to increased demand for technically advanced surveillance systems and rising public safety and security concerns. Therefore, starting a CCTV installation business today is an excellent opportunity for building a profitable business venture.

29. Become a private investigator

Private investigators are hired to investigate a person, event or organization. They can be hired by individuals, law enforcement or attorneys.

In the past few years, there has been an increase in the number of private investigator firms. This is because of the growing demand for PI services due to all the recent technological advancements that have helped make it easier for people to get away with criminal activities and unethical behavior.

30. Start a hotel securities business

31. Start a surveillance camera manufacturing business

32. Sell security vehicles

Starting a business that sells security vehicles is a great opportunity for anyone looking to tap into the growing demand for enhanced security measures. Whether you are looking to sell armored vehicles, surveillance vans, or any other type of security vehicle, there are many opportunities to succeed in this market.

To start this business, you will need to research and understand the needs and preferences of your target market. This will involve identifying the types of security vehicles that are in demand, as well as understanding the features and technologies that are most important to potential buyers. You will also need to establish relationships with manufacturers and suppliers to ensure access to high-quality products.

Once you have identified your target market and established your supply chain, you will need to develop a marketing and sales strategy to reach potential customers. This may involve building a website, creating marketing materials, and using social media to reach potential buyers. You will also need to invest in customer service and support to ensure you can provide a positive customer experience.

Overall, starting a business selling security vehicles is a great opportunity for anyone looking to make a difference in the world of security and protection. By understanding the needs of your target market and developing a strong marketing and sales strategy, you can build a successful business that provides valuable products and services to your customers.

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

How I Started An Innovative Bike Lock Generating Over $1M/Year

Israeli entrepreneur Michael Shenkerman co-founded Seatylock, developing and manufacturing innovative high-end bike locks including its first-ever product, a hybrid bicycle seat and lock combination that raised $44,000 in a successful Kickstarter campaign in 2013, with sales growing steadily each year to around $120,000 a month today.

About
Michael started SEATYLOCK over 12 years ago
Revenue
Michael grew the business to $250K/month
Costs
It cost Michael $3000000 to start the business
Read by 8,040 founders

33. Start an army surplus business

34. Start a car tracker installation business

Starting a car tracker installation business can be a great opportunity for those interested in technology and who want to help people protect their valuable assets. This type of business involves installing GPS tracking devices on cars, trucks, and other vehicles to help owners keep track of their location and movements.

To start this business, you will need a few key things. First, you will need basic knowledge and understanding of how GPS tracking devices work and how to install them properly. This will typically involve training or education, which can be obtained through online courses or on-the-job experience.

In addition to this technical expertise, you will also need some business skills to run this type of operation successfully. This may include marketing and advertising, customer service, and financial management.

To start your business, you will also need basic tools and equipment, such as a GPS tracking device, a laptop or computer to program the device and some hand tools to install the device. You may also want to invest in a vehicle to transport your equipment to customer locations.

Starting a car tracker installation business can be rewarding and lucrative for those with the right skills and dedication. By offering a valuable service to help people protect their vehicles, you can build a successful business that serves a growing market need.

35. Start a corporate security consultancy business

36. Start a gun range business

37. Start a helicopter charter business

Do you have a pilot rating? If you love flying tourists around the country, you can turn your passion into a profitable venture by starting a private charter helicopter service.

Starting a private charter helicopter service is not as easy as it may sound. The business demands a massive investment as you have to purchase the helicopter. However, a private charter helicopter service can be profitable.

To start, learn how to fly, or you can plan to pay a qualified pilot by the flying hours. Then, you can buy or lease a helicopter and get a flying clearance and insurance.

38. Start a corporate self defense business

39. Start a gun cleaning business

40. Start a security expo/trade fair organizers business

41. Start a self defense driving school business

42. Start a self defense studio business

43. Start an airport security business

44. Start an identity theft protection agency

Hackers and cybercriminals can find social security numbers, social media profiles, credit card numbers, bank account information, and more details. Identity theft is a significant problem for consumers, so the services of an identity theft protection agency are in high demand.

An identity theft protection service monitors websites and databases for signs of your personal information such as driver’s license number, medical ID, and bank account numbers.

How much you can make: $833,333/month

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

Popular identity verification tool raising $60m on $400m now with $10m in revenue

SEON - the fastest-growing fraud prevention company - which recently became Hungary's most financially secure tech startup after raising a total of $106 million from IVP and Creandum, creates a customer's "digital footprint" to weed out fake accounts and stop fraudulent transactions, has helped over 5000+ merchants to date, saved over 50+ million Euro, and had 1 billion+ transactions reviewed.

About
Tamas started SEON over 7 years ago
Revenue
Tamas grew the business to $833K/month
Read by 699 founders

45. Start a celebrities security services business

46. Start a security dogs training business

Guard dog businesses are becoming very popular, particularly in areas that have high levels of crime.

First, you must identify the local dog owners in your area, which is easy to do with the help of social media sites, such as Facebook and Nextdoor. You can even offer to hold training classes at the local community center or park.

The first steps in setting up your guard dog business are to:

  • Establish your LLC or business
  • Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your Guard Dog Business
  • Get Guard Dog Business Insurance

47. Start a bulletproof vests business

48. Start a licensed military contractor business

49. Start a gunsmithing business

50. Start a safe boxes manufacturing business

51. Start a security printing business

52. Start a self defense products business

53. Start a cyberspace security business

Cyberspace security refers to the practice of defending computers, servers, mobile devices, electronic systems, networks, and data from malicious attacks.

Demand for cyberspace security experts has been snowballing.

The US alone has reported an estimated 200,000 vacant cyber security positions.

With cybersecurity being a critical component in today's business environment, starting a cyberspace security business can be a lucrative opportunity.

To start a cyberspace security firm, get the right professional certifications so potential clients can trust your abilities.

Then, develop a business plan tailored to cybersecurity, and define the target market.

Finally, analyze the market and come up with an entry strategy.

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

How long does it take to build: 300 days (?)

Perfect timing Security SaaS Hits $12m Revenue, Closes $80m on $500m Valuation last week

Cyber security SaaS platform Coro offers cloud security services to mid-market enterprises, securing a total of $81.5 million in funding and a $500 million valuation, with 4,500 clients on the platform and reaching a $1 million run rate in 2019.

About
Dror started Coro over 10 years ago
Revenue
Dror grew the business to $2M/month
Read by 801 founders

54. Start a security awareness training business

Security awareness training is crucial for both organizations and individuals in safeguarding themselves from threats such as theft, violence, property damage, or loss. This can be achieved through preparedness and vigilance.

To begin with, it is important to create engaging training content that covers the best practices of situational awareness, self-defense tactics, alarm system utilization, perimeter access control protocols, identification of suspicious activity, and response techniques for diverse audiences.

Moreover, you should promote your dynamic training services through security industry partners, insurance providers, educational institutions, corporate HR departments, self-defense studios, and community centers to extend your reach.

It is vital to provide flexible training delivery options such as in-person sessions, webinars, online modules, or train-the-trainer programs to cater to different client needs and budgets.

By gaining a reputation for delivering skills that can effectively prevent incidents and limit losses utilizing both proven and emerging techniques, demand for your services will grow steadily through word-of-mouth and referrals.

How much you can make: $25,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $100 (?)

How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)

My Security YouTube Channel Hit 100K Subscribers & Makes $25K/Month

All Things Secured is a personal security and privacy brand with over 100,000 YouTube subscribers, 160 written guides, and 110 videos that have reached 11 million people worldwide; the founder's goal is to make online security and privacy attainable to anyone regardless of their age or technical proficiency.

About
Josh started All Things Secured about 7 years ago
Revenue
Josh grew the business to $25K/month
Costs
It cost Josh $100 to start the business
Read by 5,889 founders

55. Start a Guard Dog Security Service

Another similar business you can start is providing trained dogs as guards in special events. Security-trained dogs are used for better security purposes during crowded events and even in places like airports, seaports, and crime scenes.

So if you are looking for a pet cum security-related business to start, then one of your options is to start a guard dog security service business.

The dog-handling business is a profitable, growing industry open to any serious-minded entrepreneur. Many people are looking for one dog or another to perform security duties. You can help solve that problem by starting a business.

Starting a Guard Dog Security Service will help you increase your income. A guard dog trainer’s yearly salary is approximately $35,000.

56. Become a security gadget manufacturer

Starting a security gadget manufacturing business can be a lucrative and fulfilling venture for those interested in the security industry. This business involves designing, producing, and distributing security gadgets such as surveillance cameras, alarm systems, and biometric scanners.

To successfully start and run this type of business, you will need a combination of technical expertise and business acumen. You should have a strong understanding of how security gadgets work and the latest technologies in the industry. Additionally, you should be skilled in product development, manufacturing processes, and marketing and sales strategies.

In terms of starting the business, you will need to secure funding through loans or investors to cover the costs of research and development, production equipment, and marketing efforts. You will also need to set up a production facility by leasing or purchasing a space and hire a team of professionals to help design and manufacture the products.

To run a business successfully, it is important to have a clear vision and mission statement that guides your business decisions. You should also have strong leadership skills and be able to delegate tasks effectively to your team. A solid marketing and sales plan is also crucial to generating leads and increasing customer awareness of your products.

Starting a security gadget manufacturing business requires dedication, expertise, and strong business skills. With the right combination of these factors, you can create a successful and sustainable business in the security industry.

57. Start a licensed arms dealer business

59. Start a self defense tools manufacturing business

60. Start a self-defense apps business

Self-defense apps provide individuals with tools and resources to protect themselves in potentially dangerous situations. These apps can offer features such as emergency alerts, location tracking, and self-defense techniques.

Starting a self-defense app business can be a fulfilling opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to impact people’s lives positively. To run a successful business in this line, it is essential to research and understand your target market’s needs thoroughly. Having a clear value proposition and marketing strategy is crucial to stand out in a crowded market.

Another critical aspect to consider is the development of the app itself. Working with a team of experienced developers is crucial to ensure the app is user-friendly and reliable. It is also essential to regularly update the app with new features and address any bugs or issues.

One important tip for running a successful self-defense app business is establishing partnerships with self-defense experts and organizations. This can help increase credibility and provide valuable resources for the app’s content.

Starting a self-defense app business can be a rewarding and impactful opportunity for entrepreneurs. By thoroughly understanding the needs of their target market and continuously improving the app, entrepreneurs can create a successful and valuable service for their users.

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.