80 Small-Scale Business Ideas You Can Start Today [2023]
Interested in starting a small-scale business in 2023?
We put together 79 of the best small-scale businesses you can start in today.
For each business idea, we’ll show you real-world examples of other small-scale businesses to help you see what it really takes.
Here's the full list:
1. 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
2. Start a cleaning service
A housecleaning side business is a beautiful idea for people with free time on weekends or even weekdays. The side hustle idea requires little capital to start. During the launch, you can choose to offer the service to your neighbors and scale as you gain experience. The average salary for a house cleaner is $17.32 per hour.
By starting a house cleaning business, you are tapping into an enormous market with plenty of clientele. There could always be demand for your cleaning service, which keeps you in business as you help homeowners keep their homes spotless.
How much you can make: $3,000 — $600,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 80 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 7 hours/week
3. Start a dessert boxes store
Gifting is a culture that cements how we relate to those close to us. Consumer goods stores have innovated various gifting methods and dessert boxes happen to be one of them.
If you love baking and you have a passion for entrepreneurship, starting a dessert boxes store can be a highly rewarding venture.
Here are some ideas for your inspiration.
How much you can make: $2,000 — $150,000/month
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
4. Start a SEO agency
An SEO agency is a company that provides search engine optimization services to businesses. The function of an SEO agency is to help businesses rank higher in search engines through organic or paid means.
SEO is a rapidly growing industry, with experts across all aspects of the field already making six-figure incomes and expecting to see these earnings grow dramatically over the next few years. Getting into SEO today, before it gets too saturated, will allow you to establish a strong base in a new career, with an excellent chance for success.
It’s easier than ever to start your SEO agency. The tools are there, and the competition isn’t as stiff as it used to be. If you’re considering starting an SEO or digital marketing agency, it might be a good idea to learn how other digital agencies succeed.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $10,000,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
5. Start a freelance writing business
Freelance writing can be a good career choice for professional writers for offering writing services to different clients via online platforms.
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 — $320,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $400 (?)
How long does it take to build: 53 days (?)
6. Start a transcribing service business
How much you can make: $3,000 — $200,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,050 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
7. 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
8. Start a catering business
A catering business is responsible for providing food & beverage-related services for vast types of events.
Catering businesses are known to be more flexible than other businesses because they don’t have to worry about location or pricing and can even work 24/7. They can cater anywhere and offer any price point that they want.
However, starting a catering business requires a lot of planning.
To start a successful catering business , you'll need to plan and prepare menus, manage budgets, handle clients, and more.
In addition, catering allows you to meet more people and show off your cooking skills.
How much you can make: $3,750 — $48,333/month
How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
9. Start a sewing and alteration business
Do you have sewing skills and looking for an entrepreneurship opportunity? You can start your sewing and alteration business.
A sewing and alteration business offers customers clothing repair, custom tailoring, button replacement, and other alterations. You can start a sewing and alteration business at home or set up a retail location.
To start a sewing and alteration business, you will need a commercial-grade sewing machine and a marketing strategy, so target customers learn about your business.
How much you can make: $1,000/month
10. Start an online fitness business
Thinking of starting an online fitness business?
Online fitness is growing rapidly in popularity because it’s convenient, affordable, and accessible to everyone. The best part is that you can stay in your home to start.
Starting an online fitness business can be a great way to make money and help people. When you start an online fitness business, you don’t have to worry about overhead costs like rent or maintaining a physical location - all you need is a computer and an internet connection to get started.
How much you can make: $2,000 — $108,333,333/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,750 (?)
How long does it take to build: 45 days (?)
11. 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
12. Start a food delivery business
In today’s busy lifestyles and schedules, cooking is no longer a priority to many. People like to order-in food from their nearest restaurants or food joints and enjoy a meal in the comfort of their homes.
The food delivery business is like a courier service through which restaurants deliver food to their customers.
You can offer retail food delivery services to restaurants within your locality if you have a truck. Customers order through a restaurant or grocer’s website, and the owners contact you to deliver.
How much you can make: $4,000 — $83,333,333/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,750 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
13. Start a real estate business
Are you a qualified architect with a broad range of knowledge in the real estate field? Starting a real estate business can be a profitable venture.
Real estate involves purchasing, selling, managing, or investing in land and buildings.
To become a successful real estate business owner, you must have finely honed visual awareness and a strong understanding of various building materials and structures.
How much you can make: $5,000 — $1,500,000/month
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
14. Become a chocolate maker
Rarely do you come across someone who does not love chocolate. That’s good reason to start a chocolate making business!
According to statistics, the global chocolate market size is expected to grow at a CAGR rate of 4.6%.
Starting a chocolate business can yield profits in any part of the world. However, to achieve the high profit margins, you ought to make chocolate with quality ingredients. Then, create a niche with a unique selling proposition.
How much you can make: $12,000 — $4,500,000/month
15. 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 — $4,500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 48 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week
16. Start a mobile photography business
Want to start your own photography business? You're not alone. With the rise of social media and photo-sharing, blogging, and online retailing, it's never been easier to start making money behind your camera.
There are photographers shooting weddings, creating images for ad campaigns, freelancing for magazines, touring the world, taking photographs of destinations — the list is endless!
To start mobile photography , research the target audience and determine which specialization area is more lucrative. Invest in high-quality, professional cameras, lenses, and a computer with professional software photo-editing software.
How much you can make: $2,000 — $500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 200 days (?)
17. Start an online advertising agency
An online advertising agency helps businesses promote their products or services on the internet.
To start this business on a budget, first learn the basics of digital marketing through free online resources.
Create a professional website and set up profiles on social media platforms to showcase your skills.
Build a portfolio by working on mock campaigns or offering discounted services to friends and family, and gradually market your services to attract clients.
With dedication, you can grow your agency over time.
How much you can make: $2,797 — $1,250,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 45 days (?)
18. Start a clothing boutique
Creating a clothing boutique takes a lot of work and dedication. Just ask any business owner who's been in the business for a few years. There's no denying that the road to an established, successful clothing store is long and hard.
The clothing boutiques below have had a lot of success with their online business. They are inspiring examples of what's achievable. Each clothing boutique has provided great advice and tutorials that can help you in your own online store.
How much you can make: $500 — $11,750,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $4,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 135 days (?)
19. Start a tour company
Starting a tour company is a great way to bring your love of travel to life. You can share your passion with others and help make their dream vacations come true!
There are many types of tour businesses, so choosing something you are passionate about and knowledgeable about is best. Here are a few of the most popular tour companies to start:
- Food & Drink Tours
- Adventure & Sporting Tours
- Sightseeing & Historical Tours
- Shopping Tours
- and many more!
It’s also essential to determine what mode of transportation you want for your tour company, as this will determine the initial startup costs needed for your company.
To get started, find out if you need a license to operate in your state. Some states require tour companies to be licensed, while others do not. If you are required to be licensed, talk with the licensing agency to find out what steps must be taken before you can apply for that license.
How much you can make: $3,750 — $43,300,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
20. Start a food parlour business
21. Start a smoothie company
Over the next five years, the smoothie market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.3%.
This increase is attributed to the growing consumption of healthy beverages in emerging economies and a greater awareness of the need to live a healthier lifestyle.
Starting a smoothie company today can create a lucrative business opportunity. Before starting a smoothie company, research its benefits and overall profitability.
Also, research the requirements you need to operate the smoothie company in your area without stress from the authorities.
22. Start a medical store business
How much you can make: $500,000/month
How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)
23. Become a yoga instructor
The first step to becoming a yoga instructor is obtaining a certification from an instructor-affiliated institution near you. Your next step should be drawing up a business plan considering various projections. Finally, determine whether to open a brick-and-mortar establishment, offer online yoga classes, or a hybrid model.
The option has far more responsibilities for brick-and-mortar establishments, like paying rent and utility expenses. Also, check business-zoning requirements and acquire the required licenses. Proper marketing strategies will help you build clientele fast and grow your business.
How much you can make: $60,000/month
How long does it take to build: 365 days (?)
24. Start a marketing consulting business
Marketing consulting is a business that helps other businesses and organizations improve their marketing strategies and tactics. The improvement involves conducting market research, analyzing data, developing marketing plans, and offering guidance on effectively reaching target audiences.
To start a marketing consulting business, you will need a strong understanding of marketing principles and how to apply them in a business context. Marketing consultancy requires formal education or training in marketing or a related field and experience working in the industry. You will also need strong communication and problem-solving skills to consult with clients effectively.
To operate a successful marketing consulting business, you will need to be able to effectively assess a client’s marketing needs and develop a plan to address those needs. Managing clients’ needs involve market research, analyzing data, and creating marketing materials such as brochures, websites, and social media campaigns. You will also need to be able to communicate your recommendations to clients and work with them to implement the marketing plan.
In addition to these technical skills, you will also need to be able to manage your business effectively. Managing a business involves setting fees, marketing your services to potential clients, and managing your finances.
Overall, a marketing consulting business can be a rewarding and challenging career for those passionate about helping businesses succeed through effective marketing strategies.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $3,100,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)
25. Start a mobile store
26. Start a lawn care service
Are you ready to begin your lawn care business and be your boss? A lawncare business offers lawn aeration, Seeding, fertilizing, soil acidity tests, and controlling weeds, among other services. If you love creating amazing landscapes, consider starting a lawn care company.
To start lawn care legally and run it profitably, you must register the business legally. You can get into a franchise or start a business from scratch. Decide what lawn care services you will offer and your target clients.
To offer effective service, purchase lawn care equipment, and hire skilled lawn care personnel.
How much you can make: $2,500,000/month
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
27. Start a seasonal items business
How much you can make: $1,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $200 (?)
How long does it take to build: 10 days (?)
28. Start a bakery
Everyone loves baked goods, be it sweet items like cakes, muffins, and cookies or savory baked food like pizzas, buns, bread, and puff pastry. Baking takes a lot of effort and patience, which is why many people buy baked items from stores or restaurants instead of baking them at home.
Starting a bakery can be a rewarding business opportunity if you have a passion for baking. If you plan to start a bakery, consider that happy customers often become repeat customers. Therefore, always focus on quality and work on customer satisfaction.
To start a bakery , pick an ideal format. Some options include:
- Counter-style bakery
- A hybrid bakery with a cafe,
- Food truck with a bakery
- Home bakery.
Write a suitable business plan and choose the correct location.
How much you can make: $2,500 — $25,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
29. Start a video game parlor
A video game parlor is a business that provides a space for people to play video games, either on a console or computer. The business typically charges customers an hourly or daily fee to access the gaming systems and may also offer food and drinks for purchase.
To run a successful video game parlor, it is essential to have various games available for customers. This can include the latest and most popular games and older classic titles. Keeping the gaming systems and equipment well-maintained and in good working order is also essential.
Another critical aspect of running a successful video game parlor is creating a welcoming and enjoyable customer atmosphere. This can include comfortable seating, clean and well-lit facilities, and friendly and helpful staff. It is also essential to have strict rules for behavior and enforce them to ensure a positive experience for all customers.
Finally, it is crucial to have a strong marketing and advertising strategy to attract and retain customers. This can include social media campaigns, advertising in local publications, and hosting events or tournaments.
Overall, a video game parlor can be a fun and lucrative business opportunity for entrepreneurs passionate about gaming and creating a positive customer environment.
30. Start an internet service provider business
The global broadband internet services market has grown significantly over the past decade. As the work-from-home culture becomes the new normal, more people will need a network connection. Therefore, starting an internet service provider business can be a lucrative opportunity.
You must get your ISP license approval and invest in network infrastructure to start an ISP business.
How much you can make: $430,000/month
How long does it take to build: 412 days (?)
31. Start a toys store
Starting a toy store can be a fun and rewarding business opportunity for anyone looking to tap into the lucrative toy industry. The business involves sourcing and selling a wide range of toys and games for children of all ages. This could include everything from classic board games and dolls to the latest electronic gadgets and tech toys.
To start a toy store, you will need to do market research to identify what toys are prevalent in your area and what age groups you will target.
You will also need to secure a physical location for your store, whether a standalone shop or a space within a shopping mall. You will also need to stock your store with a wide range of products and decide on a pricing strategy to attract customers while allowing you to profit.
Running a toy store involves a lot of customer interaction, so excellent customer service skills are necessary. You will also need good business management skills to handle inventory, pricing, and sales.
Marketing your store through social media and local advertising can also help bring in customers and drive sales.
Starting a toy store can be a fun and rewarding business opportunity for anyone with a passion for toys and a desire to bring joy to children. With the proper planning and execution, you can turn your toy store into a thriving business.
32. Start a customized gifts business
How much you can make: $4,000 — $749,997/month
How much does it cost to start: $8,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
My name is Dmitriy Peregudov, and I run Giftsenda - the SaaS gifting platform for Sales & Marketing teams. Our marketplace offers gourmet gift bask...
33. Become a mobile makeup artist
A makeup artist is a beautician who offers general makeup services, including facial aesthetics, thorough makeup, and creating custom looks for celebrities and even actors on movie sets.
You can serve clients from their homes or offices as a makeup artist. Therefore, makeup artists avoid paying rent or paying expensive licenses. Besides, makeup artists get to meet different famous people.
To stand out as a professional makeup artist , keep up with the developments in the cosmetology industry, and focus on providing personalized customer service.
34. Open an ice cream parlour
Ice cream is something that people of all ages equally enjoy globally, making it a profitable business to venture into.
This frozen dessert industry has registered massive growth in recent years, a trend that shows the industry’s potential.
If you are looking to start your ice cream business, follow these steps:
- Decide whether to make your ice cream or to source from established ice cream brands
- Write an effective business plan for the ice cream shop detailing the goals, strategies, and plans
- Fund your business idea
- Choose a spacious shop in an area with plenty of foot traffic
- Offer different ice cream flavors
Opening an ice cream parlor is not easy work. However, if you do it right, it is rewarding and can be a lot of fun.
How much you can make: $16,000/month
35. Start an online hobby classes
Online hobby classes are an excellent business opportunity for those passionate about a particular skill or activity. To start an online hobby class business, you need a website or platform to host your classes, a high-quality camera and microphone, and a well-organized curriculum.
The online education industry is expected to reach $350 billion by 2025, making now a great time to start this business. To operate your business successfully, you should offer high-quality classes and be responsive to students’ needs. By providing a positive learning experience, you can build a loyal customer base and generate positive reviews.
Starting an online hobby class business allows you to share your skills and turn your hobby into a successful business.
36. Become a wedding planner
A wedding planner assists with designing, planning, and managing a wedding, so the bride and groom have the happiest day. Wedding planners enjoy a flexible working schedule and opportunities to travel locally and globally, and it’s a great career with numerous growth opportunities.
To start a wedding planning business, identify your target clientele and study their wedding cultures so you can offer the clients excellent service. Remember, excellent wedding planning is all about having the passion and knowing how to harness that passion for designing weddings that bring out the emotions of those in attendance.
How much you can make: $2,000 — $50,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 45 days (?)
37. Start a babysitting business
Babysitting service entails providing baby care to infants and children either in their homes, with registered caregivers, or in a child care center. A babysitting service requires a low startup cost and is a low overhead business with high profit margins.
The target market includes affluent and middle-income families where both parents are working. Baby sitters earn a fixed monthly income or are paid per hour depending on the agreement that suits both sides.
38. Start a funeral service
For many, death is one of the most challenging life events. For that reason, starting a funeral business may sound awkward and unconventional. However, if you think about it, death is a “natural” and essential part of life. Therefore, starting a funeral business can be a profitable business idea. A funeral service provides the following services:
- Burial services
- Cremation services
- Repatriation services
- Memorial services
- Pet cremation
- Exhumation Services
If you are starting a funeral service, you may choose some or all of the above services.
39. Start a provision store business
40. Start a food supply business
How much you can make: $48,333 — $1,500,000/month
How long does it take to build: 730 days (?)
41. Start a nanny placement service business
Starting a nanny placement service can be a rewarding and lucrative business idea for anyone passionate about helping families find the best care for their children. This type of business involves matching qualified nannies with families needing childcare services.
To start a nanny placement service, you will need to understand the local market and the needs of families in your area. You will also need to be well-connected with nannies and have a thorough screening process to ensure that you only work with the most qualified and reliable candidates.
To run a successful nanny placement service, you will need to have excellent communication skills and build relationships with families and nannies. You will also need to be able to negotiate fair wages and contracts and be able to handle any conflicts that may arise.
In addition to these skills, you will also need a solid business plan, including marketing strategies and financial planning. You will also need to be able to handle the administrative tasks involved in running a business, such as billing and payroll.
Starting a nanny placement service is a great business idea for anyone who is organized, detail-oriented, and passionate about helping families find the best childcare solutions. With hard work and dedication, you can create a successful and fulfilling business that helps families and nannies alike.
42. Start an accounting firm
Accounting firms provide audit, assurance, consulting, financial advisory, risk management, and tax compliance services.
Professionals are increasingly choosing to work independently rather than for employers. Thus, you may consider starting an accounting firm if you are an accountant.
To ensure a successful business, you must have a blend of accounting skills and experience. Like starting any other business, you must have the drive and the initiative to start your business.
Overall, the success of an accounting firm depends on marketing your services.
How much you can make: $370,000 — $500,000/month
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
43. Start an organic farm
An organic farm uses ecologically based pest control and biological fertilizers derived from animal and plant wastes.
More people have become conscious of the health benefits of organic farm produce. As a result, the demand for organic farm produce is overgrowing, creating a business opportunity for farmers across the globe.
Therefore, if you are interested in organic farming, consider starting the business. You do not need massive land to begin your organic farm.
Start with creating an organic farm in your backyard using vertical farming. You can grow flowers, vegetables, or cereals on your organic farm.
How much you can make: $50,000/month
44. Start a marriage bureau business
45. Start a hot air balloon ride business
46. Start a foreign language training business
Are you interested in starting a foreign language training business? Great!. Language training can be a rewarding and lucrative business idea, especially if you have a passion for teaching and a talent for languages.
You will need some basic materials and resources to start a foreign language training business. First, you must choose which language(s) you will teach. It’s essential to have a strong foundation in the language(s) you plan to teach, so it may be necessary to take additional courses or become certified in the language(s) you choose. You will also need to create a curriculum and materials for your classes, such as textbooks and worksheets.
You will need to find students to take your classes to operate your business. Finding students can be done through advertising and marketing, such as creating a website or social media presence and reaching out to local schools and businesses. You will also need to decide on a pricing structure for your classes, whether by the hour, session, or course.
Teaching foreign languages can be a rewarding and fulfilling business, especially if you have a passion for language learning and teaching. You can start and operate a successful foreign language training business with some basic materials and resources.
How much you can make: $91,000/month
47. Start a party planning business
Party planning involves budgeting, establishing party timelines, selecting and reserving ideal party sites, acquiring permits, theme décor, and coordinating party catering and transportation.
Are you organized, creative, and client-focused? You can put those skills into starting a successful party planning business. To become a party planner, you must desire to help other people enjoy themselves. Besides, you need diplomacy, salesmanship, and multitasking skills.
How much you can make: $25,000 — $400,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 6 hours/week
48. Start a chatbot development business
Businesses use conversational AI chatbots to take customer engagement to the next level. Typically, chatbots deliver consistent responses to customers, which helps the business avoid issuing irrelevant or misguiding details to the customers.
As more people focus on using the internet in shopping, education, and research, businesses are deploying chatbots to provide 24/7/365 support to their customers.
For example, online shoppers interact with businesses through chatbots, while students can use chatbots to help with their studies and research.
Therefore, starting a chatbot development business can be a lucrative venture.
How much you can make: $7,500 — $2,700,000/month
How long does it take to build: 22 days (?)
49. Start an insurance agency
Are you hoping to start an agency in the service industry? How about starting your own insurance agency?
In the past decade, the insurance industry contributed more to the US GDP than banks for the first time. Insurance statistics show that the industry has been pretty good lately, and the trend is not slowing anytime soon. Factors driving growth in the insurance sector include sustained economic growth, better interest rates, and greater investment income. Besides, insurance companies adopted investments in technological and operational efficiencies during the pandemic, a move that has helped the industry thrive.
Perhaps you are an insurance agent wanting to quit a 9 to 5 job and start a new chapter of self-employment. Or maybe you are considering a career change and seeing potential in the insurance industry. Whatever the reason for wanting to start an insurance agency, it can be a great idea.
However, building an insurance agency is no small task. Ensure you have enough equity and get ready to work hard and make smart decisions.
How much you can make: $250,000 — $7,160,000/month
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
50. Start a soap making business
Are you looking for an easy business you can start from home? Soap making is a relatively easy cottage business you can start today.
Soap is one of the products you will find in every household. Therefore, soap is a product that will remain in demand, making soap making business a lucrative idea.
To start a soap-making business from home, research the competition and choose the niche your business will focus on. You can make scented soaps mixed with essential oils or non-scented soaps for washing utensils.
Choose a business name and create a business plan indicating your entity type, mission statement, and soap marketing strategy.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $600,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,400 (?)
How long does it take to build: 400 days (?)
51. Start an aquarium house business
The aquarium business stocks a variety of home aquariums and supplies, along with a varied stock of freshwater and saltwater fish. Also, an aquarium business offers system startup and maintenance.
Starting an aquarium is a very profitable retail business. Luckily, starting an aquarium business in metropolitan cities is very easy. To start an aquarium business, write a plan and find an ideal commercial space for the company.
Before launching the ornamental fish business, you should know how big the market is, conduct a competition analysis to determine who you are against, and craft a competitive strategy.
How much you can make: $5,800/month
How much does it cost to start: $1 (?)
How long does it take to build: 365 days (?)
52. Start a mobile garage service
A mobile garage service involves a mechanic who performs vehicle repairs and maintenance in the customer's desired location.
With the global increase in total vehicle registrations, the demand for qualified mechanics has also increased. However, people are getting busier and prefer hiring a mobile garage service. If you are a qualified mechanic, starting a mobile garage service could open a new window of opportunities for your profession.
53. Start a scented sticks making business
Scented sticks are a convenient and long-lasting way to infuse a room with your favorite fragrances. Also known as reed diffusers, the scented sticks are a popular segment in the home fragrance market.
Key factors driving the high usage of reed diffusers include their increased use in residential and commercial places such as corporate offices, homes, restaurants, and even hotels.
To start a scented sticks-making business, define your niche, review customer demands, and research any gaps. Focus on filling the gaps by providing the features customers in your niche expect.
54. Start a package drinking water business
55. Start a pickle business
Pickle is a juice of vegetables or fruits preserved in brine or vinegar. The global demand for packed pickles is snowballing, making it a viable fruit & vegetable business idea.
How much you can make: $10,000/month
56. Start a designer lace business
57. Start a health club business
58. Start an ice cream cone production business
59. Start a buttons business
A button business involves creating and selling custom buttons to individuals and businesses. These buttons can be used for various purposes, including promotional materials, political campaigns, and personal expression.
To run a successful button business, it is essential to have a strong understanding of the market and the types of buttons that are in demand. This may involve conducting market research and staying up-to-date on industry trends. It is also essential to have a strong online presence, as many button orders are placed online. This may involve creating a website and social media accounts to showcase the business and its products.
Another critical aspect of running a successful button business can produce high-quality buttons in a timely and efficient manner. This may involve investing in the necessary equipment and materials, as well as having a reliable team in place to handle production.
Other tips for running a successful button business include offering various customization options, such as different sizes and shapes, and building relationships with clients by providing excellent customer service. It is also essential to focus on marketing and advertising efforts to reach new customers and drive sales.
60. Start a cotton buds business
Cotton buds are commonly used to clean the ear canals by removing earwax, applying and removal of makeup, and cleaning arts and craftwork.
Cotton bud business is one of the most profitable to start, and it is not difficult for any person who wants to get into entrepreneurship. One can launch a small-scale cotton bud manufacturing company and grow it by re-investing the profits.
61. Become a candle manufacturer
Candle manufacturing is one of the best small business ideas you can start from home. Making candles comes with a low startup cost and does not require much equipment. If you plan to start a candle manufacturing business, hone your craft and get comfortable with the candle-making process.
How much you can make: $4,000 — $1,000,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,200 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
62. Start a jute bags business
Jute, popularly known as the "natural fiber," is used for manufacturing various items, including sacks, furniture accessories, and other rustic threads. Jute fiber is reusable and biodegradable. Starting a jute bag-making business is a great decision.
Jute bag making is a low-cost investment that results in a highly demanded and fashionable bag, making the business a highly profitable opportunity.
63. Start a noodle business
We live in a fast-growing world where people prefer instant and fast-food preparation. As a result, the noodles market potential has tripled in urban and rural areas. The noodles market level is increasing daily due to the increase in customers. This trend makes the noodles business a lucrative opportunity for people of all ages.
Noodles business may consist of production, wholesale, and retailing service.
64. Start a shoe lace business
65. Start a tempered smartphone glass business
Global rapidly rising per capita income is fueling the demand for luxury, including smartphones and other mobile devices. The increased adoption of smartphones has opened up an opportunity for manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers of tempered smartphone glass.
Based on the current smartphone adoption rate, experts estimate that the global SmartScreen screen protector market will expand at a compounded annual growth rate of 6.8%. Thus, the smartphone screen protector business has become increasingly popular and provides many benefits to users.
66. Start a staple pins business
Are you looking for a low-investment and profitable business you can operate from home? Staple pins production could be the best choice for you. Staple pins are commonly used office stationery that attracts a high demand.
You can start a staple pins production business as a franchise, a sole proprietorship business, or a partnership with an established stationery business.
67. Start a cake decorating class
68. Start a paper manufacturer
Numerous businesses mesh well with the typical small business model of low overhead, low inventory, and low to moderate output. A paper manufacturing business is one such type of enterprise. There is a built-in marketplace for your product with little work involved in marketing. Paper is one of the most widely used materials with a wide range of applications in our day-to-day life. It also finds applications across industries such as packaging, publishing, etc.
Some popular paper products manufacturing business ideas include tissue paper manufacturing, kraft paper manufacturing, stone paper manufacturing, thermal paper manufacturing, butter paper manufacturing, art paper manufacturing, seed paper manufacturing, notebook manufacturing, and many more.
69. Start a daycare
Daycares provide educational, medical, and social services for the children of working parents either during school hours or when the parents are out of the home for an extended period of time. This can be a lucrative enterprise if you start a daycare in an area where it is needed.
As the growth of families has become dependent on two incomes, the need for quality daycare has skyrocketed. Starting a daycare business is challenging but rewarding. You will face many challenges but can overcome them as long as you are ready to make the sacrifices required.
70. Start a disposable plates and cups business
Nowadays, people are shifting towards disposable cutlery, not only as an affordable option but also as an eco-friendlier choice.
Disposable plates and cups are a single serving and can be recycled or disposed of easily. These eco-friendly plates and cups provide a more convenient option for serving eatables during events and parties.
Furthermore, experts estimate that demand for disposable cutlery will keep rising as people consistently adopt takeaway food chains, fast-food consumption, small commercial eateries, and even roadside food vendors.
With the need for disposable plates and cups set to increase, starting a business in this sector can be a lucrative opportunity. The opportunities in this industry range from manufacturing to wholesale to retail.
71. Start an envelopes and files business
72. Start a coconut hair oil business
Consumer demand for plant-based beauty products has increased tremendously. An excellent example of a plant-based beauty product that has seen high demand in recent years is coconut hair oil. According to experts, the coconut oil market size will exceed $7 Billion in the next few years.
Coconut hair oil has been lauded for being good for the scalp and providing moisturizing benefits to human hair. Besides, beauticians believe coconut hair oil works better to repair dry hair.
Therefore, starting a coconut hair oil production line can be lucrative.
73. Become a dance choreographer
Dance choreographers create compositions and plans and arrange dance movements and patterns for dances, especially ballets. Choreographers also develop different interpretations of existing dances for an individual or group of dancers.
To become a dance choreographer, you will need to take training lessons. You may pursue a degree in musical theater and take relevant dance coursework. The training enables you to master different dance types and learn how to create dances.
How much you can make: $8,400/month
74. 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: $8,000 — $81,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 165 days (?)
75. Become a mobile DJ
Mobile DJ carries their DJ kit with them and entertains clients at weddings, birthdays, and corporate parties or events. There is plenty of demand for mobile DJs, and customers will pay well to be entertained at their premises or parties.
To become a mobile DJ, first, learn the art of DJing, specifically how to DJ open-format style. If you are a beginner, enroll in online classes where you will learn the best DJing practices.
76. Start an errand service
Errand services help people and businesses who have daily errands to run but need an extra hand. So, they seek professional help who can do their chores on time with utmost efficiency.
You can provide various services as an errand business, including grocery shopping, picking up + sorting through mail, going to the bank, and much more.
Starting an errand business is relatively easy. Consider offering package deals as a way of getting and retaining customers. Most errand businesses charge per hour, and you may charge per mileage if the task involves driving.
77. Start a sports skills coaching business
Unleash your passion for sports and help others excel in their favorite games by starting a sports skills coaching business. Partnering with individuals, schools, or sports clubs, you can offer personalized training to help athletes improve their performance and achieve their sports goals.
Your deep understanding of the game, strategic insight, and ability to break down complex techniques will be invaluable. No two days will be the same as you're constantly tweaking training plans, responding to individual progress, and witnessing the exciting growth of your athletes.
Expand the scope of your sessions beyond just skill development. Include fitness, nutrition, and psychological strength training. Your enterprise could become the guiding light athletes need to reach the next level of their career. Wrap your life around the exhilarating world of sports and inspire others with your passion and expertise.
How much you can make: $16,000/month
78. Start an online course creation business
Starting an online course could be perfect if you want a passive income. Whatever your background, you could start teaching online and earn a passive income.
All you need to start an online course is patience, imagination, and an enabling eLearning platform where you can connect with the relevant audience.
Online courses may take time and require a lot of effort to start selling. However, once your audience finds the content resourceful, they start sharing and recommending it through their network. Remember, creating an online course could take longer than expected, so remain focused and give your best.
How much you can make: $1,666,666/month
79. 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 (?)
Hey! 👋 I'm Pat Walls, the founder of Starter Story.
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