20 Business Ideas For Self Starters [2024]
Starting your own business is an exciting and challenging journey, especially as we move into 2024. Whether you're looking to turn a passion into a profession or find new opportunities, the coming year offers a range of options. In this article, we will explore practical business ideas tailored for self-starters like you.
You could dive into the growing world of e-commerce, where setting up an online shop has never been easier. Alternatively, the rise of remote work opens doors for you to offer specialized consulting services. If you’re tech-savvy, creating software solutions or mobile apps could also be a lucrative path.
For those inclined towards creativity, starting a content creation business or a graphic design service might be the perfect fit. If you are interested in sustainability, eco-friendly products or services could tap into an ever-growing market. Whatever direction you choose, these ideas are designed to align with your drive and ambition.
For each business idea, we'll show you real-world examples of other self-starter businesses to help you see what it takes.
Here's the full list:
1. Start a podcast ($97.9K/month)
Starting a podcast is an engaging and relatively low-cost way to supplement your income or even build a full-fledged business. As a self-starter, you have the freedom to choose a topic that excites you and resonates with an audience, thereby turning your passion into profit. Leveraging basic recording equipment and affordable hosting platforms, you could produce captivating content that attracts listeners and potential sponsors.
Why consider starting a podcast?
- Minimal startup costs make it highly accessible.
- You could quickly build an audience through social media and online communities.
- Monetization opportunities include sponsorships and advertising deals.
For more insights, check out this page on podcast profitability.
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.
2. Start a dropshipping business ($414K/month)
Starting a dropshipping business makes sense for self-starters because it allows you to enter the ecommerce world with minimal upfront investment. By choosing a niche, setting up an online store, and partnering with reliable suppliers, you could focus on marketing and customer service to build a successful business. This business model offers flexibility and the opportunity to scale without the hassle of managing physical inventory.
Why consider a dropshipping business?
- You could start with minimal capital and no need to manage physical inventory.
- The flexibility to work from anywhere can fit around your existing commitments.
- Focusing on marketing can harness your entrepreneurial skills to grow your business efficiently.
Learn more about the profitability of dropshipping and get inspired by success stories here.
How much you can make: $6,000 — $3,000,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $8,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 10 hours/week
Entrepreneur Kamil Sattar has developed multiple six-figure drop shipping businesses, and his company, e-commerce mentoring, specializes in helping others create their own successful companies, with favorite platforms including using Shopify and apps such as Loox reviews and SMSBump.
3. Start a subscription box business ($97.9K/month)
Starting a subscription box business can be an exciting avenue for self-starters looking to supplement their income or launch a side venture. With the increasing demand for niche products and personalized customer experiences, a well-curated subscription box business can quickly capture a loyal customer base and become highly profitable. It requires a thorough understanding of your target market, attention to detail in product quality and box design, and mastery of operational logistics and marketing strategies.
Why consider starting a subscription box business?
- They cater to specific interests, making it easier to find and engage a niche audience.
- Subscription boxes create recurring revenue streams, providing consistent income over time.
- You have the freedom to curate unique and exclusive products, enhancing customer loyalty and satisfaction.
For more inspiration and success stories about subscription box businesses, visit Starter Story.
How much you can make: $400 — $400,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $210 (?)
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
Vowed Box Co. is a line of curated, quirky gift boxes with non-traditional brides in mind, offering four different products that have helped the business become profitable most months since its launch in 2018, with a monthly income of roughly $600.
4. Start a social media automation business ($139K/month)
Starting a social media automation business makes sense for self-starters because it allows you to leverage your tech-savviness and marketing skills to help others manage and optimize their online presence. This type of business involves creating tools and services to schedule posts, automate interactions, and analyze data across multiple social media platforms, thus saving your clients time and boosting their engagement. With the rising need for efficient and strategic social media management, offering automation solutions can be a highly demanded service.
Explore tips and success stories on launching a social media automation business.
Why start a social media automation business?
- It taps into the high demand for efficient social media management, making it easier to find clients.
- Automation tools can significantly reduce manual labor, giving you more time to focus on growing your business and client base.
- With the right software and strategies, you could provide tailored services that meet the specific needs of various businesses and influencers.
How much you can make: $4,000 — $400,000/month
How long does it take to build: 50 days (?)
MeetEdgar, a bootstrapped social media automation tool founded in 2014 by Laura Roeder, has grown to $4 million in annual recurring revenue and more than 5,000 customers, with a team size of two dozen, achieved through content marketing, social media marketing, and organic search.
5. Create an AI writing tool ($255K/month)
Venturing into the realm of AI writing tools presents a lucrative business opportunity for self-starters keen on leveraging technological advancements. This enterprise involves creating a digital tool powered by Artificial Intelligence to support content creation for businesses, bloggers, and students. The tool can generate accurate, engaging content quickly, making it a game-changer for the writing process.
The AI writing tool business aligns perfectly with today's demand for high-quality, constant content. It offers a solution that eases the workload of writers globally, enhancing their productivity. Learn more about profitability and potential returns by exploring this detailed guide.
Why develop an AI writing tool?
- Automated, error-free, and time-efficient content generation is now possible, improving productivity.
- The increasing demand for consistent, high-quality content across industries makes this a lucrative market.
- It allows you to be at the forefront of innovation, offering a futuristic solution to traditional writing challenges.
How much you can make: $4,000 — $1,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 52 days (?)
Rytr, a new AI writing assistant developed by a startup platform and business incubator, has become a market leader, serving over 300,000 customers across the world and doing seven figures in ARR.
6. Start an online course sales business ($85K/month)
Starting an online course sales business could be a rewarding venture for self-starters looking to tap into the booming e-learning market. With a predicted market value of over $645 billion, this is an incredible opportunity to turn your skills and passions into a profitable side hustle or full-time business. By creating and selling online courses in areas like music, cooking, coding, or web design, you could generate passive income while sharing your expertise with a global audience.
Why start an online course sales business?
- The initial investment is minimal, mainly requiring your expertise and some basic equipment to get started.
- Once created, your course can generate passive income for years with minimal ongoing effort.
- You have the freedom to design and market courses based on your own interests and expertise, offering a personalized learning experience to others.
For more detailed insights, check out Starter Story's success stories in the online course sales business.
How much you can make: $100 — $300,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
A multipreneur shares how she built a successful print on demand side hustle, generating $120,000 per year through multiple brands spread over various platforms.
7. Start an ecommerce reselling business ($83.3K/month)
Starting an ecommerce reselling business is an excellent opportunity for self-starters looking to supplement their income or transform a side hustle into a full-fledged business. By purchasing goods or services for resale, you could launch an online store without incurring production costs, making this a cost-effective way to enter the market. You don't even need a website immediately; leveraging social media can help you build your customer base before expanding your digital presence.
Why consider an ecommerce reselling business?
- This business model allows you to avoid production costs, reducing initial investment.
- You could quickly start with only a social media account, eliminating the need for an extensive website at the outset.
- The flexibility of working from anywhere provides the freedom to grow your business at your own pace.
For further insights, check out the pros and cons of starting an ecommerce reselling business on Starter Story.
How much you can make: $4,000 — $150,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,999 (?)
How long does it take to build: 75 days (?)
Empyre Off-Road, an e-commerce business founded by Greg Shuey which sells aftermarket parts for Toyota Tacomas, Tundras, and 4Runners, generated approximately $100,000 a month in revenue and was able to expand its product offering, focusing on content marketing, email marketing campaigns, and organic social media to attract and retain customers.
8. Start an ai based business solution ($55.8K/month)
Integrating an AI-based business solution into your entrepreneurial endeavors could significantly enhance operational efficiency and optimize various business processes. Utilizing artificial intelligence, you could automate routine tasks, gain valuable customer insights, and make data-driven decisions to stay ahead of the competition. Plus, with the growing demand for AI tools across industries, leveraging this technology offers a prime opportunity to tap into a rapidly expanding market.
By tapping into high-impact areas like customer service, inventory management, or personalized marketing, you could position your business for long-term success. Moreover, many platform providers offer user-friendly interfaces and robust support systems, making it easier for self-starters without a tech background to get started. If you want to learn more about the potential profitability of AI-based business solutions, check out this page.
Why consider an AI-based business solution?
- Enhances business efficiency by automating repetitive tasks and streamlining operations.
- Offers valuable insights and accurate market predictions that help in making informed decisions.
- User-friendly platforms make AI accessible, even for those without a tech background.
How much you can make: $4,000 — $120,000/month
How long does it take to build: 125 days (?)
Mikkelsen Twins grew an online education company from scratch with over 800 students, making over 6-figures in profit every month thanks to their successful program, Audiobook Income Academy 2.0.
9. Start a cold email service business ($170K/month)
A cold email service business offers a unique opportunity for entrepreneurial-minded individuals to leverage their strategic and creative skills. By helping companies directly reach potential clients through well-crafted email campaigns, you could establish a profitable and scalable venture. This business aligns perfectly with self-starters who have a knack for engaging with words and a proficiency in using email marketing tools to track metrics like open rates and conversions.
If you possess a strategic mindset and are adept at crafting compelling email content, the cold email service business could be highly rewarding. Imagine starting with small businesses seeking lead generation, then scaling up as you build a portfolio of successful campaigns. Combining marketing acumen with technical know-how, you can create a service that is perpetually in demand. For more details on how to get started, visit Starter Story's collection of success stories.
Why consider starting a cold email service business?
- Low overhead and startup costs. You primarily need a computer, an email service provider, and strong writing skills.
- High demand for lead generation. Businesses of all sizes need effective ways to reach new clients.
- Scalability. As your success rate grows, so does your potential client base, allowing for significant business growth.
How much you can make: $4,000 — $450,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $200 (?)
How long does it take to build: 35 days (?)
GMass, an email marketing platform that allows users to send cold emails and email marketing campaigns with Gmail, has attracted over 500,000 user signups, including major tech companies like Uber, LinkedIn, and Google, and now generates over $200K in monthly recurring revenue through a successful content marketing strategy and focused ad spend.
10. Create a mobile app ($70.3K/month)
If you've ever thought about turning your brilliant idea into a mobile app, now is the time to make it a reality. Developing a mobile app can be more feasible than you might think, with many tools and resources available to guide you through the process. By offering innovative solutions that meet user needs—from productivity tools to gaming—you could create a profitable business while enhancing people's daily lives.
To start, you'll need a clear vision and either basic coding knowledge or the ability to hire a skilled developer. Your primary tasks will include planning the user experience, designing engaging interfaces, and rigorously testing for functionality and bugs. Marketing your app effectively will be crucial to attract users and achieve downloads.
Why embark on developing a mobile app?
- The mobile app market is vast and growing, offering immense opportunities for innovative solutions.
- With dedication and the right strategy, your app could generate substantial revenue.
- Mobile apps have become an integral part of everyday life, making it an ideal platform to solve problems or entertain millions.
For more inspiration and details on starting a mobile app business, check out some success stories here.
How much you can make: $1 — $500,000/month
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
BACH, an app that plans and books bachelorette parties, has grown from $0 to >$1M net revenue run rate in less than 6 months, gained over 100,000 users in their first 60 days, and has over 40,000 parties using the app this month.
11. Start a health and wellness app ($108K/month)
Starting a health and wellness app could be a compelling venture for self-starters looking to tap into the growing market of fitness and well-being. A well-crafted app can offer personalized fitness routines, nutrition plans, mental well-being exercises, and progress tracking, all in one place. If you’re passionate about health and technology, this could be your opportunity to make a meaningful impact while building a thriving business.
Building this app involves market research, collaboration with health experts, app development, and effective marketing strategies. For more insights on how to kickstart this journey, check out some of these success stories from entrepreneurs who have ventured into health and wellness apps.
Why starting a health and wellness app?
- You could positively impact lives by guiding users towards healthier lifestyles.
- There is growing demand for digital health solutions, providing a fertile market for new apps.
- Flexibility in design allows you to tailor the app to meet unique, individualized wellness needs.
How much you can make: $600 — $300,000/month
How long does it take to build: 200 days (?)
Founder and CEO of SelfDecode, Joe Cohen, explains how his company helps people discover personalized diet, supplement, and lifestyle recommendations based on DNA and lab tests; generating about $2.7 million in revenue over the past year and raising $8 million in a crowdfunding campaign, SelfDecode provides personalized health recommendations prioritized on unique genetic variants, marking the future of healthcare.
12. Develop a lead generation tool ($108K/month)
Creating a lead generation tool can be an attractive business venture for self-starters looking to supplement their income or even establish a full-time business. This idea involves developing a software application or platform that automates the process of identifying and capturing potential customer leads for other businesses. By streamlining this crucial marketing task, you could provide invaluable support to companies eager to grow their customer base, all while tapping into a high-demand market.
Imagine the ease and efficiency your tool could bring to businesses, helping them gather valuable data such as email addresses, phone numbers, and customer interests from their existing digital channels. With businesses always on the hunt for better and more efficient ways to reach potential clients, your lead generation tool could become an essential part of their marketing strategy.
Why develop a lead generation tool?
- Significant demand exists. Businesses are always looking for efficient ways to convert potential leads into customers.
- Facilitates automation. Your tool could save companies time and resources by automating the laborious task of lead capturing.
- Marketing and tech skills in action. If you have a knack for technology and marketing, this venture capitalizes on both skill sets, making it a natural fit.
For more detailed insights on starting a lead generation tool, check out this success story.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $400,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $600 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Dux-Soup is a LinkedIn automation tool that helps business owners and sales & marketing professionals generate more leads, increase efficiency, and save time; with over 70,000 users and revenue of nearly $5 million, it offers automated top-of-the-funnel LinkedIn outreach activities, targeted LinkedIn campaigns and multi-touch & personalized LinkedIn drip campaigns for lead generation.
13. Start a wordpress plugin business ($33.4K/month)
Starting a WordPress plugin business is an excellent opportunity for self-starters interested in software development and solving real problems for website owners. By identifying a common issue or need within the WordPress ecosystem, you could develop a plugin that offers a unique solution and monetize it through platforms like CodeCanyon or your own website. With over 40% of websites on the internet powered by WordPress, the market for useful plugins is vast and continually growing.
Why consider a WordPress plugin business?
- The demand is high. WordPress powers over 40% of all websites, creating a massive market for useful plugins.
- You control your revenue streams. Sell through platforms like CodeCanyon, your blog, or a dedicated website.
- Flexible business model. You could easily start this as a side hustle and scale up as demand grows.
How much you can make: $120 — $120,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week
Wheely Sales CEO Josh created a lucky wheel popup that has grown revenue from $0 to $600/month in just 4 months since getting started and has attracted over 1.1 million users to his customers’ websites, all while proving that when it comes to creating a product, competition is validation.
14. Start a YouTube channel ($72.1K/month)
Starting a YouTube channel could be your gateway to both creative expression and financial independence. Whether you're sharing your expertise, passions, or hobbies, YouTube gives you the platform to potentially earn revenue through ads, sponsorships, and merchandise. By focusing on high-quality, consistent content, you could build a loyal audience and create a significant income stream.
Having a knack for creating compelling video content is just the beginning. You will need to plan, shoot, and edit videos regularly while engaging with your audience. Although it’s a labor-intensive effort, if you’re willing to dedicate the time, the rewards could be substantial. Explore more about starting a YouTube channel and find success stories here.
Why start a YouTube channel?
- It offers a versatile platform where creativity meets opportunity.
- It provides multiple revenue streams, including ads, sponsorships, and merchandise.
- You can turn your passion into a profitable venture while engaging directly with a global audience.
How much you can make: $2,000 — $333,333/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,250 (?)
How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)
This case study follows the journey of a young entrepreneur from Nigeria who started a profitable blog generating a monthly revenue of $1,500+ through sales of advertising space, sponsored posts, and information products, and shares his strategies for success including a Twitter growth challenge and guest post pitches.
15. Start an affiliate marketing business ($77.5K/month)
If you're searching for a flexible side hustle with the potential to pay you passive income, starting an affiliate marketing business is a smart choice. This business model involves promoting other companies' products and services, earning you a commission for each sale made through your referral. For self-starters, this can be an excellent opportunity to take control of your earnings by selecting products and brands that align with your interests and audience.
By becoming an affiliate marketer, you could partner with eCommerce stores or manufacturers, helping them reach more customers while earning a profit for each successful sale. This scalable business model requires minimal upfront investment, making it accessible to entrepreneurs ready to build a sustainable income stream at their own pace. For a deeper dive into affiliate marketing ideas, consider checking out success stories on Starter Story.
Why start an affiliate marketing business?
- Low startup costs and risk make it accessible for beginners.
- The potential for passive income allows you to earn money even while you sleep.
- Flexibility to partner with brands and products that suit your passions and audience.
How much you can make: $500 — $773,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $700 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
This case study explores how Spencer Mecham founded Buildapreneur, an affiliate marketing business, and has made over half a million dollars in profit with no employees, relying solely on content marketing through platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.
16. Start a niche blog ($31.5K/month)
As a self-starter, launching a niche blog could be an excellent avenue for generating supplemental income, diving into a passion project, or even starting a side business. By honing in on a specific topic like fashion, video games, or cooking, you can engage with a dedicated online community while sharing your expertise. Creating valuable and unique content will enable you to monetize your blog through affiliate marketing, brand collaborations, and expanding to platforms like YouTube.
To ensure your blog's success, focus on consistently delivering relevant and engaging content, connecting with your followers, and leveraging your passion for the subject matter. For more detailed steps on starting a niche blog, you might find this helpful: Starter Story on Niche Blogging.
Why start a niche blog?
- You could quickly establish yourself as an authority in your chosen niche.
- Generating passive income through affiliate links and partnerships becomes feasible.
- It provides a platform to share your passion while connecting with like-minded individuals.
How much you can make: $100 — $650,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $650 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Starter Story grew to 1.4 million monthly visitors and millions in annual revenue by sharing the stories of entrepreneurs. Pat breaks down the early days and how he grew the business into something that changed his life.
17. Start a niche website ($107K/month)
Looking for a focused online business that offers both creative freedom and potential revenue? Consider building a niche website. A niche website centers around a specialized topic, serving a dedicated audience with targeted content and products. Starting this venture involves selecting a niche you're passionate about and knowledgeable in, creating compelling content, and driving traffic to your site.
You’ll need to invest time in research, content creation, and SEO to attract loyal followers. Monetization options are varied—whether through affiliate marketing, ad placements, or selling digital products, your specialized content could generate income. If you’ve got a specific interest and the drive to dive deep, building a niche website could be your next rewarding project. Learn from successful niche website creators.
Why start a niche website?
- Low startup costs and high potential for passive income.
- Complete creative freedom to explore and share a topic you’re passionate about.
- Multiple streams of revenue, from affiliate marketing to selling digital products.
How much you can make: $400 — $250,000/month
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
DPW (Digital Procurement World) is a fast-growing conference and community in procurement that has more than tripled in revenue since launching in 2019, capping out the year at €1.8 million, with 95% of their growth coming from inbound traffic leveraging LinkedIn and applying social selling techniques.
18. Start a real estate investment firm ($398K/month)
Starting a real estate investment firm offers a compelling opportunity for those keen on building wealth through property. This business involves buying, managing, and selling real estate assets to generate profit. Core activities include scouting lucrative properties, negotiating deals, handling renovations, and managing rentals or sales. The real estate market's substantial profit potential makes it particularly attractive for self-starters who are passionate about property management and investment.
Learn more about the successes and challenges of starting a real estate investment firm.
Why start a real estate investment firm?
- High Profit Potential: Real estate investments can appreciate significantly over time, offering substantial returns.
- Steady Income Stream: Rental properties can generate consistent and reliable income each month.
- Dynamic Market Opportunities: The real estate market provides a range of opportunities, from residential to commercial properties, catering to various investment strategies.
How much you can make: $10,000 — $1,500,000/month
How long does it take to build: 210 days (?)
Equity Residences is a luxury real estate investment fund that has raised $40 million from over 200 investors, offering them access to a portfolio of luxury vacation homes for investment and personal use, with a minimum investment of $161,500 and plans to acquire a further twenty residences ranging from $1.5M to $4M.
19. Print on demand business ($411K/month)
Starting a print-on-demand business is a savvy choice for self-starters looking to supplement their income or build a side business. This model allows you to create custom products like apparel, home goods, and phone cases without worrying about inventory costs. By utilizing online platforms like Amazon, eBay, and Etsy, you could reach a global audience and scale your business effectively and efficiently from the comfort of your home.
Why start a print-on-demand business?
- Flexible and scalable: With minimal startup costs, you could easily manage and grow your business at your own pace.
- Creative freedom: Focus on designing unique products that appeal to a broad audience.
- Global reach: Online marketplaces provide the perfect storefronts to reach international customers.
How much you can make: $200 — $3,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week
Founder Roy Kirchner shares how he started an eCommerce business specializing in 3D printing with an initial investment of $65,000, which now averages monthly gross sales of $330,000 and has partnered with international manufacturers and local businesses while offering technical support and education.
20. Start a SEO & lead generation service ($60K/month)
Starting an SEO and lead generation service can be an excellent business opportunity for self-starters. With businesses continually seeking effective ways to attract and convert prospects into customers, your expertise in lead generation and SEO can play a pivotal role. By mastering the fundamentals of digital marketing and understanding the nuances of nurturing potential leads, you could turn this skill into a thriving business.
Whether it's helping companies collect valuable customer information or optimizing their online presence, the services you offer can significantly boost their growth. Plus, the demand for skilled lead generation and SEO experts is on the rise, providing a promising avenue for sustainable income.
Why start an SEO & lead generation service?
- There's a high demand for lead generation and SEO expertise, creating numerous business opportunities.
- You could help businesses grow by increasing their customer base through effective online strategies.
- The skills required for this field are adaptable, allowing you to serve various industries and niches.
For more insights and success stories on starting an SEO and lead generation service, check out this page on Starter Story.
How much you can make: $8,000 — $200,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $3,750 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
A link building company co-founded by Justas Markus has grown to make an average of $35k per month in recurring revenue with a focus on delivering high-quality services through manual processes and focusing on fewer markets.
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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.
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.
