60+ College Campus Business Ideas You Can Start Today [2024]
Interested in starting a college campus business in 2024?
We put together 59 of the best college campus businesses you can start in today.
For each business idea, we’ll show you real-world examples of other college campus businesses to help you see what it really takes.
Here's the full list:
1. Start a music school
If you have a passion for music and love teaching, starting an online music school can be a great way to kickstart your music tutoring business.
This not only helps you connect with local customers but also opens up opportunities to reach a global audience.
Moreover, starting an online music school gives you the freedom to work from anywhere and at your preferred time.
Whether you are brand new to teaching music online or you have been teaching online but are looking for some fresh inspiration, you can incorporate it into your online music school. examples include:
- Teaching church music online
- Teaching children’s choir
- Youth & adults’ choirs
- Teach live video sessions using online meeting platforms
- Choir, band & orchestra
How much you can make: $2,000 — $100,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $4,535 (?)
How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)
Former IT professional Meenakshi started Art Splash Academy of Fine Arts, offering Keyboard, Guitar, Violin, Rock & Pop vocals, Indian Music, Carnatic vocals, Bharatnatyam, Certified Jazz, Arts, Yoga, and Tabla courses for all ages with an investment of $9,000, and now manages it successfully with 80% of customers enrolling in online classes during COVID-19.
2. Start a sports coaching business
Sports coaching is a fast-growing industry in all areas of the world.
If you have a sports coaching qualification and experience, you can turn those experiences into a profitable business.
You can offer coaching to teams or individuals depending on your preference and the nature of sports.
You may join sports associations or attend networking events to market your sports coaching abilities.
How much you can make: $4,759 — $8,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $100 (?)
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
Girl Boss Sports, founded in December 2018, aims to increase the number of women sports coaches while keeping girls in sports by partnering with companies and organizations, and has brought in an average of $4,700 of revenue per month over the last 6 months by hiring over 20 female soccer coaches in Greater Seattle area.
3. Start a hair product line
Starting a hair product line can be a fun and profitable way to build a new income stream. It's also fairly easy, as long as you plan it out (and maybe do a little bit of market research before creating your sales funnel). There's a reason we often talk about trends in hip-hop and pop culture when we talk about hairstyles — they often have a lot to do with advancements in the hair product industry. The industry is expected to grow to 102 billion dollars by 2024.
How much you can make: $550 — $2,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 272 days (?)
Private Label Extensions is a hair distribution and technology company that builds hair brands from A to Z for entrepreneurs, achieving over $650,000 in monthly sales and ranked #278 of the fastest-growing companies by Inc Magazine for 2018.
4. Start a personalized gift business
Personalized gifts are great for celebrating important dates, joyous occasions, and memorable moments. The personalized gifts include photo frames, key chains, to group gifts.
A personalized gifts business is a low-capital idea since you do not need a physical storefront or office space to start the business. Besides, you can put as much time into the business as possible, which means you can run the business as a side hustle.
Check out our guide on how to start a personalized gift business
How much you can make: $1,000 — $800,000/month
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
Meet Tyler Macke, the 21-year-old founder of SendAFriend, an e-commerce brand that sells stuffed animal care packages, which began with $50k in revenue in 2019 and is now on track to make $5M in revenue this year, while donating 10% of revenue to children's hospitals throughout the United States.
5. Start a book club
A book club consists of several people who read and talk about the books based on the topic or an agreed reading list.
Setting up your book club can be a great way to enjoy books and meet new people.
More importantly, a book club is a well-paying side hustle idea. Therefore, figure out who you invite to your book club and define the purpose.
Do you want to learn something new, or do you just want to bond with other book lovers? Having a defined purpose helps you reach like-minded people to keep the book club close-knit.
How much you can make: $4,000 — $90,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $7,550 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week
Two friends started an online book club that now has 570 members and generates £10,500 MRR, by addressing the problem of 'Tsundoku,' charging a monthly subscription fee for one non-fiction book, one inspiring meetup, and one custom cocktail, inspiring conversation and community.
6. Start an animation business
Animated posts and animated ads have become more prevalent today than ever before. Starting an animation business focusing on helping brands create animated ads and illustrations can be fun and profitable.
The animated videos can be posted on Instagram and other social media platforms. To start an animation studio, you should start by hiring some specialists. You need a pair of illustrators, animators, and a scriptwriter to bring the idea to life.
As an animation artist, you can create animation and visual effects for films, gamers, ads, etc.
How much you can make: $500 — $85,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 577 days (?)
An animation company owner generates between $75,000 and $100,000 annually from producing custom explainer animations for start-ups and marketing companies for between $5,500 and $7,500; logo animations for companies that market using videos at $200 to $500; and Instagram Stories stickers beginning at $350.
7. Start a healthy meal delivery service
Meal prep delivery services offer healthy and nutritional meals to customers via e-commerce sites.
These services provide either DIY meal kits or Ready-to-eat meals, saving time and eliminating food waste.
They are particularly beneficial for busy people and health-conscious millennials who prefer nutritional food at home.
There are two types of meal services: online meal kits and fast food delivery services.
A meal prep delivery business can be profitable, especially when compared to restaurants, as they save costs on a storefront.
To make a good profit, one should invest less in groceries and ensure they have many customers.
How much you can make: $60,000 — $300,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 7 days (?)
Healthy Chew is a profitable weekly meal preparation service that grew from 200 to 10,000 weekly bowls in just over 3 years, with an overall sales figure of $1.8 million, achieved through effective branding and personalised customer service.
8. Start a selfcare subscription box
Stressed-out professionals and busy parents alike are craving moments of relaxation and self-care. A selfcare subscription box offers curated products delivered monthly to help individuals unwind and rejuvenate.
By launching this business, you can provide subscribers with carefully selected items such as bath salts, aromatherapy oils, mindfulness journals, and herbal teas. Imagine setting up partnerships with local artisans and wellness brands to create unique, themed boxes that bring delight and serenity to your customers' doorsteps each month.
Running a selfcare subscription box business involves sourcing high-quality products, designing appealing packaging, and managing logistics, but the reward is in enhancing people's well-being. The recurring revenue model ensures a steady income stream, and the satisfaction from delivering a slice of tranquility makes the effort worthwhile. If you're passionate about wellness and enjoy curating special moments of self-care, this business is a promising opportunity.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $50,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Hemp Crate Co is a CBD subscription box delivering over $125 in value to their 1,000+ subscribers, generating $50k+/month in revenue, operating as a side hustle while offering a low-capital, prepay-based startup model.
9. Start a healthy snack food business
Businesses with healthy snacks are becoming increasingly popular. This is because people are becoming more conscious of what they eat and the ingredients used in their food products.
Compared to a few decades ago, more people value health over anything else. A tasty snack food business can be a great way to turn your passion for snacking into profit.
The global healthy snacks market is expected to reach $152B by 2030, and there’s no sign of this slowing down. Healthy snacks can include anything from protein bars to gluten/dairy-free alternatives to chips, cookies, crackers, and more.
How much you can make: $15,000 — $3,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 270 days (?)
Neuro co-founders Kent Yoshimura and Ryan Chen developed their functional gum and mint products to offer a portable, healthy, and efficient alternative to energy drinks and supplements, hitting 12M pieces sold and generating ~$500k in monthly revenue with over 25% repeat customer rate and retail presence in over 6,500 locations including 5,000 CVS stores.
10. 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: 190 days (?)
Photobooth Supply Co. offers a profitable business opportunity through their sleek and portable photo booths, with up to 97% satisfaction rate and a focus on customer experience, in a fast-growing event industry where photo booths are exploding.
11. Start a career coaching business
A career coaching business involves providing personalized guidance, support, and strategy services to help clients navigate professional transitions and growth opportunities.
As a career coach, you design custom sessions to assist with resume building, interview prep, and workplace advancement goals tailored to each client’s aspirations.
With flexibility for in-person or virtual meetings, building a client base lets you empower breakthroughs through specialized advice and accountability.
Launching a coaching practice can be a great opportunity for those with speaking talents and human resources expertise to monetize their natural motivational abilities while setting their own schedule.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $235,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Wall Street Oasis, the largest online community focused on careers in finance, has over 100 million visitors during its 14-year history and is currently receiving over 2 million visits per month, offering interview courses and mentorship services, in addition to building and investing in a thriving online community.
12. Start a stationery business
A stationery business sells stationery products such as paper goods, notebooks, greeting cards, and envelopes.
The best part about starting a stationery business is that it's relatively easy and inexpensive to get started.
Since there are so many different types of products available in this industry, there are endless opportunities for creativity, customization, and expansion.
You could even start out small by selling your products on Etsy or eBay before opening up an actual storefront.
How much you can make: $200 — $260,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,250 (?)
How long does it take to build: 52 days (?)
Chasing Planner Peace is a planner company that has expanded from selling planner inserts on Etsy, to offering a one-stop shop customizable planner experience with over 300 inserts, a planner line, and various other related products, gaining a monthly revenue of around $25,000 at its busiest time of year.
13. Start a freelance writing business
Freelance writing can be a good career choice if you are looking for a flexible online job.
Working as a freelancer gives you the flexibility to define your work schedule. You can work from home at any time. Freelance writers work across various niches, writing about various topics assigned by the client,
To earn good money as a freelance writer, you need the following personal qualities:
- Strong writing skills
- Ability to meet deadlines
- Stay on the cutting edge
- Be a self-starter
- Be up-to-date with the current writing tools & writing trends
- Proper communication skills
How much you can make: $700 — $500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 56 days (?)
How David Tile turned a freelance writing gig into an $80k/month business, discussing lessons learned through managing growing demands and maintaining a remote team operation.
14. Start a digital magazine
A digital magazine is an electronic publication that takes a digital format rather than printed on paper.
Ideally, digital publications and traditional print magazines are not all that different. The only difference is the medium of delivery. To start a digital publication, decide the publication’s goals and pick a topic or theme. Then, create a content strategy and choose the right software.
How much you can make: $21,000 — $800,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 52 days (?)
Flipsnack is an online tool that allows anyone to create digital flipbooks and has increased its business revenue by over 50% year over year, with YoY growth rates between 50% - 84%, shifting from a B2C approach and focusing more on B2B.
15. Start a sex toys business
The sex toy industry is growing rapidly, and there's no sign of this slowing down.
The reasons for this growth are varied. The rise of social media has made it easier to find out about new products and services, which has given companies greater access to their customer base and helped them grow their businesses. More people are also getting comfortable with buying things online; not only does this make it easier for them to shop in private, but it also helps them avoid embarrassment if they're nervous about their purchases being seen by other customers while they're waiting in line at a store.
The industry itself is changing as well: companies are offering more variety than ever before, which means that there's something for everyone—even those who might not have considered themselves interested in this sort of thing before now can find something that suits their needs perfectly!
There are already individuals who made it big in this industry and these stories are the proof of their success.
How much you can make: $500 — $125,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $625 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
SexToysForMen.Co founder shares how he stumbled into the adult toy industry, and through organic content marketing and referrals, has grown the business to bring in monthly revenue of $2,000-$3,000 with an email list accounting for 30% of sales.
16. Become a graphic designer
Graphic designing involves creating sketch designs and materials for corporate clients, advertising agencies, public relations firms, and publishers. Besides, graphic designers provide visual solutions to specific company images, log design, and branding problems.
Graphic design is an excellent career for creative thinkers who enjoy using their talent and artistic skills combined with technology and communication abilities to come up with unique solutions for their clients.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $81,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $700 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
This case study features Md. Yousuf Ali, the founder of Rank Trends, who shares how he started a successful digital marketing agency, which generated a revenue of over $6k per month through SEO and video production services.
17. Start a youtube channel
For anyone looking to start a successful YouTube channel, there are plenty of YouTube channel success stories that can be used as inspiration and encouragement. In addition, YouTube has an established monetization system and boasts incredible popularity, making it a potential platform for revenue generation.
In this article, we'll look at different approaches you can use to help promote your channel and grow your viewers. While there's no quick and easy way to success, you can take these tips to build your own YouTube Channel Success story. If you love content creation, you can capitalize on YouTube's popularity to earn extra income.
If you want to join the Youtube partner program to monetize your channel, you will need to reach a minimum of 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours in the previous 12 months.
How much you can make: $800 — $1,000,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $750 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week
Learn how this entrepreneurial couple made $5-7k a month by helping others find legitimate work from home jobs and creative ways to make money online through their blog and YouTube channel, as well as offering two flagship products designed to help beginner freelancers and new bloggers accelerate growth.
18. Create a website builder
Jumpstart your tech venture with a website builder business. A website builder offers a platform to create websites without needing sophisticated coding skills.
This business revolves around developing a user-friendly tool that helps individuals and businesses design their own websites with ease—drag-and-drop features, customizable templates, and integrated functionalities like eCommerce and SEO tools.
The demand for websites is insatiable, fostered by the growing number of small businesses, freelancers, and personal brands needing an online presence. By providing an easy-to-use solution, you tap into a vast market eager for simplicity and efficiency.
Starting this business requires a solid understanding of web development, user experience, and continuous adaptation to new tech advancements. But the payoff is substantial: empowering users to establish their digital footprint efficiently.
How much you can make: $200 — $8,500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Co-founder of Madwire JB Kellogg grew his business from just the two of them in a tiny office to over 500 employees and $100 million in annual revenue in under 10 years, by focusing on exceptional customer service and a multi-channel inbound strategy.
19. Start a language translation service
Language translation services bridge the linguistic barriers, helping businesses reach a wider audience outside of a single language. A language translation job is an opportunity to cover a wide range of topics and meet people from different cultures.
To become a language translator , master a second language and earn some experience so you become fluent in the second language.
How much you can make: $5,000 — $550,000/month
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
How this founder started a $100K/month guaranteed transcription service for medical, legal, law enforcement, financial, academic and general business industries, winning the NASPO ValuePoint transcription services contract over 26 other companies and learning valuable lessons about getting a coach and getting as much PR as possible.
20. Become a social media influencer
Social media has become integral to people's lives and daily routines. Given the importance of social media, brands are flocking to different social media platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok in the hope of connecting with their target audience.
A popular approach taken by these brands is engaging social media influencers. A social media influencer has established credibility in a specific industry and has access to a vast audience they can persuade to act based on recommendations.
Anyone can become a social influencer so long as they have the right strategy. Choose a popular niche based on your interests and start creating relevant content.
How much you can make: $2,500 — $166,666/month
How much does it cost to start: $800 (?)
How long does it take to build: 155 days (?)
How one mother built a profitable frugal motherhood, life, and travel blog from scratch, using Instagram, Pinterest, and paid sponsorships to grow from 0 to 18.5K followers and generate $1,500-$3,000 per month in less than two years.
21. Start a book rental business
Looking to turn the page on a new business opportunity? Consider starting a book rental business. In simple terms, you’ll be providing people with an affordable way to read the latest and greatest novels, textbooks, or niche publications without having to buy them.
To get started, you’ll need a collection of popular titles and a user-friendly platform for customers to browse and reserve books. Efficient inventory management is essential—you’ll regularly handle book returns, quality checks, and new acquisitions. While it requires some upfront investment and organizational skills, a book rental service can cater to avid readers, students, and casual book lovers alike.
Create a cozy community around your service by engaging with your clients—think book clubs, reading challenges, and personalized recommendations. If you’re passionate about books, this business could be your story’s most compelling chapter.
How much you can make: $50,000/month
How long does it take to build: 365 days (?)
OrderOfBooks.com is a website that lists books in both publication and chronological order and generates six-figure revenue after starting off as a resource for the founder and his friends, serving as a valuable resource for book readers.
22. Start an upcycle fashion products business
Upcycle fashion products business involves creating fashionable clothing and accessories using recycled or pre-owned materials. This type of business is environmentally friendly and helps reduce waste by repurposing materials that would otherwise be discarded.
To start an upcycle fashion products business, you must source materials from thrift stores, garage sales, and other places where pre-owned items are sold. You can also consider partnering with organizations that collect and donate used clothing and other materials.
Once you have gathered your materials, you must design and create your products. This may involve sewing, knitting, or other creative skills. You can also consider hiring skilled artisans to help with the production process.
To sell your products, you can set up an online store, participate in craft fairs and markets, and sell your products through local retailers. It is essential to market your products effectively and showcase the unique aspect of your products being made from recycled materials.
To run a successful upcycle fashion products business, it is essential to have a clear vision of what you want to create and how you want to sell your products. It is also crucial to have a strong network of suppliers and customers and to continuously find new and innovative ways to create and sell your products. It is also essential to stay updated with the latest fashion trends and be flexible and adaptable as the market changes.
23. Start a pet sitting business
A pet sitter is a professional who provides daily care for pets while the pet owners are at work or on vacation. The pet sitter's duties include:
- Cooking special meals for pets as instructed by pet owners.
- Reporting any behavioral issues to pet owners.
- Playing with the pets to encourage their mental and physical stimulation.
One of the advantages of working as a pet sitter is that it's not a stressful career. You also get to work with different animals while enjoying a work-life balance.
How much you can make: $15,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
A technician-turned-CEO built an in-home pet care enterprise that generates $8k per month by documenting business operations and empowering employees, inspired by the successes of McDonald's founder Ray Kroc and researcher Brené Brown's work on vulnerability and empathy in the workplace.
24. Start a youtube channel
For anyone looking to start a successful YouTube channel, there are plenty of YouTube channel success stories that can be used as inspiration and encouragement. In addition, YouTube has an established monetization system and boasts incredible popularity, making it a potential platform for revenue generation.
In this article, we'll look at different approaches you can use to help promote your channel and grow your viewers. While there's no quick and easy way to success, you can take these tips to build your own YouTube Channel Success story. If you love content creation, you can capitalize on YouTube's popularity to earn extra income.
If you want to join the Youtube partner program to monetize your channel, you will need to reach a minimum of 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours in the previous 12 months.
How much you can make: $800 — $1,000,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $750 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week
Learn how this entrepreneurial couple made $5-7k a month by helping others find legitimate work from home jobs and creative ways to make money online through their blog and YouTube channel, as well as offering two flagship products designed to help beginner freelancers and new bloggers accelerate growth.
25. Start a delivery service
Delivery service refers to a collection of services that deliver goods and products through the land, air, or waterways across locations. The delivery services serve B2B, B2C, and C2C customers.
The growing e-commerce sect and increased cross-border trade are some factors driving the growth of delivery services. Furthermore, consumer preference for online shopping has greatly contributed to the increased demand for delivery services.
To start a delivery service, make sure you have a cargo van, a fully functional website, and meet all the legalities for operating a business in your state.
How much you can make: $5,000 — $150,000/month
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
How a logistics company grew its revenue over 300% in 2 years, starting with just 2 vans and 25k+ square feet of warehouse space, and focused on relationships, efficiency, and building trust with its customers.
26. Start an etsy shop
Etsy is an online marketplace where people can buy and sell all kinds of handmade goods, vintage items, and art supplies.
It's a great way to make some extra cash, and you can use it as an opportunity to build your brand and find new clients.
To get started on Etsy, you'll need these four things:
- An Etsy account
- A PayPal account
- A product idea (or at least a product category)
- A visually appealing storefront with photos of your products
How much you can make: $100 — $750,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Chasing Planner Peace is a planner company that has expanded from selling planner inserts on Etsy, to offering a one-stop shop customizable planner experience with over 300 inserts, a planner line, and various other related products, gaining a monthly revenue of around $25,000 at its busiest time of year.
27. Start an used books retail kiosk
The global second-hand books will evolve at a CAGR of 6.6% over the next few years. If you want to start a used book shop, now is a great time to profit from the business.
To start a used book shop, you may source the books from overseas or purchase them locally. Your business will target the local book lovers looking to read more books. Your used book kiosk can be located in a shopping mall or a residential location.
28. Start a furniture lending business
29. Start a research paper writing business
Looking to provide a valuable service while leveraging your writing skills? Consider a research paper writing business.
In simple terms, this business involves writing academic papers for students or professionals who need expert help in crafting well-researched content. You would offer tailored writing services, focusing on different subjects and academic levels to meet client needs.
This venture can be particularly appealing if you have a knack for research, enjoy academic writing, and want to help others succeed. Plus, it's a business that you can start with minimal overhead, especially if you already have a computer and internet access.
For those who thrive in detail-oriented tasks and possess strong research skills, this business idea offers both flexibility and the potential for high earnings. You'll be addressing a consistent demand for well-written academic content that can significantly ease the academic burden on students.
How much you can make: $2,000 — $62,500/month
How much does it cost to start: $67 (?)
How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)
Content-Whale, a content curation agency, has achieved a Rs. 4 crore ($514k/year) turnover 4-5 years after being started with just Rs. 2500 ($35), and has a pool of more than 500 writers, aiming to become a market leader in the global content market.
30. Start a campus bus shuttle service
A campus bus shuttle service is excellent for getting students and campus staff to and from class as efficiently as possible. Many campuses provide the bus shuttle service through a partnership with a private transport operator.
To start a campus shuttle service, collaborate with the campus administration, so you are allowed to operate within the campus.
31. Start a campus newspaper business
32. Start a mobile phone repair kiosk
A cellphone repair kiosk is a low-startup cost business; hence easy to start. However, the profit margins may be low as you start the business, but they increase over time as you become well-known and successful.
To start a mobile phone repair kiosk, find streets with high foot traffic, and open a store. Advertise your business widely to get more foot traffic to your shop.
33. Start a brochures printing business
34. Start a private library business
35. Become a bed and breakfast owner
Bed and breakfast is a sort of hybrid between a luxury hotel and a private home. The host offers the guests affordable accommodation featuring a bed and breakfast at the room's price. B&Bs offer affordable accommodations and are becoming popular among travelers who prefer a private setting.
If you have realistic expectations, B&B can be a profitable and enjoyable business. To start, you can renovate and turn your home into an inn. Alternatively, you can build or buy a ready house and convert it into a modern B&B.
36. Start a bike rental store
Bike rental is one of the most profitable business ideas most people overlook. Today, bike rental is in high demand, especially among people who love outdoor activities. Today, people prefer renting a bike as opposed to buying one. Moreover, bikes offer a hassle-free and quicker ride option for daily commuters. In that regard, starting your own bike rental business is exciting and can be profitable.
If you are starting a bike rental business, some avenues you could use to increase business profitability include:
- Targeting tourists
- Reaching out to biker clubs
- Biking training schools
- Cater to employees in organizations that encourage the use of bikes
Use bike rental software to manage bookings, and market your business on social media and biking clubs, to maximize bookings.
37. Start a child care business
Starting a childcare business is a great way to build a steady income. You will have the opportunity to be your boss and set your hours even from home. You will have the satisfaction of building one-on-one relationships with children and watching them grow over the years.
A childcare business is an excellent idea. It is both a personal and economical investment for its owners. This is especially true if you are considering starting your non-profit organization or becoming licensed to provide child care. Running a childcare business allows you to help children develop while also making money. As with any business endeavor, running a childcare business has its ups and downs, but it can be very rewarding.
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
38. Start a sports bar
People drink when they are happy or depressed. Opening a sports bar can be an excellent opportunity to earn money no matter their mood.
Are you looking for a strip mall business idea? You can start a sports bar at your nearest strip mall. You can sell take-away wines, spirits, whiskey, or beers and have a sitting place for customers who enjoy drinks at the bar.
39. Start a cyber cafe business
40. Start a perfume retail kiosk
The global perfume market is growing rapidly, a trend attributed to increased awareness of luxury and exotic fragrances. Among the end users, the fragrance market is segmented into male, female, and unisex. However, the females account for a higher value luxury perfume market share.
To start a perfume kiosk, understand the market potential and conduct proper research. Select a niche and an ideal location for your perfume business. To keep the business running, create a sourcing plan and scout the competition.
How much you can make: $19,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Founder Rafael Hernandez launched Alfred Lane, a line of handcrafted personal and home fragrances, generating $19k in monthly revenue with 50% attributed to online and wholesale sales, while expanding to 65 stores across 6 countries and expanding to Europe and South America.
41. 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: $1,250 (?)
How long does it take to build: 75 days (?)
French chef and founder of online bakery Pastreez, Anthony Rosemond, shares keys to success including validating ideas with the market, focusing on SEO and organic growth, building customer relationships through email and SMS, never offering discounts but offering freebies, and diversifying the business with new products and content on social media.
42. Start a Xerox Store
Starting a Xerox store can be a lucrative and rewarding business opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to enter the printing and document solutions industry. This business provides various services, including printing, copying, scanning, and document management.
To start a Xerox store, you’ll need a good location that is easily accessible to your target customers. You’ll also need to invest in high-quality Xerox equipment, including printers, copiers, and scanners. In addition, you’ll need to have a strong marketing and sales strategy to attract new customers and retain existing ones. Running a successful Xerox store also involves providing excellent customer service and building client relationships.
You’ll need to be knowledgeable about the various products and services you offer and be able to troubleshoot any issues that may arise. It would help if you were proactive in staying up-to-date with industry trends and advancements to provide the best solutions to your customers.
Overall, starting a Xerox store requires a combination of business savvy, technical expertise, and excellent customer service skills. You can build a successful business in this exciting and growing industry with the right approach and dedication.
43. Start a music and video sales business
44. Start a mobile supermarket business
45. Start a clothing and accessories delivery business
Looking for a way to combine fashion with convenience? A clothing and accessories delivery business might be your calling.
In simple terms, this business involves delivering curated outfits and accessories directly to customers' doorsteps. You partner with clothing retailers, independent designers, or even run your inventory to provide customers with trendy pieces without them having to leave their homes.
People are becoming increasingly time-strapped, and this service taps into that need by offering fashion on demand. By leveraging social media and a user-friendly app, you can create personalized style profiles and recommendations for each client, making their shopping experience seamless and enjoyable.
The appeal here is clear: people value convenience and personalized services. With a systematic approach to inventory management, effective marketing strategies, and a keen eye for style trends, you could lead a successful business that delivers both fashion and convenience.
How much you can make: $60,000 — $500,000/month
How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)
Sewing Incubator co-founder Rocio Evenett started a $60k per month sewn product development and manufacturing business in January 2020, offering entrepreneurs and industry professionals the tools they need to launch an American product line, and has plans to create 10,000 jobs in LA while leveraging accessible technology.
46. Start a coffee shop
Starting a coffee shop is an exciting and rewarding venture. It's a business that can be started with relatively little capital, and there are many ways to make it profitable. Coffee shops feature a low-cost stock but are profitable businesses.
If you plan to open a coffee shop, you may purchase a franchise, buy an existing business, or start from scratch. Whichever the decision, ensure a strategic location and renovate the space to create an inviting atmosphere. Develop a fantastic offering and begin marketing the business even before you open.
How much you can make: $3,000 — $15,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
New Zealand-based Fernweh is a subscription service that offers subscribers a new coffee roaster featured in the country each month, delivering coffee, tasting notes, and a story about the producer in a unique package for around $40 a month.
47. Start a fitness center
Are you interested in starting a business that revolves around health and body fitness? How about setting up a fitness center?
A fitness center business is a health, recreational, and social facility geared towards exercise and other physical activities. These centers serve people who may want to do workouts to get into shape and improve their overall health.
The health and fitness industry is one of the fastest-growing industries today. Some factors behind the sector’s popularity include a health-conscious population who want to avoid lifestyle-related illnesses, social media influence, and a shift towards better healthcare.
Starting a fitness center business can be a fun and profitable venture. If you plan to start the business, secure a good location, and equip your fitness center adequately. You may choose to operate entirely online or a hybrid model where you have the physical fitness center and the online one.
How much you can make: $20,000 — $59,000/month
How long does it take to build: 145 days (?)
BioFit is a fitness studio that offers safe and effective exercise through high-intensity training (HIT) methodology, using adaptive resistance exercise (ARX) machines that can achieve results in as little as 20 minutes a week, with an 80% closing ratio, over 70% client retention, 125 clients, and an average monthly revenue of $20k.
48. Start a gadget accessory store
49. Start a gaming lounge business
Looking to combine your love for gaming with a business venture? Consider opening a gaming lounge. A gaming lounge provides a space where enthusiasts can gather to play video games, participate in tournaments, and enjoy a community-centered environment.
Creating a gaming lounge involves selecting a strategic location, investing in high-quality gaming equipment, and designing a comfortable, engaging atmosphere. You'll need to set up multiple gaming stations, secure licenses for popular games, and offer food and beverage options to keep patrons satisfied.
This business idea is appealing due to the growing popularity of esports and the increasing desire for social gaming experiences. With proper marketing and community engagement, a gaming lounge can become a buzzing hub for gamers of all ages, ensuring a steady flow of loyal customers.
If you're passionate about gaming and community-building, this venture offers both a fulfilling and potentially profitable opportunity.
How much you can make: $300/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Traveling Tales DMing LLC is a professional game mastering company that offers high-quality table-top role-playing game experiences, which includes Dungeons and Dragons, for $10 per 3-hour game, generating a lot of buzz in Nebraska's TTRPG community by working with local game stores.
50. Start a juice bar
The increasing popularity of healthy juices and low start-up costs make starting a healthy juice shop appealing.
To start a healthy fresh juice business, prepare a business plan, create juice recipes and ensure you have the licenses and permits to sell fresh juice. Locate local producers and source fresh fruits for your business.
51. Start a beauty parlour business
A beauty parlor business offers various services, including haircuts, styling, coloring, makeup application, and other beauty treatments. To start a beauty parlor business, you will need a space to operate out of, typically a salon or storefront. You will also need various equipment and supplies, including styling chairs, shampoo stations, mirrors, styling products, and makeup.
For the success of a beauty parlor business, it is essential to have a team of experienced and skilled stylists and beauty professionals. It is also crucial to have a strong marketing strategy in place to attract and retain customers. The marketing strategy can include advertising through social media, local events, and word-of-mouth referrals.
Offering high-quality services and maintaining a clean and welcoming atmosphere is vital to returning customers. It is also essential to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and techniques in the beauty industry to offer the most current services to your clients.
Overall, a beauty parlor business can be a rewarding and lucrative venture for those passionate about the beauty industry and provide excellent customer service.
How much you can make: $30,000 — $658,333/month
How long does it take to build: 139 days (?)
The BLAQ Group, an Australian beauty company known for its detoxifying skincare products, was founded in 2016 by Ryan Channing and generated over $8 million in sales in its first year, and now the company is working to expand into brick-and-mortar distribution and partnerships in the US market.
52. Start a dorm room cleaning business
53. Start a laundry business
Starting a laundry business can be a fulfilling and lucrative venture for entrepreneurs looking to make a difference in their communities. With the right equipment and a commitment to providing excellent customer service, this business idea has the potential to thrive in a variety of locations.
One unique aspect of starting a laundry business is the opportunity to offer specialized services, such as eco-friendly detergent options or same-day turnaround for busy professionals. Additionally, partnering with local dry cleaners or offering pickup and delivery services can set your business apart from competitors and attract a loyal customer base.
In terms of upfront costs, starting a laundry business will require a significant investment in commercial-grade washing machines and dryers, as well as a convenient and well-located storefront. However, with the right marketing strategies and a focus on providing top-notch service, this investment can quickly pay off and result in a thriving business.
Overall, starting a laundry business is a rewarding and potentially profitable venture for entrepreneurs who are passionate about making a positive impact in their communities. With the right approach and a commitment to excellence, this business idea has the potential to succeed in a variety of settings.
How much you can make: $5,000 — $100,000/month
How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)
Pick My Laundry, India's on-demand laundry and dry-cleaning service provider has developed a mobile app and website serving almost 50,000 customers in its first year after signing up 100 third-party laundry services and franchising its model with over 50 franchises across more than 15 Indian cities.
54. Start a laptop cleaning business
Got a knack for details and cleanliness? A laptop cleaning business might be your next venture. This business idea revolves around providing specialized cleaning and maintenance services for laptops.
With technology being integral to daily life, laptops are constantly exposed to dust and grime, affecting their performance. You’ll offer a service that ensures these devices remain in optimal working condition.
Not only does this business require minimal startup costs—mainly cleaning supplies and marketing—but it also addresses a common issue tech users face.
In a world increasingly reliant on technology, a laptop cleaning business blends necessity with opportunity, making it an appealing choice for aspiring entrepreneurs.
How much you can make: $120,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)
TechUnwreck, a mail-in bulk device repair service for schools and businesses, started as a part-time side hustle learning to fix phones after its founder's own phone broke and is now expecting to do 30,000 repairs per year and $3 million in sales in 2021, thanks to a committed hiring process, in-person repair model, and online reputation.
55. Start a t-shirt customization business
A t-shirt customization business is a business that allows customers to design and create their unique t-shirts. You can do this business either online through a website or in a physical storefront location.
To start a t-shirt customization business, you must invest in a t-shirt printing machine and the necessary equipment, such as ink and screens. You may also want to consider offering a variety of t-shirt styles, colors and sizes to appeal to a broader range of customers.
One way to attract customers is to offer a user-friendly online design tool that allows customers to easily upload their designs or choose from a selection of templates and clip art. You can also offer in-store design consultations for customers who want a more personalized experience.
In addition to t-shirts, you may consider offering customization for other types of clothing, such as hoodies, tank tops, and hats. You could also provide customization services for other items, such as bags, mugs, and phone cases.
To market your t-shirt customization business, you can use social media, online, and local advertising to reach potential customers. You can also participate in local events and trade shows to promote your business and attract new customers.
Overall, a t-shirt customization business can be a fun and rewarding way to turn your creativity and passion for design into a successful business.
How much you can make: $200 — $1,333,333/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
NG Apparels is a garment export unit based in Ludhiana that caters to the clothing segments worldwide, boasting a turnover of $1,581,547 without loans or credit card limits.
56. Start a grocery store
A grocery store sells a wide variety of food products, fresh or packaged, and other household & personal care items. The grocery store industry is the largest retail channel that makes $682 billion in the United States.
To start a basic grocery store, you can expect to spend a minimum of $50,000. Ideally, the bigger expense would be the rent, equipment, labor cost, cash registers/POS systems, and software. Some of these are recurring monthly fees. However, the location, size of the store, competitors, and local customers will significantly impact the business. A new grocer should sell more items for a lower price to make a more significant profit.
A new grocer can also save costs by buying the items from local distributors. The distributor is the middleman between the manufacturer and the grocery store selling it. Once the store cost and location are decided, the next step is to obtain a seller license. In most states, a grocer's license is required to run a grocery store.
Thus an average grocery store has a profit margin of 3% to 5%. The profit rates depend on the store's location, size, and popularity. On average, a small to medium grocery store can make a profit of up to $300,000 annually if all the profit factors are considered.
Another way to make your business more profitable is to diversify your store and add amenities like a coffee shop or stocking up the front of the store with magazines, batteries, etc., as these items can cross a margin of up to 70%. As a rule of thumb, offering lower prices on higher purchases will ultimately win more customers and increase profitability.
57. Start an acting lessons business
Mumbai is the hometown of Bollywood, and many people are coming to Mumbai to become actors. As the owner of an acting classes business in Mumbai, you will provide training, coaching, and support to those considering getting into the Mumbai Bollywood industry. To get started, you may choose to work with children or with a career-oriented adult audience interested in stage acting, film, commercials, voice-over work, or other areas of specialization.
58. Start a yoga tutoring business
Research has proven that yoga holds many health benefits. And with more and more people wanting to increase their quality of life, the demand for quality yoga trainers is rising daily. Take advantage of this growing industry and start a yoga business today. There is no doubt that being a yoga teacher is a gratifying job. Some benefits of starting a yoga business are:
- You can start it from your home
- You can explore more
- You have a low-stress way to test the waters
- No significant investment is needed
Here we have all that you need to start an online yoga tutoring business:
- Get your certification
- Pick your specialty
- Pick a name and a logo
- Decide on a marketing and execution plan
How much you can make: $10,000 — $59,000/month
How long does it take to build: 275 days (?)
Yoga Strong, a performance fitness accessories company, developed the perfect quality yoga mat with "Composite Technology," sourcing materials from over 200 yoga mat tests, and uses limited drops and influencer and affiliate partnerships to attract and retain customers, all while showing close to $10,000 in monthly sales.
59. Start a skill development training business
Looking to harness the power of skill enhancement? Start a skill development training business. This venture focuses on providing courses and workshops to help individuals upgrade their abilities, be it technical, managerial, or soft skills.
In this business, you must tailor your curriculum to meet market demands and stay relevant. Whether you offer online classes or in-person workshops, effective marketing and a proven track record will be crucial for success. Collaborating with experts in various fields can also add credibility and value to your offerings.
If you’re passionate about education and have a knack for understanding market needs, this could be a rewarding path. The demand for skilled professionals is constant, and your role would be pivotal in shaping future careers.
How much you can make: $30,000 — $160,000/month
How long does it take to build: 61 days (?)
Online learning community Frontend Mentor has over 200,000 members, with over 1,500 paid subscribers generating over $15,000 MRR, offering professionally designed challenges to improve front-end coding skills with a freemium business model and a focus on real-life experience.
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Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
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