29 Business Ideas For Data Engineers [2024]

Updated: September 5th, 2024

Interested in starting a business as a doctor in 2024?

If managed well, building a business as a doctor could be more lucrative than employment. So, which are the best business ideas for Doctors?

We put together 29 of some of the best doctor business ideas you can start in today.

For each business idea, we'll show you real-world examples of other doctor businesses to help you see what it takes.

Here's the full list:

1. Start a business communications software ($1.48M/month)

As a data engineer, starting a business communications software company could be a lucrative opportunity to supplement your income or even transition into a full-time entrepreneurial venture. Leveraging your technical skills, you could create a cutting-edge tool that facilitates seamless communication within companies, streamlining processes and amplifying productivity. This software could bridge communication gaps, enhance collaboration, and foster a more engaging and efficient work environment, making it an invaluable asset to modern businesses.

In the current era of remote work and technology-driven solutions, the demand for reliable and user-friendly communication software is enormous. Given your background as a data engineer, you have the expertise to develop innovative features like real-time data analytics and integration with other business tools, setting your product apart in a competitive market. By capitalizing on this largely uncharted territory, you have the potential to shape how businesses interact and reap significant financial rewards.

How much you can make: $5,000 — $10,000,000/month

How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)

Raising $19,000 Building a Positive Card Game

PEAR Cards is a card-based tool/game that empowers players to open up and initiate positive conversations, and with the help of Ad Magic, their Kickstarter had an all-or-nothing fundraising goal, which they met with so much support the company is now growing through the power of Twitter and Instagram.

Read by 8,230 founders

2. Start a data analysis service ($42.6K/month)

As a data engineer, starting a data analysis service presents a viable opportunity to leverage your expertise and supplement your income. You could offer businesses essential insights into customer behavior, refine marketing campaigns, and enhance decision-making processes through detailed data analysis. This type of service is in high demand and can be highly profitable, given the increasing reliance on data-driven strategies in today's business landscape.

Your proficiency in data analysis, coupled with the ability to communicate findings effectively, will enable clients to fully understand and utilize the insights you provide. By offering a thorough understanding of their data, you're not just making extra money but also empowering businesses to optimize their operations and achieve better results. The entrepreneurial-minded data engineer can capitalize on this opportunity to build a successful side venture or a full-scale business in the booming analytics industry.

How much you can make: $20 — $250,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $3,500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

I Built $1.54M/Year Tool That Finds The Best Investment Properties [From UK]

Founder of PropertyData creates a subscription website for UK property investors and developers that is now making $128,000 per month in recurring revenue.

Read by 10,231 founders

3. Start a data mining and analytics tools business ($237K/month)

What if you could turn raw data into actionable insights? Enter the world of data mining and analytics tools. This business focuses on developing software that extracts, processes, and analyzes vast amounts of data to uncover patterns, trends, and insights.

For a data engineer, this opportunity is particularly compelling. Imagine leveraging your strong understanding of programming, statistics, and machine learning to create tools that cater to key industries such as finance, healthcare, and retail. The demand for data-driven decision-making is skyrocketing, providing a growing market for innovative analytics solutions.

Picture providing businesses with the intelligence they need to make better strategic decisions, pioneering their success and driving industry transformations. In essence, it’s a business idea that combines technical skill with a deep understanding of market needs, making it as challenging as it is rewarding.

How much you can make: $450 — $1,500,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $750 (?)

How long does it take to build: 107 days (?)

How We Developed A $40K/Month Email Parser Application

Parseur, the data extraction tool, helps businesses automate their data entry process, catering to multiple industries such as food delivery, real estate and marketing, and has grown to over $40k in revenue per month since its launch in 2017.

Read by 10,488 founders

4. Start an ecommerce management software ($536K/month)

As a data engineer, you could leverage your technical expertise to create an ecommerce management software that streamlines the operations of online retailers. By developing a comprehensive platform, you could help businesses manage their inventory, sales, and customer interactions all in one place—reducing errors and saving time.

The strong demand for smart, intuitive solutions to automate critical aspects like inventory tracking, order processing, and customer relationship management means you would be entering a market with significant growth potential. Crafting a user-friendly and robust system that addresses these needs could not only supplement your income but also pave the way for a sustainable side business or even a full-scale venture.

With your deep understanding of data processes, you could offer advanced analytics and reporting features, providing valuable insights that help businesses make informed decisions. This entrepreneurial approach allows you to make a tangible difference in the ecommerce space, all the while maximizing your existing skill set.

How much you can make: $5,000 — $2,400,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $6,500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

How We Started A $30M/Year Warehouse Management Software And Outsourced Ecommerce Fulfillment Business

ShipHero co-founders built their successful e-commerce fulfillment business, offering warehouse management software and outsourced eCommerce fulfillment, growing revenues from zero to $30 million annually, processing over $5 billion of e-commerce gross merchandise volume (GMV) annually while only having received $435,000 in outside capital investment.

Read by 9,378 founders

5. Start a data analytics software business ($454K/month)

Starting a data analytics software business could be a natural extension of your skills as a data engineer. By leveraging your expertise in data collection, analysis, and interpretation, you could develop software tailored to a specific industry's needs. This involves creating user-friendly tools, dashboards, and customized reporting features that help clients visualize and make sense of their data.

Focusing on a particular niche allows you to address unique challenges and pain points, making your solution indispensable to your target market. Once your software is developed, effective marketing emphasizing its simplicity, efficiency, and value can attract potential clients. This approach not only supplements your income but could also evolve into a full-time entrepreneurial venture.

How much you can make: $1,000 — $4,200,000/month

How long does it take to build: 150 days (?)

Diesel Laptops: From Selling on eBay to Making $20M/Year

Diesel Laptops, a B2B company that sells diesel diagnostic hardware, software, and services, successfully doubled revenue each year to make $20 million annually within three years, grew from its founder's garage and dining room table to a 21,000 square foot facility with over 90 employees by listening to customer pain points and offering the bundled products, technical support and repair information to attract and retain diesel technicians and repair shop owners.

Read by 18,834 founders

6. Start a micro saas ($83.3K/month)

Starting a micro-SaaS business as a data engineer could be a compelling way to supplement your income or launch a side business while leveraging your existing skill set. By focusing on niche markets, you could develop targeted software solutions to help solve specific data-related problems that larger SaaS companies might overlook. For instance, you might create a tool for optimizing ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) processes for small to medium-sized enterprises or a specialized analytics platform for a particular industry.

With your advanced understanding of data architecture and analysis, you could identify unique challenges and opportunities within these niche markets. This allows you to deliver highly customized solutions, resulting in better client satisfaction and loyalty. By continuously prioritizing customer feedback, you would be able to refine your product and ensure its long-term success while maintaining a closer relationship with your customer base.

How much you can make: $117 — $1,766,666/month

How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)

How We Developed A $29K/Month WhatsApp Plugin For Shopify

SuperLemon, a WhatsApp plugin for Shopify eCommerce stores, crossed $29,000 in MRR as of July 2020, with 20,000 users from 50+ countries and 1700+ paying customers, all acquired through organic marketing strategies and a relentless focus on customer service and satisfaction.

Read by 23,576 founders

7. Start a cloud management software ($129K/month)

As a data engineer, starting a cloud management software business could be a natural extension of your skills. The world is rapidly embracing digital transformation, and businesses are increasingly seeking efficient ways to manage their cloud resources. By developing a software solution that helps companies oversee their data storage, optimize their cloud infrastructure, and ensure security compliance, you could tap into a high-demand market.

The technical expertise you already possess makes you well-suited to design both user-friendly interfaces and robust backend systems. This business would not only align with your existing skill set but also allow you to solve complex problems, something most data engineers find rewarding. With industries from healthcare to finance requiring cloud management tools, your software could have broad applicability and significant growth potential.

Starting a cloud management software business could supplement your income or even evolve into a full-fledged enterprise. If you're entrepreneurial-minded and motivated by innovation, this could be the perfect opportunity to leverage your data engineering skills in a burgeoning industry.

How much you can make: $25,000 — $330,000/month

How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)

How We Partnered With Salesforce To Develop A $330K/Month Laboratory Information Management SaaS

Third Wave Analytics developed the world's first cloud-based and customizable LIMS platform on Salesforce, generating $330k monthly revenue from clients such as Ohio State University and Boston University School of Medicine while partnering with the University of California-Berkeley for a COVID-19 study; founder Savitra Sharma advises aspiring entrepreneurs to focus on clear objectives to meet their goals.

Read by 8,124 founders

8. Start a sales automation platform ($160K/month)

As a data engineer, starting a sales automation platform could be an excellent way to leverage your technical skills while tapping into the growing demand for efficiency in sales processes. Imagine developing a software solution that automates routine tasks like lead generation, follow-ups, and data management, enabling businesses to focus more on closing deals rather than administrative duties. Your expertise in data architecture and software development would be crucial in designing a robust and scalable platform that can handle the complexities of sales data and integrations.

Additionally, your analytical skills could help in creating data-driven features that provide valuable insights to sales teams, enhancing their decision-making capabilities. With businesses increasingly seeking digital transformation solutions, this venture offers a timely and lucrative opportunity to diversify your income or even pivot entirely into entrepreneurship. By filling a niche that marries technology with sales strategy, you could create a tool that not only streamlines operations but also adds substantial value to your clients' businesses.

How much you can make: $1,000 — $1,666,667/month

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

How long does it take to build: 105 days (?)

On Starting A $160K/Month CRM & Automations Company After A US Air Force Career

GreenRope, a self-funded CRM and marketing automation platform with over 1,000 customers in 20 countries, was built organically and focused on creating a positive, customer-centric culture without outside investment, with an all-in-one interface solving challenges in managing sales, marketing, customer service, and operations.

Read by 12,017 founders

9. Start an AI SaaS business ($39.3K/month)

As a data engineer, leveraging your existing skill set to start an AI SaaS business could be a highly rewarding entrepreneurial venture. Imagine building state-of-the-art, cloud-based AI solutions—such as natural language processing tools or predictive analytics—that businesses can subscribe to. This eliminates the need for companies to internally develop complex technologies, creating a lucrative, high-demand niche for your expertise.

With your background in data engineering and software development, you could design and deploy these AI applications seamlessly. The initial requirements would include cloud infrastructure and a competent development team, but the potential payoff is significant. This field is ripe for innovation and growth, making it an exciting avenue for those who are tech-savvy and have a keen understanding of various industries' needs.

How much you can make: $150 — $200,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $2,750 (?)

How long does it take to build: 20 days (?)

How I Bootstrapped My Notion Form Builder $180K ARR

NotionForms, a SaaS company offering a form builder integration to Notion, boasts an impressive total of 26k users, 850 paid subscribers, and an ARR of $182k, with steady growth since its launch and being used internally by many huge tech companies.

Read by 8,421 founders

10. Start an AI-based business ($27.9K/month)

Starting an AI-based business could be a compelling avenue for data engineers looking to supplement their income, make extra money, or even launch a full-fledged business. Given your strong foundation in data management, analytics, and software development, you could easily transition into developing AI-driven solutions that address real-world issues. Imagine creating platforms that use AI to optimize business processes, provide actionable insights, or automate mundane tasks for various industries.

The potential applications are vast. For instance, you could design AI algorithms to improve customer service through intelligent chatbots, or develop predictive analytics tools that revolutionize healthcare by forecasting patient needs. As businesses increasingly seek to improve efficiency and reduce costs through innovation, an AI-based business allows you to tap into a growing market with a substantial demand for cutting-edge technology.

For entrepreneurial-minded data engineers, venturing into the AI landscape is an opportunity to be at the forefront of major technological advancements. Leveraging your skill set to build sophisticated AI solutions could not only boost your income but also position you as a leader in an emerging and highly lucrative field.

How much you can make: $100 — $200,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 40 days (?)

How I Started A $10K/Month App Building Agency Using No/Low Code Tools

LowCode Agency uses no/low code tools to build custom-made apps at 80% lower cost and 70% faster than traditional app development agencies, growing double digits every month and targeting $150,000 in sales in their first year.

Read by 20,999 founders

11. Become an author ($227K/month)

As a data engineer, starting a side business as an author could be a compelling way to supplement your income while leveraging your technical expertise. You could write books or articles that delve into data engineering topics, sharing your knowledge and practical insights with a broader audience. This allows you to establish authority in your field and create a supplemental revenue stream through book sales and royalties.

Moreover, your understanding of data analytics could help you identify market trends, enabling you to write content that resonates with current industry demands. You could choose between traditional publishing, submitting your manuscript to a publishing house, or self-publishing, where you retain complete control over the entire process. Additionally, your published works could open doors to speaking engagements and workshops, further monetizing your expertise.

How much you can make: $200 — $1,500,000/month

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

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

How I Generate $10K/Month As An Indie Writer

This case study follows full-time thriller and action-adventure author Nick Thacker who earns between $10k to $20k per month from writing, predominantly through Amazon Kindle Unlimited sales, and goes in-depth into his self-publishing strategy which maximizes sales and minimizes costs, such as developing a mailing list and utilizing print-on-demand services.

Read by 10,810 founders

12. Start a customer intelligence analytics business ($107K/month)

Starting a customer intelligence analytics business could be a lucrative side venture for a data engineer, leveraging your skills in data analysis and your analytical mindset. By gathering and interpreting customer data, you could provide businesses with valuable insights to improve their marketing, sales strategies, and overall customer experience. Companies like Verint exemplify the demand and importance of this field, turning customer interactions into actionable intelligence and generating substantial revenue.

With a strong foundation in data engineering, you could distinguish yourself through precise data management and robust analytical capabilities, helping businesses of all sizes to understand their customer base better. The demand for such services is growing as companies increasingly recognize the value of data-driven decision-making. Whether it's small businesses aiming to optimize their marketing efforts or large enterprises seeking to enhance customer retention rates, the opportunities for a customer intelligence analytics business are vast.

How much you can make: $100 — $840,000/month

How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)

How We Developed A $30K/Month Open Source CRM

EspoCRM, an open-source CRM application for small and mid-size businesses, has seen an average of over 16,000 downloads per year and makes up to $30k per month, offering efficient tools to systematize customer data, improve sales cycles, and automate routine administrative tasks.

Read by 10,951 founders

13. Start an AI based content creation business ($19.3K/month)

As a data engineer, starting an AI-based content creation business could be a compelling avenue to supplement your income or delve into entrepreneurship. The concept revolves around leveraging your expertise in machine learning and data systems to develop a platform that automates the creation of articles, social media posts, and product descriptions from simple keywords. This new frontier in content creation streamlines and optimizes marketing strategies, saving businesses time and costs, which makes it a highly attractive offering.

Given the growing demand for smart, automated solutions in content marketing, the market potential for this service is expansive. By capitalizing on your technical skills to enhance AI algorithms and ensure the content maintains an organic and relevant flair, you could position yourself at the cutting edge of digital innovation. This venture not only allows you to utilize your data engineering prowess but also lets you explore a thriving business opportunity that merges technology and creativity in a uniquely impactful way.

How much you can make: $1,000 — $100,000/month

How long does it take to build: 135 days (?)

This Self-Taught Programmer Built A $360K/Year GPT-3 App

Nichesss is an AI content generation tool that helps businesses and individuals write content quickly; founded by self-taught programmer Malcolm Tyson, the company has generated a monthly revenue of $30,000, with a user base consisting of copywriters, small businesses and marketing agencies.

Read by 10,837 founders

14. Build an AI tool ($297K/month)

As a data engineer, you could leverage your technical skills and experience in computer science to develop an AI tool. With AI quickly becoming one of the most important technologies and the market projected to reach $118.6 billion in revenues by 2025, the demand for innovative AI solutions is soaring. Your understanding of data manipulation and machine learning platforms positions you well to create AI tools that can automate tasks, enhance data analytics, or improve customer interactions.

Building AI tools like chatbots or virtual assistants could open new entrepreneurial opportunities for you. These tools are valuable across various industries, including healthcare, finance, and retail, allowing businesses to save time and money by automating repetitive tasks. By developing a specialized AI solution, you could not only supplement your income but also potentially transition into running a full-fledged AI-based business.

In this evolving tech landscape, your ability to create AI tools could address specific industry needs, offering efficient, automated alternatives to traditional processes. This venture could significantly enhance your professional standing while paving the way for substantial financial growth and innovation in your career.

How much you can make: $1,000 — $3,000,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $6,500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 57 days (?)

How I Started A $40K/Month AI-Powered Recruiting App

SkillSoniq, the world's first AI-powered recruiting app, connects companies with skilled freelancers on a trial basis, saving companies 60%+ in hiring costs and earning $350,000+ in gross revenues in its first year, with a current average of $40,000 a month, and plans to raise a second round of seed funding to achieve escape velocity and continue to form a world-class company.

Read by 9,549 founders

15. Create a shopify app ($52.4K/month)

As a data engineer, developing a Shopify app could be a lucrative side business that aligns well with your technical expertise. Leveraging your programming skills and understanding of data architecture, you could create apps that address pressing needs in ecommerce, such as advanced customer analytics, inventory management, or sales optimization. This could provide significant value to Shopify store owners looking to enhance their business operations.

Developing a Shopify app is not a get-rich-quick scheme; it requires ongoing investment in development, customer support, and regular updates to adapt to platform changes. However, the potential for recurring revenue through subscriptions or one-time fees makes this venture appealing. With the Shopify App Store as a built-in marketplace, you could efficiently target and reach a vast audience of ecommerce businesses in need of your solution.

By identifying common pain points within ecommerce and translating them into effective app functionalities, you could not only supplement your income but also establish a profitable business in the long run. Consider the possibilities—your technical background already gives you a significant advantage in creating a high-quality, impactful product.

How much you can make: $10,000 — $110,000/month

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

How We Developed A $29K/Month WhatsApp Plugin For Shopify

SuperLemon, a WhatsApp plugin for Shopify eCommerce stores, crossed $29,000 in MRR as of July 2020, with 20,000 users from 50+ countries and 1700+ paying customers, all acquired through organic marketing strategies and a relentless focus on customer service and satisfaction.

Read by 23,576 founders

16. Start a shirt company

As a data engineer, starting a shirt company could offer a unique opportunity to supplement your income by blending your analytical skills with a creative outlet. You could leverage data analytics to identify fashion trends, track sales performance, and understand consumer preferences, ensuring your designs resonate with your target market. This data-driven approach can give you a competitive edge, enabling you to make informed decisions about inventory, marketing strategies, and customer engagement.

Moreover, your technical skills could be advantageous in setting up an efficient e-commerce platform and integrating customer feedback systems, enhancing the overall shopping experience. Collaborating with local artists or influencers could further boost your brand visibility and drive sales. With an eye for fashion and a strategic, data-informed approach, starting a shirt company could be a profitable and satisfying entrepreneurial endeavor.

How much you can make: $40,000/month

How Rob Kessler Invented A Permanent Collar Stay for Dress Shirts

Rob Kessler, co-founder of Million Dollar Collar, invented the world's first permanently installed placket stay for dress shirts that has already helped people in 100 countries upgrade 200,000 of their own dress shirts, with aims of changing the dress shirt industry as a whole.

Read by 7,760 founders

17. Start a habit tracker app

As a data engineer, starting a habit tracker app could be a compelling side business that leverages your technical expertise. You could design an app that not only helps users set and track their goals but also offers insightful analytics using visual data to keep them motivated. Given your background, integrating sophisticated data analytics to monitor user behavior and personalize recommendations would be well within your skill set.

Moreover, you could implement features such as community challenges and reward systems to boost user engagement and retention, which are critical for the app's success. This venture could appeal to a wide range of users, from fitness enthusiasts to professionals aiming to enhance productivity. By blending app development with behavioral psychology, you’d be improving lives while exploring a lucrative entrepreneurial opportunity.

How much does it cost to start: $5,250 (?)

How long does it take to build: 395 days (?)

18. Create a mobile app ($70.3K/month)

As a data engineer, starting a mobile app business could be a natural extension of your skill set and an exciting entrepreneurial endeavor. You could leverage your expertise in data management and analysis to create apps that solve complex user problems, enhance productivity, or offer innovative solutions in various sectors. Your background gives you an edge in building robust back-end systems and ensuring smooth user experiences through data-driven insights.

Developing a mobile app requires a clear vision and either basic coding skills or the ability to collaborate with skilled developers. You could plan the user experience meticulously, design compelling interfaces, and rigorously test for functionality to enhance the app's performance. Marketing your app effectively is also crucial for gaining traction and achieving downloads, which could lead to substantial revenue opportunities.

With mobile apps becoming integral to daily life, your innovative idea has the potential to reach millions of users. Whether it's a productivity tool, a gaming app, or something entirely new and groundbreaking, the opportunities are immense. Your dedication and strategic approach could turn your app into a successful business venture, supplementing your income or even becoming your primary focus.

How much you can make: $1 — $500,000/month

How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)

We Started A $6M/Year Bachelorette Party App

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.

Read by 11,005 founders

19. Start a fashion business ($114K/month)

As a data engineer, you could leverage your analytical skills and understanding of data to start a fashion business, tapping into a market valued at $473.42B in 2022 and growing at a rate of 8.3%. By utilizing data analytics, you could identify emerging trends and consumer preferences on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, giving you a competitive edge in marketing your products effectively.

Furthermore, your background in data could enable you to optimize inventory management and supply chain logistics, ensuring that your fashion business operates efficiently. Passion, perseverance, and risk-taking are crucial in this highly competitive industry, but with your technical expertise, you could create a data-driven strategy for success.

How much you can make: $100 — $2,100,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $7,500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)

How I Make $10K/Month Selling Printable Sewing Patterns From My Fashion Blog

Learn how this DIY blogger turned sewing pattern maker generates over $10k per month in passive income, and discover her tips for building an authentic brand on a budget.

Read by 27,395 founders

20. Start a men's fashion blog ($83.1K/month)

As a data engineer, you could leverage your technical skills in SEO, web analytics, and data-driven marketing to successfully run a men's fashion blog. This digital platform allows you to share your passion for trendy attire and style insights, while also capitalizing on ad revenue and brand partnerships. Your ability to analyze user behavior and optimize content for search engines could significantly enhance your blog's reach and profitability.

Additionally, your knack for data could help you curate targeted style guides, conduct insightful interviews with fashion influencers, and produce engaging product reviews. Embracing this entrepreneurial venture lets you blend creativity with technical expertise, creating a unique niche in the ever-evolving world of men's fashion. By starting today, you could cultivate a loyal audience and create a profitable side business that complements your main career.

How much you can make: $150 — $400,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

How I Started A Private Label Small Business Generating Six Figures A Month

Founder grows Amazon arbitrage business to over $1 million annual revenue before transitioning to private label products and becoming a distributor for his own and other brands, with a full-scale countrywide retail arbitrage operation generating six figures a month and gross profit margins of 20-27%.

Read by 14,942 founders

21. Start a meal prep business ($185K/month)

As a data engineer, starting a meal prep business could be a lucrative side venture that leverages the growing demand for convenient, home-delivered meals. Your strong analytical skills and attention to detail could help in optimizing meal prep workflows and managing inventory efficiently. Additionally, your experience with data could assist in identifying trends and preferences, allowing you to tailor your meal offerings to meet customer demands effectively.

Moreover, the ability to automate routine tasks and analyze customer feedback can enhance the operational efficiency of your meal prep business. Timely delivery and excellent communication are crucial, and your problem-solving skills can help in overcoming logistical challenges. This entrepreneurial endeavor could not only supplement your income but also give you a creative outlet outside of your primary career as a data engineer.

How much you can make: $50,000 — $600,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 6 days (?)

How We Started A Meal Prep Delivery Business And Did $1.8M In Sales

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.

Read by 40,251 founders

22. Start a freelance network

As a data engineer, starting a freelance network could be an excellent way to leverage your existing skills and expertise to supplement your income. By creating a platform that connects businesses with skilled freelance data engineers, you could tap into the growing demand for data-related projects. This could involve anything from developing ETL pipelines and data warehousing solutions to offering data analytics and consulting services.

In addition to providing a source of extra income, a freelance network could allow you to work on a variety of interesting projects and expand your professional network. This entrepreneurial venture could also offer flexibility, enabling you to manage your time and choose projects that align with your interests and strengths. By building a reputation as a reliable source for top-quality freelance data engineering, you could potentially grow this side business into a full-time endeavor.

23. Start a beauty gift baskets

As a data engineer, you could leverage your analytical expertise to identify niche markets and optimize the product mix in your beauty gift baskets. By using data to understand consumer preferences and trends, you could curate personalized baskets that cater to specific demographics or special occasions, like birthdays and anniversaries.

Moreover, your skills could streamline inventory management and supply chain logistics to minimize costs and maximize efficiency. This entrepreneurial venture would not only supplement your income but also allow you to apply your analytical skills in a creative, customer-centric business.

24. Become a software developer ($51.7K/month)

If you're a data engineer looking to supplement your income or start a new business, diving into software development could be a highly lucrative and fitting venture. With your strong technical skills and background in working with data, you're already well-equipped to design, test, and develop software solutions that address complex business needs or provide streamlined user experiences.

The software development market is booming, particularly in areas like mobile apps and cloud-based solutions. Leveraging your expertise, you could create software that integrates seamlessly with data-driven applications, offering businesses innovative ways to manage their data and optimize their operations.

This industry not only provides a solid average salary but also offers ample opportunities for entrepreneurial growth. Whether you’re developing bespoke software for clients or creating your own applications for sale, starting a software development business allows you to capitalize on your existing skillset while exploring new avenues in a rapidly advancing field.

How much you can make: $500 — $350,000/month

How long does it take to build: 100 days (?)

How We Started A $350K/Month Business Developing Software Tools For Ecommerce Brands

SkyVerge, a software company, has grown rapidly with revenue of $350,000 per month, over 100,000 eCommerce customers, and a globally distributed team of 30 people, all through starting with consulting projects and building focused and solutions-based products, acquiring small products from other developers, and focusing largely on content marketing and providing excellent customer support.

Read by 39,394 founders

25. Start a parasailing business

As a data engineer, you could leverage your analytical skills and understanding of technology to optimize a parasailing business for maximum efficiency and profitability. Utilizing data analysis, you could track customer preferences, peak times, and operational costs to make data-driven decisions that enhance customer experience and streamline operations.

Furthermore, your expertise in building scalable systems could be invaluable in developing an online booking platform, ensuring seamless customer interactions and higher engagement. Venturing into a parasailing business would also allow you to diversify your income streams, combining the thrill of outdoor adventure with the technical acumen you possess.

26. Develop a freelance business software

As a data engineer with a flair for the entrepreneurial, starting a freelance business software venture could be a smart and lucrative move. By leveraging your technical skills and understanding of business operations, you could develop customizable software solutions that streamline tasks, enhance project management, and optimize workflows for small to medium-sized enterprises. Your products could range from project management apps to CRM systems or even accounting software, offering tailor-made solutions that give you an edge over generic, one-size-fits-all options.

The increasing demand for business productivity tools provides a ripe landscape for your services. Companies are continually seeking efficient ways to enhance operations, making your custom solutions highly valuable. To get started, you'll need to invest in learning the necessary technical aspects and stay up-to-date with evolving business trends to ensure your software remains relevant and competitive.

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

On Developing A Software That Helps Freelancers Manage Their Businesses

Workee is a user-friendly business management software for freelancers who do private appointments, created by a team of experienced software developers after conducting 20 interviews and seeing a huge need for a tool that can autopilot work routines and an all-in-one approach to avoid high marketplace fees.

Read by 2,329 founders

27. Start a consulting business training ($175K/month)

Starting a consulting business training as a data engineer could be a valuable avenue to supplement your income or even build an entirely new business. Your expertise in data management, analysis, and system optimization places you in a unique position to offer specialized training to companies aiming to enhance their strategic planning and operational efficiency.

Businesses increasingly value expert guidance to identify weaknesses, optimize resources, and implement effective strategies for growth. By leveraging your technical knowledge and keen problem-solving abilities, you could help organizations better navigate the complexities of modern business.

Additionally, your strong communication skills and the ability to build client relationships are crucial for establishing yourself as a trusted advisor in this consulting space. With the growing demand for business consulting services, your insights as a data engineer could significantly contribute to the overall success and transformation of various organizations.

How much you can make: $100,000 — $250,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $7,500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)

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Angela Coté Inc, a franchise advising and improvement company, shares their success story of using their signature method, The AC Method, which has already helped over 5500 franchisors in just 3 years, through refining their offerings, building trust with their clients, and taking imperfect action.

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28. Become a television personality

As a data engineer, you could leverage your technical expertise to become a television personality focusing on technology, data analytics, and digital transformation. By showcasing your skills and knowledge on a broader platform, you could attract a wider audience interested in these fields. This visibility might open doors to sponsorships, partnerships, and speaking engagements, allowing you to diversify your income streams.

Additionally, you could create content that demystifies complex data concepts, making them accessible and engaging to a general audience. This approach not only builds your personal brand but also positions you as a thought leader in the industry. By blending your data engineering background with television, you could tap into new business opportunities and expand your professional influence.

29. Develop an ios design tool

As a data engineer with a unique blend of technical skills and problem-solving abilities, you could explore developing an iOS design tool as a lucrative side business. Leveraging your understanding of data-driven solutions, you could create a design tool that integrates seamlessly with existing workflows, offering features like drag-and-drop interfaces, custom templates, and real-time collaboration. This could simplify the design process for developers and designers, while maintaining high-quality standards.

By incorporating your expertise in software development and data analytics, you could ensure the tool is both efficient and user-friendly. The ability to conduct rigorous market research and iterative user testing could help in fine-tuning the application to meet the specific needs of its users. This venture could not only supplement your income but also allow you to dive into a creative and potentially high-impact tech project.

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

How long does it take to build: 14 days (?)

We Started An $8.4M/Year App Development Agency [With $0]

Appetiser App Development grew from a startup with $0 to now making over $8,000,000 annually with over 200 employees across the globe, serving clients that have billions in valuations like Pointsbet and Good Empire, by helping startups succeed with their app development needs.

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meet the author
Pat Walls

I'm Pat Walls and I created Starter Story - a website dedicated to helping people start businesses. We interview entrepreneurs from around the world about how they started and grew their businesses.