55 No Inventory Business Ideas You Can Start Today [2024]
Interested in starting a no inventory business in 2024?
We put together 55 of the best no inventory businesses you can start in today.
For each business idea, we’ll show you real-world examples of other no inventory businesses to help you see what it really takes.
Here's the full list:
1. Start a dropshipping business
Dropshipping is a business model where you sell products to customers without holding inventory.
Instead, when a customer makes a purchase, you buy the product from a third-party supplier, who then ships it directly to the customer.
To start a dropshipping business on a budget, choose a niche or category of products you want to sell.
Next, set up an online store using platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce. Then, find reliable suppliers from platforms like AliExpress, list their products on your store, and focus on marketing and customer service to grow your business.
Remember to carefully manage your expenses and monitor your profit margins to ensure profitability.
How much you can make: $6,000 — $3,000,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $8,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 10 hours/week
Entrepreneur Kamil Sattar has developed multiple six-figure drop shipping businesses, and his company, e-commerce mentoring, specializes in helping others create their own successful companies, with favorite platforms including using Shopify and apps such as Loox reviews and SMSBump.
2. Start a vacation rentals business
Vacation rentals host travelers for a short period. Often located in top vacation destinations, vacation rentals feature spacious rooms and a cozy lifestyle and are cheaper than booking a hotel.
Building or buying a vacation rental is a smart way of creating a passive income without much involvement in the business.
To make money through the vacation rental business, ensure a strategic location, often nearby attractions. Choose an area that is easily accessible and desirable all year round and create a beautiful space for your guests.
Stand out by optimizing the vacation rental listing online and featuring all available amenities.
How much you can make: $1,500 — $295,000/month
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
This case study explores how a couple turned their childhood homes into vacation rentals, welcoming around 3k guests annually and generating an average revenue of $50k per year and property by focusing on a strong online presence and organic traffic.
3. Start a content writing company
Content writing involves writing, editing, and publishing content in a digital format. Examples of content include a blog post, product description, and podcast script—eBooks, press releases, or landing page content.
Becoming a content writer allows you to work as your boss. Therefore, you choose whatever working schedule suits you and take a manageable workload. Moreover, content writing helps you develop essential skills you may not obtain from regular writing.
Content writing is a highly-on-demand service, as companies compete for the online audience who often begin their shopping journey by searching for relevant and educative content online. Therefore, a content writing company is an excellent source of passive income.
To start a content writing company, research the market and choose a suitable niche. Sketch a proper business plan and create a website. Hire a pool of talented writers and leverage modern technology to streamline operations.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $550,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $600 (?)
How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)
Scribly.io, a subscription-based copywriting service providing high quality content that helps businesses scale at roughly 50% of the cost of hiring in-house, created by Dani, a first-time entrepreneur who started with just a few hundred dollars worth of projects and with the help of three other writers; as of last month, Scribly.io topped $14K monthly revenue.
4. Build an iPhone app
The iPhone is the most popular mobile device in the world. It has changed how we interact with information, entertainment, and communication.
The iPhone has also changed the way we interact with each other. Since its release in 2007, it has become a staple in most people’s lives. It is more than just a phone; it is a tool for staying connected to friends and family and creating new connections.
The iPhone app market is an ever-changing landscape of innovation: it’s not just about making something that works well; it’s about creating something that stands out from the crowd.
It would help if you had something that appeals to your audience to succeed in this market. This can be as simple as ensuring your app has a catchy name or as complex as developing an entire brand identity around your app’s functionality.
How much you can make: $150 — $2,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 190 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week
Payment.co, an app built on top of the Stripe payment gateway for creating card-present charges, has grown to process over $70M in volume annually since launching in 2015, with the app collecting a 1% service fee on every single charge.
5. Become a proofreader
Proofreading business is a service that helps customers review their written work and ensure it is ready for publication. Typically, a proofreader corrects grammatical errors and provides the written piece meets any relevant style guide.
As a proofreader, you can work online, allowing you to choose what time to work.
If you plan to start a professional proofreading business, make sure you possess the following skills:
- Have an excellent grasp of grammar
- Ability to correct mistakenly capitalized words
- Familiarity with the proper use of capitalization
- Use spell-checkers to flag misspelled words
Proofreading is a great way to enhance content quality. With the increased use of written content marketing to reach a broader market, the demand for professional proofreaders has grown tremendously. Professional proofreaders earn an average of $12/hr. And $30/hr.
Therefore, consider proofreading as a business if you are looking for a great side hustle idea or simply looking for ways to increase your income.
How much you can make: $2,000/month
A proofreader was able to build a consistent income of ~$2,000 per month from scratch with zero experience in the field, no expenses, and barely any upfront costs by targeting bloggers and content creators who want their content to be copy edited and proofread.
6. Start a travel agency
Are you a passionate traveler with entrepreneurial skills? Then starting a travel agency can be a great career choice for you.
As a travel agency, you'll be responsible for linking travelers to providers of all the travel and tourism-related services such as accommodation, transportation, sightseeing, tour guides, local adventure, etc.
Starting an online travel agency is a lot easier than you might think. You'll need to perform market research, get a few necessary certifications (such as your IATA number), study competition, build a website, and do proper marketing.
To maximize earnings, negotiate discounts from the industry service providers, and charge travelers within the market rate.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $1,500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,250 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Marissa Daniels runs a successful travel agency, Spread Your Wings Travel, that hit $100,000 in sales within a year of launch and provides payment plan options for its all-inclusive vacations, and she hopes to help 100 families supplement their income through the business.
7. Start a dog walking business
Are you a dog lover? If so, you can turn your passion for animals into a profitable side hustle that allows you to earn extra income for your mortgage, a vacation, or paying off student loans.
As a dog walker, sitter, or boarder, you can earn an average annual income of between $10,000 and $30,000 by offering your services to dog owners in need of a caregiver for their furry friends.
To get started, register on a credible dog-walking app and create a compelling profile that showcases your experience, skills, and love for dogs.
With your dedication and expertise, you can help dog owners ensure their pets receive the care and attention they need while building a thriving business that fulfills your passion for animals.
How much you can make: $15,000 — $54,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 2 hours/week
Furry Fellas Pet Service LLC is a successful pet sitting and dog walking business that brings in over half a million dollars in sales per year, boasts 3,500-4,000 social media followers, employs 42 individuals and has been voted in the top 3 pet sitting/dog walking companies in the RI/MA area for eight years in a row.
8. Start a sewing and alteration business
Do you have sewing skills and looking for an entrepreneurship opportunity? You can start your sewing and alteration business.
A sewing and alteration business offers customers clothing repair, custom tailoring, button replacement, and other alterations. You can start a sewing and alteration business at home or set up a retail location.
To start a sewing and alteration business, you will need a commercial-grade sewing machine and a marketing strategy, so target customers learn about your business.
How much you can make: $200 — $6,500/month
A patch embroidery business based in New York City has grown to earn $6,500 per month on average within 18 months of starting, thanks to no custom embroidered minimum patches and a strong Instagram presence, with a future focus on B2B customers.
9. Start a stock photography business
Stock photography is typically sold on an exclusive basis to one buyer for a single usage fee. Stock photos are often available in different sizes, resolutions, and file formats. Businesses most commonly use stock photos for marketing purposes.
Stock photography is the supply of photographs often licensed for specific uses. Stock photos are the perfect marketing and advertising resource for website owners and bloggers.
You can build an impressive portfolio and earn a passive income by uploading high-quality stock photos.
To start a stock photography business , invest in some good photography gear and learn how to take stock photos. An excellent online presence can help you sell your stock photos faster and at profitable margins.
How much you can make: $1,200 — $45,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $3,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Pro Photo Studio founder Tsour Lee Adato shares how she turned a $5k investment into a business that services over 500 clients annually and makes approximately $350k per year with plans to expand and become a 7-figure business while offering advice to fellow entrepreneurs to always be innovating, learning and growing, and not to undervalue themselves.
10. Start an embroidery business
Demand for embroidery supplies is growing globally, so starting an embroidery business in 2024 can be a great opportunity. The industry is experiencing a boom, and it has never been the best time to start your own embroidery business.
Before starting the business, weigh whether you have the right skills and knowledge of different fabrics and stitching. The size of embroidery equipment will depend on the size of the business you are looking to set up and how much you are expecting to grow.
Popular items within the embroidery business include:
- Caps
- T-shirts
- Polo shirts
- Shirts
- Jackets
- Sweatshirts
When choosing the items to stock up on, consider the types of customers always looking for embroidered goods and factor in the market size.
How much you can make: $6,500 — $10,000/month
How long does it take to build: 207 days (?)
A patch embroidery business based in New York City has grown to earn $6,500 per month on average within 18 months of starting, thanks to no custom embroidered minimum patches and a strong Instagram presence, with a future focus on B2B customers.
11. Start a dog training business
Professional dog trainers can be an incredibly fulfilling profession, especially for dog lovers.
You can choose to work as an independent dog trainer or work under a company as a part-time trainer.
However, note that dog training takes more commitment for a part-time gig.
To get started, you need some education to understand how dogs behave and train them in new tricks. You will find tons of online resources on dog training.
Alternatively, you can work as an intern with local dog trainers to acquire the skills before setting up your dog training side hustle.
The average hourly rate for dog trainers is just over $50/ hr.
How much you can make: $5,000 — $8,000/month
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week
Fraternityk9 dog training is an example of how Donald's passion for dog training turned into a $5k/month business, by utilizing platforms like Facebook and Instagram, and learning about sales and business to scale the process.
12. Become a mobile personal trainer
Do you love helping people through their fitness journey? If you want a great side hustle to earn extra income, consider becoming a personal trainer.
The fitness trainer side hustle can be an adamant industry to earn good money. However, once you develop a reputation as a good trainer, you can get more clients through referrals. You need to register for the certification course to start offering personal trainer services .
To attract your first clients, consider online advertising, and seek referrals from every customer.
How much you can make: $600 — $60,000/month
How long does it take to build: 365 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 4 hours/week
Sweat from Home is a two-way, interactive, and live-streaming group fitness workout startup that has held over 800 classes since March 2020, generates $25k in monthly recurring revenue, and has donated over $7k to 6 different charities; they aim to become the world's best live-streamed fitness class.
13. Start a website development business
Website developers create websites for their clients. as a website developer, your responsibility is to ensure a website is visually appealing and easy to navigate. Web developers also focus on improving the website’s performance and capacity.
To become a website developer, learn different web programming languages. Your customers can be eCommerce business owners or brick-and-mortar businesses looking to have an online presence.
How much you can make: $200 — $8,500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 55 days (?)
How a founder turned his passion for marketing and technology into a successful Boston-based web design and SEO company, generating over $20k in sales each month by focusing on serving the niche market of small businesses through affordable and personalized services, while establishing his reputation through B2B networking and online initiatives.
14. 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.
15. Start a tutoring business
Starting a tutoring side hustle is a great way for teachers and students to earn extra monthly income.
If you are considering becoming a tutor, find an ideal tutoring niche, and craft a tutoring website.
Then, find your tutoring clients and market your side hustle online. You can choose to offer online tutoring as a part-time or full-time engagement.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $830,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $100 (?)
How long does it take to build: 15 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week
A 22-year-old entrepreneur started an online SAT/ACT tutoring company from his bedroom which has seen a linear increase in student sign-ups each month, currently bringing in an average revenue of $15,000 a month and plans to triple in 2020.
16. Start an ecommerce marketing agency
Ecommerce agencies help online sellers achieve their eCommerce business goals through creative, technology, and marketing skills.
Hiring an eCommerce agency enables online sellers to start an eCommerce business or grow an existing one without employing full-time staff.
The eCommerce industry is often changing, and online sellers must match the current trends or risk being paced out by the competition. Balancing between production, launching creative services, and working on growing their eCommerce brands can be extremely difficult. Thus, the brands have no other option than hire eCommerce agencies.
Starting an eCommerce agency can be a profitable and fulfilling business opportunity. If you plan to state your eCommerce agency, educate yourself on the current trends and focus on building digital skills. You may focus on a particular niche or offer end-to-end services to your customers.
How much you can make: $7,500 — $8,300,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Iman Gadzhi made over $1.2M in profit within two years with his social media marketing agency and education company, where he teaches entrepreneurs how to start and scale a profitable SMMA, with over 45 of his students making over six figures with their SMMA, and over 300 students having quit their regular jobs.
17. Start a life coaching business
Life coach helps people in various areas of their lives using a combination of emotional intelligence, professional knowledge, and experience.
Life coaching is a popular industry worth over $2.85 billion, and the number of life coaches has increased by 33% between 2015-2019.
This is a very profitable business and can be started at virtually no cost. You’ll need a computer, a high-speed Internet connection, and a LinkedIn account to start. Then, you can begin coaching part-time in your spare time until you build up your clientele.
How much you can make: $100 — $120,000/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
GrowthMentor, a platform connecting vetted growth mentors for one-on-one calls, founded by Fotis Panagiotakopoulos, has had over 2,500 mentorship calls booked to date and has seen success in using word of mouth, content marketing, and leveraging other people's networks as the primary drivers of customer acquisition.
18. Start a podcast
The podcast business involves creating and producing audio content that people can listen to online.
It’s a popular form of entertainment and information-sharing.
To start a podcast business on a budget, you'll need a few key steps.
First, choose a niche or topic that you're passionate about and that has an audience.
Next, get basic recording equipment like a microphone and headphones.
Then, find a free or affordable hosting platform to publish your episodes.
Finally, promote your podcast through social media, online communities, and word of mouth to build an audience and potentially attract sponsors or advertisers.
How much you can make: $400 — $1,020,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 2 hours/week
A successful podcast production company that grew from one client making $15/hour to a team of 10 contractors producing over 30 shows per week with revenue of over $10k/mo, primarily through referrals and with a focus on providing high personal touch and being picky about working only with clients who are a good fit.
19. 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.
20. 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.
21. 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.
22. Start a custom illustrating business
Many businesses use stock illustrations or images in their commercials. While stock illustrations provide a cheaper option, the visuals aren’t part of the product, so the brand message is diluted.
In a business world where more than 70% of social media and B2B marketers use visuals in their promotions, creating custom illustrations is highly on demand.
Ideally, custom illustration is an essential visual strategy helping businesses use clever, compelling visual content to effectively communicate with the target audience.
With major social media platforms dependent on visuals to create impressions, starting a custom illustrating business can be an opportunity to build a profitable business. Custom illustrations are a visual representation of any text and are considered art for beautifying elements.
To kickstart your custom illustration business, pursue a fine arts certification, where you will learn computer graphics, drawing, and painting skills. Then, identify your style, create a portfolio, then focus on building a client base.
How much you can make: $4,700/month
How much does it cost to start: $800 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Avatoon.net founders share how they started a $4.7k/month business selling custom hand-drawn avatars and grew to an average of $5,000 per month with ~100 clients through SEO-focused marketing and serving returning companies.
23. Start an e-book writing business
An eBook business is profitable and flexible, letting you start a business from anywhere, while it is a low-cost business that is easy to start. You can make a living self-publishing and selling eBooks online as long as you are ready to invest your time and money in it.
Anyone can start an eBooks business! Just choose a niche that interests the target audience, and ensure in-depth research.
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.
24. Start an art collectible business
Starting an art collectibles business can be a rewarding and exciting venture for those passionate about art and interested in acquiring and selling unique and valuable pieces.
The business of art collectibles involves buying and selling works of art, such as paintings, sculptures, and other rare and one-of-a-kind pieces. This can include everything from ancient artifacts to contemporary pieces by up-and-coming artists. The goal of an art collectibles business is to find and acquire high-quality pieces that have a strong market demand and then sell them to collectors or art enthusiasts for a profit.
To start an art collectibles business, you will need to invest in a diverse collection of pieces, either by purchasing them outright or by working with artists and dealers to acquire them on consignment. You will also need to research the market and determine which types of art are in high demand and what prices you can expect to sell them for.
In addition to having a passion for art, a few key skills and qualities can help you succeed in the art collectibles business. These include:
- Strong knowledge of art history and different art movements
- The ability to spot and evaluate high-quality pieces
- Good business sense and financial skills to manage your inventory and pricing
- Strong communication and negotiation skills to work with clients and other industry professionals
To get started, you may want to consider joining a professional organization, such as the International Association of Dealers in Ancient Art or the American Association of Auctioneers, to connect with other professionals in the field and learn more about the industry. You should also consider developing a strong online presence through your website or selling your items through online platforms such as eBay or Etsy.
Starting an art collectibles business can be challenging but rewarding for those passionate about art who have a strong understanding of the market. With hard work, dedication, and a little luck, you can turn your love of art into a successful and fulfilling career.
25. Become a youtube personality
YouTube personalities produce videos on YouTube and post them on their channels. YouTube personalities make money through the following:
- Advertising revenue - Ads revenue from the display, overlay, and video ads
- Channel Memberships – members earn recurring revenue in exchange for special perks they offer
- Merch Shelf – When channel fans browse and purchase official branded merchandise, you showcase it on watch pages.
- Super Chat & Super Stickers – Fans pay to get their messages highlighted in chat streams
- YouTube Premium Revenue – Get part of a premium subscriber’s subscription fee when fans watch your content.
You can start earning money through either or all of the above options, so long as you meet their YouTube-defined criteria and they are available in your location.
If you want to make money on YouTube, you must apply and be approved for the YouTube Partner Program, which gives creators greater access to YouTube resources and features.
How much you can make: $175,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $5 (?)
How long does it take to build: 34 days (?)
This case study explores Thomas Frank's successful business teaching people how to use Notion and selling templates, with sales reaching $2.1 million in two years and template sales currently at $120k/mo, showcasing his journey from blogging and YouTube to e-commerce and SaaS.
26. Start an used book store
Starting a used book store may seem quaint and outdated in today’s digital age, but it can be a thriving and lucrative business.
For bibliophiles and avid readers, a used book store offers a treasure trove of pre-loved books at affordable prices. Not only do customers get to add to their libraries, but they also get to support sustainable practices by giving these books a second life.
A used book store can also serve as a community hub, providing a space for book clubs, readings, and other literary events. So why not dust off the old business plan and open the doors to your used book emporium?
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.
27. Start an errand service
Errand services help people and businesses who have daily errands to run but need an extra hand. So, they seek professional help who can do their chores on time with utmost efficiency.
You can provide various services as an errand business, including grocery shopping, picking up + sorting through mail, going to the bank, and much more.
Starting an errand business is relatively easy. Consider offering package deals as a way of getting and retaining customers. Most errand businesses charge per hour, and you may charge per mileage if the task involves driving.
28. 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.
29. Become a business consultant
Business consultants serve as professional advisors who help companies achieve their goals or to streamline operations in a particular business area.
Business consulting is big business. Experts project the demand for consultants to keep increasing in the coming years. Therefore, becoming a certified business consultant can be rewarding.
To become a business consultant, you need a bachelor’s degree and expertise in a specific area. Are you ready to start your business consulting career and develop a professional network and web presence to help you connect with clients?
How much you can make: $1,500 — $1,500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,600 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
This case study is about a founder who launched a paywall platform for content creators in 2019, bootstrapping it from $0 and eventually selling it for $3.5M on Flippa, with the platform generating between $125,000 - $142,000 in Monthly Recurring Revenue (MRR) on 95% margins.
30. 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.
31. Become a yoga instructor
The first step to becoming a yoga instructor is obtaining a certification from an instructor-affiliated institution near you. Your next step should be drawing up a business plan considering various projections. Finally, determine whether to open a brick-and-mortar establishment, offer online yoga classes, or a hybrid model.
The option has far more responsibilities for brick-and-mortar establishments, like paying rent and utility expenses. Also, check business-zoning requirements and acquire the required licenses. Proper marketing strategies will help you build clientele fast and grow your business.
How much you can make: $59,000 — $60,000/month
How long does it take to build: 282 days (?)
Live Fit, a personal training company founded in 2011, grew from earning $80,000 in their first year with two trainers to earning over $760,000 in 2019 with 12 trainers and two locations, thanks to a focus on building trusting relationships and providing a variety of services to clients.
32. Become a dance choreographer
Dance choreographers create compositions and plans and arrange dance movements and patterns for dances, especially ballets. Choreographers also develop different interpretations of existing dances for an individual or group of dancers.
To become a dance choreographer, you will need to take training lessons. You may pursue a degree in musical theater and take relevant dance coursework. The training enables you to master different dance types and learn how to create dances.
33. Become a music tutor
Are you passionate about music or looking for a profitable coaching business? How about becoming a music tutor?
To start a music coaching business, decide your target audience and location and set your rates. For example, you can meet new students through a community event, online, or a music club, or target the local community. Set rates for your music classes and advertise your business to get as many clients as possible.
How much you can make: $30,000 — $70,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,035 (?)
How long does it take to build: 160 days (?)
Piano In 21 Days built a low pressure and flexible online piano course, bringing in 5 figures every month while allowing the founder to spend time on other interests and family while its profitable business runs itself.
34. Become a tee shirt designer
Have you always had a passion for fashion and creativity? Well, then the field of tee shirt design could be the perfect opportunity for you!
As a tee shirt designer, you would be responsible for fitting model garments, ensuring size uniformity, and using your design and aesthetic skills to create unique and eye-catching tee shirts that will captivate your customers’ attention.
With this exciting career, you’ll have the chance to let your creativity run wild and make a lasting impact on the fashion industry.
How much you can make: $15,000/month
How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)
Designious co-founder Alex Dumitru shares how the graphic design library generates $12-13k in monthly revenue by creating digital products that appeal to print-on-demand entrepreneurs and graphic designers, while also offering a flat-rate membership and useful resources that solve little problems.
35. Start a bookkeeping business
A bookkeeping business keeps track of monies coming into and out of business and maintains an accurate financial record, as per the International Association of Bookkeepers.
As a bookkeeping business, your role is to help small and medium-sized enterprises in the:
- Preparing their year-end tax and VAT returns
- Keeping on top of day-to-day cash flow
- Running finances efficiently
To become a bookkeeper, you must be accurate in your work and understand financial topics well.
How much you can make: $25,000 — $100,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,750 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
A case study about FreeCashFlow.io, an accounting agency that specifically caters to the financial needs of Onlyfans models and entrepreneurs, helping them with bookkeeping, taxes, and financial management, all while overcoming the stigma associated with the industry.
36. Start an auto detailing business
Starting an auto detailing business is a great way to start your own business and get in on the action. Auto detailing is one of the fastest-growing industries in America, and it’s only going to get bigger as people want their cars to look like they just came off the showroom floor. Plus, you’ll be satisfied knowing that you’re helping people take care of their most prized possession: their car!
Auto detailing business is a low barrier to entry entrepreneurship opportunity and can be mobile or operate from a physical location. To start an auto detailing business, find a strategic location and invest in modern equipment and technology.
How much you can make: $3,000 — $20,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 45 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 8 hours/week
Learn how former tech salesman, Matt Paskow, left the industry to start Fresh Look Mobile Auto Detailing, a profitable mobile auto detailing business generating around $5k per month that focuses solely on SEO, Google AdWords, and Google My Business for marketing.
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 tax preparation business
Do you have experience in tax preparation? You can capitalize on your math abilities and attention to detail by starting a tax preparation business.
Basic tax types include:
- Individual income taxes
- Corporate income taxes
- Sales taxes
- Property taxes
To start a taxation business, you can use an in-home taxation preparation service or build taxation software. Taxation experts can specialize in certain taxation types or offer general tax consultations.
How much you can make: $8,000 — $25,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 32 days (?)
A4E, a full-service accounting business, grew five times from when it started about a year ago when it was only offering tax services, and its current MRR is around $8k with a targeted MRR of $13k, providing 100% done-for-you accounting solutions that combine bookkeeping, taxes and CFO services under one roof and for an amazing value for US-based businesses in tech-related industries and services.
39. Become an interior designer
Interior designing involves making indoor spaces safe, functional, and beautiful by determining space requirements and selecting essential & decorative items such as colors, lighting, and materials.
The global luxury interior design market is growing at a CAGR of 9.0%. The growth metrics show there is great potential for entrepreneurs targeting households.
If you are starting a luxury interior design business, focus on style and specialty. Add valuables with creative professions, such as interior design, so you stand out from the rest. Ensure you hire the right people and hone the brand identity.
How much you can make: $100,000 — $415,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Mother and daughter duo turn passion for antiques and design into a boutique design firm with over $1 million in annual revenue and hundreds of trophy projects, showcasing the importance of grit, determination, and passion in building a successful business.
40. Start a data entry service
Data entry service is expanding and growing with each passing day. Thus, starting a data entry business can be a profitable opportunity. Data entry experts can work from home and choose their preferred work schedule. To become a data entry specialist, you need computing skills. Alternatively, you can outsource the contracts to a third party.
How much you can make: $5,000/month
How long does it take to build: 400 days (?)
Flamon cloudtech's co-founder Rahul shares the story of building and launching TeleCRM, a game-changing Tele-Sales CRM product in beta phase, which is already being used by 20 companies with a monthly recurring revenue of $4500/month and is aiming to capture around 40-50% of the CRM market space in the long term.
41. Become a ghost blogger
A ghost blogger is simply a writer who specializes in producing blogs for other people.
As a ghost blogger, you can earn between $300 and $1,500 per week, depending on word count and topic.
Ideally, the ideas and knowledge contained in the article originate from the publicly named author.
Therefore, as a ghostwriter, your role is to put the ideas into words.
How much you can make: $450 — $24,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $150 (?)
How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week
Content strategist Lacy Boggs leveraged her love of blogging and desire for a more flexible schedule to grow her business from a solo "Ghost Blogger" to a full agency with four writers and a cabal of contractors that helps businesses create bespoke content strategies and consistent traffic, yielding over a ($300k) year in revenue.
42. Build an online research software
As the business world grows more complex, the need for reliable and effective online research software becomes more important. Online research software can help businesses save time and money by providing access to a wealth of information.
This type of software is used for a variety of purposes, such as academic research, market research, or competitive intelligence.
For example, Trello is powerful online research software that can help you organize and keep track of your research projects. With Trello, you can create custom boards to track your progress on specific projects, set deadlines, and collaborate with other researchers. Trello's estimated annual revenue is currently $15.8M per year.
Online research software is a great tool for businesses looking to better understand their customer base. The data collected by this process can be rich and informative, as it includes insights that help you grow your business in ways other methods may not address as accurately or completely.
How much you can make: $5,000 — $1,500,000/month
How long does it take to build: 590 days (?)
TapResearch generates roughly $1.5M in revenue per month through their Sample and Insights platforms, which allow market researchers to access survey respondents they need and make fast and easy decisions through a highly scalable respondent network that delivers surveys to hundreds of millions of people.
43. 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.
44. Become a freelance editor
Freelance editing is a great business idea for those passionate about language, grammar, and literature. As a freelance editor, you will review and improve written materials, whether novels, articles, reports or resumes.
To start a freelance editing business, you will need excellent communication and editing skills and a keen eye for detail. It is also helpful to have a background in writing or editing, although this is only sometimes necessary.
To run a successful freelance editing business, you must establish a robust online presence through a website or social media platforms. You will also need to market your services to potential clients through networking or paid advertising.
One of the main benefits of starting a freelance editing business is flexibility. You can work from anywhere, anytime, as long as you have a computer and an internet connection. You can work around other commitments, such as raising a family or pursuing other interests.
Freelance editing is a great business idea for those looking for a flexible, rewarding career that allows them to use their skills and expertise to help others. This could be the perfect business opportunity if you have a passion for language and a keen eye for detail.
How much you can make: $2,000 — $2,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 257 days (?)
Reedsy, a book publishing services marketplace that connects authors with freelancers, has driven over $1m in GMV, features over 1,500 vetted freelance professionals, and sees over 1,000 projects every month.
45. Start a sports magazine publishing business
A sports magazine publishing business is a venture that involves creating and distributing magazines that cover various sports and athletics-related topics. These magazines can be printed or digital and can focus on a specific sport, such as football or basketball, or they can be more general and cover a range of sports.
To start a sports magazine publishing business, you must first identify your target audience and determine the type of content most appealing to them. This could include in-depth analysis and coverage of specific teams and players, as well as general sports news and events.
Next, you must create a business plan and determine your budget. This will involve calculating costs for printing, distribution, and marketing. You will also need to consider how you will monetize your magazine, whether through subscriptions, advertising, or a combination of both.
To succeed in this business, you must have a strong passion for sports and a deep understanding of the industry. You will also need excellent writing and editing skills and strong marketing and business acumen. It is also essential to adapt to changes in the industry and stay up-to-date on the latest trends and developments in the world of sports.
Overall, a sports magazine publishing business can be a rewarding and exciting venture for those passionate about sports and with the skills and dedication to succeed in the industry. With careful planning and hard work, this business can provide a platform for sharing your love of sports with others and building a loyal readership.
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
46. Become an event promoter
An event promoter is a professional responsible for marketing and promoting events such as concerts, conferences, speeches, festivals, and sporting events.
Event promoters can work as independent contractors or for a specific organization. The core responsibilities of event promoters include conducting research into the intended audience and setting up and running social media campaigns, among other duties.
To become an event promoter, develop communication skills, be proactive and learn how to organize and influence people to attend the events.
How much you can make: $10,000 — $83,333/month
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
This case study explores how a couple turned their childhood homes into vacation rentals, welcoming around 3k guests annually and generating an average revenue of $50k per year and property by focusing on a strong online presence and organic traffic.
47. Become a voiceover artist
A voiceover artist business involves recording your voice in various media, such as commercials, television shows, and video games. To start this business, you’ll need high-quality recording equipment, a portfolio of previous work, and a platform to showcase your skills. You’ll also need to reach out to clients and negotiate contracts.
To succeed in this business, you’ll need excellent voice-acting skills and the ability to market yourself effectively.
How much you can make: $9,000 — $85,000/month
How long does it take to build: 730 days (?)
TRANSLIT is an ISO-certified translation and interpreting service, which has grown organically to now include an online platform and marketplace that allows users to find, book and manage interpreters across the world with over 2,500 users and recently launched a Remote Simultaneous Interpreting technology available through a mobile app and web interface.
48. Become an event planner
Event planners arrange the details of various events, including weddings, anniversaries, reunions, and large social gatherings.
As an event planner, you get to explore your creative vision and see an idea turn into reality from the conception stage to the execution stage.
How much you can make: $774 — $500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $3,867 (?)
How long does it take to build: 75 days (?)
A successful ticketing platform that grew from a side project into a business that issues over 5 million tickets annually, using a combination of cold calling, word of mouth, and partnerships to attract and retain customers while navigating the challenges of COVID-19.
49. Become a personal chef
If you’re looking for a career that allows you to work within your own schedule, look no further. Becoming a personal chef means setting your own hours, planning your own schedule, and taking on as much or as little work as you want.
Not everyone has the time to prepare meals for themselves. If you love cooking, you can start a personal chef business in your area and earn a good income from the side gig. The side hustle can fit into your schedule easily, and you can offer delivery and pick-up or curbside options to ensure more people are buying your services.
Personal chefs can work at various locations, including their client’s homes or restaurant kitchens. They may have regular clients who call on them to prepare meals for them weekly, or they may get called in to prepare meals for special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays.
How much you can make: $5,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $50 (?)
How long does it take to build: 360 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 15 hours/week
Chef David Buchanan generates over $6,000 per month through his website Chefs-Resources.com, which provides professional chefs with free and paid access to detailed culinary information and kitchen management resources such as Excel sheets, resulting in gross revenue of $46,000 to date and a subscriber growth rate of over 1300% from 2015 to September 2021.
50. Become a scrapbooker business
Scrapbooking is a creative hobby that involves designing and putting together a visually appealing album of memories and memorable moments. It can be a great business idea for those passionate about crafting and design.
To start a scrapbooking business, you will need a few essential supplies such as paper, stickers, markers, and other decorative items. You may also need a computer and photo editing software to create digital layouts and designs.
For success, it is essential to have a strong understanding of the different scrapbooking techniques and styles. It would help if you also were skilled in design, creativity, and customer service.
Several ways to offer scrapbooking services include hosting parties, creating customized albums for clients, or selling scrapbooking supplies. You can also consider offering online classes or tutorials to teach others how to scrapbook.
Marketing your business is crucial to attracting potential customers. You can use social media, online directories, and local advertising to showcase your skills and services. You can also consider joining local craft fairs and events to showcase your work and connect with other crafters.
Overall, a scrapbooking business can be a rewarding and fulfilling venture for those passionate about creativity and design. You can turn your hobby into a successful business with the right skills, supplies, and marketing efforts.
51. Start an online course creation business
Starting an online course could be perfect if you want a passive income. Whatever your background, you could start teaching online and earn a passive income.
All you need to start an online course is patience, imagination, and an enabling eLearning platform where you can connect with the relevant audience.
Online courses may take time and require a lot of effort to start selling. However, once your audience finds the content resourceful, they start sharing and recommending it through their network. Remember, creating an online course could take longer than expected, so remain focused and give your best.
How long does it take to build: 365 days (?)
52. Start an ebay reseller business
The basic idea of eBay reselling is to buy a discounted product, sell it on eBay, and ship it out for a profit.
Buying and reselling on eBay can be a profitable business. You can pick something at a lower price during its off-peak selling season and resell it individually when its demand is high.
To start an eBay reselling business, you should register as a business seller.
How much you can make: $4,000/month
How long does it take to build: 1 days (?)
Reselling business that has grown into a full-time venture, generating around $4,000/month, by cross-listing products on multiple platforms, primarily focusing on fashion but also including hard goods and furniture, while also offering downsizing services and planning to launch a website about the work-from-home lifestyle.
53. Start a window cleaning business
If you are ambitious about cleaning spaces, you may consider the window cleaning business opportunity.
Starting a window cleaning business offers several advantages. First, you get to choose a suitable work schedule. Also, you have access to repeat business since windows need regular cleaning to keep their shiny appearance.
Besides, starting a window cleaning service is not capital-intensive and comes with minimal overhead costs.
How much does it cost to start: $50 (?)
54. Start a house painting business
Starting a house painting business can be a rewarding and lucrative endeavor. With the right skills, equipment, and a bit of luck, you can provide a valuable service to homeowners looking to spruce up their living spaces.
You'll need to invest in basic painting supplies such as brushes, rollers, ladders, and drop cloths to get started. You'll also need to invest in protective gear, such as masks and gloves, to ensure the safety of yourself and your clients.
Once you have your equipment, you can start marketing your services to potential clients. You can use social media, word-of-mouth referrals, or even old-fashioned flyers and business cards to get the word out.
As your business grows, you should invest in additional equipment, such as sprayers and power washers, to expand your services. You can also consider hiring additional workers to help with larger jobs and to allow you to take on more work.
With hard work, determination, and a little luck, your house painting business can thrive and provide a steady income stream. And who knows, you may even find yourself becoming the go-to painter in your community.
How much you can make: $27,500/month
How much does it cost to start: $3,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Hometown Painting LLC, an exterior residential painting company founded by a husband-wife duo, went from no sales in their first year to over $100,000 net profit the next year, and is projected to reach half a million in annual sales with a 30-35% net margin with continued growth and adding more crew in the next year.
55. Digital products
Digital products are top-rated. They’re easy to create and share and a great way to build a business.
Digital products can be software-based, like an app or game, or information-based, like an ebook or course. They can also be something else entirely—like a membership site or a community. The possibilities are endless!
So what makes digital products such a great way to build a business? Well, first of all, they’re effortless to create. You don’t have to hire anyone else to do it for you; you can do it yourself! And because there’s no risk of having inventory sitting around in your garage, digital products can be sold directly from your website without worrying about moving merchandise.
How much you can make: $10,417 — $1,766,666/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
FilterGrade is an eCommerce platform offering digital assets such as photo filters and video templates; attracting over 450,000 monthly users and generating approximately 30k a month, the founders worked hard to build a valuable marketplace for creators while focusing on digital marketing, partnerships, and content creation.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
