32 Business Ideas For Big Data Engineers [2024]

Updated: September 6th, 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 32 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 an AI-based business ($27.9K/month)

As a big data engineer, venturing into an AI-based business could be a lucrative opportunity to leverage your expertise in data analytics and processing. You could develop software or platforms that utilize AI to optimize various processes, such as creating AI-driven customer service bots or predictive analytics tools for different industries like healthcare and finance. This not only enriches your current skill set but also allows you to stay at the forefront of technological advancements.

One compelling aspect is the potential for efficiency and cost reduction. By automating tasks and providing deep insights through AI, you could help other businesses operate more efficiently and innovate faster. Starting an AI-based business aligns well with the practical problem-solving and data-centric mindset typical of big data engineers, providing a seamless transition from your current profession while opening new entrepreneurial avenues.

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 21,003 founders

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

As a big data engineer, starting a micro-SaaS business could be an ideal choice to supplement your income or even transition to entrepreneurship. Leveraging your expertise in data analysis and processing, you could create specialized software solutions that cater to niche markets with specific data management needs. This targeted approach allows you to deliver highly customized and accurate solutions, setting your micro-SaaS offering apart from broader, less focused products.

Given your deep understanding of data complexities and analytics, you could identify and solve distinctive problems that traditional SaaS platforms may overlook. This could involve developing tools that optimize data pipelines, improve real-time data processing, or enhance data visualization for specific industries. Prioritizing customer feedback and iteratively refining your product will be crucial steps in ensuring your micro-SaaS business not only addresses market demands but also fosters strong customer loyalty.

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 23,585 founders

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

As a big data engineer, starting a data mining and analytics tools business could be a highly lucrative and intellectually stimulating venture. Imagine creating software that transforms raw data into actionable insights, focusing initially on key industries like finance, healthcare, and retail, where such tools are in high demand. Your strong understanding of programming, statistics, and machine learning would be essential assets in developing these sophisticated analytical tools.

The demand for data-driven decision-making is skyrocketing, offering a growing market for innovative analytics solutions. By supplying businesses with cutting-edge tools that help them uncover patterns, trends, and actionable insights, you could significantly enhance their strategic decision-making processes. This business combines your technical expertise with an opportunity to pioneer success and drive industry transformations, making it a challenging yet highly rewarding endeavor.

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 10,496 founders

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

As a big data engineer, starting a customer intelligence analytics business could allow you to leverage your expertise in data processing and analysis to help organizations better understand their customers. By utilizing your skills to dissect and interpret customer data, you could generate actionable insights that significantly improve business decisions, resulting in more effective marketing strategies and higher customer retention rates.

Given the rising demand for data-driven decision-making, businesses—from small enterprises to large corporations like Verint—are increasingly seeking experts who can turn customer interactions into valuable intelligence. Your background in big data positions you to capitalize on this growing market, offering a service that is both in high demand and essential for business growth.

Moreover, this venture would not only supplement your income but also potentially evolve into a full-fledged business, providing a rewarding path for your entrepreneurial ambitions. With your strong analytical and communication skills, you could establish yourself as an indispensable asset to businesses looking to unlock the potential of their customer data.

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 10,960 founders

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

Starting a data analytics software business could be a natural extension of your expertise as a big data engineer. Leveraging your skills in data collection, analysis, and interpretation, you could develop specialized software tailored to the data analysis needs of specific industries or niches. This could involve creating custom reporting tools, dashboards, and features that simplify the visualization and interpretation of complex data sets.

By identifying a target market and understanding their unique requirements, you could design user-friendly solutions that enhance your clients' decision-making processes. Marketing your software effectively, highlighting its simplicity, efficiency, and value, could make your offerings highly attractive to businesses looking to harness the power of data for informed decision-making.

This venture allows you to utilize your deep knowledge of big data in a practical, entrepreneurial way, potentially leading to significant supplementary income or even a full-scale business.

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 18,838 founders

6. Start an ai based business solution ($55.8K/month)

As a big data engineer, you could leverage your expertise to start an AI-based business solution that supplements your income or evolves into a full-fledged enterprise. With your deep understanding of data analytics, you could develop AI models to optimize various business operations, such as enhancing customer service, automating inventory management, or implementing personalized marketing strategies.

By integrating AI technology, you could help businesses enhance efficiency, reduce operational costs, and make data-driven decisions, providing them a crucial competitive edge. The demand for AI solutions is expanding rapidly, and as someone skilled in handling large datasets, you are uniquely positioned to capitalize on this trend.

Additionally, various platform providers offer user-friendly interfaces and robust support systems, enabling you to implement these AI solutions without needing extensive background knowledge in AI development. This makes it a viable entrepreneurial opportunity for those ready to innovate and drive business performance with cutting-edge technology.

How much you can make: $4,000 — $120,000/month

How long does it take to build: 125 days (?)

How We Launched A $120K/Month Audiobook Publishing Course

Mikkelsen Twins grew an online education company from scratch with over 800 students, making over 6-figures in profit every month thanks to their successful program, Audiobook Income Academy 2.0.

Read by 21,996 founders

7. Build an analytics tool ($157K/month)

As a big data engineer, you could leverage your technical expertise to develop an analytics tool that addresses the rising demand for data-driven decision-making. Such a tool would enable businesses of all sizes to access, visualize, and analyze their data more effectively, making it an invaluable asset in today's data-centric world.

Given your knowledge in handling large datasets and your ability to create robust data pipelines, this venture could supplement your income or even grow into a full-fledged business. To illustrate the potential, consider QlikView, a leading analytics tool that generated $750M in revenue in 2022. This demonstrates that the market for analytics tools is lucrative and continually expanding, offering ample opportunity for entrepreneurial innovation.

Additionally, small businesses can utilize your tool to optimize their operations, whereas larger enterprises might leverage it to monitor and enhance their performance metrics. With companies increasingly recognizing the strategic importance of data, your analytics tool could become an essential resource, thereby opening up a profitable revenue stream for you.

How much you can make: $20 — $1,500,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $4,750 (?)

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

How Our Privacy Friendly Web Analytics Tool Reached $4K/Month Without Paid Ads

Plausible Analytics, a privacy-friendly web analytics tool, reached $4,557 MRR and 743 paying subscribers by focusing on content marketing and engaging relevant communities, rather than paid advertising, while positioning itself as a lightweight, cookie-free and affordable alternative to Google Analytics.

Read by 10,274 founders

8. Start an online courses business ($118K/month)

As a big data engineer, you could leverage your specialized knowledge to create an online course business focused on data engineering principles and techniques. Begin by selecting a niche within big data, such as data pipeline architecture, machine learning model deployment, or Hadoop/Spark ecosystems.

Develop engaging content with instructional videos, hands-on assignments, and supporting materials to ensure a comprehensive learning experience. Host your courses on a user-friendly platform and utilize social media and email marketing to attract students.

As your reputation grows, your course satisfaction will lead to word-of-mouth promotion, scaling your business further. You might even diversify your offerings by adding more advanced courses or delving into related data science topics, expanding the scope of your online teaching venture.

How much you can make: $2,500 — $500,000/month

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

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

How Justin Welsh Built A $2M Solopreneur Empire

Solopreneur Justin Welsh built a knowledge business through social media with over $2M in annual revenue and no full-time employees, offering flagship digital courses with a monthly revenue of $80K and $45K respectively, through LinkedIn and Twitter growth as well as organic and affiliate marketing.

Read by 29,266 founders

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

As a big data engineer, you could leverage your analytical skills and technical expertise to create a sales automation platform. Such a business involves developing software that automates various sales processes, from lead generation to follow-ups, making it easier for companies to manage their sales pipeline. Given your background, you could design algorithms that optimize sales outreach and predict the most promising leads, significantly improving efficiency and accuracy.

This venture aligns perfectly with the growing demand for digital transformation and efficiency in the business sector. By focusing your efforts here, you could provide valuable tools that free up sales teams to focus on closing deals, rather than spending time on repetitive administrative tasks. This not only opens up a lucrative income stream, but also positions you as a key player in the increasingly important field of sales automation.

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 12,019 founders

10. Start a content creation business ($80.3K/month)

As a big data engineer, starting a content creation business could supplement your income by leveraging your unique insights into data analytics and engineering. You could produce highly valuable content that demystifies complex data concepts for a broader audience, making it easier for businesses to understand how to harness data for their strategic goals. This niche-specific expertise in big data could position you to offer targeted messages tailored for client goals and audiences from diverse industries.

Additionally, the flexibility of freelance gigs or establishing a full-service content studio gives you the freedom to dictate your own schedule while still enjoying a creative outlet. Your technical background and writing skills could combine effectively to elevate marketing campaigns, drive lead generation, and enhance digital experiences for various brands. Whether supporting one company or many, your venture backed by specialized knowledge in big data could drive visibility and credibility in today’s content-compelling market.

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

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

How long does it take to build: 75 days (?)

How I Started A $22K/Month One-Stop Shop Marketing Company For E-commerce Businesses

Power Move Marketing is an innovative digital marketing company founded by Hailey Brooke McFadden, which has achieved an impressive monthly income of $22,075 and is projected to make almost $300,000 in its first year, by offering a one-stop-shop for e-commerce businesses looking for a marketing powerhouse with a female positive culture.

Read by 11,652 founders

11. Start a food & beverage company ($32.1K/month)

As a big data engineer, you could start a food and beverage company that harnesses your technical skills to optimize various aspects of the business. By leveraging your expertise, you could analyze consumer preferences, optimize supply chains, and forecast trends to ensure your products meet market demands. For instance, utilizing data analytics could help you determine the most popular flavors, the best pricing strategies, or even the ideal times for marketing your products.

Additionally, you could develop and utilize advanced algorithms to maintain high standards of quality and compliance with health regulations, ensuring that your recipes and production processes are consistently top-notch. If you’re entrepreneurial-minded and have a passion for food, this approach could offer you a fulfilling way to supplement your income while applying your big data skills in a new industry. The constant need for innovation in food and beverage means your ability to analyze and interpret data could set your venture apart from the competition.

How much you can make: $500 — $80,000/month

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

How Andy Hayes Started A 7 Figure Tea Business Online

How Andy Hayes built a 7-figure online loose leaf tea business, with one of the largest tea subscription boxes and a curated selection of tea accessories, generating half of their revenue from a la carte tea sales and half from their popular tea of the month club community.

Read by 25,806 founders

12. Start a web development business ($91.1K/month)

As a big data engineer, starting a web development business could be a lucrative side hustle or full-time venture. With your advanced technical skills, you could offer more integrated solutions by combining data analytics with web development to create dynamic, data-driven websites.

You could leverage your understanding of complex systems to build robust, scalable web environments that meet the evolving needs of businesses. Your deep technical expertise could make you a standout in a crowded market, providing added value by ensuring that the web solutions you develop are not only visually appealing but also functionally superior. This could attract a more tech-savvy, data-oriented clientele, opening up additional revenue streams while flexing your entrepreneurial muscle.

How much you can make: $3,000 — $700,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $3,000 (?)

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

I Built A $300K/Year Vue.js Component Library

Vuetify is a popular open-source user interface library, built with the Vue.js framework, that generates revenue through digital content and services such as paid digital content in the Vuetify store, direct support through consulting, ad revenue from Carbon ads on the documentation pages, and donations/sponsorships via GitHub and Patreon, generating an average income of $6,500 per month.

Read by 46,502 founders

13. Become a nutritionist ($74.6K/month)

As a big data engineer, your analytical skills and proficiency in handling large volumes of data could be leveraged to create a unique and cutting-edge nutritionist business. You could use data analytics to tailor nutrition plans based on individual needs, utilizing algorithms and machine learning to identify optimal dietary patterns and predict health outcomes. This data-driven approach can set you apart and attract a tech-savvy clientele interested in precise and effective nutritional guidance.

Additionally, by integrating data from various sources such as wearable devices, food tracking apps, and medical histories, you could offer comprehensive assessments that traditional nutritionists might not provide. This could enable you to supplement your income or gradually transition into a full-fledged business that combines your technical expertise with a growing demand for personalized health solutions. Obtaining relevant certifications and practical experience through internships or supervised practice will be key steps to establishing credibility in this field.

How much you can make: $600 — $500,000/month

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

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

Time commitment per week: Min. 3 hours/week

Leaving My 9 to 5 To Start My Own Nutrition Counseling Private Practice

RDRx Nutrition is a successful private practice that offers individual nutrition coaching, boasting profits of $1,800-$2,100 per month after just one year of business, and achieving a client base of over 2200 followers on Instagram alone.

Read by 13,998 founders

14. Start a mobile app development business ($141K/month)

As a big data engineer, starting a mobile app development business could greatly complement your existing skillset. By leveraging your expertise in data analytics and data management, you could create mobile apps that provide data-driven insights, personalized experiences, or advanced analytics tools. For example, you could develop productivity apps that utilize big data algorithms to optimize user workflows or create gaming apps with sophisticated data analytics to improve user engagement.

Furthermore, you could target niche markets by designing apps for industries such as healthcare, finance, or retail that require complex data handling and insights. Your ability to manage and analyze large datasets can give you a competitive edge in developing high-quality, scalable mobile applications.

Additionally, your technical background equips you with the know-how to develop robust software infrastructure, while your problem-solving skills enable you to tackle challenges unique to mobile app development. This entrepreneurial endeavor can provide a lucrative income stream and open doors to a dynamic and growing market.

How much you can make: $6,000 — $700,000/month

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

How I Started A $6K/Month SEO And Digital Marketing Agency In Bangladesh

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.

Read by 12,523 founders

15. Start a tech talent platform ($852K/month)

As a big data engineer, you could leverage your industry expertise and network by starting a tech talent platform. This platform would match companies seeking top-notch data experts with skilled professionals, capitalizing on your insider knowledge of what makes a successful data engineer. By curating a high-quality talent pool, you could create a lucrative business that fills a critical gap in the tech industry.

You could also offer specialized services such as vetting candidates based on technical skills, or providing resources for upskilling potential hires. This side business could significantly supplement your income while offering the flexibility to grow into a full-time venture.

How much you can make: $1,000 — $5,000,000/month

How long does it take to build: 133 days (?)

We Bootstrapped A Tech Talent Platform To $1.2M Sales In Our First Year

CloudDevs, a tech talent platform that sources and vets freelance tech talent and matches them with companies, has achieved $1 million in GMV in its first year, plans to achieve 100% growth year on year, and focuses on customer loyalty through its Net Promoter Score metric.

Read by 17,343 founders

16. Start a classic car valeter business

As a big data engineer, starting a classic car valeter business could be an exciting way to diversify your income while leveraging your analytical skills. You could apply your expertise in data management by utilizing customer data to identify trends and preferences, offering personalized services that enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty. Furthermore, maintaining a detailed database of your services, client feedback, and vehicle conditions could allow you to optimize your operations and marketing strategies effectively.

The meticulous attention to detail required in big data analysis pairs well with the precision needed for classic car valeting, ensuring high-quality results that classic car owners will appreciate. Additionally, your technological prowess could be utilized to develop an efficient booking and customer relationship management system, streamlining your service delivery and enabling scalable growth for your side business.

17. Start a saas company ($296K/month)

As a big data engineer, starting a SaaS company could be a lucrative way to leverage your technical expertise and deep understanding of data systems. You could develop a subscription-based service that provides essential tools for businesses, such as project management software, automation engines, or workflow designers, all accessible over the internet. This allows you to apply your skills in creating high-quality, scalable software and tap into a growing market.

Given your strong technical skills, you could build a sophisticated, data-driven SaaS product, similar to platforms like Salesforce, which generate significant annual revenue. By understanding the SaaS business model, you could position your product as a cost-effective and efficient solution for companies looking to optimize their operations and reduce IT expenses. This venture offers high margins and the possibility of flexibility for you as an entrepreneur, making it an attractive side business or full-time endeavor.

How much you can make: $20 — $20,833,333/month

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

Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week

I Turned My Side Project into A $26K/Month SaaS Tool

AI-powered web application, Excelformulabot.com, generates Excel formulas within seconds for a subscription fee of $6.99/month or free for five formula requests per month, resulting in $14k/month in recurring revenue since its launch in September 2022, accruing millions of visitors through word of mouth, influencer marketing, SEO, and PPC, implemented through no-code web application Bubble.io, while preparing to penetrate a B2B market and focus on B2B outreach in the future.

Read by 22,147 founders

18. Start a water aquarium business

If you're a big data engineer with a fascination for marine life and an entrepreneurial spirit, starting a water aquarium business could be an exciting and fulfilling venture. This business involves creating and maintaining aquatic habitats for homes, offices, and public spaces, allowing you to merge your analytical skills with the intricate world of marine biology.

You could leverage your data management expertise to optimize customer experiences and improve aquarium health. By analyzing patterns of water quality, fish behavior, and equipment efficiency, you could uncover insights that ensure balanced ecosystems and longevity for the exhibits. The water aquarium business not only offers a chance to engage in a field you're passionate about but also provides an avenue to supplement your income through a niche and rewarding market.

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

How much does it cost to start: $3,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 25 days (?)

I Left My 100 Hour Week Job To Start A $120K/Month Aquarium Ecommerce

AquariumStoreDepot is a highly-profitable business in the niche market of aquatic animal keeping, averaging $8-10k per month with a high revenue month of $13k, and expanding over time from dropshipping to proprietary agreements.

Read by 4,826 founders

19. Start a product photography business ($27.2K/month)

As a big data engineer, starting a product photography business could be an excellent way to supplement your income by leveraging your analytical and technical skills. Given your attention to detail and data-driven approach, you could excel in capturing high-quality images that resonate with online traders looking to showcase their products effectively. You might even use data analytics to determine the most appealing aesthetics and styles for different product categories, enhancing the value you bring to your clients.

If you enjoy photography, this side business could also offer a creative outlet. Your proficiency with software tools could give you an edge in photo editing, making it easier to produce professional-grade images that improve a product's marketability. Combining your technical expertise with a passion for photography could make for a rewarding entrepreneurial venture.

How much you can make: $1,200 — $84,239/month

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

How long does it take to build: 52 days (?)

How I Started A Commercial Product Photography Business

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.

Read by 15,479 founders

20. Start a wordpress maintenance services ($24.3K/month)

As a big data engineer, starting a WordPress maintenance service could be a practical and lucrative side business. Leveraging your technical skills, you could manage, update, and optimize WordPress websites, ensuring they run smoothly for businesses and bloggers who lack the time or expertise to handle these tasks. You'll be tackling essential operations like security updates, plugin and theme management, speed optimization, backups, and troubleshooting.

Given your familiarity with technical systems and attention to detail, this business model offers a perfect blend of technical challenges and recurring revenue opportunities. Many website owners sign up for monthly service plans, providing you with a steady income stream. Additionally, as your client base grows, you could easily scale by hiring specialized team members or implementing automation tools to handle the increased workload.

For someone with a tech background and an entrepreneurial spirit, WordPress maintenance services present a satisfying and profitable venture. You’ll be maintaining and improving existing platforms, offering invaluable peace of mind to your clients without the need to develop new software from scratch.

How much you can make: $600 — $100,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $550 (?)

How long does it take to build: 22 days (?)

How I Started A $1.4K/Month WordPress Support Service

Work Hero is a WordPress support and maintenance service that went from working with one website in December 2019 to 13 recurring customer sites today, earning ~$1470/month with most customers paying an unlimited fee of $149/month.

Read by 7,842 founders

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

As a big data engineer, you could leverage your technical skills and expertise to develop cloud management software, creating a lucrative side business or even a full-time venture. This software would enable companies to efficiently oversee their cloud resources, from data storage to security compliance, offering a comprehensive solution to manage digital infrastructure.

The demand for cloud management tools is growing across various industries, from healthcare to finance, as businesses increasingly migrate their operations to the cloud. By starting this venture, you could capitalize on your problem-solving abilities and knowledge of backend systems, diving into a high-demand market primed for growth. This opportunity not only aligns with your technical background but also allows you to meet a critical industry need and potentially secure a substantial income.

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 8,125 founders

22. Start a photography blog ($10.1K/month)

As a big data engineer with a passion for photography, starting a photography blog could be a lucrative and fulfilling side business. By leveraging your technical expertise, you could optimize your blog for better search engine performance, analyze reader engagement data, and use predictive analytics to tailor content that resonates with your audience. This analytical approach can give you a competitive edge in the crowded photography blogging space.

Additionally, your background in data can help you build a strong online presence through targeted social media marketing and guest blogging. Monetization opportunities abound; you could offer paid content such as ebooks and photography courses, secure sponsorships, or even launch one-on-one coaching services. Specializing in a niche like landscape or portrait photography could further distinguish your blog, attracting a loyal following and opening doors to business collaborations.

Starting a photography blog not only allows you to share your artistic passion but also enables you to apply your big data skills in unique and rewarding ways. This entrepreneurial venture could supplement your income while providing a creative outlet that aligns with your professional expertise.

How much you can make: $1,200 — $27,400/month

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

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

How I Started A Digital Camera Reviews Website That Has 1.3 Million Unique Monthly Visitors

A software engineer turned founder started a digital camera review website as a side-hustle which turned into a successful online publication with up to 1.3 million unique monthly visitors, generating around $1,000 per month, attracting visitors through guest posts, focusing on desirable quality content, and through answering popular questions on Stack Exchange, providing helpful advice for other entrepreneurs.

Read by 6,040 founders

23. Start a niche newsletter ($38.1K/month)

As a big data engineer, starting a niche newsletter could be a strategic way to leverage your specialized skills and insights. You could offer valuable content on trending big data methodologies, industry tools, case studies, and best practices that your peers and other data enthusiasts are eager to learn about. By tapping into this highly interested audience, you can create a platform that not only supplements your income through subscriptions but also establishes your authority in the field.

With the ongoing demand for high-quality, focused content, you could monetize your newsletter via sponsorships or advertisements from industry-related companies seeking to reach your targeted audience. The initial investment in research, writing, and marketing could yield rewarding returns, both financially and in terms of professional recognition.

How much you can make: $400 — $250,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $3,055 (?)

How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)

How My Blog With Body-Safe Sex Toys Reviews Turned Into A $2K/Month Side Hustle

Sex blogger turns a free WordPress blog into a $2,000 a month part-time digital business by investing in education, self-hosting, and building relationships within the NSFW community.

Read by 18,395 founders

24. Start a vegan restaurant

As a big data engineer, the expanding $50 billion global vegan and vegetarian market presents an enticing opportunity to supplement your income by leveraging your analytical skills. You could use data analytics to identify trends and preferences within your target demographic, optimizing your menu and marketing strategies to meet customer demands effectively. The growing awareness around healthy eating habits offers a fertile ground to establish a successful vegan restaurant that appeals to health-conscious consumers.

By employing your expertise in big data, you could also streamline operations, reducing food waste and improving supply chain efficiency. Whether you choose to deliver healthy cooked food to commercial centers or focus on a walk-in model, the potential for growth in this sector is substantial, driven by an anticipated 30% market growth over the coming years. This convergence of data analytics and culinary innovation could set your vegan restaurant apart from the competition, making it a rewarding side business or full-time venture.

How much you can make: $30,000/month

How long does it take to build: 730 days (?)

The IBS Diagnosis That Led Me To A $30K/Month Fresh Plant-Based Food Restaurant

This case study follows the journey of Wen, the founder of House of Leaf & Bean, an organic restaurant and cafe, who left her corporate job due to her passion for healthy living and curing her Irritable Bowel Syndrome through lifestyle changes, and now serves fresh and organic meals to help patients reverse or improve their health conditions, with a goal to make healthy food and healthy living more affordable and accessible.

Read by 4,704 founders

25. Start a CRM app business ($135K/month)

As a big data engineer, your expertise in data analytics and system architecture positions you perfectly to create a powerful and insightful CRM app business. You could design a CRM app that not only streamlines customer interactions but also leverages big data to offer advanced analytics and predictive insights, helping businesses make data-driven decisions to optimize their sales strategies.

Imagine providing businesses with tools that boost their sales and improve customer satisfaction by offering personalized customer experiences. With more companies shifting their focus to personalization, your CRM app could be the key to unlocking significant improvements in customer relationships and business performance.

Creating a CRM app involves defining core features, collaborating with skilled developers, and implementing effective marketing strategies. While it’s a labor-intensive venture, the potential financial benefits and the opportunity to innovate within a growing market make it a compelling entrepreneurial path for a big data engineer.

How much you can make: $5,000 — $375,000/month

How long does it take to build: 90 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 12,019 founders

26. Start an unfinished furniture store business

As a big data engineer, you could leverage your analytical skills and data proficiency to identify trends in customer preferences for unfinished furniture. This insight could help you source popular designs and materials, potentially boosting sales and reducing inventory costs. Additionally, you could implement data-driven marketing strategies to precisely target potential customers, increasing your store’s visibility and conversion rates.

With an unfinished furniture store business, you would have the opportunity to apply your tech expertise by developing a robust e-commerce platform and utilizing analytics to enhance the customer experience. This business could also serve as a profitable side venture, supplementing your income while allowing you to diversify your professional portfolio. If successful, this store could even become a full-time endeavor, enabling you to transition from solely a tech-focused career to a more entrepreneurial path.

27. Start a laundry business ($37.9K/month)

As a big data engineer with a knack for solving complex problems and optimizing processes, you could find starting a laundry business both fulfilling and profitable. Utilizing your analytical skills, you could streamline operations, manage resources efficiently, and offer services such as eco-friendly detergent options or same-day delivery tailored to busy professionals. This niche approach could differentiate your business in a competitive market.

Additionally, your expertise in data analysis could help you identify trends and patterns that drive customer satisfaction and boost profitability. Leveraging data to optimize route planning for pickup and delivery services or to improve machine maintenance schedules could significantly enhance your business efficiency. With a solid investment in commercial-grade equipment and strategic marketing, your ability to turn insights into action could rapidly translate into a successful venture.

How much you can make: $5,000 — $100,000/month

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

How We Started A Laundry And Dry Cleaning Franchise Business In India

Pick My Laundry, India's on-demand laundry and dry-cleaning service provider has developed a mobile app and website serving almost 50,000 customers in its first year after signing up 100 third-party laundry services and franchising its model with over 50 franchises across more than 15 Indian cities.

Read by 8,024 founders

28. Start an email marketing business ($1.72M/month)

As a big data engineer, you could leverage your expertise in data analysis, segmentation, and handling large datasets to start an email marketing business. Your ability to analyze and interpret data allows you to create highly targeted and effective email campaigns. By understanding customer behavior and preferences through data insights, you could optimize your email lists and deliver personalized content that will increase engagement and conversion rates.

With your technical background, you could easily manage email marketing software like Mailchimp or Constant Contact and automate various aspects of the campaign. Moreover, your knowledge of data security and compliance would ensure that your email list management meets all necessary legal and ethical guidelines. This business can be particularly rewarding, as the rise of the internet and email communication continues to make email marketing a vital tool for businesses looking to reach their target audience effectively.

How much you can make: $120 — $20,833,333/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,250 (?)

How long does it take to build: 165 days (?)

How I Launched A $200K/Month Gmail Mail Merge Tool

GMass, an email marketing platform that allows users to send cold emails and email marketing campaigns with Gmail, has attracted over 500,000 user signups, including major tech companies like Uber, LinkedIn, and Google, and now generates over $200K in monthly recurring revenue through a successful content marketing strategy and focused ad spend.

Read by 13,713 founders

29. Start an ecommerce store ($287K/month)

As a big data engineer, launching an eCommerce store could be a lucrative side business, leveraging your analytical skills and technological expertise. You could utilize your proficiency in data analytics to identify trending products, optimize pricing strategies, and enhance customer segmentation, ultimately driving sales and improving customer satisfaction. With the eCommerce industry's lower overhead costs and its capacity to reach a global audience, your initial investment and ongoing operational expenses could be minimal compared to traditional retail businesses.

Additionally, your familiarity with sophisticated software solutions would be advantageous when setting up and managing the necessary eCommerce infrastructure, such as inventory management systems, secure payment processing, and a user-friendly website interface. This technical acumen could help streamline operations, improve user experience, and offer data-driven insights into customer behavior and market trends. In a booming online shopping environment, your ability to adapt and innovate could position your eCommerce venture for long-term success.

How much you can make: $350 — $13,500,000/month

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

Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week

How I Started A $20K/Month Southern Inspired Candle Business

Southern Elegance Candle Company, founded by D'Shawn Russell, started as a side hustle making around $200 per weekend at a local Farmers Market, but now averages approximately $20,000 per month in sales across their retail site, wholesale site, and Faire.

Read by 72,301 founders

30. Start an entrepreneurship blog ($23.2K/month)

As a big data engineer, you could capitalize on your technical expertise and entrepreneurial insights by starting an entrepreneurship blog. This platform would allow you to share your journey, highlight challenges, and provide strategies relevant to both data engineering and business development. By offering how-to guides, interviews with successful entrepreneurs, and tips on overcoming obstacles, you provide valuable content that resonates with an audience seeking practical advice and real-life success stories.

The commitment to consistent content creation, SEO, and social media marketing could grow your blog's audience over time, opening opportunities for monetization through advertising, sponsored posts, and affiliate marketing. If you're passionate about business and enjoy writing, this blog could not only supplement your income but also serve as a valuable resource for aspiring entrepreneurs navigating similar paths.

How much you can make: $1,200 — $240,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $225 (?)

How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)

How I Started A $10K/Month Website With Resources For Entrepreneurs And Startups

From blogging about the best technology ideas to earning $10K/month through paid newsletters and courses, this case study explores the journey of entrepreneur and blogger Thomas Oppong and his successful online platforms.

Read by 9,384 founders

31. Start an email automation platform ($348K/month)

As a big data engineer, you could capitalize on your data handling and analytical skills by developing an email automation platform. Leveraging your expertise, you could create a system that efficiently segments audiences, personalizes content, and optimizes campaign performance using advanced algorithms and machine learning.

By integrating big data principles, your platform could offer unique insights into user behavior and engagement, providing clients with data-driven strategies to enhance their email marketing efforts. This venture not only supplements your income but also allows you to utilize your technical skills to solve real-world business problems, making it a fulfilling side project or even a full-fledged business.

How much you can make: $21 — $4,160,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,500 (?)

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

How We Launched A $35K/Month Tool To Send Bulk LinkedIn Messages

Two entrepreneurs developed Coldinbox, a bulk LinkedIn messaging tool that assists B2B business development managers in converting high-value prospects into leads and customers, resulting in $35,000 in monthly profits.

Read by 13,794 founders

32. Become a computer refurbisher

As a big data engineer, starting a computer refurbishing business could be a savvy way to leverage your technical expertise and enter the world of entrepreneurship. With your knowledge of data recovery, hardware repair, and software troubleshooting, you could efficiently restore used computers to like-new condition, meeting the high demand for affordable technology. Your analytical skills would also allow you to identify market trends and the types of devices that are most in demand, ensuring your refurbished products align with consumer needs.

Additionally, your experience with data security protocols can ensure that all refurbished devices are properly wiped of previous user data, a crucial selling point for many customers. The combination of your technical skills and market insight could make this side business not only profitable but also highly scalable.

In a market where the average Computer Repair Technician makes between $51,129 to $74,573 annually, you could supplement your income significantly, or even transition fully into your new venture. Plus, your understanding of emerging tech trends means you could continually refine your refurbishing processes, offering cutting-edge products at competitive prices.

How much you can make: $13,500,000/month

How long does it take to build: 45 days (?)

I Was Too Young To Drive But Started My Business Anyway: Now We're Approaching $200M/Year

OWC Larry, founder and CEO of Other World Computing, shares how he started his business at a young age with just a credit card, now experiencing a solid year-over-year growth with a CAGR of 43.78% over the past 33 years.

Read by 5,432 founders

meet the author
Pat Walls