27 Business Ideas For Bookworms [2024]

Updated: July 28th, 2024

If you consider yourself a bookworm with an entrepreneurial spirit, you're in luck. The world of business offers plenty of opportunities for you to turn your love of books into a thriving venture. Whether you're dreaming about starting a new enterprise or looking to expand into a side hustle, we've got you covered.

In this article, you'll find a variety of business ideas tailored specifically for book enthusiasts. You could discover ways to monetize your literary passion, from opening a cozy bookstore to launching an online book club. Keep reading to explore practical and creative avenues that could make 2024 your year to shine in the book business world.

Imagine sharing your love for literature while earning a living from it. You could start a personalized book subscription service, curate book-themed events, or even delve into self-publishing. The possibilities are endless, and the next few pages will guide you on how to turn those possibilities into reality.

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

Here's the full list:

1. Start a niche blog ($31.5K/month)

Starting a niche blog is an excellent way for bookworms to turn their passion for reading into a side business or even a full-time income. By identifying a specific niche within the literary world—such as mystery novels, young adult fiction, or even antique book collecting—you could create unique and informative content that resonates with a dedicated audience. The process involves sharing reviews, writing guides, conducting author interviews, and much more, generating income through affiliate links, brand collaborations, and potentially a YouTube channel.

Why start a niche blog?

  • You could leverage your deep understanding of books to create compelling content that attracts a loyal readership.
  • Monetizing through affiliate links and brand collaborations could turn your passion for books into a steady income stream.
  • Engaging with a community of like-minded bookworms makes the process enjoyable and fulfilling. Delve into niche blog profitability.

How much you can make: $100 — $650,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $650 (?)

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

How I Turned A Crappy Idea Into A $3M/Year Business

Starter Story grew to 1.4 million monthly visitors and millions in annual revenue by sharing the stories of entrepreneurs. Pat breaks down the early days and how he grew the business into something that changed his life.

Read by 77,065 founders

2. Start a blog ($44.9K/month)

Starting a blog is a perfect fit for bookworms looking to turn their passion for reading into a side hustle or full-time business. This location-independent opportunity allows you to share your literary insights, engage with a broader audience, and even generate income through affiliate marketing, sponsored content, or selling your own eBooks. According to Optinmonster, 77% of internet users read blogs, offering a substantial audience right at your fingertips.

Blogging has evolved from an online journal to a highly profitable career, trusted by millions. If you're keen to start, pick a niche you enjoy, develop a content strategy, and maintain a regular posting schedule to keep your audience engaged. For further insights, check out blogging success stories.

Why consider starting a blog?

  • You could reach a vast audience, as 409 million people view over 20 billion blog pages each month.
  • Sharing book reviews and literary content could allow you to monetize your passion through affiliate links and sponsored posts.
  • Blogging offers flexibility and freedom, enabling you to work from anywhere, anytime.

How much you can make: $100 — $650,000/month

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

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

Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week

How This 28-Year-Old Couple Quit Their Jobs And Make $20K/Month Running A Blog

Learn how one couple created a successful personal finance blog, The Savvy Couple, that now makes over $20,000 per month and has sold thousands of digital workbooks and courses, by focusing on purposeful content and optimizing their ROI with efficient time management.

Read by 28,730 founders

3. Start a book blog ($29.4K/month)

Starting a book blog could be your ticket to immersing yourself in the world of literature while building a passionate online community. At its core, a book blog is a website where you could share reviews, recommendations, and literary discussions. This venture allows you to dive deep into your love for books, promote reading, and engage with like-minded individuals.

This idea is perfect for avid readers who want to transform their hobby into a modicum of income while fostering a literary community. If you enjoy dissecting plot twists and character arcs and you're willing to put in the effort to grow an online presence, a book blog could be a rewarding endeavor. For more specifics on how to start, you can check some success stories.

Why start a book blog?

  • You could turn your passion for reading into a source of income by monetizing through ads, affiliate links, and sponsored posts.
  • It offers a platform to share your unique literary insights and connect with a global community of fellow book lovers.
  • Building a book blog allows you to stay constantly engaged with the latest in literature, ensuring your hobby actively contributes to your financial and personal growth.

How much you can make: $1,000 — $90,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $7,550 (?)

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

How I Started A Six-Figure Niche Book Blog

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.

Read by 18,432 founders

4. Start a book writer ($192K/month)

If you have a knack for storytelling and a love for words, consider leveraging your passion by becoming a book writer. Writing books, whether they’re novels, non-fiction, or children’s stories, offers an opportunity to turn your creative vision into a viable business. Beyond the artistic aspect, it involves managing the business side of publishing, including marketing, networking, and dealing with publishers or self-publishing platforms. The joy of seeing your ideas come to life and resonate with readers worldwide can be immensely rewarding, and with dedication, it could become a lucrative endeavor.

Why pursue book writing?

  • You'll transform your love for reading and storytelling into a fulfilling career, engaging in what you enjoy most.
  • It offers flexible working hours, allowing you to manage your time and creativity effectively.
  • The potential for passive income from book sales means you could earn money from your publications over time.

For more insights, check out the startup costs of becoming a book writer.

How much you can make: $2,000 — $600,000/month

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

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

How I Started A $600K/Month Ecommerce Development Agency That Offers A Guaranteed $10K/Month Revenue

Qwantify is a digital development and marketing agency that operates a Partner Program guaranteeing websites earn a minimum of $10,000 per month, and since 2016, they have grown to become a multi-million dollar per year digital development agency.

Read by 10,392 founders

5. Create an online course ($91.9K/month)

As a bookworm, creating an online course could be a natural extension of your passion for reading and sharing knowledge. By developing courses on topics you love and have expertise in, you could reach a wide audience of eager learners and create a new source of income while indulging your love for literature. Plus, the flexibility of online courses fits well with a busy schedule, allowing you to manage your teaching business while still having time for your favorite books.

For more insight, check out these tips and how-to guides on starting an online course business.

Why creating an online course?

  • You could turn your passion into profit. If you’re knowledgeable about specific literary genres or subjects, you could share your expertise and monetize it with minimal startup costs.
  • The reach is global and scalable. With online courses, geographical barriers don't exist, and you have the potential to teach thousands of students worldwide.
  • It’s a rewarding endeavor. Teaching allows you to help others grow while continually enhancing your own understanding and mastery of the subject matter.

How much you can make: $350 — $1,000,000/month

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

How long does it take to build: 88 days (?)

How This 28-Year-Old Couple Quit Their Jobs And Make $20K/Month Running A Blog

Learn how one couple created a successful personal finance blog, The Savvy Couple, that now makes over $20,000 per month and has sold thousands of digital workbooks and courses, by focusing on purposeful content and optimizing their ROI with efficient time management.

Read by 28,730 founders

6. Start a newsletter ($213K/month)

As a bookworm with a knack for written communication, starting a newsletter can be an ideal way to share your passion for books while supplementing your income. With the number of newsletter readers increasing by over 50% in the past five years, there's a growing audience eager to engage with high-quality content. By curating and delivering insightful book reviews, author interviews, and reading recommendations, you could establish yourself as a trusted expert in the literary community.

Why start a newsletter?

  • Newsletters allow you to market yourself as a trusted expert and build strong connections with subscribers.
  • They offer a low-cost platform to monetize your passion through advertisements, paid subscriptions, or affiliate marketing.
  • You can creatively engage with an audience that shares your love for books, making it both a fulfilling and profitable venture.

For more insights and steps to get started, check out these newsletter publishing business tips.

How much you can make: $160 — $4,100,000/month

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

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

How I Started A $36M/Year Stock Market Research Newsletter

Financial media company MarketBeat, founded by Matt Paulson, provides objective financial information and real-time market data to empower individual stock investors to make better trading decisions, generating approximately $8 million in revenue in 2019 and ending the year with over 1.3 million unique email subscribers due to a freemium model with 75% of revenue from advertising and 25% from subscriptions.

Read by 28,537 founders

7. Become a blogging coach ($26.4K/month)

As a bookworm, your love for words and storytelling puts you in a unique position to become a successful blogging coach. By starting a business as a blogging coach, you could leverage your deep understanding of content creation to help others build and grow their blogs. Not only could you create substantial income through personalized coaching sessions, online courses, and workshops, but you'll also enjoy the added benefit of immersing yourself in your passion every day.

Why become a blogging coach?

  • You could turn your passion for writing and literature into a profitable business, sharing your expertise with aspiring bloggers.
  • You could personalize your coaching to cover niche topics, from building successful business blogs to optimizing conversions.
  • With the increasing use of blogging in content marketing, there's a growing demand for knowledgeable coaches, providing you a steady stream of potential clients.

Explore more about starting a blogging coach business on Starter Story.

How much you can make: $3,000 — $80,000/month

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

How long does it take to build: 12 days (?)

How I Started A Blog With Over 500K Monthly Visitors And Generates $35K/Month

Ryan Robinson explains how he built a blog with over 500k monthly visitors and generates $25,000-$55,000 in revenue each month through affiliate partnerships, sponsorships, and his own digital products like courses and books.

Read by 9,176 founders

8. Start a blogging business ($5.87K/month)

Starting a blogging business is an ideal way for bookworms to merge their love for literature with a profitable venture. By sharing your thoughts, reviews, and insights on books, you could attract a dedicated readership over time. Blogging allows you to generate income through various channels like ads, sponsored posts, and affiliate marketing, all while indulging in your passion for reading and writing.

The setup process is straightforward: choose a niche, register a domain, and create your blog on platforms like WordPress or Medium. Regularly publishing engaging content could help you build an audience and eventually turn your side hustle into a full-time career. A blogging business offers incredible flexibility, making it an attractive option for those looking to earn income online while doing what they love.

Why start a blogging business?

  • You could turn your love for books into a source of income.
  • A blog provides a platform for sharing your literary insights with a broader audience.
  • Flexibility lets you blog part-time or turn it into a full-time career.

How much you can make: $3,000 — $10,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $300 (?)

How long does it take to build: 3 days (?)

How We Launched A $5K/Month Content Writing Solutions Service

Content writing company 411Writers started with $13.99 and now generates over $50,000 revenue per month, providing clients with unique website content for both search engines and human readers.

Read by 7,447 founders

9. Start a SEO business ($72.7K/month)

For bookworms with an analytical mind and a love for research, starting an SEO business could be a perfect entrepreneurial opportunity. SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, involves enhancing a website’s visibility on search engines, thus driving organic traffic and improving site rankings. By leveraging your knack for digging deep into content and understanding search trends, you can help businesses achieve online success and build long-term client relationships.

As an SEO expert, you'll analyze, strategize, and optimize content and web structures to match search engine algorithms. The demand for SEO expertise is ever-growing, offering you the flexibility to set your own hours and work with various clients.

Why start an SEO business?

  • You could use your research skills to provide valuable insights that drive business growth.
  • The demand for SEO services is on the rise, ensuring a continuous stream of potential clients.
  • The flexibility to work remotely and set your own schedule makes it an ideal side business or full-time venture.

For more insights on getting started, check out this link.

How much you can make: $5,000 — $180,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $5,500 (?)

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

How We Launched A $5K/Month Content Writing Solutions Service

Content writing company 411Writers started with $13.99 and now generates over $50,000 revenue per month, providing clients with unique website content for both search engines and human readers.

Read by 7,447 founders

10. Start a self-improvement blog ($34.9K/month)

Do you have a passion for personal growth and helping others reach their full potential? Starting a self-improvement blog might be your next venture. As a bookworm, your love for reading and continuous learning perfectly aligns with the core of a self-improvement blog. By sharing tips, strategies, and insights on personal development, mental health, and achieving goals, you could create a valuable resource for those seeking guidance.

This isn’t just about writing; it requires research, consistent content creation, and engaging with your readers to build a loyal audience. As you create valuable content, your blog could become a trusted resource, attracting traffic that you could monetize through advertising, sponsored posts, or even selling your own courses. It’s an opportunity for both personal satisfaction and financial gain.

Why start a self-improvement blog?

  • You could leverage your extensive reading habits to provide insightful and well-researched content.
  • A self-improvement blog offers a fulfilling path that merges passion with purpose, allowing you to help others while pursuing your interests.
  • Monetizing your blog through various channels could provide you with a substantial income stream, turning your passion into profit.

Exploring this idea further, you might find useful insights on how to start your own self-improvement blog here.

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

How much does it cost to start: $300 (?)

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

How I Started A $6K/Month Blog To Help Women Transitioning From Dyed Hair To Natural Gray Hair

Katie Emery founded KatieGoesPlatinum.com, a website advising women on how to transition from dyed hair to their natural gray hair, which earns an average of $6,000 per month in revenue through affiliate marketing, sponsored posts, and advertisements.

Read by 11,789 founders

11. Start a book marketing business ($592K/month)

Got a knack for storytelling and persuasion? A book marketing business might be your next venture. Simply put, this involves helping authors promote their books to reach a wider audience. You'll develop and execute marketing campaigns that can include social media strategies, email marketing, book reviews, and event planning. It's a comprehensive approach that demands creativity, strategy, and strong communication skills.

For anyone passionate about books and marketing, this business idea offers a fulfilling, intellectually stimulating path. Not only do you get to work with authors and publishers, but you also play a crucial role in bringing captivating stories to a broader audience. Learn more about starting a book marketing business here.

Why start a book marketing business? - You could leverage your love of books to help authors succeed. - You could craft engaging stories and strategies that captivate audiences. - A book marketing business allows for creativity and intellectual challenge, making it a rewarding enterprise.

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

How long does it take to build: 175 days (?)

How Our Book Publishing Services Marketplace Hit $1M/Month In Gross Merchandise Value

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.

Read by 11,314 founders

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

For bookworms, starting a career as an author can be a dream come true, allowing them to weave their literary passions into a profitable venture. The process involves creating and publishing unique written works, whether it be novels, non-fiction books, or articles that showcase one’s creativity and expertise. Authors can choose between traditional publishing routes or self-publishing to bring their stories to life and connect with a broader audience.

By becoming an author, you could not only earn income from book sales and royalties but also unlock opportunities like speaking engagements and workshops. For more insights on starting your journey as an author, check out these valuable tips and success stories here.

Why consider becoming an author?

  • Transform your passion for reading into a revenue stream through book sales and royalties.
  • Gain control over your creative work if you opt for self-publishing, allowing full autonomy in the publishing process.
  • Expand your influence and reach by engaging in speaking opportunities and workshops, sharing your insights and stories with a wider audience.

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

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

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

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

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

Read by 10,783 founders

13. Start a book reviewing business ($36.3K/month)

Love diving into a good book? Turn that passion into income by starting a book reviewing business. This involves reading new books and providing comprehensive reviews for authors, publishers, and book marketing platforms, requiring a keen eye for detail and an ability to write captivating summaries and critical analyses. Maintaining a blog or platform for these reviews and leveraging social media and SEO to reach a wide audience are crucial components of this strategy.

The demand for insightful book reviews is growing, especially with the surge in independent publishing. If you appreciate literature and have a knack for critical thinking, starting a book reviewing business could open the door to a fulfilling and lucrative venture. For more details on the pros and cons of this business, you can visit Starter Story's book reviewing business page.

Why start a book reviewing business?

  • Leverage your love for reading into a profitable endeavor by monetizing your book reviews.
  • Independent authors and publishers are always seeking incisive reviews, providing a steady stream of potential clients.
  • Create a platform to share your literary insights, establishing yourself as a credible voice in the book community.

How much you can make: $1,000 — $90,000/month

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

How I Started A Six-Figure Niche Book Blog

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.

Read by 18,432 founders

14. Start a book publishing business ($96.2K/month)

If you have a story to tell or a passion for helping others bring their words to life, starting a book publishing business could be your calling. For bookworms with an entrepreneurial mindset, this path offers the rewarding opportunity to guide authors through every step of transforming their manuscripts into polished, marketable books. Your role would range from editing and design to managing the marketing of the finished product, requiring an intricate understanding of both the literary and business aspects of publishing.

This field can be both challenging and fulfilling, offering a chance to shape literary careers and introduce diverse voices to a global audience. If you're passionate about books and have the skills to navigate the complexities of publishing, this venture could be deeply gratifying.

Why start a book publishing business?

  • You could combine your love for books with a lucrative business opportunity, turning your passion into profit.
  • As a bookworm, your deep understanding of literature would provide invaluable insights in guiding authors through the publishing process.
  • You'll have the satisfaction of bringing unique, unheard voices to a wider audience, making a tangible impact on the literary world.

For more detailed information and insights, you can check out some success stories.

How much you can make: $15,000 — $149,986/month

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

How long does it take to build: 200 days (?)

How I Created A $120K/Month Book Marketing Software

Founder Dave Chesson shares how he created a successful book marketing software, generating $120k a month, and offers advice for non-techies on how to hire programmers, prioritize support, and innovate continuously.

Read by 7,817 founders

15. Start a jewelry product ($167K/month)

For bookworms with an entrepreneurial spirit, starting a jewelry business might be the perfect way to combine creativity with commerce. Crafting custom or unique pieces of jewelry allows you to express your artistic side while tapping into a market that values individuality. With platforms like Etsy and social media channels such as Instagram, you could easily reach a wide audience without the overhead of a physical store.

With just a basic set of tools, an eye for design, and a supplier for materials, you can start creating pieces that resonate with customers looking for something special. Marketing limited-edition or personalized items not only builds a loyal customer base but also lets you convert your artistic passion into a profitable venture. For more tips on starting a jewelry product business, check out this guide on successful jewelry product businesses.

Why consider starting a jewelry business?

  • You could leverage your creativity to design pieces that tell a compelling story, much like a good book.
  • It's a scalable side hustle that could turn into a full-time business with low startup costs.
  • Personalized and unique jewelry items cater to a niche market, allowing you to stand out in a competitive industry.

How much you can make: $5,000 — $415,000/month

How long does it take to build: 200 days (?)

Starting And Growing A Jewelry Business To $4.6M/Year

Taylor & Hart CEO Nikolay Piriankov tells the story of the company's journey from a diamond trading business to an award-winning, disruptive e-tailer of custom-designed, ethical engagement rings and fine jewelry, offering a bespoke design service through specifically developed technology online and instore, and growing to £4-6M in annual revenue.

Read by 20,909 founders

16. Start a writing & editing business ($213K/month)

Starting a writing and editing business makes perfect sense for a bookworm. With your deep love for literature and knack for spotting grammatical nuances, you could transform your passion into a profitable endeavor. From freelancing for businesses that need high-quality content to editing manuscripts for aspiring authors, the possibilities are vast, and the earning potential is impressive.

Why consider a writing & editing business?

  • Companies and individuals are always in need of high-quality writing and meticulous editing.
  • It allows you to use your love for reading and writing every day, making work enjoyable.
  • The flexibility and low startup cost make it easy to scale your business as you gain more clients.

For more insights, check out some success stories from entrepreneurs in this field here.

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

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

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

Time commitment per week: Min. -1 hours/week

The App I Built In 12 Hours Now Makes $15K/Mo

A founder shares how he built AudioPen.ai, a tool that transcribes voice notes, generating $15,000 monthly with minimal costs and no paid marketing, highlighting the importance of focusing on the product, word of mouth, and personal communication with users for sustainable growth.

Read by 14,031 founders

17. Become a content strategist ($66.8K/month)

As a content strategist, you could help companies create and execute effective content strategies that align with their business objectives. This role requires strong research and writing skills—skills you likely already possess as a bookworm. By leveraging your knack for detail and deep understanding of varied subjects, you could help brands reach their target audiences through well-crafted, engaging content.

Why become a content strategist?

  • Your love for research and reading can help you understand different industries and audiences quickly.
  • Strong writing and analytical skills, often honed by bookworms, are essential for creating compelling, effective content strategies.
  • The ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines can translate seamlessly from how you organize your reading list and reviews.

For more inspiration, check out content strategist success stories at Starter Story.

How much you can make: $3,000 — $550,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $8,000 (?)

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

How I Started An $8K/Month Technical Content Marketing Agency

Draft founder, Karl, built a productized service for technical content, generating $10k in (mostly) recurring revenue in just three months of running the business, showing the success of skill-stacking and the impact of word of mouth and maintaining a strong network in a service business.

Read by 10,074 founders

18. Start a recruiting agency ($109K/month)

Starting a recruiting agency could be a lucrative and rewarding endeavor for bookworms. With the global online recruitment market projected to reach $43 billion by 2027, there's substantial growth potential in this field. As someone who values knowledge, you can leverage your research skills to deeply understand various industries, identifying the best candidates for your clients and setting your agency apart from competitors.

Your love for learning will be beneficial as you adapt to new trends and continuously improve your recruiting methods. Reading books on leadership, management, and industry-specific topics can provide you with valuable insights to run a successful recruiting agency. For more inspiration and details, check out how to start a recruiting agency.

Why start a recruiting agency?

  • You could use your research skills to identify top talent, giving you an edge in the competitive recruitment industry.
  • Your ability to glean information from books and various sources will help you stay updated with industry trends and best practices.
  • The satisfaction of matching the right candidates with the right roles can be incredibly rewarding, both personally and financially.

How much you can make: $100 — $320,000/month

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

How I Started A $3M/Year Remote Worker Recruitment Agency

DistantJob is a unique recruitment agency that specializes in finding full-time remote employees, and with $3 million in annual revenue, they offer small to medium-sized tech companies an edge over big competitors who are not willing to hire remotely.

Read by 12,056 founders

19. Become a bicycle manufacturer

Starting a bicycle manufacturing business could be an exciting and lucrative venture for bookworms with an entrepreneurial mindset. Leveraging the global bicycle market, which is projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.2% in the next decade, offers an array of opportunities. The rising health consciousness and government initiatives promoting eco-friendly transportation make this an ideal time to tap into this thriving industry.

Why start a bicycle manufacturing business?

  • Leverage your research skills: Your knack for thorough research will be invaluable in understanding market trends and consumer preferences, ensuring your products meet demand.
  • Create a tangible impact: Developing eco-friendly and health-promoting products aligns with broader societal goals, giving you a sense of purpose and pride as you build your business.
  • Market growth potential: With the industry expected to grow significantly, you have the potential to capture a slice of a booming market and secure a profitable income stream.

For more detail on starting, explore tips for bicycle manufacturers.

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

How long does it take to build: 1230 days (?)

How I Turned My Love For Bikes Into A $12M/Year Electric Cargo Bike Business

Yuba Group has pioneered the field of an entirely new segment in the cargo bicycle industry, with a 15-year-old company that has put over 50,000 cargo bicycles on the road, becoming a $15M company.

Read by 4,992 founders

20. Start a tutoring business ($263K/month)

For bookworms, starting a tutoring business could be an ideal side hustle or even a full-time business. With your deep fondness for learning and a wealth of knowledge across various subjects, you could inspire and educate students in your area of expertise. Creating a tutoring website and tapping into the online market could help you reach a broader audience, offering both part-time and full-time engagement opportunities.

Why starting a tutoring business?

  • Leverage your passion for reading and learning by sharing your knowledge and expertise.
  • Flexible hours and the ability to work from home or online can suit your existing schedule.
  • Opportunity to inspire and mentor students, enriching both their lives and yours.

For more details on getting started, you can explore this guide on how to start a tutoring business.

How much you can make: $1,000 — $830,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $2,550 (?)

How long does it take to build: 15 days (?)

Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week

How I Started A $15K/Month SAT Tutoring Business While In College

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.

Read by 19,931 founders

21. Create a shopify app ($52.1K/month)

If you’re a bookworm with a technical side, developing a Shopify app could be your gateway into the booming ecommerce market. This venture not only allows you to leverage your coding and UX design skills but also enables you to create tools that help online store owners optimize customer engagement, inventory management, and sales. It’s a venture that requires dedication and a knack for problem-solving, but with the right idea, you could build a valuable app that generates recurring monthly income or one-time fees through the Shopify App Store, which offers a built-in market for your creation.

Imagine helping thousands of ecommerce stores streamline their operations while you potentially secure a steady revenue stream. For more insights on how to dive into this venture, check out this guide on starting a Shopify app.

Why develop a Shopify app?

  • The Shopify App Store provides a built-in audience for your app, making it easier to reach potential customers.
  • A successful app could generate recurring revenue, offering financial stability and growth potential.
  • As a bookworm, your attention to detail and analytical skills will help you identify and solve common ecommerce challenges effectively.

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

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

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

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

Read by 23,512 founders

22. Start a live classroom business ($3.94M/month)

Starting a live classroom business could be an excellent opportunity for a bookworm to supplement their income or even turn it into a full-time venture. By leveraging your love for learning and extensive knowledge in specific subjects, you could create engaging and interactive lessons for students of all ages. This business could not only bridge the gap in quality education but also allow you to share your passion with a global audience from the comfort of your own home. For more insights, check out some live classroom business success stories.

Why start a live classroom business?

  • You could turn your passion for specific subjects into a profitable venture by creating interactive and engaging classes for students worldwide.
  • The demand for flexible and personalized education is growing, making your live classroom potentially very lucrative.
  • Sharing your knowledge can be deeply gratifying, turning your love for books and learning into a meaningful business to impact others.

How much you can make: $75,000 — $7,800,000/month

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

Creating A Platform For Digitizing Classroom Activities And Making $900K/Year

Edtech entrepreneur Laura Bresko shares how she and her partner developed a platform called TeacherMade that digitizes classroom activities and generated $900K in revenue, with a focus on leveraging SEO and developing a friendly, empathetic customer support team.

Read by 4,235 founders

23. Start a kitchen supplies store ($410K/month)

As a bookworm, starting a kitchen supplies store could marry your love for knowledge with an appreciation for fine culinary tools. This venture allows you to dive deep into researching and curating high-quality kitchen items, akin to how you would meticulously select books for your collection. Imagine a store where your expertise in identifying the nuances of exceptional kitchenware can translate into a tangible and rewarding business.

Why start a kitchen supplies store?

  • Your passion for detail can help in curating the best quality kitchen tools that appeal to cooking enthusiasts.
  • You could create an educational component, offering cooking classes or workshops, blending your love for teaching with your business.
  • The steady demand for kitchen supplies means a reliable revenue stream, especially if you emphasize unique and durable products.

For more comprehensive insights into starting a kitchen supplies store, check out our detailed success stories.

How much you can make: $2,000 — $1,100,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $3,499 (?)

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

How We Built A $2M/Year Business Selling Barbecue Tools

Learn how Michael "Medium Rare" O'Donnell built Cave Tools into a $2 million per year brand selling high-quality barbecue tools and accessories, and expanded his business by launching Grill Master University, an online barbecue masterclass platform, all while traveling to and living in almost 40 different countries in just the last 3 years.

Read by 13,601 founders

24. Start a 3D Printing Business ($166K/month)

As a bookworm, starting a 3D printing business opens up a world of creative possibilities that align with your passion for literature and innovation. From designing unique book-themed merchandise, like custom bookmarks and bookends, to crafting intricately detailed miniatures for your favorite fantasy novels, the opportunities to blend your love of books with 3D printing are endless. With an investment in the right equipment and materials, as well as the acquisition of 3D modeling skills, you could turn your literary interests into a thriving business venture.

Why Start a 3D Printing Business?

  • You could create personalized and unique book-themed merchandise that resonates with fellow book lovers.
  • Ongoing advancements in 3D printing technology offer continuous opportunities for innovation and new product lines.
  • Your business could cater to niche markets, such as collectors of literary miniatures or custom book-related accessories, giving you a unique edge.

For more insights, check out our detailed breakdown of how to start a 3D printing business.

How much you can make: $8,000 — $330,000/month

How long does it take to build: 270 days (?)

How I Started A $330K/Month Ecommerce Specialized In 3D Printing

Founder Roy Kirchner shares how he started an eCommerce business specializing in 3D printing with an initial investment of $65,000, which now averages monthly gross sales of $330,000 and has partnered with international manufacturers and local businesses while offering technical support and education.

Read by 29,917 founders

25. Start a candle business ($188K/month)

For bookworms, starting a candle business could be the perfect entrepreneurial endeavor. The comforting ambiance of a flickering candle pairs beautifully with the coziness of a good book, making it easy to market candles to fellow book lovers who crave a tranquil reading environment. Plus, you can indulge your creative side by crafting unique scents and designs that reflect beloved literary themes and characters.

If you’re serious about supplementing your income or even launching a full-fledged business, the candle industry is a booming market ripe with opportunity. Handmade, high-quality candles are particularly in demand, providing a niche that is not only enjoyable but also profitable. For more details on starting your candle business, check out Starter Story's guide on candle-making business.

Why start a candle business?

  • You could create scents that enhance the reading experience, such as "Old Library" or "Forest Path," bringing stories to life through aroma.
  • Working from home allows you to craft candles in your free time, providing flexibility while you maintain your reading and other activities.
  • The market for artisan, handcrafted products is growing, giving you the chance to capitalize on the demand for unique, high-quality candles.

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

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

How long does it take to build: 75 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 72,204 founders

26. Start a business podcast ($111K/month)

If you're a bookworm with a passion for business and communication, starting a business podcast could be a highly fulfilling venture. As a business podcaster, you'll create audio content focused on industry insights, trends, and expert interviews, offering valuable knowledge to professionals and entrepreneurs. This endeavor allows you to merge your love of books and information with the expanding reach of digital media platforms. By consistently delivering high-quality episodes, you can cultivate a dedicated audience, generate ad revenue, and influence market dialogues.

Why consider starting a business podcast?

  • You could leverage your existing knowledge from reading business books to create insightful and engaging content.
  • It's a low-cost business idea with potential for high returns, including ad revenue and sponsorships.
  • Starting a podcast offers flexible scheduling, making it an excellent side business you can do in your spare time.

For more inspiration and examples of successful business podcasts, check out our success stories on Starter Story.

How much you can make: $4,000 — $349,983/month

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

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

Empire Flippers: $20M/Year Helping People Buy And Sell Websites

Empire Flippers is a thought leader in brokering online business deals, having brokered over $50 million worth of deals and grown their pool of potential buyers by hundreds every month through a focus on content marketing and middle-of-funnel content.

Read by 10,458 founders

27. Start a creative agency ($14.2K/month)

Starting a creative agency offers a fantastic opportunity for bookworms who love to craft stories and develop creative content. With a creative agency, you could help brands bring their vision to life through compelling content and innovative designs. This business involves diverse projects like logo design, social media campaigns, and website development, making it a thrilling venture for anyone who thrives in a dynamic environment where strategic thinking meets artistic talent.

You'll need to network within your community to find potential clients and build an impressive portfolio showcasing your team's work. Offering a range of services under one umbrella not only attracts a broader clientele but also opens up multiple income streams. For entrepreneurial-minded bookworms, this is a genuinely exciting way to merge a love for creativity with a rewarding business endeavor.

Why start a creative agency?

  • Combine your love for storytelling and design to create impactful brand narratives.
  • Attract a diverse clientele by offering multiple creative services under one roof.
  • Leverage your strategic thinking and artistic talent to thrive in a dynamic, ever-evolving industry.

Discover more about starting a creative agency.

How much you can make: $500 — $30,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $2,500 (?)

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

How I Started A $15K/Month Ecommerce And Web Design Agency

A creative director at a Brussels-based creative, technology, and e-commerce optimization agency outlines their process of building a digital agency that focuses on eCommerce and SEO-based projects while providing tips on the importance of looking up to others but never comparing yourself to them.

Read by 6,031 founders

meet the author
Pat Walls

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