29 Business Ideas For Skiers [2024]

Updated: July 28th, 2024

As a skier, you understand the unique dynamics of the slopes and the lifestyle that comes with it. If you have a knack for business, leveraging your passion for skiing could open up exciting opportunities. 2024 brings fresh ideas that cater to both your love for the sport and your entrepreneurial spirit.

You could start a ski equipment rental service, providing quality gear to fellow enthusiasts. Another possibility is developing a ski tour guide business, offering personalized experiences on the mountains. Additionally, you could explore creating an online store specializing in niche ski products or apparel.

For those interested in tech, you could design apps tailored to skiing, like tracking conditions or connecting skiers. Embrace your expertise and local knowledge to turn skiing into a profitable venture. Explore these ideas and find the one that suits your skills and ambitions best.

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

Here's the full list:

1. Start an online sports shop business ($351K/month)

If you're a skier with an entrepreneurial spirit, starting an online sports shop can be an excellent way to monetize your passion for sports. By running a digital storefront, you could sell a range of sports gear, equipment, and apparel to a global audience eager to support their favorite activities. This business model offers the flexibility to specialize in niche products, such as skiing equipment, snowboarding gear, or outdoor winter apparel, making it possible to target a specific market and set yourself apart from general sports retailers.

The increasing trend of consumers shopping online for convenience means you'll be tapping into a growing market, which could lead to considerable returns. Setting up an online sports shop involves creating an engaging, user-friendly website, sourcing high-quality products, and implementing effective digital marketing strategies. If you love sports and enjoy the idea of running a business from the comfort of your own home, this could be your winning game plan. For more insights, consider reading success stories from those who have launched their own online sports shop businesses.

Why start an online sports shop business?

  • You could turn your passion for sports into a profitable venture while working from home.
  • The flexibility to specialize in niche products allows you to cater to a specific market segment.
  • With more people shopping online, you’ll be entering a growing market with strong potential for success.

How much you can make: $2,500 — $1,000,000/month

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

How We Launched A $1M/Month Video Games Boosting Services Marketplace

Overgear, a gaming marketplace offering assistance and training in WoW, Path of Exile, Destiny, Call of Duty, and Valorant, saw over $8 million in revenue and a 6x increase in clients in the past year by prioritizing user experience and customer retention through SEO and Google Ads, reinvesting profits, and creating a user-friendly product, amongst other things.

Read by 11,143 founders

2. Start a travel products business ($314K/month)

Starting a travel products business could be an ideal side venture for skiers looking to supplement their income. Given that skiers often need specialized gear and accessories to ensure comfort and safety in various weather conditions, you already have the insight to understand customers' needs. Imagine running an online store offering weather-proof backpacks, waterproof hand sanitizers, travel masks, umbrellas, and other essential outdoor gear—it not only aligns with your lifestyle but taps into a market that continuously seeks travel necessities.

Why consider a travel products business as a skier?

  • You already understand the importance of quality travel gear, giving you an edge in selecting products that resonate with fellow travelers.
  • Your familiarity with skiing gear can translate into a strong sense of what outdoor enthusiasts require, enabling you to curate better product offerings.
  • The convenience of an online store allows you to operate your business flexibly, even during the ski season.

How much you can make: $1,000 — $1,600,000/month

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

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

We Built A $720K/Year Travel Activities And Tours Search Engine

TourScanner, a meta-search engine for tours and activities, achieved monthly net revenue of $60k and plans to reach $1M ARR in 2022, utilizing a lightweight business model based on affiliate programs that earned a commission from referrals sent to major travel companies like Viator, GetYourGuide, Musement, and Groupon.

Read by 4,922 founders

3. Start an outdoor sports store ($31.4K/month)

Starting an outdoor sports store can be a perfect side business for skiers looking to supplement their income or even create a full-time venture. Given your passion and knowledge of sports like hiking, camping, and kayaking, this business opportunity allows you to leverage your expertise. By stocking popular items and offering expert advice, you could build a loyal customer base that values your insights.

If you're in an area that draws outdoor enthusiasts, a brick-and-mortar shop could thrive. Alternatively, an online store can reach a larger audience and provide flexibility. Hosting workshops or demo days are additional ways to engage the community and boost sales, making it a well-rounded business approach.

Why start an outdoor sports store?

  • You could combine your love for the outdoors with entrepreneurship, creating a fulfilling business.
  • Your expertise in skiing and other outdoor activities means you can offer valuable advice, setting your store apart from competitors.
  • With flexible options for physical or online stores, you could cater to a wide range of customers, maximizing your reach and potential income.

For more details on starting an outdoor sports store, including profitability and marketing ideas, visit Starter Story: Outdoor Store Profitability.

How much you can make: $1,985 — $125,000/month

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

Starting A $1.5M/Year Business As A Single Mom

Australian woman launches affordable activewear store with only $150 and now sees over $1.5 million a year in revenue, using Shopify as the sales platform and Facebook and Instagram campaigns as the best source of advertising.

Read by 7,745 founders

4. Start a travel guide website ($14.2K/month)

As a skier, you could channel your passion for exploration into a successful travel guide website. This platform would allow you to share invaluable tips and insights about the best ski resorts, hidden trails, and winter travel essentials. By creating a comprehensive and engaging resource, you could attract fellow enthusiasts who are looking to enhance their skiing experiences. The website could serve as a side hustle or even a full-fledged business while letting you benefit from affiliate marketing, sponsored content, and advertising revenue.

Why start a travel guide website?

  • You could leverage your firsthand skiing knowledge to build a credible and informative resource for fellow skiers.
  • With a well-designed travel guide site, you could attract partnerships with ski resorts, equipment manufacturers, and travel agencies.
  • There's potential for passive income through affiliate marketing, especially when recommending gear and travel packages.

For more tips on starting a travel guide website, check out this link.

How much you can make: $50 — $30,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $8,250 (?)

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

How I Started A $15K/Month Family Travel Blog

TravelMamas.com founder Colleen Lanin shares how she turned a family travel blog into a business that generates $15K in monthly revenue through ad network sales, affiliate sales, sponsored posts, book sales, public speaking appearances, and media campaigns.

Read by 7,902 founders

5. Start a travel influencer business ($61.3K/month)

Turning your passion for skiing and exploring new destinations into a travel influencer business could be a perfect side hustle or full-time venture. As a skier, you have the unique opportunity to document breathtaking pistes, hidden ski resorts, and local cultures through engaging content on social media or personal blogs. This role allows you to monetize your adventures via partnerships with travel companies and by generating advertisement revenue.

Why start a travel influencer business?

  • You could monetize your skiing adventures while exploring new and exciting destinations.
  • Sharing your experiences and tips can build a loyal following and open doors for brand collaborations.
  • You have the chance to inspire others to travel and discover unique ski spots, creating a community of fellow enthusiasts.

To learn more about starting your travel influencer business, check out some successful stories on how others made it work.

How much you can make: $50 — $233,333/month

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

On Building A Travel Recommendations Platform

PlanIt is a travel recommendation and planning platform that has seen compelling growth in database coverage and user growth, covering every country in the world with several thousand users and a large SEO focus as well as a growing interest from travel and lifestyle businesses to list their details.

Read by 4,588 founders

6. Start an online travel agency ($477K/month)

As a skier, starting an online travel agency allows you to combine your passion for skiing with a lucrative business opportunity. By leveraging your insider knowledge of popular ski destinations, you could curate customized travel experiences and packages tailored to fellow ski enthusiasts. This not only supplements your income but also positions you as a go-to expert in the niche market of ski travel.

Explore how other skiers achieved this on Starter Story.

Why start an online travel agency?

  • You could tap into a growing market: Nearly 1 billion people book travel online, demonstrating strong demand.
  • You already know what skiers want: Your firsthand experience provides valuable insights for creating the best travel packages and services.
  • Low overhead and flexibility: An online approach allows you to manage your business from anywhere, even while hitting the slopes.

How much you can make: $100,000 — $1,500,000/month

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

I Started The First Online Travel Agency In Bangladesh And It Now Makes $18M/Year

How a first-time founder grew the first-ever online travel agency in Bangladesh to 700+ airlines and one million-plus hotels worldwide, with a 50% increase in revenue in October 2021 compared to pre-Covid sales and aiming to hit break-even by March 2022.

Read by 6,316 founders

7. Start a travel planning business ($540K/month)

Starting a travel planning business is a fantastic way to supplement your income as a skier. Your unique experience and knowledge about ski destinations can be invaluable to other skiing enthusiasts looking to plan their perfect trip. Offering personalized travel packages, recommendations on the best ski resorts, and insider tips can set you apart in the competitive travel planning industry. With the right skills in customer service and destination knowledge, you could turn your passion for skiing into a thriving side business or even a full-time venture. Check out some pros and cons to consider here.

Why starting a travel planning business?

  • You could leverage your personal experiences to offer expert recommendations on the best ski destinations and travel packages.
  • Helping fellow skiers plan their trips could be a natural extension of your passion for skiing, making the business not just profitable but also enjoyable.
  • Travel planning offers flexibility, allowing you to operate it as a side business while still pursuing your own skiing adventures.

How much you can make: $165,000 — $1,500,000/month

How long does it take to build: 285 days (?)

Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week

How We Started The $35M/Year Dubai's Leading Tour Operator

Rayna Tours and Travels, founded by Kamlesh Ramchandani and Manoj Tulsani, began its journey as a small travel counter inside a Dubai hotel, and has now grown into one of the UAE’s leading destination management companies with earnings exceeding $40 million per year.

Read by 7,258 founders

8. Start an adventure travel agent ($138K/month)

Starting an adventure travel agent business makes perfect sense for a skier. Skiers are used to thrilling experiences and know the intricacies of travel, variable conditions, and the best times to visit mountainous regions. By combining this passion and expertise with a business, you could help others plan their adventurous getaways, ensuring they have memorable and well-organized trips.

Why start an adventure travel agency?

  • You could use your skiing expertise to recommend the best destinations and times for optimal snow conditions.
  • Tailoring adventure packages to match your clients' adrenaline levels could set your business apart.
  • Your insider knowledge could help clients avoid common travel pitfalls, ensuring they have a seamless experience.

For more details, check out adventure travel agent business success stories on Starter Story.

How much you can make: $7,500 — $300,000/month

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

How We Started A $22K/Month Travel Company Selling Tours Around Armenia, Caucasus And Central Asia

Araratour, led by Nune Tatunts, experienced impressive revenue growth, doubling its 2018 revenue to bring in $13,000 a month in 2019, offering combined tours around the Caucasus and Central Asia, and now has an office in three countries.

Read by 6,070 founders

9. Start an outdoors blog ($17.2K/month)

If you love nature and writing, an outdoors blog might be the perfect business idea for you as a skier. Through an outdoors blog, you could share personal stories, tips, and guides about various outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, camping, and more. By focusing on quality content and engaging storytelling, you could attract a dedicated audience who shares your passion for the great outdoors and monetize your blog through affiliate marketing, sponsored content, or even selling outdoor gear directly through your site.

Considering that successful outdoor blogs require consistent content creation and a good grasp of SEO to reach as many readers as possible, your unique perspective as a skier could set your blog apart in this niche. Networking with brands and other bloggers can amplify your reach, providing both fulfillment and potentially lucrative returns if you have the dedication and love for nature.

Why start an outdoors blog?

  • Monetize your passion. Turn your love for skiing and the outdoors into a steady income stream.
  • Connect with like-minded individuals. Build a community around your experiences and tips.
  • Flexibility and creativity. Enjoy the freedom to write about what you love on your own schedule.

For more details and to see some successful examples, visit Starter Story's Outdoors Blog Ideas.

How much you can make: $1,350 — $63,500/month

How much does it cost to start: $6,850 (?)

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

How I Turned A Fun Twitter Account Into A $2K/Month Ecommerce Side Hustle

Rainier Watch is an outdoor-inspired apparel brand that grew from selling stickers to generating several thousand dollars in sales each month through its custom Woocommerce website, as a community-driven business for quality goods inspired by mountains, donating to organizations protecting and supporting the National Parks upon purchase.

Read by 7,635 founders

10. Become a travel photographer ($53.1K/month)

If you’re a skier with a passion for photography, venturing into travel photography could be an incredibly fulfilling business idea. Taking advantage of your frequent trips to stunning ski destinations, you could capture breathtaking images of landscapes, wildlife, and cultural moments. These pictures can be sold as print art, featured in magazines like National Geographic, or licensed to travel and sports brands, providing a versatile and lucrative revenue stream.

Why consider travel photography as a skier?

  • You can monetize your frequent travel and outdoor adventures by selling your stunning photos.
  • Skiing often takes you to picturesque and unique locations, offering endless creative opportunities.
  • Travel photography can supplement your seasonal income, providing financial stability throughout the year.

For more insights into becoming a travel photographer, check out Starter Story's tips for travel photographers.

How much you can make: $2,300 — $233,333/month

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

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

How I Started A $1.8K/Month Travel Business While Traveling Around The World

Wandering Aunt founder Robin Finney shares her journey of starting a sustainable travel business, including her decision to leave her corporate marketing job of 11 years, using a simple website and free tools like Mailchimp to grow her email list and attract customers, and the importance of investing in a coaching program for support.

Read by 7,584 founders

11. Start a travel blog ($124K/month)

Starting a travel blog could be an excellent way for skiers to supplement their income, make extra money, or even launch a full-fledged business. With your passion for skiing and wealth of first-hand experience, you can create compelling content that captivates fellow enthusiasts. From detailed ski resort reviews to ultimate gear guides, your blog could become a go-to resource for other skiers looking for valuable insights and tips.

Why start a travel blog?

  • You can monetize your passion. Through affiliate marketing, sponsored posts, and ads, your blog could generate significant income.
  • You already have unique content. Your skiing adventures and expertise provide endless material to keep your audience engaged.
  • You can build a loyal community. Sharing your experiences and advice helps you connect with like-minded individuals, fostering a community around your brand.

For more insights and tips on starting a travel blog, you can check out examples from successful bloggers here.

How much you can make: $1,000 — $1,600,000/month

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

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

How I Started A Niche Blog And Quit My 9 to 5 Job

Learn how Jessica started a niche travel blog and quit her 9-5 job, earning a living wage through Instagram advertising, sponsorships, and affiliate income, while traveling 3-4 times a month and increasing her website traffic from 400 to 25k page views in a year with Pinterest and Instagram growth tactics.

Read by 12,544 founders

12. Start an online food business ($336K/month)

As a skier, starting an online food business offers a flexible and lucrative opportunity to supplement your income or even launch a full-fledged venture. Whether it's gourmet trail snacks, pre-packaged meals for outdoor enthusiasts, or even ski-themed baked goods, the possibilities are endless. Embrace the convenience of offering delicious, ready-to-eat meals delivered directly to your customers' doorsteps, catering to busy professionals, food lovers, and adventurers alike.

Why starting an online food business?

  • It's a flexible option that fits well around your skiing schedule, allowing you to balance both passions effectively.
  • A unique niche, like ski-themed food or healthy trail snacks, could set you apart in the market and attract fellow skiing enthusiasts.
  • The convenience of ready-to-eat meals or specialty foods appeals to a broad audience, ensuring a stable customer base.

How much you can make: $2,000 — $3,000,000/month

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

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

Healthy Chew is a profitable weekly meal preparation service that grew from 200 to 10,000 weekly bowls in just over 3 years, with an overall sales figure of $1.8 million, achieved through effective branding and personalised customer service.

Read by 40,010 founders

13. Start a tour company ($74.8K/month)

Starting a tour company is a perfect way for skiers to turn their passion for the slopes into a profitable business venture. You'll be sharing your love and knowledge of skiing destinations with others, ensuring they have unforgettable experiences. Moreover, the flexibility in the type of tours you offer means you can tailor your services to align with your expertise and interests, be it adventure, sightseeing, or niche market segments.

From creating thrilling adventure tours in remote skiing locations to offering guided sightseeing tours in popular ski resorts, the possibilities are endless. Being knowledgeable about the terrain and local culture gives you a competitive edge and helps you provide exceptional value to your clients. To get started, you may need to look into licensing requirements and startup costs for your preferred mode of transportation.

Why start a tour company?

  • You could monetize your skiing expertise and create a stream of income by guiding others through the slopes.
  • Being a skier, you have unique insights and local knowledge that could set your tour company apart.
  • Flexible tour options allow you to customize experiences, helping you attract a wide range of clients and niches.

For more insights, check out Starter Story's guide on starting a tour company.

How much you can make: $3,750 — $500,000/month

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

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

How I Started A Wildly Successful Food Tour Business

How Jessica Baumgart founded a successful food tour business in Denver, which broke even and started making a profit after just three months, generating $20,000/month in revenue from offering different food tour experiences.

Read by 20,985 founders

14. Build a SEO tool ($99.8K/month)

Starting an SEO tool business could be an excellent way for skiers to supplement their income, as it leverages a digital platform that can be managed remotely—allowing you to maximize your time on the slopes. SEO tools are essential for website owners and businesses looking to enhance their online visibility, and by tapping into this demand, you could build a sustainable side business that doesn’t tie you to a fixed location. Moreover, the tech and digital aspects of an SEO tool business offer flexibility in scaling and developing new features to meet market needs.

For more insights, see how lucrative an SEO business can be.

Why consider building an SEO tool?

  • You can manage it remotely, giving you the flexibility to balance work and skiing.
  • The growing demand for SEO services means a steady stream of potential clients.
  • You could easily scale the business, adding new features and expanding your clientele without being tied down to a specific location.

How much you can make: $2,800 — $850,000/month

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

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

How I Bootstrapped My SaaS Company To $2.5M/Year In 5 Years As A Solo Founder

Solo founder Todd Hooper bootstrapped Prerender.io from zero to $2.5 million in ARR over 5 years by releasing an open-source project on Github and turning it into an SEO-friendly version of React, Angular, and Javascript websites, and then offering it as a SaaS service for businesses.

Read by 16,909 founders

15. Start a remote hiring company ($92.2K/month)

If you're passionate about skiing and love the freedom of remote work, starting a remote hiring company could provide the perfect balance between work and play. By matching remote job seekers with employers, you could build a thriving business that supports a more flexible and international workforce. This type of venture allows you to leverage your network and create job opportunities that transcend geographical limitations, enabling you to enjoy more time on the slopes while running a profitable business.

Why starting a remote hiring company?

  • You could work from anywhere—even from a cozy ski lodge—while managing your business online.
  • The demand for remote work is growing, providing a steady stream of potential clients and job seekers.
  • You could build a dynamic, global network, expanding your reach beyond the snowy peaks to a diverse customer base around the world.

To explore more on starting a remote hiring company, check out this page on Starter Story.

How much you can make: $10,000 — $350,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,875 (?)

How long does it take to build: 75 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 17,156 founders

16. Start a search platform ($55K/month)

Unlock the potential of information by starting a search platform. A search platform is a tool that helps users find specific information on the internet quickly and efficiently, tailored to niche markets or specialized data sets. As a skier, you could create a platform focusing on ski resorts, equipment reviews, and snow conditions, providing valuable information for fellow enthusiasts.

Such a platform can become an indispensable resource for skiers seeking the most relevant data about their passion. The demand for efficient information retrieval is high, making this an exciting and potentially lucrative venture. For more insights, check out these search platform success stories.

Why start a search platform? - You’ll cater to a passionate niche, enhancing user experience for skiers looking for specific information. - You could create a valuable resource that attracts a loyal user base, opening opportunities for monetization. - You’ll leverage your expertise and passion as a skier, making the platform authentic and trustworthy.

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

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

I Built A Reddit Search Engine That Generated $60K In Its First Year

Bootstrapped founder Fed shares the success of his community-focused products, The Hive Index and GummySearch, which have helped over 10k people find online communities each month and generated $60k in revenue in its first year, respectively.

Read by 11,789 founders

17. Start a fitness and wellness programs business ($64.7K/month)

As a skier, you understand the importance of physical fitness and mental resilience to excel on the slopes. Starting a fitness and wellness programs business enables you to share this expertise and passion with others, offering a range of classes and practices that promote a balanced and healthy lifestyle. This business could cater to individuals, small groups, or even corporate clients, helping them achieve their wellness goals through a holistic approach that integrates both body and mind.

By leveraging your knowledge of health and wellness, you could create personalized programs that include fitness routines, nutritional advice, and mindfulness practices such as meditation and yoga. Utilizing social media and engaging content can help you build a community that values a balanced lifestyle, all while supplementing your income through this meaningful venture. For more insights, check out some success stories at Starter Story.

Why starting a fitness and wellness programs business?

  • You could turn your skiing passion into a profitable side business by leveraging your knowledge in fitness.
  • You will have the chance to positively impact your community by promoting healthier lifestyles.
  • Offering personalized programs could create strong client relationships and increase customer loyalty.

How much you can make: $250 — $275,000/month

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

How I Created A $14K/Month Women's Fitness Brand

Serena Jenkins-Hannah created a fitness brand, Serena Hannah Athletics, that has generated over $100,000 in sales over a year and a half, with $70,000 of those sales coming during COVID-19, through selling their #1 item, the Hannah Booty Band System, on Amazon, and has now expanded to Shopify to add cash flow.

Read by 7,685 founders

18. Start an eBikes business ($540K/month)

As a skier, starting an eBikes business could be a strategic way to supplement your income, especially during the off-season. With over 880,000 eBikes sold annually, the market is booming, driven largely by millennials who are attracted to the health benefits and route flexibility that eBikes offer. By tapping into this growing demand, you could enjoy the benefits of a thriving business that aligns with your active lifestyle.

Why start an eBikes business?

  • High demand: The market is rapidly growing, creating ample opportunities for profit and expansion.
  • Health-focused clients: eBikes attract health-conscious individuals, a demographic you may already engage with as a skier.
  • Year-round business: Unlike skiing, eBikes can be used in various terrains and seasons, providing consistent income throughout the year.

For more insights on starting an eBikes business, you can visit Starter Story's detailed guides here.

How much you can make: $110,000 — $1,200,000/month

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

How I Partnered With Mark Cuban To Start A $250K/Month Company Selling eBikes

Tower Electric Bikes is a direct-to-consumer eBike brand co-founded by Stephan Aarstol and Mark Cuban, which has done over $36 million in sales since its $150,000 investment in 2012, and produced and sold everything from paddleboards to electric bikes for half the retail price, with the aim of creating the world's first famous eBike brand.

Read by 27,951 founders

19. Start an outdoor gear business ($45.6K/month)

Starting an outdoor gear business could be a natural fit if you're an avid skier looking to supplement your income or launch a side business. As someone who understands the importance of quality and durability in outdoor equipment, you would be well-positioned to cater to a market of hikers, campers, and adventurers. This business allows you to combine your passion for the outdoors with entrepreneurial ambitions, potentially offering products like tents, backpacks, and hiking boots that help others embark on their own adventures. If you're ready to take the plunge, check out these success stories for inspiration.

Why starting an outdoor gear business?

  • You could leverage your first-hand knowledge of outdoor gear to select and recommend the best products.
  • You would be entering a thriving market of outdoor enthusiasts eager for high-quality, reliable gear.
  • The business allows you to transform your passion for adventure into a lucrative endeavor.

How much you can make: $1,350 — $125,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $3,350 (?)

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

How I Started A $70K/Month Premium Ski Goggles And Helmets Brand With Just $5K

Glade Optics is a premium ski goggles and helmets brand that achieved close to $1M in annual sales with just $5,000 to start, using a favorable price point, streamlined messaging and marketing, and partnering with like-minded brands to lower CACs and get in front of more skiers.

Read by 16,043 founders

20. Start a transportation service ($331K/month)

Starting a transportation service as a skier makes perfect sense given the unique demands of the ski community. Since skiers often need reliable, flexible transportation to get to remote ski resorts or carry bulky gear, you could fill a vital niche by offering specialized transport options. Whether you're shuttling skiers from airports to ski lodges, providing rideshare services for local trips, or hauling gear, a transportation service can be a lucrative side business or a full-time venture.

Why start a transportation service?

  • You could cater to a targeted market. Skiers often face unique transportation needs that general services don't adequately meet, giving you a niche to exploit.
  • It's a versatile business model. Whether you decide to focus on passenger rides, equipment transport, or both, there's ample opportunity for profit and growth.
  • Your knowledge and passion for skiing are assets. You understand the terrain and the specific requirements of your fellow skiers, enabling you to provide a superior, tailored service. For more information on starting a transportation service, check out Starter Story’s success stories.

How much you can make: $6,000 — $1,080,000/month

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

How We Developed A $6K/Month Parcel Tracking Software While In College

Deepfinity, a proptech/logistics company, has developed an internal parcel tracking software tool that's helping large buildings cope with the influx of online shopping, and has been growing 20% MoM since making its first revenue 1.5 years ago, currently making $6K/Month.

Read by 8,322 founders

21. Start a yarn store ($257K/month)

Looking to share your passion for yarn and create a cozy community hub? Consider starting a yarn store. Imagine creating a space where creativity and camaraderie flourish, appealing to both seasoned knitters and curious beginners. With weekly classes, knitting circles, and special events, you could foster a loyal customer base while doing something you love. Starting a yarn store involves selecting a well-located retail space, curating a diverse inventory, and marketing to local crafting communities. It’s a rewarding venture for those passionate about fiber arts, offering the chance to build a business around creativity and community.

By combining your passion for skiing and yarn, you could also tap into the needs of fellow skiers who are on the lookout for high-quality, handmade gear like hats and scarves. This dual approach allows you to create a year-round business that thrives both on the slopes and in a cozy shop setting. Curious about the details? Check out some tips for starting a yarn store.

Why consider starting a yarn store?

  • You could create a community hub where creativity and camaraderie flourishes.
  • A yarn store can thrive year-round by appealing to both local crafters and fellow skiers looking for handmade gear.
  • Running a yarn store involves combining your love for fiber arts with entrepreneurial skills, offering personal and financial reward.

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

How I Left Corporate Life To Start A Yarn Business

Blacker Sheep Limited is an international yarn business that sells Blacker Yarns through their online shop and selected stockists across the world, with over half of their sales to countries outside the UK and half of those into the USA.

Read by 9,725 founders

22. Start a bartending service

Starting a bartending service is a great side business for skiers who are looking to supplement their income or even transition into a new field. Since ski resorts and nearby towns often have bustling nightlife scenes during the ski season, offering a bartending service can be highly lucrative. Whether you cater to private events, partner with local bars, or even set up pop-up bars on the slopes, this venture allows you to capitalize on your off-slope skills and interact with fellow skiing enthusiasts.

Why start a bartending service?

  • The ski season nightlife is vibrant, offering ample opportunities for bartending services to thrive.
  • Bartending can be flexible, allowing you to balance it with your skiing during the day.
  • It's a social job, letting you engage with both locals and tourists who share your passion for skiing.

23. Start a campus bus shuttle service

Running a campus bus shuttle service could be a fantastic supplemental income stream or full-fledged business for skiers. Not only do campuses require efficient and reliable transportation solutions, but having the flexibility to operate seasonally allows you to balance your skiing adventures with entrepreneurship. Collaboration with campus administration is key to gaining the necessary permissions to operate on campus grounds.

Expanding on this, a campus bus shuttle service ensures consistent demand since students and staff need reliable transportation year-round. By utilizing your off-season time effectively, you could build a thriving side business. For more information on the logistics and potential earnings, visit Starter Story's campus bus shuttle service guide.

Why start a campus bus shuttle service?

  • Ski seasons are limited; use off-seasons to build a steady income.
  • Campus transportation is a consistent, reliable market with less seasonal fluctuation.
  • Owning and operating buses helps in managing schedules flexibly, suited to your primary skiing passion.

24. Become a corporate trainer ($9.75K/month)

Starting a side business as a corporate trainer could be a great opportunity for skiers to supplement their income and make use of their expertise beyond the slopes. Corporate training involves creating and delivering programs that help employees develop new skills and improve their performance. As a skier, you could leverage your disciplined mindset, strategic thinking, and ability to adapt swiftly to new conditions, which are valuable traits in a teaching and training environment.

This business not only taps into your passion for education but also allows you to stay updated with industry trends, ensuring that your training programs remain relevant and engaging. Furthermore, as you grow in this field, you'll make a significant impact on workplace culture and efficiency, establishing yourself as a trusted advisor in professional growth.

Learn more about starting as a corporate trainer.

Why becoming a corporate trainer?

  • Corporations are always on the lookout for expert trainers to enhance employee skills and productivity.
  • Flexibility allows you to balance your skiing activities while still growing a side business.
  • Utilize your unique background and life skills from skiing to create engaging, dynamic training sessions.

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

How much does it cost to start: $2,250 (?)

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

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25. Start an eco-friendly retail business ($86K/month)

As a skier, you're likely aware of the impacts that climate change can have on our beloved snowy landscapes. By starting an eco-friendly retail business, you could combine your passion for skiing with a commitment to sustainability. Selling products like organic apparel, zero-waste toiletries, and eco-friendly home goods not only caters to a growing market of environmentally-conscious consumers but also enables you to contribute to the preservation of nature.

This business idea involves curating a thoughtfully selected inventory of sustainably sourced goods, building ethical partnerships, and educating your customers on the significance of sustainable living. The growing demand for eco-friendly products provides a fantastic opportunity to build a profitable venture that aligns with your values and love for the environment.

Why starting an eco-friendly retail business?

  • You'll cater to a rapidly growing market of consumers looking for sustainable alternatives.
  • You'll make a positive impact on the environment, aligning your business with your values.
  • You'll combine profit with purpose, creating a fulfilling entrepreneurial journey.

For more inspiration and practical tips, check out some success stories on eco-friendly retail businesses on Starter Story.

How much you can make: $6,000 — $240,096/month

How long does it take to build: 242 days (?)

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26. Start a weather vanes business

Starting a weather vanes business as a skier could be a fantastic way to supplement your income and keep your entrepreneurial spirit alive all year round. Given your deep appreciation for the outdoors and understanding of weather patterns, creating beautiful, functional weather vanes could align well with your passion. Plus, weather vanes are popular decorative items for cabins, lodges, and homes in ski-resort areas, making them a relevant product within your community.

Why consider starting a weather vanes business?

  • You could leverage your knowledge of weather and the outdoors to design unique, high-quality weather vanes that resonate with customers.
  • Selling weather vanes provides a steady income during off-season months when ski-related work might be limited.
  • As a skier with an eye for aesthetics, you can offer stylish, functional products that appeal to homeowners and ski enthusiasts alike.

Discover more about the pros and cons of starting a weather vanes business.

27. Start a board game business ($54.4K/month)

Starting a board game business can be an exciting and profitable venture, especially for skiers during the off-season. Creating board games is a rewarding process that can be done from home, allowing you to supplement your income while leveraging your love for strategic thinking and creativity. Plus, the board game industry is thriving, with an ever-growing community of enthusiasts eager for new and innovative games.

Why start a board game business?

  • Board games are easy to manufacture, making them a cost-effective business venture.
  • You could balance the seasonal nature of skiing with a year-round income stream by designing and selling games.
  • The skills you develop from skiing, like strategic thinking and problem-solving, naturally complement board game creation.

For more insights, you can explore success stories of board game entrepreneurs on Starter Story.

How much you can make: $1,500 — $250,000/month

How long does it take to build: 61 days (?)

Time commitment per week: Min. 10 hours/week

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28. Start a basketball charity matches business

As a skier, diversifying your income and leveraging your community involvement is essential, and starting a basketball charity matches business could be an innovative way to achieve this. By organizing charity matches, you could capitalize on the off-season to generate extra income and support great causes, while also engaging with your local and wider sporting communities. Plus, the organizational skills and network you've built as a skier can easily translate to managing such events.

Why consider basketball charity matches?

  • You could foster community spirit by bringing people together for a good cause.
  • It's a way to utilize your off-season effectively, ensuring a steady side income.
  • Leveraging your existing network as a skier could make the initial setup smoother and more effective.

For more insights, you might find the pros and cons of a basketball charity matches business on Starter Story insightful.

29. Become a youtube personality

Becoming a YouTube personality could be an incredibly lucrative and enjoyable business endeavor for skiers. By sharing exhilarating footage of your skiing adventures, offering tips and tutorials, and reviewing gear, you could attract a dedicated audience of ski enthusiasts. Monetization options include advertising revenue, channel memberships, merchandise, Super Chat & Super Stickers, and YouTube Premium Revenue, all of which can provide multiple income streams.

Why become a YouTube personality?

  • You could reach a global audience of skiing enthusiasts, expanding your personal brand and influence.
  • Multiple revenue streams ensure you diversify your income, making it a sustainable business.
  • Sharing your passion and expertise could turn a hobby into a full-time income while doing what you love.

For more details on starting a YouTube channel, you can explore these success stories for inspiration.

How much you can make: $175,000/month

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

How long does it take to build: 34 days (?)

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meet the author
Pat Walls

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