20 Business Ideas For Tech Geeks [2024]
The tech world is constantly evolving, offering endless opportunities for those with a knack for innovation. If you've ever dreamed of turning your passion for technology into a business, 2024 could be your year. From AI-driven services to niche hardware products, the options are as diverse as they are promising.
You could develop software solutions that streamline everyday tasks for businesses. Or, you might create a cutting-edge app that addresses a unique market need. Another possibility is venturing into the world of custom PC building or specialized tech support services.
For those interested in sustainable tech, you could explore green technology solutions. This could involve creating energy-efficient devices or developing software that optimizes resource management. Regardless of your specific interest, there's a path waiting for you to explore.
For each business idea, we'll show you real-world examples of other tech geek businesses to help you see what it takes.
Here's the full list:
1. Create an AI writing tool ($255K/month)
Unveiling the sphere of AI writing tools: a business proposition that delves into the rapid advancements of technology. This enterprise revolves around creating a digital tool powered by Artificial Intelligence to aid in content creation. Capable of generating accurate and engaging content, this tool could revolutionize the way businesses, bloggers, and students write. Embedding artificial intelligence into the core of content creation, it offers significant advantages over traditional methods of writing. Automated, error-free, and time-efficient content is now one click away. An AI writing tool is the future writer's best friend.
Why creating an AI writing tool?
- Demand for high-quality content is skyrocketing, and an AI writing tool meets this need efficiently and effectively.
- As a tech geek, you'll enjoy the challenge of developing a sophisticated AI tool that continuously learns and improves.
- You'll be at the forefront of innovation, creating a product that transforms the writing process and attracts a diverse user base.
How much you can make: $4,000 — $1,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 52 days (?)
Rytr, a new AI writing assistant developed by a startup platform and business incubator, has become a market leader, serving over 300,000 customers across the world and doing seven figures in ARR.
2. Start an ai based business solution ($55.8K/month)
Launching an AI-based business solution makes perfect sense for tech geeks who thrive on innovation and efficiency. By integrating AI into business operations, you could enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and drive data-driven decisions with unparalleled accuracy. AI tools can automate mundane tasks, offer insightful customer analytics, and even forecast market trends, making it a lucrative and forward-thinking endeavor.
Moreover, the demand for AI solutions is skyrocketing as businesses strive for a competitive edge through technological advancements. With user-friendly platforms and robust support systems available, your tech background will make it easier to navigate the complexities of AI implementation. This business opportunity not only provides an exciting challenge but also the potential for substantial financial rewards. For more details, check out these AI-based business solution success stories.
Why start an AI-based business solution?
- AI can automate repetitive tasks, freeing up time for more creative and strategic activities.
- It offers deep customer insights and predictive analytics, allowing businesses to stay ahead of the curve.
- The growing market for AI solutions presents numerous opportunities for substantial financial gains.
How much you can make: $4,000 — $120,000/month
How long does it take to build: 125 days (?)
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.
3. Create a mobile app ($70.3K/month)
As a tech geek, starting a mobile app can be an exciting and lucrative opportunity to supplement your income. Whether you have a brilliant idea that solves a problem or a concept for an engaging game, developing a mobile app is more feasible than you might think. With just a clear vision and some coding skills—or the ability to hire a developer—you could turn your concepts into a fully functional mobile application that attracts users and generates revenue. For inspiration, check out inspirational success stories on Starter Story from mobile app entrepreneurs.
Why consider creating a mobile app?
- Mobile apps have become integral to daily life, providing vast opportunities for innovative solutions.
- Monetizing a successful app could generate significant passive income.
- As a tech geek, you already possess the skills needed to design, develop, and debug, giving you a head start in the app world.
How much you can make: $1 — $500,000/month
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
BACH, an app that plans and books bachelorette parties, has grown from $0 to >$1M net revenue run rate in less than 6 months, gained over 100,000 users in their first 60 days, and has over 40,000 parties using the app this month.
4. Start a health and wellness app ($108K/month)
Starting a health and wellness app is a fantastic business idea for tech geeks with a passion for improving people's lives through innovative solutions. By developing an app that provides personalized fitness routines, nutrition plans, and mental well-being exercises, you could leverage your technical expertise to create a platform that functions as a virtual coach. Imagine positively impacting users by offering expert advice and tracking their progress—all from their smartphones.
The process involves thorough market research, collaboration with health experts, app development, and strategic marketing. With the health tech industry rapidly growing, this venture has significant potential for both financial success and meaningful contributions to users' well-being. For more insights, check out this page.
Why start a health and wellness app?
- You could tap into a booming market with increasing demand for personalized health solutions.
- Your technical skills will allow you to create an engaging and effective user experience.
- Combining technology and health could lead to a business that not only generates income but also improves lives.
How much you can make: $600 — $300,000/month
How long does it take to build: 200 days (?)
Founder and CEO of SelfDecode, Joe Cohen, explains how his company helps people discover personalized diet, supplement, and lifestyle recommendations based on DNA and lab tests; generating about $2.7 million in revenue over the past year and raising $8 million in a crowdfunding campaign, SelfDecode provides personalized health recommendations prioritized on unique genetic variants, marking the future of healthcare.
5. Develop a lead generation tool ($108K/month)
If you're a tech geek looking for a profitable venture, developing a lead generation tool could be the perfect fit for your skills. This business idea revolves around creating software that helps companies automate the task of identifying and capturing potential customer leads. Your tool could integrate seamlessly with websites, social media channels, and other digital touchpoints to gather valuable data such as email addresses, phone numbers, and user interests.
Businesses of all sizes are in constant need of efficient ways to streamline their marketing efforts and expand their customer base. With your technical expertise and a keen eye for marketing, developing a lead generation tool could be your gateway to a thriving side hustle or even a full-fledged business. For more on the lead generation tool business, check out these pros and cons.
Why developing a lead generation tool?
- High demand: Companies are always looking for efficient ways to attract new customers.
- Automation potential: Streamline the manual process of lead capturing and free up valuable time for clients.
- Technical expertise: Leverage your coding skills to create a marketable and valuable product.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $400,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $600 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Dux-Soup is a LinkedIn automation tool that helps business owners and sales & marketing professionals generate more leads, increase efficiency, and save time; with over 70,000 users and revenue of nearly $5 million, it offers automated top-of-the-funnel LinkedIn outreach activities, targeted LinkedIn campaigns and multi-touch & personalized LinkedIn drip campaigns for lead generation.
6. Start an email marketing tool ($992K/month)
Starting an email marketing tool business as a tech geek aligns perfectly with your skillset. With the email marketing industry projected to reach $2.53B by 2028, developing a software that helps businesses automate and manage their email campaigns presents a lucrative opportunity. As a tech enthusiast, you possess the necessary expertise to tackle the technical challenges and implement innovative features, making it easier to create a robust, user-friendly platform that could attract a diverse range of clients.
Check out tips for starting an email marketing tool business.
Why start an email marketing tool?
- The email marketing industry is growing rapidly, providing a strong market for your product.
- As a tech geek, you could leverage your skills to build sophisticated features that stand out.
- This business offers scalability, allowing you to serve everyone from small startups to large enterprises.
How much you can make: $120 — $20,833,333/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
H-supertools founder Hasan developed a set of free SEO and digital marketing tools generating $2k per month in profit using Google Adsense, affiliate marketing, selling ad spaces, and email, plans to launch a membership option, and has attained over 80k registered users and 300k monthly visits in less than two years.
7. Start a social media automation business ($139K/month)
Starting a social media automation business could be a smart move for a tech geek, combining your love for technology with a lucrative opportunity. Leveraging your skills, you could develop tools and services that streamline social media management, enhancing engagement and growth for clients ranging from small businesses to influencers. This business model addresses a growing need for consistent, strategic social media engagement, making it a potentially fulfilling and profitable endeavor. For more insights into startup costs, you can check Starter Story.
Why start a social media automation business?
- The demand for efficient social media management is skyrocketing, providing a wealth of clients.
- Your technical skills allow you to create advanced automation tools, giving you a competitive edge.
- This business can generate recurring income, as clients continually seek ways to enhance their social media presence.
How much you can make: $4,000 — $400,000/month
How long does it take to build: 50 days (?)
MeetEdgar, a bootstrapped social media automation tool founded in 2014 by Laura Roeder, has grown to $4 million in annual recurring revenue and more than 5,000 customers, with a team size of two dozen, achieved through content marketing, social media marketing, and organic search.
8. Start a niche website ($107K/month)
As a tech geek, starting a niche website allows you to leverage your specific expertise into a focused online business, combining both your passion and potential revenue. By creating targeted content around a subject you know well, you'll serve a dedicated audience, driving traffic and building a community. Once established, a niche website can offer multiple revenue streams like affiliate marketing, ad placements, and digital product sales.
A niche website further provides the opportunity to explore creative freedom while ensuring a reliable source of passive income. If you are ready to immerse yourself in research, content creation, and SEO, this could become a rewarding side project or even a full-time business Check out these success stories for inspiration.
Why start a niche website?
- You can dive deep into a subject you love while building a dedicated following.
- It can become a steady source of passive income through various monetization strategies.
- You have the chance to exercise creative freedom while delivering valuable content to your audience.
How much you can make: $400 — $250,000/month
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
DPW (Digital Procurement World) is a fast-growing conference and community in procurement that has more than tripled in revenue since launching in 2019, capping out the year at €1.8 million, with 95% of their growth coming from inbound traffic leveraging LinkedIn and applying social selling techniques.
9. Start a cold email service business ($170K/month)
If you are a tech geek with a strategic mindset and a flair for engaging writing, starting a cold email service business could be a smart entrepreneurial move. This business involves crafting and sending targeted email campaigns to help companies reach new clients directly via email. By leveraging email marketing tools, analyzing client needs, and tracking performance metrics like open rates and conversions, you can effectively drive lead generation for businesses. The potential for scaling is substantial, beginning with small businesses and expanding as your portfolio of success stories grows.
Why consider starting a cold email service business?
- You could utilize your technical skills and strategic thinking in a high-demand service.
- The ability to scale your business is real; start small and grow as you gain more success stories.
- It combines marketing finesse with technical knowhow, making it an ideal fit for tech geeks.
For more inspiration, check out some cold email service business success stories here.
How much you can make: $4,000 — $450,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $200 (?)
How long does it take to build: 35 days (?)
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.
10. Start a wordpress plugin business ($33.4K/month)
If you're a tech geek interested in solving problems and creating innovative solutions, starting a WordPress plugin business could be right up your alley. WordPress powers over 40% of the web, and plugins are essential for adding functionality to these sites. By developing and selling plugins that address specific needs, you could generate a steady stream of income while helping website owners optimize their platforms. Platforms like CodeCanyon and your own website are great places to showcase and sell your plugins (success stories here).
Why start a WordPress plugin business?
- You have the skills to identify and solve unique problems, making your plugins invaluable to website owners.
- The demand for plugins is immense and constantly growing, providing a lucrative opportunity for recurring income.
- As a tech geek, you'll find the development and innovation process engaging, aligning perfectly with your passion for technology.
How much you can make: $120 — $120,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week
Wheely Sales CEO Josh created a lucky wheel popup that has grown revenue from $0 to $600/month in just 4 months since getting started and has attracted over 1.1 million users to his customers’ websites, all while proving that when it comes to creating a product, competition is validation.
11. Start a YouTube channel ($72.1K/month)
Starting a YouTube channel could be a fantastic side business for tech geeks looking to supplement their income or even create a full-time business. With your expertise, you could create engaging video content on topics like tech reviews, how-to guides, and deep dives into the latest gadgets. Leveraging YouTube's monetization options like ads, sponsorships, and merchandise, you could turn your passion for technology into a lucrative venture. The platform also allows you to build a community of like-minded individuals, giving you the opportunity to influence and educate others.
Why consider starting a YouTube channel?
- You could monetize your unique tech knowledge through ads, sponsorships, and merchandise.
- Sharing your expertise can help build a loyal community around your content.
- The platform offers flexibility, allowing you to turn your passion into a viable income stream.
For more insights into starting a successful YouTube channel and tips on marketing, check out Starter Story's YouTube Channel Marketing Ideas.
How much you can make: $2,000 — $333,333/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,250 (?)
How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)
This case study follows the journey of a young entrepreneur from Nigeria who started a profitable blog generating a monthly revenue of $1,500+ through sales of advertising space, sponsored posts, and information products, and shares his strategies for success including a Twitter growth challenge and guest post pitches.
12. Start an online word counter
An online word counter might seem basic, but it addresses a widespread need in today’s digital age. This tool allows users to count words, characters, and even sentences within text documents quickly and accurately, making it essential for students, professionals, writers, and social media managers. As a tech geek, you could leverage your web development expertise to create an intuitive platform offering this service for free or with premium features, potentially generating income through ads or subscription models for advanced functionalities.
The simplicity of launching this business means low initial costs with the real investment being your time and expertise. By transforming this straightforward tool into a must-have digital utility, you could carve out a niche in a space where efficiency is paramount, simplifying workflows for a diverse range of users.
Why consider starting an online word counter?
- Low initial costs with the primary investment being your web development skills and time.
- High potential for generating recurring revenue through ads or subscription models.
- Opportunity to provide a valuable tool that streamlines the workflow for professionals and content creators.
For a deeper dive into the potential of this business idea, check out some success stories and marketing strategies here.
How much you can make: $20,000/month
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Founder Kevin Miller's online word counter tool achieved over 300,000 keyword rankings, over 2,400 domain referrals and made $40,000 per month through Google's top results in just two years through SEO practices, proving the value of investing in quality and SEO.
13. Develop an online survey tool ($304K/month)
Starting an online survey tool could be a fantastic business opportunity for tech geeks yearning to leverage their deep technical skills to create a product that caters to the growing demand for data collection. Online survey tools, like Typeform, empower businesses to gather essential customer feedback efficiently and cost-effectively. This aligns perfectly with the entrepreneurial spirit, offering you a chance to develop a versatile survey builder, data collection tool, and reporting system.
An online survey tool could be a lucrative side business or even a full-time venture, considering the market's expanding reliance on digital feedback mechanisms. With businesses increasingly valuing data-driven decisions, there's an ever-growing need for comprehensive survey solutions, positioning you to seize a significant market opportunity. For more detailed insights on this journey, explore success stories from others who have successfully launched similar tools.
Why developing an online survey tool?
- Leverage your technical expertise: Tap into your deep technical skills to create an intuitive, robust, and innovative survey platform.
- High demand for data collection: With the data-driven decision-making trend, businesses are constantly seeking advanced survey solutions.
- Scalable business model: The SaaS nature of an online survey tool offers scalable revenue potential with recurring subscriptions.
How much you can make: $40 — $1,600,000/month
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
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.
14. Start an affiliate marketing business ($77.5K/month)
Looking for a side hustle to pay you a passive income? As a tech geek, starting an affiliate marketing business could be a fantastic option. You could leverage your tech-savvy skills to earn money online by promoting other companies' products and services in your niche. You'll be paid a commission for each sale you make as an affiliate marketer, and there are countless brands and products to choose from, whether it's an eCommerce store or specific tech gadgets.
To get started, learn how to find the right products and brands to partner with. For example, you may prefer becoming an affiliate marketer for an eCommerce store, partnering with a manufacturer, and marketing their products for a commission. For more budding opportunities, consider browsing some affiliate marketing success stories.
Why start an affiliate marketing business?
- It offers a passive income stream. Your tech skills can automate and optimize the marketing process.
- Minimal startup costs. You likely already have the technical expertise and tools needed.
- Endless possibilities. Tap into a vast array of products and niches that align with your interests and expertise.
How much you can make: $500 — $773,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $700 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
This case study explores how Spencer Mecham founded Buildapreneur, an affiliate marketing business, and has made over half a million dollars in profit with no employees, relying solely on content marketing through platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.
15. Start an online course sales business ($85K/month)
As a tech geek, starting an online course sales business could be a perfect blend of monetizing your expertise and capitalizing on the massive growth of the e-learning market, which is expected to be worth over $645 Billion in the coming years. You can create courses on topics you are passionate about, such as coding, web design, or even emerging technologies like blockchain and AI, and sell them on platforms that take care of the distribution for you. This not only enables you to generate passive income but also allows you to share your specialized knowledge with a global audience.
Why start an online course sales business?
- The upfront effort pays dividends. Once you create your online course, it can generate passive income for years by continually attracting new students.
- You already possess the expertise. Whether it's web development, app creation, or another tech skill, turning your knowledge into teachable content can be straightforward and rewarding.
- Helping others is inherently satisfying. Sharing your skills and enabling others to learn can be just as gratifying as the financial benefits.
For more detailed insights and startup costs, visit Starter Story's online course sales business page.
How much you can make: $100 — $300,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
A multipreneur shares how she built a successful print on demand side hustle, generating $120,000 per year through multiple brands spread over various platforms.
16. Start a dropshipping business ($414K/month)
Starting a dropshipping business could be an ideal side hustle or full-time venture for tech geeks. By leveraging your tech-savvy skills, you could efficiently manage your online store and navigate supplier relationships using platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce. With minimal upfront investment, this business model allows you to focus on innovative marketing strategies and optimizing customer experiences without worrying about inventory management, thus providing you with the flexibility to steadily grow your business.
Learn more about how you can get started with dropshipping here.
Why a dropshipping business?
- Minimal upfront investment. As a tech geek, you could set up your online store using your technical skills, reducing setup costs.
- Flexibility and scalability. You could easily manage and grow your store from anywhere, allowing you to focus on product research and marketing.
- No inventory hassle. Since suppliers handle shipping, you could focus on enhancing user experience and customer service.
How much you can make: $6,000 — $3,000,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $8,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 10 hours/week
Entrepreneur Kamil Sattar has developed multiple six-figure drop shipping businesses, and his company, e-commerce mentoring, specializes in helping others create their own successful companies, with favorite platforms including using Shopify and apps such as Loox reviews and SMSBump.
17. Start a subscription box business ($97.9K/month)
As a tech geek, starting a subscription box business could be an exciting venture to supplement your income or even become your full-time business. By curating a specialized box tailored to niche tech interests—like hardware components, coding accessories, or the latest gadgets—you could add significant value to your subscribers. Plus, the recurring revenue model offers a steady income stream with numerous opportunities for scale.
Why consider a subscription box business?
- Niche Product Expertise: Leverage your tech knowledge to offer unique, curated items that cater to a dedicated customer base.
- High Demand: Subscription boxes are popular because they offer exclusive, high-value products, which can lead to higher customer retention and profitability.
- Recurring Revenue: The subscription model ensures steady, predictable income and opportunities for growth.
For more insights, check out some subscription box business success stories.
How much you can make: $400 — $400,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $210 (?)
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
Vowed Box Co. is a line of curated, quirky gift boxes with non-traditional brides in mind, offering four different products that have helped the business become profitable most months since its launch in 2018, with a monthly income of roughly $600.
18. Start a podcast ($97.9K/month)
Starting a podcast can be an excellent avenue for tech geeks to supplement their income or launch a side business. By leveraging your technical knowledge, you could create compelling and informative content that resonates with a niche audience, drawing in listeners who share your interests. With minimal upfront costs and various free or affordable hosting platforms, the initial setup can be budget-friendly. For ideas and inspiration, you can check out some successful podcast stories here.
Why start a podcast?
- It's a low-cost startup venture; all you need is basic recording equipment and a hosting platform.
- You could build an engaged community around your specific tech interests and topics.
- There’s potential for monetization through sponsorships, advertisements, and listener donations as your audience grows.
How much you can make: $400 — $1,020,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 2 hours/week
A successful podcast production company that grew from one client making $15/hour to a team of 10 contractors producing over 30 shows per week with revenue of over $10k/mo, primarily through referrals and with a focus on providing high personal touch and being picky about working only with clients who are a good fit.
19. Start a niche blog ($31.5K/month)
Starting a niche blog can be a great way for tech geeks to share their expertise on specific topics, ranging from the latest gadgets to coding tutorials. By focusing on an underserved niche, you could attract a passionate online community eager for content that offers valuable insights and practical knowledge. Creating regular, engaging, and informative content like how-to guides, product reviews, and industry news could gain you a dedicated audience over time, setting the stage for monetization through affiliate marketing, brand collaborations, and even speaking engagements.
Why start a niche blog?
- You could turn your technical know-how into a revenue stream by monetizing your blog through affiliate links and brand partnerships.
- Sharing your specialized knowledge allows you to establish yourself as an authority in your niche, attracting loyal followers and potential business opportunities.
- Blogging gives you the flexibility to work on your own schedule, making it an ideal side hustle or full-time business for tech enthusiasts seeking to supplement their income or make extra money.
For more tips and ideas, check out this page on niche blog startup costs.
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 (?)
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.
20. Start an ecommerce reselling business ($83.3K/month)
Starting an eCommerce reselling business could be a great fit for tech geeks looking to supplement their income or launch a side business in 2024. By leveraging your tech-savviness, you can identify in-demand products or services and make informed purchasing decisions, minimizing risk and maximizing profit. This business model allows you to dive into the world of eCommerce without needing significant upfront investment, as you don't need a website to get started; a social media-based reselling strategy could be enough initially.
Why start an eCommerce reselling business?
- The low barrier to entry allows you to utilize your tech expertise with minimal upfront investment.
- Your tech skills can help in optimizing online sales channels and using data analytics to identify market trends.
- Flexibility in time management means you can start small and scale as your business grows.
For more detailed insights, check out some success stories on Starter Story.
How much you can make: $4,000 — $150,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,999 (?)
How long does it take to build: 75 days (?)
Empyre Off-Road, an e-commerce business founded by Greg Shuey which sells aftermarket parts for Toyota Tacomas, Tundras, and 4Runners, generated approximately $100,000 a month in revenue and was able to expand its product offering, focusing on content marketing, email marketing campaigns, and organic social media to attract and retain customers.
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Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
