20 Business Ideas For Thesbians [2024]
As a thespian, your ability to captivate an audience and think creatively is a great advantage in the business world. In 2024, there are numerous opportunities where your skills could lead to successful ventures. Whether you're looking to start small or aim for something grand, the possibilities are broad and varied.
Perhaps you've considered launching a theater academy, leveraging your experience to train aspiring actors. Alternatively, you could create a production company, bringing your vision and directorial skills to diverse projects. These paths not only utilize your talents but also meet a growing demand for quality entertainment.
Another idea could be offering personalized coaching sessions, helping individuals improve their public speaking and presentation skills. You might also explore content creation, producing engaging videos, podcasts, or web series. Each of these ventures allows you to remain deeply connected to your passion while building a profitable business.
For each business idea, we'll show you real-world examples of other thesbians businesses to help you see what it takes.
Here's the full list:
1. Start a podcast ($97.9K/month)
Starting a podcast is an excellent way for thespians to showcase their storytelling skills, engage with a wider audience, and create an additional stream of income. With your experience in performing and an innate ability to captivate audiences, you could create compelling audio content that resonates with listeners. This venture leverages your strengths and provides opportunities to discuss industry insights, interview fellow actors, or explore various facets of the performing arts world.
Why starting a podcast?
- You could leverage your performance skills to create engaging and unique content that stands out.
- Building an audience could open doors to sponsorships and advertising revenue.
- It's an affordable venture to start, requiring minimal investment in basic recording equipment.
For more information on starting a podcast, check out some ideas here.
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.
2. Start an online course sales business ($85K/month)
For thesbians looking to supplement their income or start a side business, an online course sales business is a fantastic opportunity. You could monetize your unique skills and experience by creating courses on acting techniques, stage performance tips, improvisation, or even the business side of the entertainment industry. With the growing e-learning market projected to reach over $645 billion in the next few years, there has never been a better time to share your expertise and turn your passion into a profitable venture.
Why start an online course sales business?
- Your initial efforts will create lasting income streams. Once your course is created, you could continue to earn money as more people enroll over time.
- You already possess valuable, specialized knowledge. Share your experience in acting, performance, or even industry insights with those eager to learn.
- Reach a global audience. Teaching online allows you to connect with aspiring thesbians and performers from around the world, expanding your influence and impact.
For more tips and insights on starting your online course sales business, check out these [success stories].
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.
3. Start a YouTube channel ($72.1K/month)
Starting a YouTube channel could be an excellent way for thespians to supplement their income while leveraging their natural talent for performance and storytelling. This platform gives you the flexibility to create engaging content, such as acting tips, monologues, behind-the-scenes looks, or vlogs about life as an artist. With avenues for revenue like ads, sponsorships, and merchandise, your passion for the performing arts can transform into a fruitful side business or even a full-time career, especially if you are willing to put in the time to build a loyal audience.
Building a successful YouTube channel requires a commitment to quality and consistency. You'll need to plan your content, shoot and edit videos, and engage with your audience regularly. If you understand SEO for videos and social media marketing, you could drive substantial traction to your channel.
Check out these success stories from other YouTube channel creators to get inspired.
Why starting a YouTube channel?
- Your acting skills naturally align with creating compelling video content, making it easier to connect with your audience.
- You could create a diverse range of content, from acting tutorials and behind-the-scenes vlogs to dramatic readings and more.
- The potential for income through ads, sponsorships, and merchandise sales can provide a stable revenue stream while pursuing your passion.
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.
4. Start a niche website ($107K/month)
For those of you looking to combine creativity with entrepreneurship, starting a niche website could be a rewarding side business. By centering your site around a specialized topic that you're passionate about, you could attract a dedicated audience and monetize your unique knowledge and insights. Whether through affiliate marketing, ad placements, or selling digital products, a well-constructed niche website could generate a reliable source of extra income or even become a full-fledged business.
Why start a niche website?
- You could blend your interests with entrepreneurship, creating a platform to share your enthusiasm while generating income.
- The niche focus allows you to become an authority in a specific area, drawing in a loyal and engaged audience.
- Once established, a niche website can provide passive income, freeing up more time to focus on your thespian pursuits.
For those intrigued to learn more about the possibilities, check out these niche website success stories on Starter Story.
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.
5. Start a niche blog ($31.5K/month)
Starting a niche blog as a thespian can be a lucrative and fulfilling way to supplement your income, make extra money, and possibly even create a full-fledged business. By leveraging your unique insights and experiences in the world of theater, you could attract a dedicated audience interested in everything from behind-the-scenes stories to acting tips and performance critiques. Monetizing your blog through affiliate links, collaborations with brands, and speaking engagements will not only provide financial benefits but also increase your industry visibility.
Why choose to start a niche blog?
- You already have valuable, specialized knowledge about the theater world that you can share.
- A niche blog allows you to connect with a passionate, targeted audience who value your expertise and content.
- Blogging can open doors to new opportunities, including partnerships, sponsorships, and even speaking engagements at industry events.
For more tips on creating a successful niche blog, visit Starter Story's tips for niche blogging.
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.
6. Start an affiliate marketing business ($77.5K/month)
As a thespian, starting an affiliate marketing business could be a fantastic way to supplement your income. By promoting products and services that resonate with your interests and audience, you could earn commissions on each sale made through your marketing efforts. This side hustle not only offers the potential for passive income but also allows you to engage and monetize your creative talents online.
To get started, learn how to find the right product and brand to partner with. For example, you could consider partnering with an eCommerce store or a manufacturer, marketing their products for a commission. For more detailed insights, visit this page on Starter Story.
Why starting an affiliate marketing business?
- It's a low-cost and flexible side hustle, allowing you to work on your own schedule.
- It leverages your creative skills in content creation, expanding your online presence.
- You can earn passive income, which means you get paid even when you're busy with gigs and auditions.
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.
7. Start an email marketing tool ($992K/month)
Starting an email marketing tool could be a lucrative venture for thespians with a knack for creativity and communication. With the email marketing industry booming, this business can provide a steady income stream by helping other businesses effectively reach their audience. Leveraging your understanding of storytelling and audience engagement, you could create compelling email marketing campaigns that stand out in a crowded inbox.
Why start an email marketing tool?
- It capitalizes on the growing demand for effective digital marketing solutions, tapping into a market expected to reach $2.53B by 2028.
- Thespians possess unique storytelling abilities that can enhance email content, making campaigns more engaging and successful.
- This business can provide a flexible income stream, allowing you to work on your craft while also running a thriving enterprise. Read more about email marketing tool ideas and tips here.
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.
8. Create an AI writing tool ($255K/month)
Starting an AI writing tool can be a lucrative side business for thespians. Leveraging advancements in technology, this tool can generate high-quality, engaging content efficiently, helping businesses, bloggers, and students meet the ever-growing demand for good writing. Whether you want to supplement your income or turn this venture into a full-fledged business, AI writing tools present a unique opportunity for creative professionals.
Why create an AI writing tool?
- Diversify your income while utilizing your creative expertise in a modern, tech-driven industry.
- Help content creators and businesses expedite their writing process, making it easier for them to produce consistent, high-quality content.
- Stay ahead of industry trends by offering a solution that meets the rising demand for automated, error-free, and efficient content creation.
By delving into this exciting endeavor, you'll not only innovate but also contribute to the future of writing. For more insights, check out this success story of creating an AI writing tool.
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.
9. Start an ai based business solution ($55.8K/month)
Starting an AI-based business solution could be an excellent venture for thespians looking to supplement their income or launch a side business. Leveraging artificial intelligence can help you streamline various business operations, from customer service to data analysis, improving efficiency and reducing costs. Plus, with user-friendly AI platforms, you don’t need a technical background to begin, making it accessible for anyone willing to learn and innovate.
The rising demand for AI solutions can offer a substantial market opportunity. By implementing AI tools in high-impact areas, you could provide valuable services that help other businesses gain a competitive edge. Check out some inspiring success stories and practical tips on how to start an AI-based business solution here.
Why consider starting an AI-based business solution?
- AI can automate tedious tasks, freeing up more time for creative pursuits.
- AI solutions are in high demand, presenting numerous opportunities for growth.
- You can enhance client services with personalized and data-driven insights.
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.
10. Create a mobile app ($70.3K/month)
As a thesbian, creating a mobile app can be an excellent way to combine your creative talents with entrepreneurial ambitions. Mobile apps offer a versatile platform for sharing unique insights, entertainment, or even educational content, which could appeal to a broad audience. With your storytelling skills and artistic eye, you could develop an app that stands out in the crowded market, turning your passion into a profitable business.
Your app could range from a virtual theatre production platform to an interactive storytelling game that showcases your creativity and engages users. Marketing your app effectively could attract a significant user base and generate revenue through app purchases, subscriptions, or advertisements. The barrier to entry is lower than ever, with resources and freelancers available to assist with the technical aspects if needed.
Why create a mobile app?
- Mobile apps provide a modern and expansive platform for showcasing your thesbian talent.
- You could monetize your creativity, turning unique content into a steady income stream.
- Engaging user experiences through your app could build a loyal audience and open doors to additional opportunities.
For more information on starting a mobile app business, check out some success stories and marketing ideas here.
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.
11. Start a subscription box business ($97.9K/month)
For thespians, starting a subscription box business can be a fantastic way to supplement your income or dive into an entrepreneurial venture. By curating boxes filled with items related to the performing arts—such as scripts, theatrical memorabilia, makeup kits, or exclusive backstage experiences—you can tap into a niche market that is of high interest to both fellow actors and theatre enthusiasts. Not only does this business model add value to customer service, but offering exclusive, carefully selected items on a monthly basis can also be highly profitable.
There’s a growing demand for unique subscription boxes, and as a thespian, you have the creative edge to design something truly special. Whether you are looking to turn it into a side hustle or a full-time business, understanding your niche market, building good relationships with suppliers, and marketing your service effectively are key steps to success. For more insights on starting a subscription box business, explore these success stories.
Why start a subscription box business?
- Subscription boxes offer a reliable, recurring revenue stream by locking in monthly subscribers.
- You can leverage your theatrical knowledge to create unique and valuable content that resonates with your audience.
- It allows you to combine your passion for the performing arts with entrepreneurship, blending creativity with business acumen.
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.
12. Start a social media automation business ($139K/month)
Imagine managing multiple social media accounts effortlessly while driving engagement and growth. That’s the essence of a social media automation business. For thespians, who are often already attuned to the nuances of self-promotion and audience engagement, starting this business can be a natural fit. By creating tools and services to automate posts, interactions, and data analysis, you could help clients—from small businesses to influencers—save time and enhance their social media presence.
Why start a social media automation business?
- You could leverage your existing skills in audience engagement and content creation.
- This business offers flexibility, allowing you to work around your acting schedule.
- The increasing demand for streamlined social media management presents a lucrative opportunity.
For more insights, check out Starter Story.
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.
13. Start a device management business
Starting a device management business could be an excellent side gig or primary venture for thespians. While your days might be spent on stage or in front of the camera, evenings and weekends could be devoted to managing and securing devices for various organizations. Given the increasing reliance on technology, businesses are in dire need of efficient device management, positioning you well to tap into this essential service.
This type of business typically requires technical knowledge, which can be acquired through online courses or hands-on experience. Furthermore, a device management business offers a stable demand, leveraging your organizational skills to maintain operational efficiency for other companies. For more insights on this opportunity, consider exploring Starter Story's resources.
Wondering why starting a device management business makes sense?
- Secure income: This venture has stable demand, making it a reliable source of supplementary or primary income.
- Flexible scheduling: You could manage devices at times that don’t conflict with your acting commitments.
- Technical growth: Use this business to develop valuable tech skills, bolstering your resume and career versatility.
14. Start a stock photography business ($14.6K/month)
Starting a stock photography business as a thesbian can be a great way to leverage your creative skills and supplement your income. You could build an impressive portfolio by capturing high-quality images related to the arts, performances, and behind-the-scenes moments, which can be licensed for marketing and advertising purposes to businesses and bloggers. This venture not only provides a passive income stream but also allows you to further explore your artistic expression through the lens of a camera.
To kickstart this business, you’ll need to invest in quality photography gear and learn the nuances of taking and editing stock photos. Establishing a strong online presence can help you sell your images faster and at profitable margins. For more detailed insights, check out this page on stock photography business profitability.
Why start a stock photography business?
- You could utilize your artistic eye for capturing compelling images, turning everyday scenes into profitable assets.
- Building a diverse portfolio can tap into various markets, from web designers to advertising agencies, increasing your revenue streams.
- Passive income potential allows you to earn money continuously with minimal ongoing effort once your portfolio is established.
How much you can make: $1,200 — $45,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $3,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Pro Photo Studio founder Tsour Lee Adato shares how she turned a $5k investment into a business that services over 500 clients annually and makes approximately $350k per year with plans to expand and become a 7-figure business while offering advice to fellow entrepreneurs to always be innovating, learning and growing, and not to undervalue themselves.
15. Start a dropshipping business ($414K/month)
Starting a dropshipping business is a great way for thespians to generate extra income and potentially transition into a full-time entrepreneurial venture. Without the need to hold inventory, thespians can focus their energy on creative aspects like marketing and customer engagement while leveraging third-party suppliers for product fulfillment. By selecting a specific niche and setting up an online store, you could efficiently manage your side business alongside your artistic pursuits.
Why consider starting a dropshipping business?
- Minimal upfront investment means you can start without a large initial expense.
- Flexibility allows you to balance your acting gigs and business operations seamlessly.
- Creative control over your store's branding and marketing aligns well with your artistic talents.
For more inspiration and practical tips on starting a dropshipping business, check out these success stories.
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.
16. Print on demand business ($411K/month)
Starting a print-on-demand business could be an exceptional fit for a thesbian looking to supplement their income. With this model, you leverage your creative talents to design unique apparel, home goods, and other merchandise, without the hassle of managing inventory. Platforms like Amazon, eBay, and Etsy allow you to reach a global audience, while minimal startup costs let you focus on nurturing your artistic vision.
Why start a print-on-demand business?
- You could channel your creative energy into a scalable venture, designing products that reflect your unique style.
- Running operations from home offers the flexibility to balance your artistic pursuits with business endeavors.
- Minimal upfront investment reduces financial risk, allowing you to explore entrepreneurship without a hefty initial cost.
For more information, check out how much print on demand businesses make.
How much you can make: $200 — $3,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week
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.
17. Start an ad tracking business
Starting an ad tracking business can be a lucrative and intellectually stimulating pursuit for thespians who have a knack for data analysis and a keen interest in technology. By leveraging various ad tracking tools, you could offer clients valuable insights into the efficacy of their marketing campaigns, guiding them on how to optimize their budgets and refine their strategies. For those who thrive on interpreting data and translating it into actionable recommendations, this business opportunity allows you to showcase your analytical skills while supplementing your income.
With the constant evolution in digital marketing, staying updated with the latest trends and technologies in ad tracking becomes crucial. As a thespian, your ability to read and deliver scripts with precision could translate well into crafting detailed and compelling reports for your clients. To explore the startup costs and marketing ideas for an ad tracking business, visit this Starter Story page.
Why start an ad tracking business?
- You could turn your analytical skills into a profitable venture by providing invaluable insights to businesses.
- Your background in delivering performances can help you present data compellingly and clearly to clients.
- Staying updated with marketing trends will keep you at the cutting edge of both technology and business strategies.
18. Start a billiard hall business
As thespians, you often thrive in environments that are vibrant, social, and full of opportunities to connect with others. Starting a billiard hall business could align perfectly with your natural charisma and ability to create a compelling atmosphere. Not only can this venture supplement your income, but it also allows you to engage your social skills and create a gathering spot for both performers and patrons.
Additionally, the flexibility of operating a billiard hall means your primary focus can still remain on your thespian pursuits. To learn more about what it takes to start a billiard hall business, you can visit Starter Story for detailed insights.
Why consider starting a billiard hall business?
- A billiard hall provides a social setting where your engaging personality can shine and attract a loyal customer base.
- The flexible hours of operating a billiard hall mean you can still attend auditions, rehearsals, and performances.
- Running a billiard hall allows you to set the scene, creating a unique, entertaining atmosphere that showcases your flair for dramatic, immersive experiences.
19. Start a health and wellness app ($108K/month)
Imagine an app that helps you achieve your health and wellness goals, one step at a time. A health and wellness app is a digital tool designed to offer personalized fitness routines, nutrition plans, mental well-being exercises, and progress tracking, all in one place. For thespians, this could be a unique opportunity to combine your understanding of physical and mental discipline with technology, creating a meaningful side business that supports others in achieving their wellness goals.
Starting this business involves market research, collaboration with health experts, app development, and effective marketing strategies. However, the potential to positively impact lives and tap into a growing market makes it a compelling venture. If you’re passionate about health and technology, this could be your path to making a meaningful contribution while building a thriving business.
Why start a health and wellness app?
- You could leverage your understanding of physical discipline from your acting background to create effective fitness and mental well-being routines.
- You’ll be addressing a growing demand for personalized health and wellness solutions in a tech-savvy world.
- Helping others achieve their health goals can be incredibly rewarding, adding more meaning to your entrepreneurial journey.
For more details on how to start and successfully run a health and wellness app, you can check out these success stories here.
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.
20. Start a wordpress plugin business ($33.4K/month)
Starting a WordPress plugin business could be a lucrative venture for thesbians looking to supplement their income, make extra money, or even launch a side business. By developing plugins that address specific needs, you could easily find a market willing to pay for solutions that enhance their WordPress experience. This opportunity leverages both your creativity and technical skills, providing you with a flexible and potentially high-reward business model. For inspiration on starting, you may explore some tips for starting a WordPress plugin business.
Why starting a WordPress plugin business?
- Your problem-solving skills could translate into profitable plugins, addressing gaps in the WordPress ecosystem.
- The initial investment is relatively low compared to other business ventures, making it accessible for many thesbians.
- Selling plugins online offers passive income opportunities, allowing you to focus on your thespian activities while earning on the side.
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.
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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.
