34 Business Ideas For It Managers [2024]
Interested in starting a business as an it manager in 2024?
If managed well, building a business as an it manager could be more lucrative than employment. So, which are the best business ideas for it managers?
We put together 34 of some of the best it manager business ideas you can start in today.
For each business idea, we'll show you real-world examples of other it manager businesses to help you see what it takes.
Here's the full list:
1. Start a data analysis service ($42.6K/month)
As an IT manager, starting a data analysis service could be an excellent way to harness your expertise and supplement your income. Businesses are constantly looking for ways to make sense of their data, whether to gain insights into customer behavior, improve marketing campaigns, or make better strategic decisions. Your background in IT management equips you with the analytical skills and technical knowledge needed to offer valuable insights to these businesses.
By offering data analysis services, you could help enterprises streamline their analytics processes, much like industry leaders such as iTechArt, who generated $209 billion in revenue in 2019. Since data analysis is in high demand and can command high salaries, your service could quickly become a profitable venture. Moreover, this business idea allows you to communicate effectively with clients, ensuring they understand and can utilize the insights you provide, ultimately making a meaningful impact on their operations.
How much you can make: $20 — $250,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $3,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Founder of PropertyData creates a subscription website for UK property investors and developers that is now making $128,000 per month in recurring revenue.
2. Start a help desk software ($238K/month)
As an IT manager, you could leverage your extensive experience in managing IT infrastructure and resolving technical issues to start a help desk software business. This venture would involve developing a platform that helps organizations streamline their customer support processes, making it easier for them to handle inquiries, tech support, and troubleshooting tasks effectively.
You could create a software solution that offers multi-channel support, automated workflows, and real-time analytics, significantly enhancing your client’s operational efficiency and user satisfaction. With the growing recognition of excellent customer service as a critical aspect of business success, there is substantial potential for a scalable, impactful product. Using your knowledge of IT and coding, you can develop a versatile platform that solves real market needs while supplementing your income or even leading to a full-fledged business.
How much you can make: $4,500 — $830,000/month
How long does it take to build: 178 days (?)
Senthil Kumar spearheads Siva Solutions Inc, a game-changing digital marketing and software development company which caters to dentists using an array of well-crafted products to manage patient data and inquiries, thus enabling efficient management of processes, while boosting them to the 1st page on Google.
3. Start a data protection tool business ($525K/month)
As an IT manager, you could leverage your expertise to start a data protection tool business, tapping into the critical need for safeguarding sensitive information in the digital age. You'd be developing software solutions that help companies remain compliant with data regulations and protect customer information from breaches and unauthorized access. This venture offers immense potential across various industries, given the universal demand for robust data security solutions.
By capitalizing on the increasing number of cyber-attacks, you could offer indispensable tools like encryption, secure storage, and advanced threat detection, which businesses are eager to invest in. Your background in IT management positions you perfectly to understand the complexities and requirements of data protection, making you well equipped to create top-notch security solutions. This business could not only supplement your income but also establish you as a key player in the cybersecurity landscape.
How much you can make: $100 — $6,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 227 days (?)
Spokeo is a people information service helping over 15 million users a month search and connect with others through organizing over 14 billion records into easy-to-understand reports generating over $6M per month.
4. Start a tech support business ($139K/month)
Starting a tech support business could be a highly lucrative and rewarding side venture for an IT manager. Given your extensive technical expertise and experience in IT support roles, you could seamlessly transition into offering troubleshooting services to both individuals and companies. With technology being integral to daily life, there’s a growing demand for reliable tech support, making this a promising entrepreneurial opportunity.
Your deep understanding of technical skills can be coupled with a strong emphasis on exceptional customer service to set your tech support business apart. Actively listening to clients and accurately diagnosing their issues will build trust and a strong reputation. Staying current with emerging technologies and maintaining a comprehensive knowledge base will ensure you can effectively tackle a wide array of technical problems, giving you a competitive edge in this ever-evolving market.
How much you can make: $150 — $1,500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $3,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
A passionate computer-coder entrepreneur shares the story behind his successful PDFShift business which after a year and a half generates $3.2k of monthly revenues with the focus now on growth.
5. Become an IT consultant ($482K/month)
As an IT manager, you could leverage your extensive knowledge and industry experience to start an IT consultancy. This role involves evaluating various businesses' IT systems, diagnosing issues, and designing tailored solutions to meet their specific needs. Your deep understanding of IT infrastructure and problem-solving skills makes you an ideal candidate for offering expert advice and guidance to improve clients' technological efficiency.
Furthermore, becoming an IT consultant allows you to supplement your income by taking on projects outside of your regular job. You could offer specialized services, such as network security assessments, system upgrades, or strategic IT planning. If you're entrepreneurial-minded, consulting could be a great way to build a business that aligns perfectly with your professional expertise, potentially transitioning from a side hustle to a full-time venture.
How much you can make: $2,100 — $4,166,667/month
How much does it cost to start: $650 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
This case study features Md. Yousuf Ali, the founder of Rank Trends, who shares how he started a successful digital marketing agency, which generated a revenue of over $6k per month through SEO and video production services.
6. Start an e-commerce implementation consulting business ($153K/month)
Starting an e-commerce implementation consulting business can be an excellent way to supplement your existing IT management career. As an IT manager, you already possess a deep understanding of systems, networks, and digital optimization—skills that are crucial for setting up and fine-tuning e-commerce platforms. By leveraging your technical expertise, you could help sellers who lack experience and resources create, optimize, and execute product listings and storefronts.
With the increased demand for online shopping, many businesses are seeking expert guidance to improve their online presence. You could offer full-scale catalog management or specialized services like online advertising campaigns to drive sales and meet business objectives. While it is a significant and lucrative opportunity, success will require hard work, thorough research, and a dedicated budget. Your background in IT management can act as a solid foundation to build a promising e-commerce consulting business.
How much you can make: $3,000 — $500,000/month
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
ByteStand, a software development company run by ecommerce experts, created Shopify apps, including FreshCredit and FBA Shipping, which generate approximately $17,000 per month in revenue, with over 2,000 shops using their software.
7. Start a product development consulting business ($119K/month)
As an IT manager, starting a product development consulting business could be a lucrative avenue for supplementing your income or even transitioning into a full-time entrepreneurial venture. Leveraging your expertise in transforming ideas into tangible, market-ready products, you could guide businesses through crucial stages such as market research, prototype creation, and product launch strategies. This not only saves companies time and resources but also maximizes the potential success of their products.
Engaging in product development consulting offers a dynamic work environment, as you will interact with different industries and tackle a variety of creative and strategic challenges. Your knack for innovation and detail-oriented nature are invaluable assets in this field, allowing you to build a reputation for excellence and develop rewarding relationships with clients. If you find satisfaction in bringing ideas to life, this could be the perfect business venture for you.
How much you can make: $21,000 — $300,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $6,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)
This case study is about a founder who launched a paywall platform for content creators in 2019, bootstrapping it from $0 and eventually selling it for $3.5M on Flippa, with the platform generating between $125,000 - $142,000 in Monthly Recurring Revenue (MRR) on 95% margins.
8. Start a digital marketing consulting ($49.2K/month)
As an IT manager, you could leverage your technical skills and knowledge of digital landscapes to start a digital marketing consulting business. This venture involves crafting personalized marketing plans, managing social media accounts, optimizing search engine results, and analyzing data to boost client visibility.
With businesses increasingly prioritizing their online presence, there’s a strong demand for experts who can navigate the intricacies of digital marketing. If you enjoy combining creativity with analytics, digital marketing consulting presents a significant growth opportunity and a rewarding side business that complements your existing expertise.
How much you can make: $1,500 — $250,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 75 days (?)
From a honeymoon in Costa Rica to a successful global digital marketing agency generating $100k a month, Travis Richardson shares his journey of building Impressions Agency without taking any loans or money from friends by keeping costs low, adapting quickly, testing out new strategies that produce results, and focusing on building long-term customer relationships.
9. Create an online course ($83.3K/month)
As an IT manager, you could leverage your extensive knowledge and industry experience to create and sell online courses focused on specialized IT skills. By identifying educational gaps within your field, you can develop engaging video lessons and supplementary materials that address these areas, offering value to a vast audience looking to upskill or pivot within the tech industry.
The flexibility of self-paced or cohort-based structures allows you to build a student base, providing a passive income stream with relatively small startup costs. If you enjoy sharing information and helping others advance their careers, launching an online course business presents a lucrative opportunity to monetize your expertise while contributing to the growth and development of eager lifelong learners.
How much you can make: $275 — $1,000,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 88 days (?)
Learn how one couple created a successful personal finance blog, The Savvy Couple, that now makes over $20,000 per month and has sold thousands of digital workbooks and courses, by focusing on purposeful content and optimizing their ROI with efficient time management.
10. Start a technology consulting business ($137K/month)
Starting a technology consulting business as an IT manager could be a natural and lucrative progression in your career, leveraging your existing knowledge and expertise. Given your experience in managing IT infrastructures and keeping up with technology trends, you could assist other businesses in overcoming their tech-related challenges and innovating to drive growth.
As a technology consultant, you could help startups and established businesses alike in strategizing their IT initiatives, integrating advanced technological solutions, and staying ahead of the curve. With many entrepreneurs lacking an IT background, your specialized skills could become highly valuable in assisting them to effectively harness technology and achieve their corporate goals.
In this role, you could act as an innovation advisor, providing tailored advice that empowers organizations to solve critical enterprise challenges. By sharing your tech insights and strategic vision, you would not only supplement your income but also build a side business that has the potential to evolve into a full-fledged consultancy.
How much you can make: $150 — $1,200,000/month
How long does it take to build: 100 days (?)
How a Ph.D. in computer engineering created a patented agile framework and turned it into a profitable training and consulting business, after realizing that his accumulated technology knowledge was losing value over time.
11. Start a product ratings & reviews ($28.9K/month)
As an IT manager, starting a product ratings and reviews business could be an excellent way to leverage your technical expertise into an entrepreneurial venture. You could create a website or app that serves as a platform for customers to share their opinions and feedback on various products, taking advantage of your experience in managing systems and networks to ensure a seamless user experience.
By partnering with e-commerce stores or manufacturers, you could generate revenue through advertising, affiliate marketing, or even exclusive sponsorships. This low-cost business idea capitalizes on your existing skills in website management, digital marketing, and content moderation, allowing you to build a robust and profitable side business with minimal initial investment.
How much you can make: $40 — $110,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $750 (?)
How long does it take to build: 65 days (?)
Matt Oney quit his full-time job to pursue his side hustle full-time: an affiliate marketing-based content site called ZenmasterWellness that generates around 80k monthly visits and average monthly revenue of about $40,000 by leveraging SEO and affiliate partnerships.
12. Start a no code automation business ($23.5K/month)
As an IT manager, you could leverage your existing expertise to start a no-code automation business, aimed at simplifying processes for other businesses without the need for programming. By using various no-code tools, you could automate repetitive tasks and streamline workflows, from managing email marketing campaigns to integrating applications and handling customer data.
Given the increasing demand for optimized efficiency and reduced operational costs, your skills in problem-solving and understanding complex business processes place you in a prime position to offer valuable, custom automation solutions. This venture could not only supplement your current income but also allow you to develop a profitable side business that capitalizes on the growing trend of no-code technology. Explore popular no-code platforms and consider earning certifications to bolster your credibility and increase your appeal to potential clients.
How much you can make: $5,000 — $100,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 70 days (?)
Codemap.io is a freelance & agency marketplace for no-code, low-code, and automation, enabling anyone to hire no-code experts to build their products, MVPs, and apps up to 10x cheaper and faster than with traditional development, with 900+ clients, close to $2,000,000 in created projects, and 110+ hires made, all achieved in less than 6 months.
13. Start a cloud management software ($129K/month)
As an IT manager, starting a cloud management software could be a natural extension of your current expertise. This business idea revolves around developing software that enables companies to efficiently manage their cloud resources, including data storage and security compliance. With your understanding of cloud technology and business operations, you could design user-friendly interfaces and robust backend systems that make it easier for businesses to monitor and optimize their cloud infrastructure.
The potential market for cloud management tools is immense, covering diverse industries such as healthcare and finance. As more organizations migrate their operations to the cloud, the demand for efficient management solutions is only going to grow. If you are motivated by solving complex technical problems and have a talent for software development, taking the entrepreneurial leap into cloud management software could be a highly rewarding venture.
How much you can make: $25,000 — $330,000/month
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
Third Wave Analytics developed the world's first cloud-based and customizable LIMS platform on Salesforce, generating $330k monthly revenue from clients such as Ohio State University and Boston University School of Medicine while partnering with the University of California-Berkeley for a COVID-19 study; founder Savitra Sharma advises aspiring entrepreneurs to focus on clear objectives to meet their goals.
14. Start a sales automation platform ($160K/month)
As an IT manager, leveraging your technical expertise to start a sales automation platform could be a lucrative side business. By developing a software solution that streamlines and automates sales processes, you would provide companies with a tool to enhance efficiency, minimize errors, and focus more on closing deals rather than juggling administrative tasks. Your familiarity with software development and sales strategies positions you perfectly to create an effective platform that adds real value to businesses.
In today's fast-paced business world, the demand for efficiency and the shift towards digital transformation make this an ideal time to launch such a platform. The growing need for streamlined sales processes offers a significant opportunity to turn your tech skills into a revenue-generating venture. This business idea not only aligns well with your background but could also serve as a substantial income supplement or even as a full-fledged business.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $1,666,667/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 105 days (?)
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.
15. Start a freelancer consulting platform ($251K/month)
As an IT manager, leveraging your expertise to start a freelancer consulting platform could be a rewarding side business or even a full-time venture. You could create a digital space where freelancers from various industries connect with businesses needing their expertise, tapping into the growing gig economy. Your skill set is ideal for designing an intuitive platform, ensuring a seamless user experience for both freelancers and clients.
Marketing will be crucial; you could utilize digital strategies to attract both freelancers and businesses, creating a vibrant marketplace. The scalability and relevance of this business make it a lucrative opportunity, especially with potential revenue streams like commission fees or subscription models. This venture not only supplements your income but also allows you to drive innovation, impacting the future of work in a meaningful way.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $500,000/month
How long does it take to build: 365 days (?)
Let's Work Remotely, co-founded by Steven Lin, has built the largest remote community possible with over 100,000 members, including four Facebook groups with engagement from over 60% of members, growing at a rate of 100 members per week and ranked in the top 0.1% of websites in the world, with plans to monetize the platform through a freemium job posting model.
16. Start a graphic design agency ($12.1K/month)
As an IT manager, you could leverage your technical background to start a graphic design agency, providing visually compelling content for clients. Your proficiency with design software and understanding of branding principles could help you create effective logos, advertisements, and website graphics that attract and engage audiences.
Additionally, you could tap into the growing demand for digital marketing assets, catering to clients from various industries who require visually appealing content for their online presence. By combining your managerial skills with creative talent, you could establish a thriving business that supplements your income and showcases your artistic flair.
Running a graphic design agency would not only allow you to apply your technical skills in new ways but also offer the satisfaction of seeing your creative designs come to life.
How much you can make: $1,300 — $40,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,700 (?)
How long does it take to build: 33 days (?)
This case study features Md. Yousuf Ali, the founder of Rank Trends, who shares how he started a successful digital marketing agency, which generated a revenue of over $6k per month through SEO and video production services.
17. Start an educational blog ($63K/month)
As an IT manager, you could leverage your expertise to start an educational blog where you share vital insights, tips, and best practices in the technology field. By focusing on areas such as cybersecurity, network management, or emerging tech trends, you can establish yourself as a thought leader and provide immense value to fellow professionals and aspiring IT specialists.
To get started on a budget, identify a niche that aligns with both your knowledge and passion. Utilizing free platforms like WordPress or YouTube to create high-quality content, you could attract a dedicated audience. As your blog grows, you may monetize your platform through affiliate marketing, digital product sales, or sponsored posts, supplementing your income or even developing it into a full-fledged business. Consistency and genuine value are key to building a successful educational blog.
How much you can make: $50 — $830,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $170 (?)
How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)
A one-man business teaching people how to use Microsoft Excel effectively has gone from getting ~15k pageviews a month in 2014, to more than one million pageviews every month as of today, generating an average monthly revenue of ~$10,000, with the majority of the money coming from online course sales and a newsletter, which has 40k+ active subscribers.
18. Start a SEO agency ($113K/month)
As an IT manager, you could leverage your technical skills and knowledge to start a successful SEO agency. The rapidly growing SEO industry presents a prime opportunity to supplement your income or even transition into a full-time entrepreneurial venture. With businesses increasingly prioritizing their online presence, offering SEO services to help them rank higher in search engines positions you at the forefront of a high-demand market.
Your background in IT provides a strong foundation for understanding the technical aspects of SEO, giving you a competitive edge. Additionally, the tools required to run an SEO agency are more accessible than ever, making it easier to get started. By entering this field now, you could establish a robust business before it becomes overly saturated, with the potential for significant financial growth.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $1,800,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Rankings.io is a hyper-focused SEO agency that helps elite personal injury law firms dominate first page rankings and was ranked #858 in the Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing companies in America for 2018, with a current revenue just under $300,000 per month, with plans for a record-breaking year.
19. Start a SEO website ($101K/month)
As an IT manager, you could leverage your technical expertise to start an SEO website, providing a supplementary income stream while honing valuable skills. By mastering keyword research, on-page optimization, and link building, you could optimize content to rank higher in search engine results, driving organic traffic to your site and boosting revenue.
The scalability of this business model allows you to start with a niche blog or e-commerce store and expand over time. Tools like Google Analytics and Ahrefs can aid in making SEO manageable and trackable. Given the increasing dependence on search engines, an SEO-focused website offers a cost-effective and sustainable marketing approach, making it a promising venture for anyone willing to invest the effort.
How much you can make: $3,500 — $390,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $480 (?)
How long does it take to build: 45 days (?)
Digital Position, a digital marketing agency, was founded by Roger Parent, who was unhappy being underpaid at his job; the company is now generating over $330k/month in revenue, and aims to generate $5m in 2022, with a long-term goal of hitting $30m before Parent is 40.
20. Start a quality assurance business ($123K/month)
Starting a quality assurance (QA) business could be a lucrative venture for an IT manager. Leveraging your expertise in managing tech projects, you could offer services that test products, processes, software, and systems to ensure they meet specifications and function as intended. Your experience in balancing multiple tasks and prioritizing project needs will be invaluable as you develop testing methods, obtain necessary certifications, and invest in quality testing equipment.
You could market your QA services to manufacturers, developers, and other companies seeking to improve product and process quality. Focusing on defect detection, workflow auditing, regulatory compliance, and reporting will position your business as a critical partner in ensuring high standards. By staying updated on regulations, technology advancements, and industry best practices, you could offer thorough, compliant, and value-adding QA services that boost client satisfaction.
How much you can make: $60,000 — $200,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 365 days (?)
Innovolo, an innovation and product development consultancy, went from offering fixed-sum product development to providing product development chain management with a unique program called Unlimited Innovation-as-a-Service, shortening their client's product expedited time significantly, and increasing revenue astronomically since their launch in 2018.
21. Start a digital marketing business ($119K/month)
Starting a digital marketing business could be an excellent opportunity to supplement your income as an IT manager. Leveraging your existing technical skills and familiarity with emerging technologies, you could support local and international companies to expand their reach and grow their revenue. Given that digital marketing is a constantly evolving field, your ability to adapt quickly and learn new tools will give you a competitive edge.
To get started, you could educate yourself on how digital marketing agencies operate and build your digital skills through online courses. Finding a niche within digital marketing and focusing on an audience interested in your specialized services could help you stand out in the market. This entrepreneurial route not only allows you to expand your skill set but also offers the potential for significant revenue growth.
How much you can make: $100 — $1,250,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 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.
22. Start a niche newsletter ($38.1K/month)
Starting a niche newsletter could be a great opportunity for an IT manager to supplement your income and showcase your expertise. With your in-depth knowledge of software development, network security, or emerging tech trends, you could deliver valuable insights to a highly interested audience. Curating and delivering specialized content can help you carve out a unique space in the tech industry.
You could focus on areas like the latest advancements in AI, best practices for cybersecurity, or optimizing IT infrastructure. There's a strong demand for high-quality, focused content, and many professionals are willing to pay for information that helps them stay ahead in their careers or improve their IT operations.
Creating a niche newsletter requires consistent research, writing, and growing a subscriber list, but the effort could pay off. You could integrate sponsorships or advertisements over time, making your newsletter a sustainable and rewarding venture. This could not only provide additional income but also increase your professional visibility and networking opportunities.
How much you can make: $400 — $250,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $3,055 (?)
How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)
Sex blogger turns a free WordPress blog into a $2,000 a month part-time digital business by investing in education, self-hosting, and building relationships within the NSFW community.
23. Start an animation business ($26.8K/month)
As an IT manager, you're already well-versed in technology and project management, making the transition to starting an animation business not only possible but highly manageable. The demand for animated posts and ads is skyrocketing, offering a lucrative avenue where you could leverage your technical skills and industry contacts to create captivating content for brands. By hiring a team of specialists, such as illustrators, animators, and scriptwriters, you could efficiently bring creative ideas to life and capture a share of the growing market for animated social media content.
In addition to your primary role, running an animation business could supplement your income and offer a creative outlet. With your expertise in managing teams and overseeing complex projects, you could ensure high-quality animations are delivered on time, adding another feather to your entrepreneurial hat. Whether focusing on animated ads, visual effects for films, or content for gamers, the animation industry provides endless opportunities to diversify and expand your business portfolio.
How much you can make: $500 — $85,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 577 days (?)
An animation company owner generates between $75,000 and $100,000 annually from producing custom explainer animations for start-ups and marketing companies for between $5,500 and $7,500; logo animations for companies that market using videos at $200 to $500; and Instagram Stories stickers beginning at $350.
24. Start a sexual enhancement products
As an IT manager, you could leverage your technical expertise and project management skills to dive into the promising world of sexual enhancement products. Developing and selling items such as supplements, lubricants, and devices designed to improve sexual experiences allows you to tap into a growing market driven by increasing awareness and acceptance of sexual health and well-being.
Your experience with market research and understanding regulatory requirements could be instrumental in navigating this sensitive yet lucrative industry. The potential for repeat customers and high margins makes this a particularly appealing venture, enabling you to balance discretion and effective marketing to build a trusted and loyal customer base. Consider this business opportunity if you are entrepreneurial-minded and looking to explore a market emphasizing personal well-being.
How much you can make: $500/month
How much does it cost to start: $8,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Founder Montoya "Chocolate" Walton started an online adult shop named Behind Chocolate Eyes, LLC with just $1,200, and has made $2.5k+ in total revenue in only 4 months through online purchases and events, with plans to expand her business to a mobile adult shop and increase her social media following.
25. Start a health and wellness retreat
As an IT manager, you could leverage your organizational skills and business acumen to start a health and wellness retreat. With the rising demand for these sanctuaries, retreats that focus on relaxation and recharging are a growing industry. You could use your expertise in project management and planning to create enriching getaways that offer a deeper emotional withdrawal from the stresses of daily life.
By identifying a specific niche within the health and wellness sector, you could cater to a targeted audience, ensuring strong market appeal. Your ability to manage teams and projects smoothly will be invaluable as you set up and market your new venture. Transitioning to or supplementing your income with a health and wellness retreat business could not only be profitable but also deeply rewarding, providing a meaningful way to support others in achieving a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
26. Become a tech rentals provider ($150K/month)
As an IT manager, leveraging your technical expertise to start a tech rentals provider side business could be a highly rewarding venture. You could capitalize on your knowledge of the latest devices and gadgets, sourcing a varied inventory of high-demand technology for short-term rentals to consumers and businesses. This allows you to offer value to clients who need cutting-edge tech for specific projects or events without the commitment of purchasing.
With the tech rentals market’s estimated annual revenue of $10.7M and the rise of the sharing economy, now is the perfect time to consider this business opportunity. You'll need a strong marketing strategy and exceptional customer service skills to stand out, but your existing expertise in IT management gives you a head start in understanding and meeting customer needs. This entrepreneurial path not only supplements your income but also positions you at the forefront of a growing industry.
How much you can make: $100,000 — $200,000/month
How long does it take to build: 210 days (?)
DeepBench, a company disrupting the expert network industry, offers a platform connecting clients with expert advisors for informed decision making, serving over 450 clients and 25,000 advisors and achieving their best quarter yet in Q1 2021.
27. Start an emergency kit business
As an IT manager, you could leverage your organizational and project management skills to start an emergency kit business on the side. Your experience in handling complex tasks, managing resources, and ensuring reliability can be directly applied to sourcing high-quality materials and creating comprehensive emergency kits that address various scenarios.
You are already adept at troubleshooting and anticipating problems, enabling you to design kits that effectively meet customer needs during unexpected situations. Marketing these kits as essential safety solutions demonstrates your commitment to community well-being, potentially attracting a dedicated customer base and providing a steady supplementary income.
By tapping into your tech-savvy background, you could even incorporate modern tools, like mobile apps or IoT devices, to enhance the functionality and appeal of your emergency kits. This thoughtful integration of technology not only differentiates your product but also showcases your innovative approach to a traditional business idea.
How much you can make: $400,000/month
True Leaf Market, an independent seed company offering heirloom, non-GMO, and organic seeds, growing supplies, and starter kits, has grown to a profitable $400k/month business, with revenue diversified across their website, 3rd party online sellers, Amazon, eBay, brick and mortar health food stores, and fulfillment services, and plans to continue growth through acquisitions and onboarding 50 to 100 new SKUs monthly.
28. Start a travel planning business ($540K/month)
As an IT manager, starting a travel planning business could be a lucrative side venture or even an entirely new career path, leveraging your organizational and problem-solving skills. Travel planning offers an opportunity to supplement your income by helping clients customize their vacations, holidays, and trips, providing them with tailored recommendations for destinations, hotels, and flights that fit their budget and preferences.
With your proficiency in communication and customer service, you could effectively manage client relationships and offer personalized, high-quality service. Your analytical skills, honed through an IT career, would enable you to compare various travel options efficiently, ensuring your clients get the best deals. Thus, transitioning into a travel planner role could be a seamless way to expand your professional horizons while capitalizing on your existing expertise.
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
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.
29. Build an AI powered skin analysis tool
As an IT manager, you could leverage your technical expertise to develop an AI-powered skin analysis tool, tapping into the booming skincare market. Utilizing your skills in managing IT projects and handling sophisticated algorithms, you could create a tool that examines skin images and provides personalized skincare recommendations based on data-driven insights.
This venture offers a promising opportunity to supplement your income by creating a product that caters to the wellness industry's growing fascination with personalized skincare routines. By marrying your knowledge of artificial intelligence with the surging demand for innovative beauty solutions, you could build a side business that not only thrives but also sets a new standard in how people care for their skin.
30. Start an online influencer business ($46.3K/month)
As an IT manager, leveraging your technical expertise and industry knowledge to start an online influencer business is a promising way to supplement your income and explore entrepreneurial opportunities. You could create engaging content tailored to the interests of your tech-savvy audience, sharing insights on the latest IT trends, software solutions, and industry best practices. This could establish you as an authority in your niche, attracting sponsorships and affiliate marketing opportunities from tech companies looking to promote their products.
Additionally, your ability to analyze data and understand algorithms could give you an edge in optimizing your content for maximum reach and engagement. By collaborating with other influencers and participating in relevant online communities, you could further expand your audience and increase your influence. This venture could not only generate additional revenue but also open new doors for career advancement in the ever-evolving tech landscape.
How much you can make: $2,000 — $83,333/month
How long does it take to build: 145 days (?)
Discover how Philip Taylor built FinCon from scratch to a 3,000 attendee annual conference and achieved $1.6M in revenue in less than 10 years, by allowing customers to help build the event, fostering a sense of community, expanding offerings, pricing strategically, and surrounding himself with talented people.
31. Start a wearable technology device business
As an IT manager, diving into the wearable technology device business offers you a promising opportunity to leverage your expertise in technology and data management. You could develop innovative wearable solutions that integrate seamlessly with existing IT infrastructure, providing valuable data analytics for health, productivity, or security applications. These devices could appeal to businesses looking to optimize employee performance or individuals aiming for better health insights, creating a diverse market for your products.
Moreover, your extensive network and understanding of the tech landscape could give you a competitive edge in identifying market gaps and potential partnerships. Starting a wearable tech business could be a rewarding side venture that not only supplements your income but also allows you to stay at the forefront of technological advancements and trends.
32. Start a server management business
As an IT manager, you could leverage your existing skills and expertise by starting a server management business. Keeping servers running smoothly is critical for any business that relies on digital infrastructure, and you could provide essential services like setup, monitoring, and maintenance of servers for clients. By ensuring systems are always operational and efficient, you could help businesses save time and resources.
This side venture could offer solutions for performance optimization, security management, and troubleshooting, catering to companies that need their servers operating perfectly but lack in-house capability. With the growing reliance on digital tools and the necessity of reliable IT infrastructure, there is a consistent demand for such services. If you have a knack for problem-solving, this entrepreneurial path could not only supplement your income but also be a fulfilling and profitable business.
How much you can make: $82,386/month
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Jake Gaba tripled his game server hosting company's monthly recurring revenue from $1,600 MRR to $5,000 MRR after buying the business for $25,000, and has since launched new services for Viking and Valheim gaming servers under a distinct and memorable central hub brand, Indifferent Broccoli.
33. Start a leadership coaching business ($48.5K/month)
As an IT Manager, you could leverage your experience in team leadership, project management, and communicating complex technical concepts to launch a leadership coaching business. With your deep understanding of business operations and your strong communication skills, you can offer one-on-one coaching sessions, group workshops, and customized training programs designed to improve leadership abilities and emotional intelligence, ultimately driving organizational success.
Your firsthand experience in managing teams and projects gives you a unique perspective that can be invaluable to clients looking to enhance their leadership skills. Continuous learning and obtaining professional certifications can further add to your credibility, while effective networking and marketing strategies can help you build a robust client base. This venture could prove to be both personally and professionally rewarding, allowing you to make a lasting impact on individuals' careers and lives.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $291,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,200 (?)
How long does it take to build: 25 days (?)
A 22-year-old entrepreneur from Vienna built a $10k/month personal growth business by executing ideas quickly and targeting needs, as well as delivering quality services and personal connections to his customers.
34. Start an aluminium products manufacturing business
As an IT manager, you could tap into your project management and technical expertise to start an aluminium products manufacturing business. Leveraging your organizational skills and ability to manage teams, you could efficiently oversee the production of high-demand items like kitchenware, food packaging cans, and automobile parts.
Starting such a business would require a capital investment for aluminum fabricators and trained personnel, areas where your budgeting and resource allocation skills will be beneficial. You'll also need to navigate the administrative steps, such as registering your business as a sole proprietorship, LLP, or company, and obtaining a trading license. This venture could supplement your income and potentially grow into a lucrative side business, especially with the increasing demand for aluminium products.
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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.
