28 Business Ideas For IT Director [2024]

Updated: September 6th, 2024

Interested in starting a business as a doctor in 2024?

If managed well, building a business as a doctor could be more lucrative than employment. So, which are the best business ideas for Doctors?

We put together 28 of some of the best doctor business ideas you can start in today.

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

Here's the full list:

1. Start a mobile app development business ($141K/month)

As an IT director, starting a mobile app development business could be a natural extension of your existing skill set and expertise. Your technical proficiency and experience in managing IT projects uniquely position you to oversee the development of high-quality apps that cater to diverse user needs. Whether it's for games, productivity tools, or social networking, your background can help ensure that the software you create is both innovative and functional.

Moreover, entering the mobile app development field could open up lucrative opportunities as businesses increasingly seek mobile solutions to engage their customers. You could leverage your knowledge of IT infrastructure and software processes to offer tailored development services, thus capitalizing on the growing demand for mobile applications.

Additionally, understanding how to market and sell mobile apps will be crucial. Your insights into market trends and user behavior can aid in crafting effective strategies to promote your apps, ensuring they reach the right audience and generate revenue. This side venture could not only supplement your income but also potentially evolve into a full-fledged business over time.

How much you can make: $6,000 — $700,000/month

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

How I Started A $6K/Month SEO And Digital Marketing Agency In Bangladesh

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.

Read by 12,481 founders

2. Start an AI-based business ($27.9K/month)

Starting an AI-based business as an IT Director makes a lot of sense due to your deep understanding of technology and its applications. You could capitalize on your expertise to create innovative solutions like AI-driven customer service bots, which can significantly optimize processes and reduce operational costs for businesses. By leveraging artificial intelligence, you could solve real-world problems that traditional methods can't address as efficiently.

The possibilities with AI are vast, ranging from predictive analytics tools for healthcare to smart automation systems for industries. If you have an entrepreneurial mindset and a keen interest in emerging technologies, diving into the AI landscape can place you at the forefront of the next major technological advancement. This venture not only complements your existing skill set but also opens new avenues for revenue and professional growth.

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

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

How long does it take to build: 40 days (?)

How I Started A $10K/Month App Building Agency Using No/Low Code Tools

LowCode Agency uses no/low code tools to build custom-made apps at 80% lower cost and 70% faster than traditional app development agencies, growing double digits every month and targeting $150,000 in sales in their first year.

Read by 20,966 founders

3. Start a technology consulting business ($144K/month)

Starting a technology consulting business could be a lucrative way for you as an IT director to supplement your income and leverage your extensive industry expertise. With your deep understanding of current technology trends and corporate strategy, you could assist startups and other businesses that lack an IT background, guiding them to harness technology effectively.

Entrepreneurs often struggle to keep up with rapid technological advancements, making your role as a technology consultant essential to solving critical enterprise challenges. By connecting businesses with technology innovation advisors, you could help organizations drive both growth and innovation. Your experience in the technology sector places you in a unique position to provide valuable insights and practical solutions, making technology consulting a promising entrepreneurial avenue for you.

How much you can make: $150 — $1,200,000/month

How long does it take to build: 100 days (?)

How I Designed And Patented A $40K/Month Agile Framework

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.

Read by 8,073 founders

4. Start a micro saas ($82.9K/month)

As an IT director, starting a micro-SaaS business could be a smart way to supplement your income while leveraging your expertise in technology and software development. By focusing on niche markets and providing highly targeted software solutions, you could address specific problems that larger SaaS companies may overlook. This allows you to create customized solutions that cater to the unique needs of your clients.

Given your in-depth knowledge of IT, you could easily identify gaps in the market and develop software that offers high precision and utility. Additionally, the close relationship you'll cultivate with your customer base can help you continuously refine your product, ensuring its long-term success. By prioritizing customer feedback and selecting scalable platforms, you could build a thriving micro-SaaS business that not only supplements your income but also satisfies your entrepreneurial ambitions.

How much you can make: $117 — $1,766,666/month

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

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

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

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

Read by 23,502 founders

5. Start a consulting business ($106K/month)

As an IT director, starting a consulting business could be a lucrative and fulfilling way to leverage your extensive industry expertise while supplementing your income. The global consulting industry is booming, valued at around $250 billion, offering ample opportunities for growth and success. Your deep understanding of IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and digital transformation processes places you in a unique position to offer high-value services to businesses seeking to enhance their technology strategies.

By diving into consulting, you could help organizations optimize their tech stack, implement cutting-edge solutions, or navigate complex IT challenges. Sharing valuable insights from industry experts and learning from their entrepreneurial journeys could equip you with the know-how to effectively attract and retain clients. With the right approach, your consulting business could transform your career trajectory while meeting the rising demand for expert IT guidance.

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

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

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

How I Started A $45K/Month Cybersecurity Consulting Firm For Startups

Cybersecurity consulting firm Eden Data, launched in March 2020, scaled to four team members and generated over $45k MRR without large startup costs through their unique Virtual CISO offering, which outsources cybersecurity and compliance needs for a flat monthly price, rather than charging by the hour or for long-term commitments.

Read by 35,767 founders

6. Become a software developer ($51.7K/month)

If you have a strong grip on technical skills and programming, starting a software development business could be a lucrative venture for you as an IT director. Leveraging your industry expertise, you could design, test, and oversee the creation of software tailored to various purposes, including business solutions, personal use, or even social networking platforms.

Given that the average salary for software developers is approximately $110,140, this profession offers robust financial prospects. You could capitalize on trending areas such as mobile app development and cloud-based solutions, providing specialized software that meets clients' diverse needs.

Your deep understanding of both the needs of businesses and the intricacies of software development positions you well to enter this growing market, thereby supplementing your income or even building a completely new business venture. With the increasing demand for convenient data and application access, your software solutions could attract a broad client base looking for innovative, reliable tools.

How much you can make: $500 — $350,000/month

How long does it take to build: 100 days (?)

How We Started A $350K/Month Business Developing Software Tools For Ecommerce Brands

SkyVerge, a software company, has grown rapidly with revenue of $350,000 per month, over 100,000 eCommerce customers, and a globally distributed team of 30 people, all through starting with consulting projects and building focused and solutions-based products, acquiring small products from other developers, and focusing largely on content marketing and providing excellent customer support.

Read by 39,149 founders

7. Start an ecommerce plugin ($23.4K/month)

As an IT director, starting a business focused on developing e-commerce plugins could leverage your unique skill set and knowledge base. Given your familiarity with various e-commerce platforms and strong coding capabilities, you could create plugins that offer innovative features such as advanced shopping carts, seamless payment gateway integrations, or comprehensive product catalogs.

The demand for e-commerce plugins is rising, as online stores consistently seek ways to enhance and streamline their operations. By developing plugins that automate time-consuming tasks or introduce new functionalities, you could provide substantial value to these businesses while establishing an additional income stream or even transitioning to a full-time entrepreneurial venture.

Moreover, with your experience in IT management, you understand the technical challenges and requirements of online businesses, allowing you to craft solutions that precisely meet market needs. Pursuing this avenue not only supplements your income but also positions you as a key player in the growing e-commerce ecosystem.

How much you can make: $117 — $54,999/month

How much does it cost to start: $6,000 (?)

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

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

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

Read by 23,502 founders

8. Become an IT consultant ($27.4K/month)

As an IT director, leveraging your expertise to become an IT consultant could be a lucrative side business or even a full-time venture. By providing external analysis and evaluation of a company’s IT systems, you could use your background to help businesses meet their objectives more effectively. Your extensive knowledge positions you to diagnose IT infrastructures, understand client requirements, and design tailored solutions to address complex IT challenges.

This entrepreneurial path allows you to monetize your existing skills and broad industry insights. Plus, consulting could offer the flexibility to work with a variety of companies and gain exposure to diverse IT environments. It's a practical way to supplement your income while sharing your specialized knowledge to make a significant impact.

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

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

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

How I Started A $6K/Month SEO And Digital Marketing Agency In Bangladesh

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.

Read by 12,481 founders

9. Start a SEO services ($87.4K/month)

Starting an SEO services business could be a natural extension of your skills as an IT director. You already possess a deep understanding of technology, analytics, and project management, which are crucial for optimizing website content, building quality backlinks, and conducting effective keyword research. By leveraging these skills, you could help businesses improve their visibility on major search engines like Google.

This venture could be launched with minimal upfront investment, requiring just a computer, an internet connection, and some basic SEO knowledge. You could offer these services to small businesses aiming to enhance their online presence, making it a low-cost and flexible side business. Additionally, your technical background and familiarity with digital trends could give you a competitive edge in delivering insightful, data-driven strategies to clients.

How much you can make: $3,000 — $800,000/month

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

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

How I Started A $28K/Month Boutique SEO Company

This case study describes the journey of Russell Michelson who, after leaving his corporate job, turned his WordPress skills into a thriving boutique SEO agency earning $20k/month, thanks to client referrals and Upwork.

Read by 9,575 founders

10. Start a social goods marketplace ($257K/month)

As an IT director, you could leverage your technical expertise to create a robust and user-friendly e-commerce platform tailored for a social goods marketplace. This type of business not only allows you to utilize your skills in managing technology infrastructure, security, and user experience, but also aligns with a broader mission to promote ethical consumerism. Harnessing your knowledge of software and systems, you could ensure that the marketplace runs seamlessly, offering a reliable and secure environment for both artisans and consumers.

Additionally, your familiarity with project management and team leadership can be instrumental in building strong relationships with suppliers who share your commitment to social impact. By integrating sustainable and fair-trade products, you could attract discerning shoppers who value ethical practices over mere cost considerations. This could become a fulfilling venture that merges your entrepreneurial spirit with a tangible positive contribution to society, making it a perfect side business or even a main enterprise aligned with your values.

How much you can make: $14,500 — $500,000/month

How long does it take to build: 432 days (?)

We Started A $6M/Year Bachelorette Party App

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.

Read by 10,950 founders

11. Start an email app business ($64.6K/month)

As an IT director, considering an email app business could be a strategic move to supplement your income or even transition into a full-time entrepreneurial venture. Leveraging your expertise in software development, user interface design, and market research, you could develop an application that streamlines email communication, offering intelligent filtering, prioritization, and possibly AI-driven responses.

In a world where efficient digital communication is crucial, your app could address the pervasive issue of cluttered inboxes and inefficient email management. With the increasing demand for innovative and effective communication tools, a well-designed email app not only has the potential to capture significant market share but also to provide a valuable service to both individuals and businesses. By focusing on unique features that differentiate your product from established competitors like Gmail and Outlook, you could carve out a niche in this essential market.

How much you can make: $21 — $400,000/month

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

We Built Our App From The Back Of A Bus And Grew It To 10,000 Users

Leave Me Alone, a web service that helps users easily unsubscribe from unwanted emails, launched in January 2019 and made $1,186 in revenue in its first month, with a successful Product Hunt launch and a focus on being an open startup contributing to its success.

Read by 13,283 founders

12. Become a social media consultant ($99.2K/month)

As an IT Director, you could effectively leverage your expertise in technology and analytics to become a successful social media consultant. Your understanding of digital tools and data-driven decision-making can set you apart in the social media landscape, where optimizing ROI and engagement metrics is crucial for businesses seeking to reach their target customers.

Becoming a social media consultant offers work flexibility and the potential for higher earnings, allowing you to supplement your primary income or pivot to a new career path. Through online or offline courses in content marketing, public relations, and communication, you could bolster your existing skill set to provide comprehensive social media strategies to your clients. Whether you pursue a general practice or focus on a specific niche, this entrepreneurial venture could offer numerous opportunities for growth and professional development.

How much you can make: $100 — $550,000/month

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

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

How I Bootstrapped A Social Media Automation Tool To $2MM/Year

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.

Read by 15,164 founders

13. Start an internet marketing consulting business ($82.3K/month)

As an IT director, starting an internet marketing consulting business could be a natural extension of your skills in technology and strategic planning. Your deep understanding of web analytics, data management, and system optimization positions you to offer valuable insights to companies looking to improve their online presence. By leveraging your technical expertise, you could help local businesses and startups implement effective digital marketing strategies, from search engine optimization to pay-per-click advertising.

The entrepreneurial advantage here is clear: you could offer customized, data-driven solutions that not only drive web traffic but also convert visitors and expand brand visibility. Keeping abreast of the latest trends and best practices in online marketing would enable you to provide clients with cutting-edge advice, ensuring their marketing efforts deliver the highest possible ROI. This side venture could supplement your income substantially, while also allowing you to apply your IT skills in new, impactful ways.

How much you can make: $5,000 — $350,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $7,500 (?)

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

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

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

Read by 7,446 founders

14. Start a classic car club business

As an IT director, you could leverage your organizational and managerial skills to establish a classic car club business, allowing you to supplement your income while indulging in your automotive passion. This venture could involve creating a subscription model where members gain exclusive access to a well-maintained collection of vintage cars, providing them with the luxury of driving classic automobiles without the ownership headaches.

Your expertise in managing complex systems and overseeing multifaceted projects would come in handy when organizing regular events, such as road trips and social gatherings, fostering a tight-knit community of car enthusiasts. By pooling resources and offering a range of classic cars, you could make this dream accessible to many who might otherwise find it cost-prohibitive. This business isn't just about the cars; it’s about creating memorable experiences and sharing the joy of timeless machines with like-minded individuals.

How much you can make: $419/month

How much does it cost to start: $3,111 (?)

How I Created A Profitable Podcast For Car Enthusiasts

Cars of Carlisle Network Podcast, founded by Darren Reighard, has grown into an increasingly successful entrepreneurial pursuit with over 130 episodes and is continuing to expand, with an annual revenue that is increasing, over 12k downloads from 45 countries, and a 18-month goal to expand sponsorship to become a full-time CEO managing the business with a 5 employee team.

Read by 9,285 founders

15. Start a sunglasses business ($74.7K/month)

As an IT Director with a passion for stylish accessories, starting a sunglasses business could be a lucrative and fulfilling side venture. By leveraging your problem-solving skills and technical expertise, you could effectively manage the logistics of sourcing high-quality sunglasses, selecting designs, and working with manufacturers. Setting up an online store would be a seamless task given your background, allowing you to focus on the business's creative and marketing aspects.

Leveraging social media strategies and forming partnerships with influencers could rapidly boost your brand visibility and customer base. This venture not only offers the chance to supplement your income but also provides an exciting opportunity to dive into the world of fashion and brand building. Your combined skills in IT and management could make this entrepreneurial endeavor both manageable and highly rewarding.

How much you can make: $14,000 — $190,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $4,750 (?)

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

Woodies Sunglasses: $3.5 Million Per Year With One Employee

Woodies, a wood sunglasses brand founded by Cory Stout, reached over $3.5M in revenue in 2018, despite starting with only $15K from a failed business and has succeeded through Amazon sales, spending $50K monthly on PPC and keeping ACOS at 30%.

Read by 22,774 founders

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

As an IT Director, you could leverage your technical expertise and leadership skills to start a side business as a content strategist. Your familiarity with data analysis and project management can be invaluable in conducting market research, identifying target audiences, and developing a content strategy that aligns with business goals. By understanding industry trends and employing analytic tools, you could help businesses create impactful content strategies that drive engagement and growth.

Your experience working within organizations and collaborating with various departments such as marketing and sales will be a significant asset. Strong communication and collaboration skills are crucial in ensuring that the content strategy aligns with an organization’s objectives. With your ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines, you could build a reputable content strategist business that offers long-term value to clients.

Embarking on this entrepreneurial journey could not only supplement your income but also provide a creative and strategic outlet beyond your primary role. Your technical background and organizational skills place you in an excellent position to succeed in the content strategy space.

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

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

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

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

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

Read by 10,076 founders

17. Start a business communications software ($1.73M/month)

As an IT director, starting a business communications software venture could be a natural extension of your expertise. Your extensive experience with managing enterprise-level IT infrastructures uniquely positions you to identify the specific pain points and needs within business communication systems. You could leverage this insight to develop tools that streamline communication processes, amplify productivity, and ultimately enhance organizational efficiency.

Given the growing emphasis on technology and remote work, there is a massive market for reliable, user-friendly communication software. By creating a platform that bridges communication gaps and fosters better collaboration, you could revolutionize the way companies interact internally and externally. This venture offers countless untapped opportunities and an exciting chance to innovate in the business software solutions space, enhancing your career and business portfolio.

How much you can make: $5,000 — $10,000,000/month

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

Raising $19,000 Building a Positive Card Game

PEAR Cards is a card-based tool/game that empowers players to open up and initiate positive conversations, and with the help of Ad Magic, their Kickstarter had an all-or-nothing fundraising goal, which they met with so much support the company is now growing through the power of Twitter and Instagram.

Read by 8,205 founders

18. Start a disaster management app business

As an IT director, you could leverage your substantial technical expertise and leadership experience to develop a disaster management app business. This venture would allow you to create a solution that aids businesses and individuals in preparing for, responding to, and recovering from various types of disasters, such as natural calamities or cyber-attacks. With your knowledge of IT systems and infrastructure, you could design an application that integrates real-time data, predictive analytics, and effective communication tools to enhance emergency preparedness and response efforts.

Beyond the technical aspects, your role as an IT director has likely provided you with project management, team leadership, and strategic planning skills, all of which are crucial for successfully launching and scaling a business. By identifying gaps in existing disaster management solutions and incorporating cutting-edge technology, you could position your application as an indispensable tool for organizations seeking comprehensive disaster risk management. This side business could not only supplement your income but also make a significant impact by helping communities and businesses safeguard against unexpected disruptions.

19. Start a CBD oil business ($91K/month)

As an IT director with a knack for technological solutions, you could leverage your skills to streamline a CBD oil business's operations, from online sales to inventory management. By integrating advanced technology such as e-commerce platforms, automated inventory systems, and data analytics, you could ensure your CBD business runs smoothly and efficiently. This would allow you to capitalize on the booming market for CBD oil, which has shown significant growth due to its widespread health benefits.

Additionally, your experience in IT could be invaluable in creating a seamless and secure online customer experience, which is critical in building trust and loyalty in this emerging market. With more states legalizing marijuana for both recreational and medicinal use, you could find yourself on the cutting edge of a rapidly expanding industry. This presents a profitable opportunity to diversify your income streams while utilizing your existing skill set.

How much you can make: $3,000 — $300,000/month

How long does it take to build: 130 days (?)

How I Started And Grew My CBD Oil Company To $3M ARR

CBD oil brand Populum grew from $650K to $1.4M in annual revenue in just one year, with monthly sales of $220K and an ARR of $3M, due to investing in high-quality, trustworthy hemp products and stellar customer service.

Read by 9,391 founders

20. Start a sports news business

As an IT Director, you could leverage your technical expertise and leadership skills to start a sports news business. This venture could capitalize on your ability to manage data, oversee digital platforms, and ensure cybersecurity, all of which are paramount in running a successful online news platform. Your proficiency with advanced analytics tools could help you track and understand audience engagement, optimizing content to drive traffic and increase ad revenue.

Furthermore, your network within the tech industry could be invaluable in sourcing talent, such as software developers and IT specialists, to build and maintain a robust, user-friendly website or app. With your background in IT, you could innovate by integrating emerging technologies like AI-driven news curation or real-time data feeds for live sports updates. This approach not only sets your business apart in a competitive market but also positions you for scalable growth.

21. Start a beach wedding company

As an IT director, you could take advantage of your organizational and project management skills to create a seamless experience for couples planning a beach wedding. Your tech-savvy background can help streamline operations with efficient online booking systems, customized wedding planning apps, and virtual consultations, making it convenient even for clients who are far away.

Starting a beach wedding company could also allow you to utilize your eye for detail and problem-solving capabilities to handle the logistics of beach wedding setups, ensuring a memorable and unique event. With the growing popularity of picturesque, cost-effective destinations, you could tap into a niche market that seeks intimate, romantic experiences without the hefty price tag.

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

How much does it cost to start: $1,600 (?)

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

How I Started And Grew A Wedding Services Business To $2M/Year

Florida-based Gulf Beach Weddings offers customized beach wedding packages and services across nine counties in the state of Florida and Alabama, conducting about 1,000 weddings a year and generating revenue of around $2 million annually, thanks in part to its trademarked Beach WeddingStudio software and focus on customer service.

Read by 9,827 founders

22. Start a real estate inspections business

As an IT director, you could leverage your systematic problem-solving skills and attention to detail to start a real estate inspections business. The technical and analytical mindset you've honed in IT can be invaluable for identifying critical issues such as faulty wiring, mold, and poor plumbing that a thorough home inspection aims to uncover.

Moreover, a structured and formal approach to information, common in IT, aligns well with the precise documentation and compliance checking required in home inspections. By becoming certified and adhering to industry practices, you could establish a reputable side or full-time business that ensures properties meet health, safety, and building standards. This venture not only supports the crucial step of home-buying but also supplements your income while utilizing your existing skill set.

23. Start a food tour company ($36.3K/month)

As an IT Director, you could leverage your organizational and technical skills to start a food tour company that caters to discerning travelers and food enthusiasts. Your strategic planning and problem-solving abilities would be indispensable in coordinating tours, managing logistics, and efficiently scheduling visits to various restaurants, vineyards, and breweries.

Moreover, the flexibility of choosing specific niches and locations allows you to tailor your tours to unique culinary experiences that can attract a dedicated customer base. By setting up commissions with local eateries or charging fees for your services, you could generate supplementary income while indulging in a passion for food and community. This venture not only allows you to diversify your career but also provides an opportunity to share your love for gastronomy with others.

How much you can make: $10,000 — $75,000/month

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

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

How I Started A Wildly Successful Food Tour Business

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

Read by 21,059 founders

24. Start a jewelry making business ($248K/month)

As an IT director, venturing into a jewelry making business presents an intriguing opportunity to diversify your income streams and tap into a market that was valued at $278 billion in 2018 and is projected to reach $292 billion by 2025. This industry remains largely unaltered by technological advancements, which means your expertise in leveraging digital tools and platforms can provide a modern edge––from designing unique pieces using 3D modeling software to marketing your creations through e-commerce and social media channels.

Balancing both roles could open up creative outlets while utilizing your strategic planning and project management skills. If you already possess or are willing to learn jewelry-making skills, this could be more than just a side gig; it has the potential to grow into a profitable business venture, offering both financial gains and personal fulfillment.

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

How much does it cost to start: $3,500 (?)

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

How A Teacher Started A Successful Handmade Jewelry Business Online

A primary school teacher found his passion for jewelry-making, turning it into a successful business generating $2500-3000 per month through sales at the Creative Queenstown Arts and Crafts Market, online, and through stockists, with plans to expand and eventually make it his full-time profession.

Read by 43,976 founders

25. Start a personal finance business ($227K/month)

As an IT Director, you could leverage your analytical skills and strategic planning experience to start a personal finance business. This venture would allow you to assist individuals and families in managing their money, budgeting effectively, and making smart investments, utilizing a data-driven approach that aligns closely with your IT background. Your technical proficiency can be a unique asset in analyzing financial data and creating customized financial plans that provide significant value to clients.

Entering the world of personal finance would also allow you to diversify your income streams. Given the constant demand for financial guidance, especially in turbulent economic times, you could build a client base that seeks trustworthy and expert advice. Although gaining certifications in financial planning may be necessary, this step can further establish your credibility and differentiate your services in the market. By merging your IT expertise with financial skills, you could create a rewarding side business or even transition into a full-time entrepreneurial venture, making a tangible impact on people's financial well-being.

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

How much does it cost to start: $1,250 (?)

How long does it take to build: 7 days (?)

How I Started A 250K Monthly Pageviews Personal Finance Blog

Your Money Geek blog grew rapidly to over 250k monthly page views in nine months, leading to the creation of a white-glove, paid mastermind program to help site owners drive traffic and revenue for their own blogs.

Read by 19,302 founders

26. Start a coffee kiosk

Starting a coffee kiosk could be an attractive side business for an IT Director due to your strong strategic planning and operational management skills. You could choose to purchase a franchise for a straightforward entry with a built-in business model, buy an existing coffee kiosk to revamp and optimize for profits, or start from scratch, offering maximum flexibility to incorporate innovative concepts and quality services.

As an IT Director, your understanding of technology can enhance the kiosk's operations, such as implementing efficient payment systems and creating a tech-friendly environment that attracts remote workers. Additionally, choosing a good location and offering premium coffee and snacks can make your kiosk a popular spot, providing a new stream of income while leveraging your leadership and management capabilities.

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

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

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

We Built A Coffee Shop In A Van That Makes $180K/Year

This case study follows the co-founder of Camper Cafe, a mobile coffee van business which started as a hobby and now has 6 units that supply the UK's biggest sporting events, commercial and film shoots, generating around £150k from working only 70 days of the year.

Read by 6,697 founders

27. Start a standing desk company

As an IT director, you could leverage your expertise in technology and systems management to start a standing desk company, targeting the ergonomic needs of modern workplaces. With the growing awareness of the health benefits associated with standing desks, you’d be entering a market that is ripe for innovation and demand.

Your background in IT places you in a unique position to design and develop smart, adjustable desks that could integrate seamlessly with various tech ecosystems in an office. By focusing on product functionality and addressing common issues like back pain and posture, you could create a product that is both beneficial and highly sought after.

This endeavor not only supplements your income but also promotes a healthier lifestyle, tapping into the increasing demand for ergonomic office solutions. Given the straightforward nature of starting this business—designing the desk, finding manufacturers, and setting up an online store—the initial investment in design, manufacturing, and marketing could yield a lucrative return and establish a loyal customer base.

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

How We Launched A Startup Selling Affordable Cardboard Standing Desks

Deskmate is the cheapest standing desk startup in the world, having sold over 5,000 units to just under 100 countries with no initial business plan, cash or strategy.

Read by 10,522 founders

28. Start a dropshipping business ($453K/month)

As an IT Director, you could leverage your technical skills and industry experience to start a dropshipping business, supplementing your income with minimal upfront investment. With your familiarity with online platforms and data analysis, setting up an online store on Shopify or WooCommerce could be a streamlined process, allowing you to focus on selecting a profitable niche and finding reliable suppliers from platforms like AliExpress.

Managing customer service, marketing, and website maintenance would play to your strengths in project management and IT infrastructure, ensuring a smooth operation. By carefully monitoring your profit margins and managing expenses, you could efficiently run a supplementary business that complements your existing career and offers potential for significant financial growth.

How much you can make: $6,000 — $3,000,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $7,000 (?)

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

Time commitment per week: Min. 10 hours/week

How I Started A $100K/Month Business Mentoring Dropshipping Entrepreneurs

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.

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meet the author
Pat Walls

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