88 Low-Cost Small Business Ideas To Start In New York
Interested in starting a business in New York in 2024?
We put together 96 of the best businesses you can start in New York today.
For each business idea, we’ll show you real-world examples of how you can start your profitable, home-based small business in New York.
Here's the full list:
1. Start a mobile oil change business ($48M/year)
Starting a mobile oil change business in New York offers a fantastic opportunity to cater to busy individuals looking for convenience in car maintenance. With a van and essential equipment, you could offer on-site services, saving customers the hassle of going to a service center. This model has been successfully implemented, as seen in the story of GetSpiffy, Inc., started by entrepreneur Scot Wingo in Durham, NC.
GetSpiffy, Inc. demonstrates how a mobile, app-based car care service can scale effectively, servicing over 3,000 vehicles daily across 27 markets. Inspired by the growth of digital services and consumer convenience, Scot Wingo created a business delivering various car care services including oil changes directly to customers’ locations. For more inspiration, you can read the full case study here.
Spiffy, a mobile car-care company servicing over 3,000 vehicles a day in 27 markets, was founded by a four-time entrepreneur who saw an opportunity to marry exceptional service and technology, with an eye on digital services, consumer convenience, and the upheaval of the automotive industry.
2. Start a moving company ($30M/year)
Starting a moving company in New York could be a highly lucrative and rewarding business venture. The high population density and constant flux of residents in and out of the city make this a continually in-demand service. By prioritizing customer satisfaction and offering a unique value proposition, you could carve out a niche in this competitive market.
A notable example is Oz Moving & Storage, which was founded by Avi Oz in 1993 in New York City. This company started with humble beginnings, a hand-painted truck, and a small storefront on W 47th Street in Hell's Kitchen. Today, it has grown into a $30M/year business offering both commercial and residential moving services. Learn more about their journey in this case study.
Avi Oz, founder of Oz Moving & Storage, started the company in NYC in 1993 and built it to a $30M/year organization, offering commercial and residential moving services and prioritizing customer satisfaction and trust by providing excellent service and anticipating client needs.
3. Start a shipping business ($28.8M/year)
If you are interested in starting a shipping business in New York, there are plenty of opportunities, especially with the growth of e-commerce. You could offer various services such as warehouse management solutions or outsourced order fulfillment for online stores. This is a dynamic industry where efficient logistics and software solutions can set you apart.
ShipHero, founded by Aaron Rubin in Garnerville, New York, showcases the potential for success in this field. Starting with just $435,000 in outside investment, ShipHero now processes over $5 billion in e-commerce gross merchandise volume annually and has grown its revenues to $30 million each year. For an inspiring case study on how they achieved this, check out their story here.
ShipHero co-founders built their successful e-commerce fulfillment business, offering warehouse management software and outsourced eCommerce fulfillment, growing revenues from zero to $30 million annually, processing over $5 billion of e-commerce gross merchandise volume (GMV) annually while only having received $435,000 in outside capital investment.
4. Start a streetwear brand ($13.2M/year)
Starting a streetwear brand in New York could be an exciting and financially rewarding venture, given the state’s urban culture and trendsetting residents. This business idea could enable you to tap into the ever-growing market for exclusive and high-end streetwear brands. You could capitalize on trends and create a brand that resonates with fashion-forward individuals who are seeking unique and limited-edition pieces.
A compelling example of success in this field is LacedUp, which was founded by Andrew and Phillip Pevzner in Albany, New York. They grew their venture from a single store to a chain of four locations in New York and New Jersey, with annual sales surpassing $5 million. LacedUp specializes in high-end collectible sneakers and streetwear, and has been able to build a loyal customer base by offering rare and sought-after items from brands like Supreme, Jordan, and Yeezy. To learn more about their journey, check out their case study.
Two brothers built a $5M annual sales business, Laced Up, from a lawn care service they started at age 10, and have since grown from one store to 4 locations in New York and New Jersey, specializing in high-end collectible sneakers and providing great customer service.
5. Start a dermatology business ($12M/year)
Starting a dermatology business in New York could be a highly lucrative venture, especially given the increasing demand for aesthetic and dermatological services. With a focus on treatments like Botox, dermal fillers, and laser therapies, you could cater to a diverse range of clients seeking to enhance their appearance and well-being. Additionally, incorporating wellness programs such as hormone replacement therapy and lifestyle coaching could set your practice apart from more traditional dermatology clinics.
A notable example is ProMD Health, a company founded by Scott R. Melamed in Penfield, New York, which has experienced significant growth with a CAGR of over 40%. ProMD Health offers a wide range of services to help people look and feel their best, and their success story demonstrates the potential of this business model in New York. For more detailed insights into how this business was started and its growth trajectory, you can check out their case study.
ProMD Health is a rapidly expanding aesthetic dermatology business, boasting a CAGR of over 40%, with four offices, a franchise, a philanthropic initiative, a tattoo removal business, a telemedicine company, and more, all while giving power to their physicians through ProMD Development Group.
6. ($6.6M/year)
If you are considering starting a unique, niche business in New York, you could be inspired by the success story of the Flute Center of New York, which was started by Phil Unger. This specialized shop, located in Manhattan, has carved out an impressive niche by solely focusing on flutes and piccolos. Having grown over the past 42 years, the business now sells instruments ranging from $500 to $75,000 and achieved retail sales of over $7 million in 2019.
The Flute Center of New York sets an example of how you could find success in a specialized market, by catering to both beginners and professional musicians from around the world. For more detailed insights on how Phil Unger built this successful venture, you can read the full case study here. This example underscores the potential for niche businesses to thrive in the dynamic and diverse market of New York.
Flute Center of New York is the largest flute-centric company in the world, servicing musicians globally with an impressive retail level sales of over 7 million USD in 2019 by selling flutes and piccolos ranging from $500 to an astonishing $75,000.
7. Start an online reputation management business ($6.6M/year)
Starting an online reputation management business allows you to help individuals and companies maintain their public image on the internet. This involves ensuring that positive content ranks higher in search engine results while managing or mitigating any negative content. In a highly digital and interconnected world, reputation management plays a crucial role in personal and professional success, making it a valuable service. If you're entrepreneurial and tech-savvy, you could find significant opportunities in this sector right in New York.
Qnary, a successful example of this type of business, was started by Bant Breen in New York City. Qnary is an executive reputation management and talent branding solutions company. The company's tech-enabled platform optimizes an executive’s online presence, generates thought-leadership content, and boosts engagement. With thousands of clients globally and a robust monthly revenue, Qnary exemplifies the potential success of an online reputation management business in New York. For more on their journey, check out their case study.
Qnary founder Bant Breen built and grew the executive reputation management and talent branding solutions company, now with thousands of clients globally, with a monthly revenue of $550k by developing a tech-enabled solution that optimizes an executive’s online presence, generates thought-leadership content, and grows followers and engagement.
8. Become a nutritionist ($6M/year)
If you have a passion for health and wellness, you could consider becoming a nutritionist. This business idea leverages the increasing awareness around healthy living and dietary management. A compelling example of this is Stronger U, an online nutrition consulting company started by Mike Doehla in Newburgh, New York. Stronger U stands out with its unique 1-on-1 coaching approach, boasting impressive client satisfaction metrics like an NPS of 78.6 and stellar reviews on Google and Facebook.
Opening a nutrition consultancy could allow you to make a significant impact on people's lives while enjoying the flexibility of running your own business. If you're intrigued by this path, check out the case study about Stronger U to learn how Mike Doehla transformed his vision into an 8-figure business generating over $500k monthly.
Stronger U is an online nutrition consulting company with an 8-figure business receiving revenues of over $500k monthly, offering clients a unique nutritional experience through a 1-on-1 coaching approach, boasting an NPS of 78.6 and rated highly on Google Reviews and Facebook.
9. Start a furniture business ($6M/year)
Starting a furniture business in New York offers promising opportunities, especially if you embrace innovative approaches to meet modern demands. For example, Greg Hayes started Branch Furniture in New York City, revolutionizing the office furniture market by offering high-quality, cost-effective furniture directly to businesses. Branch Furniture simplifies the procurement process by providing space design, delivery, and installation services, all at a fraction of the price of traditional offerings.
By leveraging a direct-to-consumer model, Branch has achieved impressive success, surpassing $1M in sales within its first year. This New York-born company sets a precedent for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to enter the furniture industry with a fresh perspective. For more insights into how Greg Hayes built Branch Furniture, you can read the full case study here.
Branch Office Furniture offers a new approach to the office furniture industry, selling high-quality furniture directly to businesses with space design, delivery, and installation included at one-third to one-half of the price of comparable quality products, resulting in over $1M in sales since launching in Q1 of 2019.
10. Start a weighted blankets brand ($4.99M/year)
Starting a weighted blankets brand in New York could be an excellent business idea, especially with the growing awareness of their therapeutic benefits. These blankets, which provide gentle pressure similar to a comforting hug, have been gaining popularity for their ability to improve sleep and reduce anxiety. An inspiring example of this is Baloo Living, founded by Elizabeth Grojean, which achieved six-figure sales within its first three months and seven-figure revenues by its first year, showcasing the immense potential in this market.
For those in New York looking to start a similar venture, Baloo Living’s success demonstrates how high-quality products and thoughtful design can quickly capture market interest. Even though Baloo Living’s story began in Austin, Texas, the principles behind its success are universal. If you are interested in exploring more about how Elizabeth built her thriving business, you can read the detailed case study here.
Baloo Living, a Bali-based wellness company founded in 2018, saw incredible success in its first year, reaching six and seven-figure sales figures within just three and 12 months respectively by offering a high-quality, thoughtfully-designed weighted blanket.
11. Start a gaming, sports and entertainment center ($4.8M/year)
Starting a gaming, sports, and entertainment center in New York could be a lucrative and exciting opportunity. These centers provide a wide array of attractions like sports simulators, virtual reality experiences, and unique large-scale games, catering to both private events and corporate functions. By establishing a robust inventory and focusing on diverse client needs, you could tap into various markets, from bar mitzvahs to corporate team-building events.
Interactive Entertainment Group, founded by Gregg Dukofsky in Hauppauge, NY, is a prime example of success in this industry. Initially launched with a single product at an amusement park, the company has evolved significantly to generate around $400K per month in revenue. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they even reinvented themselves by offering virtual experiences. For more details on their journey and insights, check out their case study.
From a booth at a flea market to a 400k/month revenue generator, learn how this event production company pivoted to focus on corporate events, garnered top private companies recognition by Inc., and reinvented itself through virtual offerings in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
12. Start a staffing agency ($3.84M/year)
Starting a staffing agency in New York could be a promising business idea, especially in a city with a high concentration of businesses seeking specialized talent. You could follow the example of Boldly, a subscription staffing company founded by Sandra Lewis right in New York, New York. Boldly has soared to $3 million in revenue through word-of-mouth referrals, offering flexible, remote work opportunities to skilled professionals, including military spouses and expats.
The company’s success demonstrates how you could meet the growing demand for remote and flexible staffing solutions. Boldly provides businesses with highly qualified, Fortune 500-trained remote talent, proving that a strong focus on quality and flexibility can carve out a niche in the staffing industry. To learn more about how Sandra Lewis achieved this, check out the full case study.
Boldly, the subscription staffing company, has achieved $3 million in revenue through word-of-mouth referrals, and has grown to over 100 employees working across two continents, offering prized flex-time to military spouses, expats and experienced professionals focused on high quality remote work with corporations in a win-win environment.
13. Start a co-working space rental business ($3.6M/year)
If you're in New York and looking to start a business, opening a co-working space could be an excellent opportunity given the increasing demand for flexible, affordable workspaces. Co-working spaces are essential for freelancers, solopreneurs, and startups who need a professional setting without the high costs of long-term leases. By offering amenities such as high-speed internet, office equipment, and meeting rooms, you provide a valuable service to a growing market of remote workers and small businesses.
The Farm Soho, founded by Lucas Seyhun in New York City in 2014, is a prime example of how this business model can thrive. Positioning itself with an affordable workspace model, it targets early-stage startups, solopreneurs, and digital nomads. Located in the heart of New York City, The Farm Soho's competitive pricing has attracted a diverse clientele, making it a prominent player in the co-working space industry. You can read more about Lucas Seyhun's journey and The Farm Soho here.
By starting a similar venture, you could potentially contribute to the dynamic entrepreneurial landscape of New York while building a sustainable and profitable business.
The founder of The Farm Soho, one of the earliest New York City co-working spaces, shares how he built his affordable workspace model for solopreneurs and startups, as well as discussing his tips for attracting and retaining customers while navigating the challenges of running a business.
14. Start a code generator business ($3.6M/year)
If you have a knack for technology and innovation, starting a code generator business in New York might be the perfect venture for you. A compelling example of this is QR TIGER, launched by Benjamin Claeys in New York, NY. QR TIGER is a QR code management platform that enables users to create both static and dynamic QR codes, offering functionalities such as data tracking and content editing even after the code is generated. Claeys, originally an architect with a passion for technology, turned his idea into a profitable venture by focusing on customer-centric strategies and organic growth.
By leveraging advanced functionalities and providing tangible value to businesses and individuals, you could carve out a niche in this growing market. To learn more about the success story and get inspired, read the full case study here.
QR TIGER, a QR code management platform that provides static and dynamic QR codes, has developed a strong position in the market, with a profitable business model and consistent growth through customer-centric and organic marketing strategies.
15. Start a marketing agency ($3.6M/year)
Starting a marketing agency could be a lucrative and exciting venture, particularly in a dynamic state like New York. By leveraging your skills in digital marketing, branding, and customer acquisition, you could help local businesses grow their online presence and reach a wider audience. New York City, being a hub of innovation and business, provides ample opportunities to work with diverse clients ranging from startups to large corporations.
Take inspiration from Jakt, a digital product and innovation studio based in NYC, founded by Anthony Tumbiolo. Jakt has worked on over 100 projects including mobile apps, web applications, and IoT projects, achieving $4 million in revenue with a 20% profit margin in 2018. This showcases the high demand and potential success you could achieve by starting your own marketing agency in New York. For more details, you can read the full case study about Jakt and their journey here.
Jakt, a digital product and innovation studio based in NYC, works with both startups and large enterprises, operating on a revenue of $4 million in 2018 with a 20% profit margin, with focus on referrals and channel partnerships to attract and retain clients.
16. Start an online jewelry store ($3.44M/year)
Starting an online jewelry store could be a lucrative venture in New York, catering to the diverse and affluent customer base of the state. This business idea allows you to showcase unique and custom designs, offering a wide range of pieces from affordable fashion jewelry to high-end luxury items. You could leverage various digital marketing strategies and social media platforms to reach potential customers throughout the US and even globally.
A successful example of this business model is Desires by Mikolay, started by Tara Mikolay in Chappaqua, New York. This luxury jewelry brand has thrived since its inception in 2005, tripling its brick-and-mortar presence and receiving online orders nationwide. To learn more about their inspiring journey and strategies, check out their detailed case study.
Desires by Mikolay, a luxury jewelry brand offering a quality selection of custom design and fine jewelry, tripled its brick and mortar since starting in 2005 and now receives orders from all over the US online, after building an authentic brand with passionate owners.
17. Start a wine club ($3.24M/year)
Starting a wine club could be a fantastic business idea in New York, especially with the state’s rich wine culture and numerous vineyards. A wine club offers enthusiasts a unique way to discover and enjoy different wines regularly, providing a recurring revenue stream for your business while fostering a community of wine lovers.
A prime example of this in New York is Taster’s Club, founded by Mack McConnell. Taster’s Club is a subscription service that initially focused on whiskey before expanding into 12 different tracks, including wine. The business quickly grew due to its focus on delivering outstanding customer experiences and providing customers with fascinating spirits from around the world. Currently, Taster’s Club is achieving $270K/month in revenue by staying agile and maintaining a lean team. You can learn more about their journey here.
Learn how Taster's Club, a subscription service for craft spirits, went from a side-hustle to a profitable business with $270K/month in revenue, by launching fast and staying focused on providing an outstanding customer experience.
18. Start an earring business ($3.12M/year)
Starting an earring business could be an excellent venture, especially in a fashion-forward and diverse market like New York. You could tap into a unique niche by focusing on specialized products, such as hypoallergenic earrings for individuals with metal allergies. This idea is well exemplified by Tini Lux, an e-commerce fashion business started by Jackie Burke in New York, which successfully provides fashion earrings specifically for women with metal allergies.
Jackie launched Tini Lux in November 2017 and quickly gained a loyal following among women aged 18-45 who had previously struggled with metal allergies. This business can serve as an inspiration for you; in just 15 months, Tini Lux grew significantly and even received recognition when a star from “This Is Us” was featured wearing their earrings on the cover of Good Housekeeping magazine. For a deeper look into how Jackie built this successful business, check out the case study.
Tini Lux is a profitable e-commerce fashion business that provides a line of fashion earrings specifically for women with metal allergies that has gained a loyal following from its target demographic of women aged 18-45 in 15 months since launching.
19. Start a media company ($3M/year)
Starting a media company in New York can be an exciting and rewarding venture for those with a passion for storytelling and content creation. One successful example of a media company started in New York City is Starter Story, founded by Pat Walls. Starter Story focuses on sharing the stories of entrepreneurs, offering valuable insights into their journeys and business strategies. This platform has grown significantly, reaching 1.4 million monthly visitors and generating millions in annual revenue.
Pat Walls began this journey by documenting and sharing experiences of business founders, which resonated with a broad audience. His success highlights the potential of tapping into the entrepreneurial spirit and the power of storytelling in the bustling New York market. For more details on Pat Walls and Starter Story, check out the case study.
Starter Story grew to 1.4 million monthly visitors and millions in annual revenue by sharing the stories of entrepreneurs. Pat breaks down the early days and how he grew the business into something that changed his life.
20. Start a taxi cab company ($3M/year)
If you are exploring the idea of starting a taxi cab company in New York, you could take inspiration from Best Deal Car Service, a thriving transportation business founded by Albert Williams. Located in the Bronx, Best Deal Car Service specializes in local community transportation, corporate transportation, and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). Impressively, this company projects $3.5 million in revenue annually despite fierce competition from industry giants like Uber and Lyft.
Albert Williams attributes his success to providing excellent customer service and a commitment to continuous learning. His journey from an IT Director to running a profitable taxi company with over 35 drivers is a testament to what can be achieved with dedication and strategic planning. For more insights into how Albert grew his business, you can read the full case study.
Albert Williams grew a $3.5 million transportation company, The Best Deal, from a niche transportation sector; he attributes the company's success to providing excellent service and committing to continuous learning.
21. Build an ai tool ($3.57M/year)
Starting an AI tool business in New York offers a unique opportunity given the state's dynamic tech scene and access to a highly skilled workforce. With New York City being a major business hub, you could tap into various sectors like finance, healthcare, and retail—industries that are increasingly reliant on AI solutions to improve efficiency and customer experience.
Moreover, AI technologies are projected to witness significant revenue growth—from $9.5 billion in 2018 to over $118.6 billion by 2025—which reflects the increasing demand for innovative AI tools. By establishing your business in New York, you could leverage the state's vast network of tech talent and resources. For more on how to start your AI tool business and to read successful case studies, visit Starter Story's AI tool page or check out AI tool success stories.
SkillSoniq, the world's first AI-powered recruiting app, connects companies with skilled freelancers on a trial basis, saving companies 60%+ in hiring costs and earning $350,000+ in gross revenues in its first year, with a current average of $40,000 a month, and plans to raise a second round of seed funding to achieve escape velocity and continue to form a world-class company.
22. Start a b2b lead generation service ($2.07M/year)
Starting a B2B lead generation service in New York could be a lucrative and strategic venture due to the state's robust and diverse business landscape. Major industries like finance, healthcare, media, and technology create a high demand for quality leads, providing you with a steady stream of potential clients in need of your services.
New York's entrepreneurial spirit and vast network of businesses mean you could quickly establish a client base using research, cold outreach, and technology. By leveraging the state's vibrant business environment, you could help companies overcome the challenge of finding high-quality leads, making your service essential and highly marketable. For more insights, check out successful B2B lead generation case studies or learn more about the business idea itself.
A 20-year-old digital nomad and serial entrepreneur shares his journey of starting a successful digital marketing agency, Nomads with Solutions, which specializes in Facebook lead generation, and offers insights on client acquisition, personal branding, and focusing on self-improvement.
23. Start an ai-based business ($335K/year)
Starting an AI-based business in New York could be a lucrative opportunity given the state's vibrant tech ecosystem and diverse industries. You could leverage AI to optimize business operations, provide innovative solutions, and drive efficiency across sectors like finance, healthcare, and retail.
With New York being home to numerous startups and established firms, there's a high demand for AI-driven innovations to solve real-world problems. By diving into this burgeoning field, you could position yourself at the forefront of the next major technological advancement. For inspiration, check out some successful case studies that highlight the potential of AI-driven ventures.
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.
24. Start an artificial intelligence business ($720K/year)
New York is primed for launching an artificial intelligence business due to its thriving tech ecosystem and access to top-tier talent from institutions like Columbia University and NYU. Given the estimated 54% annual growth in the global AI market, reaching over $22 billion in the upcoming years, the opportunities for innovation and profit are significant.
Moreover, New York's strategic location as a financial hub provides unique opportunities for AI applications in fintech, healthcare, and media industries. To explore more about this lucrative venture, check out these artificial intelligence business ideas and read successful case studies for inspiration.
AdviNOW Medical uses artificial intelligence to automate clerical work, resulting in doctors being able to focus solely on patients and patients seeing more doctors every day, leading to increased profitability while solving healthcare issues.
25. Start a startup instructing business ($340K/year)
A startup instructing business is a compelling idea to pursue in New York due to the state's vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. You could tap into the wealth of aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners who are looking for expert guidance to navigate the complexities of starting and growing a business. This could include everything from business planning to marketing strategies, which are crucial for success in a highly competitive market like New York.
Moreover, with minimal initial investment, you could start by identifying your areas of expertise and creating a basic online presence. Leveraging satisfied customers and word-of-mouth referrals will help you build a strong reputation. Check out more details on how to start a startup instructing business and explore inspiring success stories to guide your journey.
GrowthMentor, a platform connecting vetted growth mentors for one-on-one calls, founded by Fotis Panagiotakopoulos, has had over 2,500 mentorship calls booked to date and has seen success in using word of mouth, content marketing, and leveraging other people's networks as the primary drivers of customer acquisition.
26. Start an ecommerce plugin ($281K/year)
Starting an e-commerce plugin business in New York presents a unique opportunity due to the state's vibrant tech ecosystem and high concentration of online retailers. With numerous businesses looking to enhance their online presence, you could develop plugins that cater to specific market needs, such as localized payment solutions or custom shopping experiences. Plus, the diverse talent pool in New York could provide ample opportunities for collaboration and innovation.
Additionally, the continuous growth of the e-commerce sector makes this a promising venture. Businesses are constantly seeking ways to streamline their processes and improve customer experiences, meaning your e-commerce plugins could quickly become essential tools. To explore this idea further, you can check out more details on this business idea or look into successful case studies for inspiration.
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.
27. Start a mobile pharmacy
Starting a mobile pharmacy in New York could be a highly lucrative venture, as the demand for convenient healthcare solutions is on the rise. The state's diverse and dense population, particularly in urban areas like New York City, presents a substantial customer base that values the convenience of having prescriptions delivered to their doorsteps.
Moreover, New York has a large elderly population and busy professionals who could benefit significantly from this service. By offering a mobile pharmacy, you could tap into a market that prioritizes time-saving, reliability, and ease of access to medications. For inspiration, you could look into successful case studies to understand how others have successfully built similar businesses.
28. Start a dishwash bar making business
Starting a dishwash bar making business in New York could be a lucrative opportunity given the state's large and diverse population. With a heightened focus on sustainability and eco-friendly products, there's an emerging market for natural and organic dishwash bars among health-conscious residents.
Being in a densely populated state like New York, you could tap into a broad customer base, including local restaurants, cafes, and environmentally-conscious households. If you're interested in further exploring this idea, you can find more details in our guide on starting a dishwash bar making business. For inspiration, you can also check out some successful case studies in this niche.
29. Create a mobile app ($844K/year)
Given New York's vibrant tech ecosystem, starting a mobile app business presents a fantastic opportunity for entrepreneurial minds. You could leverage the state's abundant resources, such as tech incubators and networking events, to refine your idea and find collaborators. Plus, New York's diverse population offers a rich testing ground for apps designed to solve various problems or entertain a broad user base.
The dense concentration of businesses and consumers in New York means there's ample potential for your app to reach a significant audience quickly. Whether you're building a productivity tool, a game, or a niche social platform, the market remains ripe for innovation. If you're curious about how successful app ventures have made their mark, explore more details or read through some successful case studies to get inspired.
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.
30. Start a dirt bike business
Given New York's diverse landscapes and growing interest in outdoor activities, starting a dirt bike business could be a lucrative opportunity. With an increasing number of urban dirt bike races and enthusiasts looking for new ways to explore rough terrains, you could tap into a market that is ripe for growth.
Whether you choose to buy and sell used dirt bikes or start a leasing business, you have the potential to draw in local thrill-seekers and tourists alike. For more insights, check out this dirt bike business idea or explore successful case studies to see how others have made it big in this niche.
Jakt, a digital product and innovation studio based in NYC, works with both startups and large enterprises, operating on a revenue of $4 million in 2018 with a 20% profit margin, with focus on referrals and channel partnerships to attract and retain clients.
31. Start a ngo
Starting an NGO in New York could be a highly impactful and fulfilling business idea, especially given the state's diverse population and myriad social issues requiring attention. New York's urban hubs and vibrant community offer vast opportunities to address crucial needs such as homelessness, education inequality, and environmental sustainability. These challenges present a fertile ground for mission-driven initiatives that can attract both local support and broader funding.
Additionally, the state's well-developed infrastructure and access to influential networks could amplify your NGO's reach and effectiveness. With so many pressing issues, you could have the unique opportunity to drive meaningful change while tapping into New York's philanthropic culture. For more insights and successful case studies, check out our detailed page on starting an NGO and explore various success stories.
32. Start a media company ($2.52M/year)
Starting a media company in New York presents numerous opportunities due to the state's diverse and dynamic audience. With New York being a media hub, you could tap into an array of talent and cutting-edge technology resources to elevate your content. Interesting case studies show the potential for success in this field within the state.
Moreover, the state's large and varied population makes it easier to target specific niches and grow your audience. Leveraging New York's well-established networks and events, you could create compelling content that resonates with locals and beyond. For more details on how to get started, check out this in-depth guide.
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.
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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.
