18+ Unique Business Ideas To Start In North Carolina
Interested in starting a business in North Carolina in 2024?
We put together 96 of the best businesses you can start in North Carolina today.
For each business idea, we’ll show you real-world examples of how you can start your profitable, home-based small business in North Carolina.
Here's the full list:
1. Start a bicycle company ($12M/year)
Starting a bicycle company in North Carolina could be a fantastic business opportunity, especially if you are passionate about cycling and have an eye for design and quality. Leveraging word-of-mouth marketing and social media, you could build a trusted brand, much like State Bicycle Co., which was started by Mehdi Farsi in Tempe. This company managed to grow to over $50M in annual sales and produced over 100,000 bikes by focusing on attractive, affordable products and engaging with their community of cyclists.
Mehdi Farsi and his brother Reza identified a market gap for complete bicycles that were both budget-friendly and visually appealing, using their background in business and marketing to bootstrap the venture. You could explore a similar path in North Carolina, focusing on quality and community engagement to build your brand. For more insight into how they achieved this impressive success, you can read their full story here.
"Co-founders of State Bicycle Co. reveal how they bootstrapped their company to over $50M in annual sales and produced over 100,000 bikes by creating a trusted brand through word-of-mouth and social media, sponsoring talented riders, limited-edition releases, and focusing on product quality."
2. Start a social media marketing agency ($6M/year)
Starting a social media marketing agency in North Carolina can be a highly lucrative opportunity, especially given how integral social media has become to modern marketing strategies. By focusing on this specialized area, you could help local businesses in North Carolina amplify their online presence, engage with their audience, and drive sales through targeted social media campaigns.
Ignite Social Media, founded by Jim Tobin in Cary, NC, is an excellent example of this successful business model. Launched in 2007, Ignite Social Media carved out a niche as America’s first social media agency and has since worked with renowned clients like Microsoft and Intel. To dive deeper into how this pioneering business maintains its edge, check out their story.
Learn how the founder of Ignite Social Media launched the first-ever social media agency in the US, attracting big-name clients like Microsoft and Intel through organic leads and referrals, and stay on top of the constantly changing industry by focusing on one area of marketing.
3. Start a real estate business ($6M/year)
Starting a real estate business in North Carolina could be a lucrative endeavor, given the state's diverse geography and growing economy. Real estate investment and property management are particularly promising, allowing you to tap into both urban and rural markets. T. Cory Lewis, the founder of T. C. Lewis & Co. Real Estate, demonstrated the potential of this industry with his multifaceted firm operating in the Appalachian mountain region. His company, which began humbly with meetings in bookstores and coffee shops, has now grown into a well-recognized firm.
T. C. Lewis & Co. Real Estate provides comprehensive services including sales, development, remodeling, and construction, with property management being a cornerstone for investor relations and organic growth. This business, based in Asheville, North Carolina, has earned several accolades such as being listed among Inc. magazine's Fastest Growing Privately Held Companies. For more insights into how Cory Lewis built his successful enterprise, you could read the full case study here.
This case study is about T. C. Lewis & Co, a real estate investment and management firm that successfully diversified their approach to include sales, development, remodeling, and construction, with property management being the key to investor doors and organic growth.
4. Start a zapier consulting agency ($4.68M/year)
Starting a Zapier consulting agency in North Carolina could be a lucrative opportunity for those with a knack for automation and workflow optimization. Zapier's platform allows businesses to integrate various apps, automating repetitive tasks and streamlining operations, which is invaluable to companies looking to improve efficiency and reduce errors. By becoming an expert in these integrations, you could help businesses across North Carolina eliminate mundane tasks, focus on core activities, and drive growth.
Digital Position™, founded by Roger Parent in Charlotte, North Carolina, is an excellent example of a successful consulting business in this niche. Dissatisfied with being underpaid, Roger left his job to start his own digital marketing agency, which is now generating over $330k per month. You can read more about Roger's inspiring journey and business success in this case study.
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.
5. Start a construction company ($4.2M/year)
Starting a construction company in North Carolina, especially given the state's ongoing growth and development, could be a lucrative venture. With a focus on customer satisfaction and high-quality workmanship, you could establish a thriving business that caters to both residential and commercial clients. One noteworthy example is Carolina Exteriors, a booming residential home improvement service co-founded by Clifton Muckenfuss in Apex, NC.
Founded in 2010 amidst the housing crisis, Carolina Exteriors has grown to generate $4,000,000 in annual revenue, employing 12 full-time staff members and over 50 trade partners. Their emphasis on customer-focused service and solid business practices has set them apart in the Raleigh Metro Area. To learn more about their journey and insights, you could check out their full case study here.
Carolina Exteriors is a residential home improvement service that generates $4,000,000 in revenue annually, with 12 full-time employees and over 50 trade partners, developed in response to the previous housing crisis and their founders' belief that contractors needed to be more customer-focused.
6. Start a bedding company ($1.8M/year)
Starting a bedding company offers a promising venture, particularly if you focus on health-conscious and eco-friendly products. In North Carolina, Turmerry serves as an inspiring example, illustrating how you could create a successful business with a strong commitment to sustainability. Founded by Rumana Bai, Turmerry stands out for its environmentally responsible bedding products, which include latex mattress toppers and pillows made from pure and organic non-GMO materials.
Located in Charlotte, NC, Turmerry has grown impressively, achieving a 6000% year-over-year revenue increase. The company has garnered a loyal customer base by prioritizing natural, non-toxic materials and forging partnerships with organizations like American Forests. For more on their journey, check out Turmerry's case study.
An aspiring founder shares how they started an online retail store providing natural and non-toxic bedding products, growing their YOY revenue by 6000%, and focusing on sustainability and community impact through partnerships with American Forests and introducing 100% Natural and Organic Hair Oil.
7. Start a candle business ($1.68M/year)
If you're entrepreneurial and living in North Carolina, starting a candle business could be a lucrative venture. Candles are a popular home decor item and can be tailored to local tastes and cultural themes. For inspiration, look no further than the Southern Elegance Candle Company, which was started in Raeford, North Carolina by D'Shawn Russell.
What began as a side hustle at a local Farmers Market, making around $200 per weekend, quickly grew into a thriving business averaging $20,000 per month in sales. By focusing on Southern-themed fragrances, Southern Elegance has captured the hearts of many in the region and beyond. You can read more about their amazing journey here.
Southern Elegance Candle Company, founded by D'Shawn Russell, started as a side hustle making around $200 per weekend at a local Farmers Market, but now averages approximately $20,000 per month in sales across their retail site, wholesale site, and Faire.
8. Start a custom app development service ($1.2M/year)
Starting a custom app development service in North Carolina could be a lucrative business idea, tapping into the state's robust tech ecosystem. With a growing demand for technology solutions across various industries, you could help businesses enhance their operations with tailor-made applications.
A specific example is Imaginovation, founded by Michael Georgiou and Pete Peranzo in Raleigh, North Carolina in 2011. This award-winning technology company has consistently grown over 40% in revenue annually and has been honored as one of the Top Technology Companies in North Carolina by Clutch. To learn more about their journey, you can read their case study.
Imaginovation, a technology and app development company in Raleigh, NC, was recently named one of the Top Technology Companies in North Carolina by Clutch and has grown an average of over 40% in revenue every year since it was founded in 2011 by co-founders Michael Georgiou and Pete Peranzo.
9. Become a shopify app developer ($780K/year)
If you're looking to capitalize on the booming ecommerce industry in North Carolina, you could become a Shopify app developer. Leveraging your coding skills to create useful apps for Shopify store owners can be a lucrative business. For instance, ByteStand, founded by Todd Trimakas in Charlotte, demonstrates the potential in this field. ByteStand's successful apps, such as FreshCredit and FBA Shipping, generate around $17,000 per month and support over 2,000 shops.
Todd's journey from selling overstock items on Amazon to developing Shopify apps is an inspiring one, showing that with dedication and the right idea, you could thrive in this sector. For a detailed look into Todd's process and how ByteStand was built from the ground up, you can check out this case study. It’s a compelling example of how entrepreneurial drive can translate into a profitable business in North Carolina.
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.
10. Start a cryptocurrency exchange service ($600K/year)
If you have an entrepreneurial spirit and a keen interest in cryptocurrencies, starting a cryptocurrency exchange service might be an exciting opportunity for you in North Carolina. The growing popularity and adoption of digital currencies present a ripe environment for launching such a venture. An excellent example of success in this field is SimpleSwap.io, a user-friendly, non-custodial exchange service that boasts over 200,000 monthly active users and generates an average monthly revenue of $50,000.
SimpleSwap was created with the idea of simplifying the cryptocurrency exchange process while ensuring safety and convenience for its users. By offering support for over 300 crypto and fiat currencies and providing superior customer service, SimpleSwap has carved out a significant market share. For a deeper dive into their business journey, check out their case study. This could serve as a solid inspiration for launching your cryptocurrency exchange in North Carolina.
SimpleSwap, a user-friendly and reliable service for cryptocurrency exchanges, attracts over 200,000 monthly active users with an average monthly revenue of $50,000 by offering a simple and convenient exchange process and superior customer support.
11. Start a stuffed animals business ($420K/year)
If you're considering a unique business idea in North Carolina, you could start a stuffed animals business tailored to specific niches and audiences. One successful example is ZZZ Bears, founded by Justin Baum in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. ZZZ Bears features a line of military-themed teddy bears named SGT SLEEPTIGHT, designed to help children, especially those from military families, sleep soundly by warding off nighttime fears.
Justin Baum leveraged his background in advertising and his passion for supporting military families to grow ZZZ Bears through strategic partnerships and effective digital marketing. This North Carolina-based business has seen success through platforms like Facebook ads and retail giants such as Target. To learn more about how ZZZ Bears was built, you can read the full case study here.
This case study is about how the founder of ZZZ Bears created and grew a line of military teddy bears named SGT SLEEPTIGHT, primarily selling to military families and gaining success through Facebook ads and partnerships with military exchanges, Target, and TAPS, while also learning important lessons such as the power of mentors and seeking help.
12. Start a digital marketing business ($300K/year)
Starting a digital marketing business in North Carolina could be a lucrative opportunity, especially given the growing demand for online visibility among local businesses. You could help companies in specialized niches, such as the disaster restoration industry, achieve positive ROI through targeted digital marketing and SEO services. This kind of business can leverage word-of-mouth marketing and strong client relationships to build trust and drive growth.
A compelling example of success in this field is Restoration Digital Marketing, which was started by Jeff Carrier in Asheville, North Carolina. This business generates over $25,000 per month by helping restoration companies excel in their digital marketing efforts. To dive deeper into how Jeff Carrier built his successful venture, you can read the full case study here.
Restoration Digital Marketing generates over $25,000 per month helping restoration companies achieve positive ROI through its specialized digital marketing services, and its success has been fuelled through word-of-mouth marketing tactics and developing client relationships.
13. Start a jewelry making business ($240K/year)
Starting a jewelry making business could be an excellent opportunity in North Carolina, especially if you have a passion for creativity and craftsmanship. One inspiring example is Aziza Jewelry, founded by Aziza Browne in Asheville, North Carolina. Aziza's business, which generates $5k/month, specializes in custom word necklaces and Mother-Daughter Earring Sets. Her pieces have become popular gifts, especially as "Push Presents" for new moms.
By leveraging social media for marketing, investing in yourself, and making industry connections, you could create a thriving jewelry business in North Carolina. To learn more about Aziza's journey and gather insights on starting your own jewelry making business, check out the full case study here.
A jewelry business founder discusses how she started her $5k/month side hustle selling custom word necklaces and shares advice on making connections in your industry, investing in yourself, and using social media for marketing.
14. Start a surprise travel agency ($180K/year)
Starting a surprise travel agency could be a unique and exciting business venture in North Carolina, particularly for those passionate about travel and planning. Whisked Away Surprise Travel, founded by Charlotte Curry McGhee in Charlotte, North Carolina, serves as a compelling case study. This business helps clients who are overwhelmed by the travel planning process by offering curated surprise trips, where the destination is revealed just a week before departure.
Since its launch in March 2017, Whisked Away has seen exponential revenue growth each year, demonstrating a strong demand for stress-free, surprise travel experiences. By allowing clients to select their region, budget, and travel dates, and then handling all the details, Whisked Away turns a potentially stressful activity into an enjoyable adventure. If you're considering launching a business in North Carolina, this could be an inspiring model to follow. For more details on Whisked Away's journey, you can read the full case study here.
Whisked Away Surprise Travel is a curated travel service for clients overwhelmed by the planning process, with revenue growth exponentially increasing each year since its launch in March 2017.
15. Start a graphic design business ($96K/year)
Starting a graphic design business in North Carolina offers a wealth of opportunities, especially with the growing demand for digital and creative services. If you have a knack for design and an entrepreneurial spirit, you could launch a successful venture just like Scott Tarcy did with CADdesignhelp.com in Charlotte, NC. Scott took his background in mechanical engineering and turned a side hustle into a thriving business, creating CAD designs and prototypes for various clients. Leveraging his design skills, Scott expanded his service-based business to include an eCommerce store, now averaging $9,000 a month in revenue.
Scott's journey is a perfect example of how you could start small and scale up, focusing on client acquisition and multiple streams of income. Starting in North Carolina, a state with a burgeoning tech scene, you have the potential to tap into a rich market of small businesses and independent inventors in need of graphic design services. For a deeper dive into Scott's inspiring story, check out his case study.
A 3D CAD designer and product inventor who started as a side hustle and averaged $9,000 a month in revenue, shares his insights on the ups and downs of owning a service-based business alongside an eCommerce store, as well as lessons learned in customer acquisition and in generating multiple streams of passive income.
16. Start an animation business ($84K/year)
Starting an animation business in North Carolina could be a highly profitable venture for entrepreneurial-minded individuals, especially given the rise in digital content across various platforms. You could focus on creating custom explainer animations, logo animations, and social media stickers for clients ranging from start-ups to marketing companies. These services can command premium rates, with explainer animations alone bringing in between $5,500 and $7,500 per project.
Drive 80 Studios, founded by Mike Doyle in Raleigh, North Carolina, is a prime example of a successful animation business in the state. Mike generates between $75,000 and $100,000 annually by offering a diverse range of animation services tailored to the needs of his clients. His business underscores the potential for financial and creative success in this field. For a deeper dive into his journey, you can check out the case study here.
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.
17. Start a woodworking business ($30K/year)
If you have a knack for woodworking, starting a woodworking business in North Carolina could be a rewarding venture. Steve Smith, a high school marketing teacher from Greensboro, North Carolina, exemplified this by starting 2Puggles as a part-time experiment. His woodworking business focuses on creating wooden earrings, bookmarks, coasters, and clocks. Despite being a part-time endeavor originally, 2Puggles generates $15,000 annually, showcasing the lucrative potential within the woodworking niche.
Engaging in craft shows, launching Kickstarter campaigns, and leveraging word-of-mouth referrals were key strategies in the growth of 2Puggles. Such an enterprise could thrive in North Carolina, where local craftsmanship is cherished. To delve further into Steve's journey and gather inspiration, you can read the full case study here.
This high school teacher experimented with building a part-time woodworking-based business, 2Puggles, which generates $15,000 annually and has enjoyed significant growth after starting in crafts shows, Kickstarter, and relying on word of mouth referrals to generate revenue.
18. Start a mobile photography business ($24K/year)
Starting a mobile photography business in North Carolina could be an exciting opportunity for those with a passion for capturing moments. With the scenic beauty of the state ranging from the Blue Ridge Mountains to its picturesque coastlines, you could offer on-location photo sessions for families, engagements, and special events, setting you apart from traditional studio photographers.
Two Little Monkeys Photography, started by Samantha Bachand in Monroe, NC, is a shining example of success in this field. Samantha built her newborn and family photography studio from the ground up with just a Canon 40D, even during challenging times. Since its founding, her business has seen steady growth. You can read more about her inspiring journey in this case study.
How a single mother went from starting a newborn and family photography studio with just a Canon 40D - risking everything after a turbulent time as a teenage mother - to achieving steady growth of 5-10% YoY.
19. Start an exercise app ($3K/year)
Starting an exercise app can be a lucrative business opportunity, especially in health-conscious states like North Carolina. Raleigh-based entrepreneur Justin Anyanwu exemplifies this with Lazy Jar, an innovative fitness app under his company Innovative Bit. Lazy Jar incentivizes users to stick to their workout routines by charging a fee if they fail to meet their fitness goals, combining financial motivation with health benefits.
Begun in Raleigh, North Carolina, Lazy Jar currently averages $250 in monthly revenue and has been featured in reputable publications such as TechCrunch, LifeHacker, and Fast Company. This success story demonstrates that if you have a unique take on fitness and the technical skills to develop an app, you could make a significant impact in the growing health and wellness market. For more details on Justin's journey, you can read the full case study here.
Lazy Jar is a fitness app that charges users for failing to meet their weekly fitness goals, launched by Justin Anyanwu, which currently averages $250 per month and has been featured in publications such as TechCrunch, LifeHacker, and Fast Company.
20. Become a social media consultant ($1.2K/year)
Starting a business as a social media consultant in North Carolina can be a highly effective venture given the increasing importance of digital presence for both local and global businesses. By leveraging skills in social media strategy, content creation, and analytics, you could assist companies in optimizing their online presence, ultimately driving revenue and customer engagement. There's a broad market, ranging from small local businesses to larger enterprises, in need of experts to manage and grow their social media platforms effectively.
One inspiring example is BT Neil Consulting, founded by Cornelia "Miss Co" Malloy, who started her online consulting business in Dunn, NC. Cornelia successfully uses social media to promote her multiple brands and deliver valuable digital resources in various fields such as career, business, and long-term care placement. Her journey illustrates the importance of consistency and perseverance in building a reputable consulting business online. For more details on her story, you can check out the case study.
BT Neil Consulting founder, Cornelia "Miss Co" Malloy, shares how she started her online consulting business and the struggles she faced when trying to build awareness and gain customers while highlighting the importance of consistency and not giving up.
21. Start a marketing agency ($2.94M/year)
North Carolina's diverse and growing economy presents an excellent opportunity for starting a marketing agency. From the burgeoning tech hubs in the Research Triangle to the rapidly developing small businesses in cities like Asheville and Greensboro, there's a wide array of potential clients looking to enhance their brand visibility and marketing strategies. By catering to these diverse business needs, you could establish a robust client base and become an integral part of their growth.
Moreover, the cost savings for businesses that choose to outsource their marketing efforts can be substantial, making your services highly attractive. Positioning yourself as a cost-effective yet comprehensive marketing solution could be your key differentiator. To learn more and get inspired by successful ventures in this field, check out these successful case studies.
A successful podcast production company that grew from one client making $15/hour to a team of 10 contractors producing over 30 shows per week with revenue of over $10k/mo, primarily through referrals and with a focus on providing high personal touch and being picky about working only with clients who are a good fit.
22. Start a digital agency ($2.23M/year)
Starting a digital agency in North Carolina could be a particularly lucrative endeavor due to the state's diverse and growing business environment. With cities like Raleigh and Charlotte becoming tech hubs, there is a high demand for expertise in digital marketing to help local businesses increase their online presence.
Moreover, North Carolina offers a rich pool of skilled professionals from its numerous prestigious universities who specialize in marketing, IT, and related fields. By tapping into this talent and the booming startup ecosystem, you could position your digital agency for substantial growth and success. For inspiration and practical insights, consider checking out some successful case studies on how others have built thriving digital agencies.
How this founder started a $100K/month guaranteed transcription service for medical, legal, law enforcement, financial, academic and general business industries, winning the NASPO ValuePoint transcription services contract over 26 other companies and learning valuable lessons about getting a coach and getting as much PR as possible.
23. Start a mini trade fair business
Starting a mini trade fair business in North Carolina could be a fantastic opportunity due to the state's diverse economy and thriving business communities in cities like Charlotte and Raleigh. Hosting these events allows you to bring together various local businesses, fostering networking and collaboration while providing an invaluable platform for small businesses to gain exposure.
You could leverage existing infrastructures, such as convention centers and hotels, which are plentiful in the state, to host your events. By targeting specific industries popular in North Carolina, such as tech, healthcare, and finance, you could attract a curated audience that benefits both exhibitors and attendees. For more insights on starting a mini trade fair business, you could check out this detailed guide and explore success stories from others who have successfully launched similar ventures.
24. Start a web development business ($1.09M/year)
Starting a web development business in North Carolina presents promising opportunities due to the state's thriving tech and business sectors. With cities like Raleigh and Charlotte becoming recognized hubs for technology and innovation, you could find a robust market of small businesses and startups needing professional web development services to establish and enhance their online presence.
Additionally, the state’s diverse economic environment means there's a demand across various industries—from agriculture to finance—for reliable web development solutions. By catering to this varied clientele, you could ensure a steady stream of projects and business growth. For inspiration, check out successful case studies of web development businesses to understand how others have thrived in this field.
Vuetify is a popular open-source user interface library, built with the Vue.js framework, that generates revenue through digital content and services such as paid digital content in the Vuetify store, direct support through consulting, ad revenue from Carbon ads on the documentation pages, and donations/sponsorships via GitHub and Patreon, generating an average income of $6,500 per month.
25. Start a freelance writing business ($751K/year)
Starting a freelance writing business in North Carolina could be a lucrative venture due to the state's booming tech and educational sectors. With institutions like Duke University and Research Triangle Park, there is a continuous demand for professional, high-quality content creation, from academic writing to tech-based articles.
Additionally, North Carolina's relatively low cost of living allows you to maximize your earnings while enjoying the flexibility of remote work. As a freelancer, your strong writing skills and ability to meet deadlines will enable you to successfully navigate the diverse content needs of various industries in the state. For inspiration, check out some successful case studies on our website.
How David Tile turned a freelance writing gig into an $80k/month business, discussing lessons learned through managing growing demands and maintaining a remote team operation.
26. Start a website development business ($4.65M/year)
Starting a website development business in North Carolina could be a lucrative venture, given the rapidly growing tech industry and increasing number of businesses seeking an online presence. North Carolina is home to a thriving small business community, especially in cities like Raleigh and Charlotte, where entrepreneurs and established companies alike need top-notch websites to compete and thrive.
With diverse potential clients ranging from eCommerce business owners to local brick-and-mortar stores, you could tap into a broad market. The demand for skilled web developers who can create visually appealing and user-friendly websites ensures a steady stream of opportunities. Explore successful case studies to see how others have thrived with this business idea in similar markets.
How a founder turned his passion for marketing and technology into a successful Boston-based web design and SEO company, generating over $20k in sales each month by focusing on serving the niche market of small businesses through affordable and personalized services, while establishing his reputation through B2B networking and online initiatives.
27. Start a technology consulting business ($1.64M/year)
Starting a technology consulting business in North Carolina could be a smart move due to the state's thriving tech scene, driven by hubs like the Research Triangle Park. With many startups and established businesses seeking to leverage technology for growth, there are ample opportunities to offer your expertise in areas such as IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and software solutions.
Additionally, North Carolina's diverse economy means industries from healthcare to finance are in need of tech consulting services to stay competitive. If you have a background in IT and a passion for innovation, you could be the driving force behind these businesses' technological advancements. For more details, check out this article and see successful case studies of tech consulting businesses.
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.
28. Start a customer intelligence analytics business ($1.29M/year)
Starting a customer intelligence analytics business in North Carolina could be an excellent venture for those with a knack for data analysis and strong communication skills. The state is home to thriving industries, such as tech and banking, which increasingly rely on data to drive business decisions. If you can help these businesses better understand their customers, you'll find yourself in high demand in this competitive market.
The burgeoning tech ecosystem in cities like Raleigh and Charlotte presents numerous opportunities for collaboration and growth. By delivering actionable insights to local companies, you could help improve their marketing strategies, sales efforts, and customer retention rates. For more detailed information on starting this business, you can explore this article. If you're looking for inspiration from successful case studies, check out these stories.
EspoCRM, an open-source CRM application for small and mid-size businesses, has seen an average of over 16,000 downloads per year and makes up to $30k per month, offering efficient tools to systematize customer data, improve sales cycles, and automate routine administrative tasks.
29. Start a mouth guard business
Starting a mouth guard business in North Carolina presents a unique opportunity due to the state's active sports culture and growing emphasis on dental health. You could tap into the expanding market driven by the increasing awareness around dental safety and the high participation in contact sports at both amateur and professional levels. By offering custom-fit or standard mouth guards, you help customers prevent expensive dental fixes and painful injuries, building a reliable business in the process.
Additionally, with a modest initial investment for materials and essential mold-making equipment, this business idea is financially accessible. If you have a passion for healthcare or fitness, this venture allows you to create high-quality, protective products that make a real impact on people's lives. For more details, you can explore this business idea further or check out success stories from entrepreneurs who have done it.
Remi, a direct-to-consumer Sleep and Wellness company, founded by VC-turned-founder Oscar Adelman, has had a successful first year, going from idea to $1.5m+ in revenue, serving thousands of happy customers, with a lifetime retention above 90%, proving that offering the best solution to a real pain point is key to attracting and retaining customers.
30. Start an online books business ($1.02M/year)
Starting an online books business in North Carolina could be a highly rewarding endeavor, especially given the state's vibrant literary culture and growing tech industry. With a rich history of literature and numerous literary festivals, such as the North Carolina Literary Festival, you could cater to a passionate community of readers who are eager for both digital and physical book options.
Additionally, North Carolina's strong logistics network and e-commerce support systems make it easier to manage physical book deliveries. By leveraging local resources, you could create a scalable platform that offers a diverse range of genres and formats. Whether you're partnering with publishers or self-publishing authors, the possibilities are endless. For more insights on how to get started, check out this detailed guide on online book businesses or explore successful case studies to inspire your journey.
Foreword Reviews is a media company that started out as a magazine with a print run of 7,500 copies, serving as a brochure for publishing services including foreign rights exchange and digital content, and twenty years and some intense pivots later, it has become one of the most profitable in the book business.
31. Become a software developer ($621K/year)
Starting a software development business in North Carolina could be a promising venture due to the state's burgeoning tech industry and its continual growth. With the Research Triangle Park serving as a hub for innovation and a strong demand for custom software solutions among local businesses, you could find ample opportunities to leverage your technical skills.
Moreover, the average salary for software developers in this field makes it a financially rewarding endeavor, with top earners making up to $140,000 annually. If you're passionate about creating mobile apps and cloud-based solutions, North Carolina's business landscape is ripe for exploring these exciting trends. For more insights and success stories in this field, check out our detailed guide and successful case studies.
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.
32. Start a list your room
"Listing your room" in North Carolina offers a lucrative opportunity due to the state's thriving tourism industry and growing economy. With popular attractions like the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Outer Banks, and vibrant cities like Charlotte and Raleigh, you could easily attract visitors looking for short-term rentals.
Moreover, North Carolina universities like Duke, UNC, and NC State draw numerous prospective students and their families, providing a steady demand for accommodation. If you're interested in exploring this business idea further, check out our detailed guide to starting this business and read through various success stories from entrepreneurs who have turned this idea into a profitable venture.
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.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
