20 Businesses You Can Start With No Money In 2024
Aspiring entrepreneurs may struggle with limited funds when launching their ventures.
But did you know there are several business ideas that require minimal or no upfront costs?
In this article, we will explore some practical and innovative options for those looking to start a business with little to no initial investment.
Whether you are seeking inspiration or are curious about what business to start without any capital, read on for valuable insights and actionable ideas.
Here they are:
1. Start a newsletter
Based on data from 48 successful newsletter businesses, the median cost to start a newsletter is $500.
However, there are various ways you can start a newsletter with $0.
Did you know that in the past five years, there has been more than a 50% increase in the number of people who read newsletters?
Newsletters are one of the few things you can use to market yourself as a trusted expert. A well-written newsletter can educate your subscribers and build connections with them.
Email newsletters are a great way to connect with customers and potential customers. It’s a newsletter’s job to inform, persuade, and sell to your audience.
How much you can make: $160 — $4,100,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)
For example, Danny Miró-Chinea started Comprende in 2023.
They spent a total of $19 to get the newsletter up and running.
2. Start a dating coaching business
Based on data from 7 successful dating coaching business businesses, the median cost to start a dating coaching business is $1.25K.
However, there are various ways you can start a dating coaching business with $0.
A dating coach offers training and guidance to improve the client's success in dating and relationships.
The dating coach evaluates the results of the client's actions and decides what changes to make to the client's dating approach to improve the outcome. Besides, dating coaches offer guidance and support, helping clients negotiate the often confusing first stages of their early romantic experiences.
Dating coaches have been around for years. A more recent trend is dating coaches who help people with conditions like autism overcome their situations and begin dating people they love. Do you love helping people achieve their dating goals? You can start a dating coach service today!
To start, identify a niche and create a website, to help you reach more people. You can target teenagers, divorced people, or older adults and help them through their dating life.
How much you can make: $1,300 — $30,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,250 (?)
How long does it take to build: 47 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 3 hours/week
For example, Rowena Cumner started Agent Engagement in 2015.
They spent a total of $20 to get the dating coaching business up and running.
3. Start a resume writing service
Based on data from 4 successful resume writing service businesses, the median cost to start a resume writing service is $35.
However, there are various ways you can start a resume writing service with $0.
A resume writing service offers professional assistance in crafting compelling resumes for job seekers.
With this service, your day-to-day activities revolve around collaborating with clients to gather their employment history, skills, and achievements, and transforming that information into well-crafted resumes that highlight their qualifications.
How much you can make: $2,000 — $62,500/month
How much does it cost to start: $35 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 8 hours/week
For example, Vaibhav Kishnani started Content-Whale Private Limited in 2017.
They spent a total of $35 to get the resume writing service up and running.
4. Become a music blogger
Based on data from 2 successful music blogger businesses, the median cost to start a music blogger is $55.
However, there are various ways you can start a music blogger with $0.
A music blog covers different topics of interest among music lovers. With the music industry so popular in 2024, it is a great time to start a music blog. A music blog offers you a chance to get as creative as possible and is also a precious tool to help you promote and publicize music genres.
Starting a music blog is as easy as selecting a music niche. Identify topics of interest and create shareable content.
How much you can make: $100 — $996/month
How much does it cost to start: $55 (?)
How long does it take to build: 7 days (?)
5. Start a book club
Based on data from 4 successful book club businesses, the median cost to start a book club is $7.55K.
However, there are various ways you can start a book club with $0.
A book club consists of several people who read and talk about the books based on the topic or an agreed reading list.
Setting up your book club can be a great way to enjoy books and meet new people.
More importantly, a book club is a well-paying side hustle idea. Therefore, figure out who you invite to your book club and define the purpose.
Do you want to learn something new, or do you just want to bond with other book lovers? Having a defined purpose helps you reach like-minded people to keep the book club close-knit.
How much you can make: $4,000 — $90,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $7,550 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week
For example, Heather Caliendo started Book Club Chat in 2018.
They spent a total of $50 to get the book club up and running.
6. Start a billing and invoice business
Based on data from 6 successful billing and invoice business businesses, the median cost to start a billing and invoice business is $550.
However, there are various ways you can start a billing and invoice business with $0.
A billing and invoice business helps businesses and freelancers manage their finances by creating and sending invoices to clients.
This type of business involves creating professional-looking invoices detailing the products or services provided and the agreed-upon prices.
Additionally, it may include tracking payments and sending reminders for overdue bills.
Starting a billing and invoice business is a low-cost venture as it mainly requires a computer, internet connection, and basic accounting software, which can be obtained for less than $100.
With some marketing effort, you can quickly start offering this service to small businesses and entrepreneurs in need of professional billing solutions.
How much you can make: $850 — $250,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $550 (?)
How long does it take to build: 150 days (?)
For example, Jannik Flor Borg started Factofly in 2020.
They spent a total of $50 to get the billing and invoice business up and running.
7. Start a fun quizzes generation business
Based on data from 1 successful fun quizzes generation business businesses, the median cost to start a fun quizzes generation business is $20.
However, there are various ways you can start a fun quizzes generation business with $0.
The fun quizzes generation business involves creating entertaining quizzes on various topics like personality traits, trivia, or niche interests and sharing them online for people to enjoy and share with others.
You'll need a computer, internet access, and a creative mind to start this business on a budget.
Begin by researching popular quiz topics and formats, and then use free online tools or platforms to create and share your quizzes.
You can monetize the business through advertising, sponsored content, or by offering premium quiz content for a small fee.
How much you can make: $1,200/month
How much does it cost to start: $20 (?)
How long does it take to build: 5 days (?)
For example, Slavi Grozev started Random Trivia Generator in 2010.
They spent a total of $25 to get the fun quizzes generation business up and running.
8. Start a writing workshop teaching business
Based on data from 3 successful writing workshop teaching business businesses, the median cost to start a writing workshop teaching business is $75.
However, there are various ways you can start a writing workshop teaching business with $0.
A writing workshop teaching business is a venture where you help aspiring writers improve their skills and become better at expressing themselves through words.
The writing workshop business involves organizing in-person or online classes, where you guide participants through various writing exercises and provide constructive feedback on their work.
You don't need a fancy setup or expensive materials to start this business – just a passion for writing and a willingness to share your knowledge. With minimal costs for marketing and some basic materials, you can turn your love for writing into a low-cost and rewarding business opportunity.
How much you can make: $30 — $208,333/month
How much does it cost to start: $75 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
For example, Harshala Chavan started Merrative in 2020.
They spent a total of $100 to get the writing workshop teaching business up and running.
9. Start a website editing service
Based on data from 2 successful website editing service businesses, the median cost to start a website editing service is $525.
However, there are various ways you can start a website editing service with $0.
A website editing business involves helping individuals and businesses improve their websites’ look, functionality, and content.
The website editor business involves tasks like fixing broken links, updating outdated information, improving the layout, and enhancing the overall user experience. You can also offer services like proofreading and editing content to ensure it’s clear and error-free.
To start this business, you’ll need basic knowledge of website platforms and editing tools, which can be acquired through online resources and tutorials. With minimal upfront costs, such as a computer and internet connection, you can launch this venture and provide valuable services to clients seeking to enhance their online presence.
How much you can make: $6,000 — $12,200/month
How much does it cost to start: $525 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
For example, Ferenc Denes started HTMLG in 2015.
They spent a total of $50 to get the website editing service up and running.
10. Start a mom blog
Based on data from 3 successful mom blog businesses, the median cost to start a mom blog is $500.
However, there are various ways you can start a mom blog with $0.
Parenting may be an overwhelming journey. Mothers result to the internet to read stories from other moms.
Reading mom’s blogs makes parenting feel less alone a long way. Whether you are a stay-at-home mom or passionate about parenting, you can consider starting a mommy blog.
You can make money through affiliate links or by selling your merchandise on the blog. To increase traffic to your blog, include resourceful and encouraging content.
How much you can make: $3,000 — $10,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 150 days (?)
For example, Carly Campbell started Mommy On Purpose in 2016.
They spent a total of $2K to get the mom blog up and running.
11. Start a food delivery business
Based on data from 9 successful food delivery business businesses, the median cost to start a food delivery business is $3.5K.
However, there are various ways you can start a food delivery business with $0.
In today’s busy lifestyles and schedules, cooking is no longer a priority to many. People like to order-in food from their nearest restaurants or food joints and enjoy a meal in the comfort of their homes.
The food delivery business is like a courier service through which restaurants deliver food to their customers.
You can offer retail food delivery services to restaurants within your locality if you have a truck. Customers order through a restaurant or grocer’s website, and the owners contact you to deliver.
How much you can make: $14,000 — $1,800,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $3,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
For example, Chris Koerner started Send Eats in 2019.
They spent a total of $1K to get the food delivery business up and running.
12. Start a niche blog
Based on data from 92 successful niche blog businesses, the median cost to start a niche blog is $650.
However, there are various ways you can start a niche blog with $0.
Starting a niche blog can be a great way to engage with a passionate online community by sharing your expertise on a specific topic.
The first step is to identify a profitable and underserved niche, such as fashion, video games, film reviews, cooking, and more.
Find your niche and create unique and informative content, such as articles, commentary, news, how-to guides, top product lists, convention coverage, video interviews, and spotlights.
To monetize your blog, gain visibility and followers, provide affiliate links, grow a YouTube channel, collaborate with relevant brands, and speak at events.
To succeed in niche blogging, you need to have a passion for your topic, create engaging content, and regularly engage with your followers.
How much you can make: $100 — $650,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $650 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
For example, Sayan Neogie started Prosmartrepreneur in 2018.
They spent a total of $4 to get the niche blog up and running.
13. Start a candle business
Based on data from 9 successful candle business businesses, the median cost to start a candle business is $1K.
However, there are various ways you can start a candle business with $0.
The candle industry is one of the fastest-growing industries in the world.
Candle making was one of the first industries to be industrialized, and now up to 90% of all candles are made by machinery. Yet most of us still make our own candles from home, creating a demand for handcrafted, high-quality candles from candle manufacturers even in today's automated world.
A candle business is a worthwhile idea for an entrepreneur who wants to make some extra money in their free time from the comfort of their own home. There are many opportunities for this type of business if you consider it seriously.
How much you can make: $500 — $1,000,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 75 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week
For example, Dianna Allen started TERRA in 2019.
They spent a total of $100 to get the candle business up and running.
14. Start a soap business
Based on data from 10 successful soap business businesses, the median cost to start a soap business is $2K.
However, there are various ways you can start a soap business with $0.
Soap-making business is a growing industry that can be home-based or a small local business. Soap business is one of the most lucrative home-based businesses that perfect your decision to work in your free time while you earn good cash.
Starting a soap business sounds simple enough. You can buy supplies for probably less than $1,000. Popular skincare products are now being sold online, and this doesn’t seem like a challenging field to break into. Below are some success stories of the soap business that will inspire you.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $380,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 365 days (?)
For example, Danielle Vincent started Outlaw in 2013.
They spent a total of $200 to get the soap business up and running.
15. Start a book flipping business
Based on data from 1 successful book flipping business businesses, the median cost to start a book flipping business is $13.9K.
However, there are various ways you can start a book flipping business with $0.
The book-flipping business involves buying books at low prices and selling them for a profit.
To start, you’ll want to look for inexpensive books at places like thrift stores, garage sales, or online marketplaces.
Focus on genres or categories with high demand, such as textbooks, vintage novels, or niche topics.
After acquiring the books, list them for sale on platforms like Amazon, eBay, or through your own website.
As you gain experience and learn what sells best, you can reinvest your profits to grow your inventory and expand your business.
How much you can make: $800,000/month
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
16. Start an etsy shop
Based on data from 48 successful etsy shop businesses, the median cost to start an etsy shop is $1K.
However, there are various ways you can start a etsy shop with $0.
Etsy is an online marketplace where people can buy and sell all kinds of handmade goods, vintage items, and art supplies.
It's a great way to make some extra cash, and you can use it as an opportunity to build your brand and find new clients.
To get started on Etsy, you'll need these four things:
- An Etsy account
- A PayPal account
- A product idea (or at least a product category)
- A visually appealing storefront with photos of your products
How much you can make: $100 — $750,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
For example, Vivian Chan started East Meets Dress in 2018.
They spent a total of $100 to get the etsy shop up and running.
17. Start a freelance writing business
Based on data from 19 successful freelance writing business businesses, the median cost to start a freelance writing business is $500.
However, there are various ways you can start a freelance writing business with $0.
Freelance writing can be a good career choice if you are looking for a flexible online job.
Working as a freelancer gives you the flexibility to define your work schedule. You can work from home at any time. Freelance writers work across various niches, writing about various topics assigned by the client,
To earn good money as a freelance writer, you need the following personal qualities:
- Strong writing skills
- Ability to meet deadlines
- Stay on the cutting edge
- Be a self-starter
- Be up-to-date with the current writing tools & writing trends
- Proper communication skills
How much you can make: $700 — $500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 56 days (?)
For example, Vaibhav Kishnani started Content-Whale Private Limited in 2017.
They spent a total of $35 to get the freelance writing business up and running.
18. Start a dropshipping business
Based on data from 10 successful dropshipping business businesses, the median cost to start a dropshipping business is $8.5K.
However, there are various ways you can start a dropshipping business with $0.
Dropshipping is a business model where you sell products to customers without holding inventory.
Instead, when a customer makes a purchase, you buy the product from a third-party supplier, who then ships it directly to the customer.
To start a dropshipping business on a budget, choose a niche or category of products you want to sell.
Next, set up an online store using platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce. Then, find reliable suppliers from platforms like AliExpress, list their products on your store, and focus on marketing and customer service to grow your business.
Remember to carefully manage your expenses and monitor your profit margins to ensure profitability.
How much you can make: $6,000 — $3,000,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $8,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 10 hours/week
For example, Miguel Pieras started Hustle Got Real in 2017.
They spent a total of $200 to get the dropshipping business up and running.
19. Start a wedding rental business
Based on data from 4 successful wedding rental business businesses, the median cost to start a wedding rental business is $50K.
However, there are various ways you can start a wedding rental business with $0.
Do you love wedding planning and looking for a business idea to turn your passion into profits? Starting a wedding rental business can be a great idea.
Your role as a wedding rental business is to supply all equipment and accessories to make the occasion colorful and memorable for attendees and the wedding couple. If you are starting a wedding rental business, focus on building relationships with wedding planners and event companies. Remember often couples visit wedding venues before even contacting a rental company. Being in contact with wedding venue business owners could get you repeat business.
How much you can make: $5,000 — $500,000/month
How long does it take to build: 305 days (?)
For example, Robert Reno started Ship Our Wedding in 2014.
They spent a total of $50K to get the wedding rental business up and running.
20. Start a dog walking business
Based on data from 2 successful dog walking business businesses, the median cost to start a dog walking business is $1.5K.
However, there are various ways you can start a dog walking business with $0.
Are you a dog lover? If so, you can turn your passion for animals into a profitable side hustle that allows you to earn extra income for your mortgage, a vacation, or paying off student loans.
As a dog walker, sitter, or boarder, you can earn an average annual income of between $10,000 and $30,000 by offering your services to dog owners in need of a caregiver for their furry friends.
To get started, register on a credible dog-walking app and create a compelling profile that showcases your experience, skills, and love for dogs.
With your dedication and expertise, you can help dog owners ensure their pets receive the care and attention they need while building a thriving business that fulfills your passion for animals.
How much you can make: $15,000 — $54,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 2 hours/week
For example, Melodi Landi started Furry Fellas Pet Service LLC in 2006.
They spent a total of $500 to get the dog walking business up and running.
21. Start an event planning business
Based on data from 9 successful event planning business businesses, the median cost to start an event planning business is $1K.
However, there are various ways you can start a event planning business with $0.
Event planners handle different tasks related to making the business a success. Some of the event planner’s responsibilities include:
- Conducting research
- Creating the event design
- Finding an ideal site
- Arranging for food, décor, and entertainment
- Planning logistics to and from the event
- Sending invitations
- Supervising at the site etc
To start this business on a budget, begin by honing your organizational and communication skills.
Next, create a detailed business plan outlining your services, target market, and pricing structure.
Utilize free or low-cost online tools for marketing, and consider starting small by offering services for smaller events before expanding your business as you gain experience and resources.
How much you can make: $20,000 — $500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
For example, Philip Taylor started FinCon in 2011.
They spent a total of $25 to get the event planning business up and running.
22. Start an online courses business
Based on data from 11 successful online courses business businesses, the median cost to start an online courses business is $1K.
However, there are various ways you can start a online courses business with $0.
If you're a mechanical engineer, you can share your knowledge and make money by creating an online course.
Start by picking a specific area in mechanical engineering that you know well, like designing cars or understanding how engines work. Make your course interesting with videos, assignments, and helpful materials. Create a user-friendly website where people can access your course, and use social media and emails to tell others about it.
When people enjoy your course and find it helpful, they'll spread the word, and your business will grow. As you gain experience, you can even add more courses or explore other engineering topics to expand your online teaching business.
How much you can make: $2,500 — $500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
For example, Ron Stefanski started OneHourProfessor.com in 2014.
They spent a total of $140 to get the online courses business up and running.
23. Become a virtual assistant
Based on data from 9 successful virtual assistant businesses, the median cost to start a virtual assistant is $1K.
However, there are various ways you can start a virtual assistant with $0.
Virtual assistants support businesses, teams, or individuals by performing administrative tasks remotely. As businesses these days tend to outsource their tasks, the demand for virtual assistants is growing rapidly.
Becoming a virtual assistant is flexible, as you can choose a work schedule and location at your convenience. Many virtual assistants have a dedicated home office where they work in a quiet and distraction-free environment.
To become a virtual assistant, identify a niche you like and undertake any training. Then, figure out how much to charge your customers and create an online presence where you can apply for jobs. As a virtual assistant, you can define your work schedule depending on your availability.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $1,000,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
For example, Gina Horkey started Horkey HandBook (Fully Booked VA) in 2014.
They spent a total of $205 to get the virtual assistant up and running.
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.
