42 Businesses You Can Start With $50k [Updated for 2024]

Updated: February 22nd, 2024

If you’re looking to start a business on a budget, you’ll be pleased to know that there are plenty of business opportunities out there.

Many people wonder what kind of business they can start with $50,000K

After interviewing thousands of entrepreneurs, we discovered 44+ businesses you can start with $50k or less.

Here they are:

1. Start a laundry delivery business ($27.5K)

Based on data from 3 successful laundry delivery business businesses, the median cost to start a laundry delivery business is $27.5K.

A laundry delivery business involves offering a convenient service where customers can have their clothes washed, dried, and folded and then delivered back to them.

To start this business on a budget, gather basic laundry equipment like washers, dryers, and ironing facilities.

You can operate from your home or rent a small space. Advertise your services locally, set competitive prices, and offer reliable delivery options to attract and retain customers.

Finally, maintain high-quality service and excellent customer relations to grow your business over time.

How much you can make: $9,300 — $120,000/month

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

For example, Jono Santamaria started Nina's Laundrette in 2021.

They spent a total of $13.3K to get the laundry delivery business up and running.

2. Start a life coaching business ($750)

Based on data from 18 successful life coaching business businesses, the median cost to start a life coaching business is $750.

Life coach helps people in various areas of their lives using a combination of emotional intelligence, professional knowledge, and experience.

Life coaching is a popular industry worth over $2.85 billion, and the number of life coaches has increased by 33% between 2015-2019.

This is a very profitable business and can be started at virtually no cost. You’ll need a computer, a high-speed Internet connection, and a LinkedIn account to start. Then, you can begin coaching part-time in your spare time until you build up your clientele.

How much you can make: $100 — $120,000/month

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

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

Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week

For example, Holly Haller started Ask Holly Hall in 2019.

They spent a total of $200 to get the life coaching business up and running.

3. Build a chrome extension ($3.5K)

Based on data from 21 successful chrome extension businesses, the median cost to start a chrome extension is $3.5K.

A Chrome extension is a small software program that allows you to customize the way your web browser works. Extensions can add new features to your browser or change the way existing features work.

If you have skills in programming and coding, you can create your own Chrome extension and then sell it on the Chrome Web Store. You can also offer it for free and generate revenue through advertising. This is a great way to leverage your skills and create a business that can be profitable.

You can create an extension that helps people with their productivity, or you can create an extension that provides security for the user’s data.

Creating a Chrome extension is an innovative way for programmers, developers, and coders to start their own businesses and showcase their skills.

How much you can make: $10 — $450,000/month

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

How long does it take to build: 21 days (?)

For example, Sanskar Tiwari started Blurweb App in 2020.

They spent a total of $5 to get the chrome extension up and running.

4. Start a luxury watch business ($180K)

Based on data from 1 successful luxury watch business businesses, the median cost to start a luxury watch business is $180K.

A luxury watch business is a company that specializes in selling high-end, premium-quality wristwatches.

These watches are often crafted with high-end materials, precision engineering, and meticulous attention to detail, resulting in timepieces that are not only functional but also highly desirable status symbols.

The business involves sourcing or designing luxury watches, establishing a brand identity, and marketing these elegant timepieces to a discerning clientele who appreciate fine craftsmanship and exclusivity.

Running a luxury watch business involves managing inventory, providing excellent customer service, marketing, and maintaining financial stability. It also requires staying updated on industry trends and continuously improving operations for long-term success.

How much you can make: $480,000/month

How long does it take to build: 200 days (?)

For example, Pablo started Chronoexpert in 2017.

They spent a total of $180K to get the luxury watch business up and running.

5. Start a sports copywriting business ($50K)

Based on data from 1 successful sports copywriting business businesses, the median cost to start a sports copywriting business is $50K.

A sports copywriting business involves creating written content related to sports, such as articles, blog posts, advertisements, and social media posts, for sports teams, athletes, or sports-related companies.

To start a copywriting business with $50K or less, you’ll need a computer, an internet connection, and basic software for writing and communication.

Begin by building a portfolio of sample sports-related content to showcase your writing skills. Next, reach out to potential clients, such as local sports teams, sports blogs, or sports apparel companies, and offer your services.

As you gain clients and build a reputation, you can reinvest profits to expand your business further.

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

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

For example, Zack Johnson started ggCircuit in 2014.

They spent a total of $50K to get the sports copywriting business up and running.

6. Start a woodworking business ($15K)

Based on data from 8 successful woodworking business businesses, the median cost to start a woodworking business is $15K.

While many see woodworking as a hobby to pass the time, it is a profitable blue-collar business with growth potential. If you are skilled, passionate, and looking for a blue-collar side hustle, consider starting a woodworking business.

Starting a woodworking business allows you to work from home. Besides, you can scale the business easily and enjoy unlimited earning potential. Some opportunities you can go for include building custom wood pieces, teaching others about woodworking, starting a woodworking blog, and flip furniture.

How much you can make: $1,000 — $40,001/month

How long does it take to build: 204 days (?)

Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week

For example, James Frailey started Frailey Woodworks in 2020.

They spent a total of $10K to get the woodworking business up and running.

7. Start a dropshipping business ($8.5K)

Based on data from 10 successful dropshipping business businesses, the median cost to start a dropshipping business is $8.5K.

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.

8. Start an eBikes business ($15.5K)

Based on data from 6 successful eBikes business businesses, the median cost to start an eBikes business is $15.5K.

An electric bike has an electric motor to assist the rider while pedaling. Market data shows that the annual Ebike sales crossed more than 880,000 Ebikes.

Besides providing benefits for body health and fitness, e-bikes have become the best for reducing urban traffic, especially in cities where it isn’t an effective public transportation business.

Ebikes market demand is higher among millennials who prefer riding for health benefits and because riding Ebikes enables them flexibility in choosing routes.

Therefore, starting an Ebikes business in 2024 can be a great business decision.

How much you can make: $110,000 — $1,200,000/month

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

For example, Kyle Chittock started Area 13 Ebikes in 2015.

They spent a total of $200 to get the eBikes business up and running.

9. Start a pet grooming business ($25K)

Based on data from 3 successful pet grooming business businesses, the median cost to start a pet grooming business is $25K.

A pet grooming business is a service that provides care and maintenance for pets' physical appearance and hygiene.

This includes services like bathing, hair trimming, nail clipping, and ear cleaning for dogs and cats.

To start a pet grooming business on a budget, you'll need basic grooming supplies like brushes, shampoos, clippers, and a grooming table.

You can offer your services from home or consider a mobile grooming setup, which can be more cost-effective than renting a commercial space.

Advertise your services locally, build a customer base, and provide excellent care for pets to establish a successful grooming business.

How much you can make: $20,000 — $250,000/month

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

For example, Melodi Landi started Furry Fellas Pet Service LLC in 2006.

They spent a total of $500 to get the pet grooming business up and running.

10. Start an event planning business ($1K)

Based on data from 9 successful event planning business businesses, the median cost to start an event planning business is $1K.

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.

11. Start a ticketing platform business ($60K)

Based on data from 6 successful ticketing platform business businesses, the median cost to start a ticketing platform business is $60K.

A ticketing platform business allows individuals or organizations to sell tickets to events online. This can include concerts, sports games, festivals, and more.

The ticketing platform handles all aspects of ticket sales, from setting up the event and ticket options to processing payment and distributing the tickets.

To run a successful ticketing platform business, it is essential to have a user-friendly website and a reliable ticket distribution system. Then, establish partnerships with event organizers and venues to expand the number of events available on the platform.

Marketing efforts to reach potential customers and regular updates to the platform to improve the user experience can also help drive sales. Overall, a ticketing platform can be a lucrative business opportunity for those with a strong understanding of the events industry and a knack for building and maintaining client relationships.

How much you can make: $10,000 — $1,500,000/month

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

For example, Jonny White started Ticket Tailor in 2010.

They spent a total of $1K to get the ticketing platform business up and running.

12. Start a freelance writing business ($500)

Based on data from 19 successful freelance writing business businesses, the median cost to start a freelance writing business is $500.

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.

13. Start an online bakery ($7K)

Based on data from 1 successful online bakery businesses, the median cost to start an online bakery is $7K.

An online bakery is a business that sells baked goods through the internet.

To start an online bakery, first identify your specialty (like cookies, cupcakes, or bread) and gather basic baking equipment.

Next, create a simple website or use a platform like social media to showcase your products.

Take quality photos, set reasonable prices, and promote your online bakery through social media, local communities, and word of mouth to attract customers.

As orders come in, bake fresh treats, pack them securely, and arrange for reliable delivery or pickup options.

According to statistics, the global bakery products market size was $398B in 2020. The market is projected to grow from $416B in 2021 to $590B by 2028.

How much you can make: $25,000/month

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

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

For example, Anthony Rosemond started Pastreez in 2017.

They spent a total of $7K to get the online bakery up and running.

14. Start a personalized gift baskets business

Based on data from 1 successful personalized gift baskets business businesses, the median cost to start a personalized gift baskets business is $11K.

A personalized gift baskets business involves creating unique and customized gift packages for special occasions or events.

These baskets can contain a variety of items like snacks, skincare products, or even handmade crafts, tailored to the recipient's preferences.

To start this business on a budget, first, gather supplies like baskets, wrapping materials, and a selection of items to include.

Next, establish an online presence through social media or a simple website to showcase your offerings.

Finally, promote your business locally through word of mouth, social media, and collaborations with local shops or event planners.

How much you can make: $833,000/month

15. Start a catering business ($500)

Based on data from 4 successful catering business businesses, the median cost to start a catering business is $500.

A catering business is responsible for providing food & beverage-related services for vast types of events.

Catering businesses are known to be more flexible than other businesses because they don’t have to worry about location or pricing and can even work 24/7. They can cater anywhere and offer any price point that they want.

However, starting a catering business requires a lot of planning.

To start a successful catering business , you'll need to plan and prepare menus, manage budgets, handle clients, and more.

In addition, catering allows you to meet more people and show off your cooking skills.

How much you can make: $4,000 — $6,000,000/month

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

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

For example, Nestor Nidome started Elegante Catering in .

They spent a total of $500 to get the catering business up and running.

16. Start a craft beer business ($10K)

Based on data from 1 successful craft beer business businesses, the median cost to start a craft beer business is $10K.

Are you passionate about beer and ready to penetrate a niche within the alcohol industry? Craft beer is a potential business idea you may want to start.

Craft beer is an important and attractive niche consumer market with the potential to multiply profitability.

The good news is that starting your craft beer brewery is not as difficult as you think.

You can start brewing craft beer with nothing more than a bucket, a bubbler, a siphon pipe, and a kit. Eventually, you will start bottling your craft beer and delivering it to the market.

How much you can make: $56,000/month

How long does it take to build: 365 days (?)

For example, Matija Mrazek started Varionica in 2014.

They spent a total of $10K to get the craft beer business up and running.

17. Start an online coworking platform ($1.2K)

Based on data from 7 successful online coworking platform businesses, the median cost to start an online coworking platform is $1.2K.

An online coworking platform is a website or app that connects remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs, allowing them to work together in a virtual shared workspace.

It provides tools for collaboration, communication, and access to resources like virtual meeting rooms or project management tools.

To start this business on a budget, you can begin by creating a user-friendly website or app using affordable website-building platforms or hiring freelancers for development.

Focus on building a strong community by offering free trials or low-cost memberships initially to attract users.

As the platform grows, you can explore monetization options like paid memberships, premium features, or partnerships with businesses for additional revenue streams.

How much you can make: $2,000 — $250,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,200 (?)

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

For example, Pieter Levels started Nomad List in .

They spent a total of $150 to get the online coworking platform up and running.

18. Start a decluttering business ($500)

Based on data from 1 successful decluttering business businesses, the median cost to start a decluttering business is $500.

Are you looking for a simple to-start business opportunity with low overhead cost and attractive profit margins?

Consider starting a decluttering business.

As a professional organizer, you will help households and businesses turn clutter and chaos into cleaner and more efficient spaces.

Choose a niche and create a detailed business plan to start a decluttering business.

How much you can make: $12,000/month

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

How long does it take to build: 35 days (?)

For example, Audra L George started Pretty Neat: An Organizational Solution in 2018.

They spent a total of $500 to get the decluttering business up and running.

19. Start an acupuncturist business ($15K)

Based on data from 1 successful acupuncturist business businesses, the median cost to start an acupuncturist business is $15K.

Starting an acupuncturist business can be a rewarding career path for those with a passion for holistic health and wellness. Acupuncturists use thin needles to stimulate specific points on the body to improve physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

To become an acupuncturist, you will need to complete a Master’s degree program in acupuncture and pass a certification exam. You will also need to obtain a license in your state, which typically requires continuing education credits to maintain.

As an acupuncturist, you will work with clients to assess their health concerns and develop a treatment plan using acupuncture techniques. You may also offer other complementary therapies such as herbal medicine or nutrition counseling.

To run a successful acupuncturist business, you will need to establish a professional website and social media presence, as well as build relationships with referral sources such as primary care physicians and chiropractors. It’s also important to keep up with industry trends and continuing education to stay competitive.

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

For example, Moira J McCarthy started Acupuncture Wellness Center in 1997.

They spent a total of $15K to get the acupuncturist business up and running.

20. Start a coffee cart ($5K)

Based on data from 1 successful coffee cart businesses, the median cost to start a coffee cart is $5K.

A coffee cart is a small outdoor structure that serves coffee and other beverages at retail prices. A coffee cart business is a low startup cost business.

All you need to set up a coffee cart business is a professional coffee machine and coffee cups.

To maximize your profits all year round, choose a strategic location and ensure you are readily available to serve your customers whenever they need coffee.

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

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

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

For example, Beth Baxter started Camper Cafe in 2011.

They spent a total of $5K to get the coffee cart up and running.

21. Start a drone photography business ($1.5K)

Based on data from 1 successful drone photography business businesses, the median cost to start a drone photography business is $1.5K.

Drone video, a.k.a, aerial cinematography, is the best way to achieve affordable bird's view footage of an event or commercial.

Until recently, when organizations wanted an aerial video of their business, they had to hire a helicopter, or a photographer had to climb the highest roof to cover the business. Nowadays, drones are the best approach when it comes to aerial photography.

The technological evolution has created an opportunity for aerial cinematography. To start a drone photography business, get your drone flying license, buy a basic drone and camera, and create your aerial cinematography profile.

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

How much does it cost to start: $1,500 (?)

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

For example, James Rollins started CFF Media in 2016.

They spent a total of $1.5K to get the drone photography business up and running.

22. Start a vending machine business ($2K)

Based on data from 1 successful vending machine business businesses, the median cost to start a vending machine business is $2K.

Starting a vending machine business in a crowded, busy city is an easy way to make money. Whether you want to run your own business, start a side hustle, or generate an income while at the office, this is the best business.

There are many advantages to starting a vending machine business, such as: low startup costs, simplicity, all cash-based transactions, and flexibility.

Here are the steps on how to start a vending machine business.

  • Buy a franchise
  • Find a location
  • Secure all licenses and contracts

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

How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)

For example, Lakinya Francis started iKrave Vending in 2017.

They spent a total of $2K to get the vending machine business up and running.

23. Start a podcast ($2K)

Based on data from 19 successful podcast businesses, the median cost to start a podcast is $2K.

The podcast business involves creating and producing audio content that people can listen to online.

It’s a popular form of entertainment and information-sharing.

To start a podcast business on a budget, you'll need a few key steps.

First, choose a niche or topic that you're passionate about and that has an audience.

Next, get basic recording equipment like a microphone and headphones.

Then, find a free or affordable hosting platform to publish your episodes.

Finally, promote your podcast through social media, online communities, and word of mouth to build an audience and potentially attract sponsors or advertisers.

How much you can make: $400 — $1,020,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)

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

Time commitment per week: Min. 2 hours/week

For example, Cinquanta Cox-Smith started Cinquanta Cox-Smith in 2009.

They spent a total of $100 to get the podcast up and running.

24. Start a bookkeeping business ($2.75K)

Based on data from 2 successful bookkeeping business businesses, the median cost to start a bookkeeping business is $2.75K.

A bookkeeping business keeps track of monies coming into and out of business and maintains an accurate financial record, as per the International Association of Bookkeepers.

As a bookkeeping business, your role is to help small and medium-sized enterprises in the:

  • Preparing their year-end tax and VAT returns
  • Keeping on top of day-to-day cash flow
  • Running finances efficiently

To become a bookkeeper, you must be accurate in your work and understand financial topics well.

How much you can make: $25,000 — $100,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $2,750 (?)

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

For example, Alan Chen started Free Cash Flow in 2021.

They spent a total of $500 to get the bookkeeping business up and running.

25. Start a Greeting Cards Business ($8.75K)

Based on data from 6 successful Greeting Cards Business businesses, the median cost to start a Greeting Cards Business is $8.75K.

People use greeting cards to mark births, deaths, graduations, anniversaries, and other parties or events.

If you love helping people celebrate special occasions, starting a greeting card business can be a great business opportunity.

When starting a greeting card business, choose a potential niche and write a business plan.

Then, find an ideal spot to sell the greeting cards.

For instance, you can offer greeting card design and posting services, so customers can choose the best designs and post greeting cards online.

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

How much does it cost to start: $8,750 (?)

How long does it take to build: 77 days (?)

For example, Travis Peterson started Joker Greeting in 2015.

They spent a total of $1K to get the Greeting Cards Business up and running.

26. Start a handyman business ($50K)

Based on data from 3 successful handyman business businesses, the median cost to start a handyman business is $50K.

A handyman business covers a wide range of home repair and maintenance services, making it an easy entry into the industry.

You can start with minimal resources, and by providing valuable assistance to customers, you'll quickly establish yourself as a trusted professional in the field.

To start a handyman business on a budget, identify your skills and the services you can offer confidently.

Then, create a basic business plan outlining your services, target market, and pricing.

Next, obtain any necessary licenses or permits, and invest in basic tools and equipment.

Finally, promote your services through word of mouth, local advertising, and online platforms to attract customers and gradually grow your handyman business.

How much you can make: $8,000 — $30,000/month

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

Time commitment per week: Min. 8 hours/week

For example, Nicholas Ciano started Go Green Cleaning & Maintenance Services in 2017.

They spent a total of $50K to get the handyman business up and running.

27. Start an online advertising agency ($2.5K)

Based on data from 25 successful online advertising agency businesses, the median cost to start an online advertising agency is $2.5K.

An online advertising agency helps businesses promote their products or services on the internet.

To start this business on a budget, first learn the basics of digital marketing through free online resources.

Create a professional website and set up profiles on social media platforms to showcase your skills.

Build a portfolio by working on mock campaigns or offering discounted services to friends and family, and gradually market your services to attract clients.

With dedication, you can grow your agency over time.

How much you can make: $10,000 — $1,250,000/month

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

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

For example, Ash Ome started MOTIF® in 2015.

They spent a total of $100 to get the online advertising agency up and running.

28. Start a meditation app ($50K)

Based on data from 2 successful meditation app businesses, the median cost to start a meditation app is $50K.

Meditation apps help users learn and master various meditation skills by offering technology-based tools like mood trackers, guided meditations, meditation timers, and a platform for connecting with other meditators.

To build your meditation app, generate and consolidate ideas before starting the app development journey or hiring an app developer. To ensure unique features, research what your competition offers its users and write out their features.

Finally, build the application and put together the application marketing plan.

Your meditation application should provide users with a wide range of guided meditations for novices and seasoned meditators.

How much you can make: $10,000 — $35,000/month

How long does it take to build: 68 days (?)

For example, Tara Menzies started Christian Hypnobirthing in 2018.

They spent a total of $200 to get the meditation app up and running.

29. Start a clothing boutique ($5K)

Based on data from 14 successful clothing boutique businesses, the median cost to start a clothing boutique is $5K.

If you have an eye for fashion trends and retail experience, opening a clothing boutique can be a great opportunity for you to tap into the lucrative fashion retail industry and be your own boss.

To succeed in this venture, you need to identify your target customers, curate your inventory to match their style and leverage social media marketing to build a loyal following and grow your business rapidly.

Focusing on specific customer segments, such as petite, plus-size, budget-conscious customers, or underserved groups instead of competing with major chains can further help you stand out in the market.

Opening a specialized clothing boutique lets you monetize your passion while serving customers that traditional stores often ignore.

How much you can make: $500 — $600,000/month

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

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

For example, Brigitte Shamy started SexyModest in 2009.

They spent a total of $5K to get the clothing boutique up and running.

30. Start a travel planning business ($200K)

Based on data from 5 successful travel planning business businesses, the median cost to start a travel planning business is $200K.

Travel planning business is a service that helps people to plan their vacations, holidays, and trips. They offer information about destinations, hotels, flights, and other travel-related services. A travel planner can help you with any aspect of your journey. They will be able to suggest the best destinations for your budget and itinerary preferences.

To succeed in this competitive environment, a travel planner needs to have the following skills:

  • Excellent customer service skills
  • A strong understanding of the various destinations
  • Good knowledge of hotels and other travel-related services
  • Good communication skills

How much you can make: $165,000 — $1,500,000/month

How long does it take to build: 285 days (?)

Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week

For example, Sean Petersen started Golf Trip Junkie in 2015.

They spent a total of $50K to get the travel planning business up and running.

31. Start an interior design business ($8.5K)

Based on data from 4 successful interior design business businesses, the median cost to start an interior design business is $8.5K.

Interior design involves decorating and furnishing interior spaces like homes and offices to make them functional, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing.

To start an interior design business on a budget, begin by offering consultations to advise clients on decorating their spaces, source budget-friendly furniture and materials from discount outlets, start with smaller projects like single rooms to build a portfolio and market your services on social media and by word-of-mouth referrals.

How much you can make: $2,000 — $110,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $8,500 (?)

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

For example, Rebecca West is Seriously Happy started Seriously Happy Homes in 2007.

They spent a total of $2K to get the interior design business up and running.

32. Start a moving company ($13.3K)

Based on data from 3 successful moving company businesses, the median cost to start a moving company is $13.3K.

Moving companies help people move their belongings from one location to another. The services can involve packing and shipping household items to physically moving them from one place to another. The moving can include anything from local moves to long-distance relocations.

Moving companies typically charge by the hour or job, so you’ll need to price your services accordingly. You’ll also need to invest in moving equipment, such as trucks and dollies.

How much you can make: $60,000 — $2,500,000/month

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

For example, Uladzislau (Vlad) Kandybovich started Qshark Moving Company in 2014.

They spent a total of $8.5K to get the moving company up and running.

33. Start an affiliate marketing business ($700)

Based on data from 39 successful affiliate marketing business businesses, the median cost to start an affiliate marketing business is $700.

Are you looking for a side hustle to pay you a passive income? Affiliate marketing is one of those side hustles that will pay you well over the long term. It is a way to earn money online by promoting other companies' products and services. You will be paid a commission for each sale you make as an affiliate marketer.

To get started, learn how to find the right product and brand to partner with. For example, you may prefer becoming an affiliate marketer for an eCommerce store, partnering with a manufacturer, and marketing their products for a commission.

How much you can make: $500 — $773,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $700 (?)

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

For example, Martin Moore started TechySex in 2020.

They spent a total of $20 to get the affiliate marketing business up and running.

34. Create a screensharing software

Based on data from 1 successful screensharing software businesses, the median cost to start a screensharing software is $34.3K.

Screensharing software allows users to share their computer screens with others in real-time, enabling them to view what’s happening on the screen remotely.

To start a budget-friendly screen sharing software business, first define your target niches, such as businesses, educators, or gamers.

Next, choose a development platform like open-source options or cost-effective frameworks to build your screen sharing application.

You can either develop it yourself if you have coding skills, hire freelancers, or use no-code platforms.

Create a website and utilize social media and online forums for marketing. Offer a free version with limited features to attract users, and consider introducing paid plans with premium features.

Continuously refine your product based on user feedback and adapt your marketing strategies as needed to grow your business.

How much you can make: $31,150/month

35. Start a bike rental business ($1M)

Based on data from 1 successful bike rental business businesses, the median cost to start a bike rental business is $1M.

A bike rental business involves providing bicycles to customers for a fee.

To start this business on a budget, first, you'll need to acquire a small fleet of bikes, which can be bought new or refurbished.

Find a convenient location to set up your rental station, such as a popular tourist spot, park, or near a busy urban area.

Create a simple pricing structure, set up a basic rental system (like paper forms or a simple online booking platform), and market your business through social media, local advertising, and word-of-mouth.

Offer safety instructions and basic maintenance tips to your customers, and consider providing optional extras like helmets or bike locks for an additional fee.

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

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

For example, Guillermo Cornejo started Riders Share in 2018.

They spent a total of $1M to get the bike rental business up and running.

36. Start a job board ($297)

Based on data from 8 successful job board businesses, the median cost to start a job board is $297.

Starting a job board can be a lucrative way to make money online with little to no start-up costs. The global online job board market size was $28.68B in 2019 and is projected to reach $43.39B by 2027.

It's no secret that finding a job can be tough. In today's job market, it can be tempting to give up on job hunting, but here's another option: start your own job board.

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

How much does it cost to start: $297 (?)

How long does it take to build: 80 days (?)

For example, George started Loopcv in 2020.

They spent a total of $200 to get the job board up and running.

37. Start a beauty business ($22.5K)

Based on data from 27 successful beauty business businesses, the median cost to start a beauty business is $22.5K.

The beauty industry is growing at a rapid pace - valued at $511B in 2021, with an annual compounded growth rate of 4.75% worldwide. The beauty industry is predicted to exceed $716B by 2025.

If you are thinking of starting your own beauty business, there are many opportunities in this space to succeed. The most profitable branches in this industry include makeup, skincare, and hair products.

How much you can make: $1,500 — $658,333/month

How long does it take to build: 150 days (?)

For example, Nabiulla Ahmed started Real Drop Enterprises in 2020.

They spent a total of $250 to get the beauty business up and running.

38. Start a mcdonald's franchise business ($25K)

Based on data from 1 successful mcdonald's franchise business businesses, the median cost to start a mcdonald's franchise business is $25K.

Starting a McDonald's franchise offers a compelling opportunity to run a well-established and globally recognized fast-food restaurant.

As a franchisee, you'll benefit from McDonald's robust support system, including training, marketing, and supply chain management. With a proven business model and a strong brand, you can tap into a vast customer base and potential for growth in the fast food industry.

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

How long does it take to build: 48 days (?)

For example, Sean McGarry started Franchise Direct in 1998.

They spent a total of $25K to get the mcdonald's franchise business up and running.

39. Start a sports nutrition business ($2K)

Based on data from 3 successful sports nutrition business businesses, the median cost to start a sports nutrition business is $2K.

A sports nutrition business involves providing products and advice to help athletes and fitness enthusiasts optimize their performance and recovery through nutrition.

To start this business on a budget, first, research and understand the basics of sports nutrition and popular supplements.

Next, identify reliable suppliers or wholesalers for products like protein powders, energy bars, and vitamins. You can sell these products online through a website or on popular e-commerce platforms.

Finally, promote your business through social media, local fitness events, and by offering personalized advice on nutrition for different sports and fitness goals.

How much you can make: $600 — $250,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,999 (?)

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

For example, Stu Kam started ATH Organics in 2012.

They spent a total of $2K to get the sports nutrition business up and running.

40. Start a self-service laundry business ($432K)

Based on data from 1 successful self-service laundry business businesses, the median cost to start a self-service laundry business is $432K.

A self-service laundry business is a coin-operated laundry facility where customers can wash and dry their own clothes using the machines provided.

To start this business on a budget, you'll need to find a suitable location with enough space for washing machines, dryers, and a seating area.

Next, acquire the necessary equipment, such as washing machines, dryers, change machines, and seating.

Additionally, make sure to set up a simple payment system, maintain the machines regularly, and create a clean and inviting atmosphere for customers. Finally, promote your business through local advertising and word-of-mouth to attract customers to your self-service laundry.

How much you can make: $9,300/month

How long does it take to build: 125 days (?)

For example, Jono Santamaria started Nina's Laundrette in 2021.

They spent a total of $13.3K to get the self-service laundry business up and running.

41. Start a mobile drug testing business

Based on data from 0 successful mobile drug testing business businesses, the median cost to start a mobile drug testing business is $19.3K.

A mobile drug testing business provides on-site drug testing services for individuals or organizations. This means you'll travel to clients' locations, like workplaces or events, to conduct drug tests.

To start this business on a budget, you'll need essential supplies like drug testing kits, paperwork, and a reliable mode of transportation. You should also research local regulations and obtain the necessary licenses or certifications.

Marketing your services to local businesses, schools, or event organizers will be crucial in building a client base.

42. Start a grocery delivery service ($3K)

Based on data from 1 successful grocery delivery service businesses, the median cost to start a grocery delivery service is $3K.

Grocery delivery is an on-demand service where clients shop for groceries, and you deliver to their commercial or residential premises.

As a carrier in grocery delivery, you have an opportunity to maximize your output, as you can serve multiple customers in one trip. Besides, you get to choose your preferred working time and location.

How much you can make: $385,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $3,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 35 days (?)

For example, Chris Koerner started Send Eats in 2019.

They spent a total of $1K to get the grocery delivery service up and running.

meet the author
Pat Walls

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