68 Best Small Business Ideas To Start In California
Interested in starting a business in California in 2024?
We put together 93 of the best businesses you can start in California today.
For each business idea, we’ll show you real-world examples of how you can start your profitable, home-based small business in California.
Here's the full list:
1. Start a money lending company ($1.2B/year)
Starting a money lending company could be a lucrative business idea, especially in California where real estate markets are dynamic and full of opportunities. By providing capital to fix and flip entrepreneurs, you could tap into the thriving real estate market and help contribute to the improvement of homes and communities.
A prime example of success in this sector is Anchor Loans, founded by Steve Pollack in Calabasas, California. Beginning in a spare bedroom, Anchor Loans has evolved into an industry leader, funding over $1 billion in loans in a single year and maintaining profitability since its inception. By focusing on exceptional customer experience and developing a cutting-edge fintech platform, they have become a national powerhouse in private lending. For more insights into their journey, check out their full case study.
Anchor Loans is a private lending company that has grown into a leader in their industry, funding over $1 billion in loans to fix and flip investors in a single year and has been profitable every year since their founding, and they credit their success to their focus on exceptional customer experience and the development of their fintech platform.
2. Start an online hobby classes ($93.6M/year)
If you have a passion for teaching and hobbies, starting online hobby classes could be a lucrative business opportunity. The success of MasterClass, a platform founded by David Rogier in San Francisco, California, highlights the potential of this idea. By offering online courses taught by world-class experts, MasterClass has experienced rapid growth, with innovative SEO strategies contributing to a revenue of $93.6M/year since its launch in 2015.
You could take inspiration from MasterClass and create a platform catering to various hobbies and skills, from cooking to photography. The demand for online learning continues to grow, providing a vast audience of potential customers. For more details about MasterClass and its journey, check out the case study.
MasterClass founder, David Rogier, built a platform offering online courses taught by world-class experts, experiencing rapid growth with top-tier SEO strategies and a revenue of $93.6M/year since starting in 2015.
3. Start a solar products selling business ($39.2M/year)
If you live in California and are considering starting a business, you could capitalize on the state's sunny disposition by starting a solar products selling business. The demand for renewable energy is soaring, driven by increasing environmental awareness and government incentives. California, with its abundant sunshine, offers an ideal environment for thriving in this industry.
A prime example of success in this field is Renogy, founded by Yi Li in Ontario, California. Renogy specializes in DIY solar solutions for everyday use and has grown into an international company with annual revenues of $60 million. By selling products ranging from compact panels for hiking to large-scale systems for off-grid living, Renogy demonstrates the potential profitability and wide customer base for this type of business. For more on their inspiring journey, you can read their full case study here.
Renogy, a renewable energy company, founded by Yi Li, specializes in providing DIY solar solutions for everyday life and makes $60 million a year with a growing customer base through e-commerce platforms and partnerships with select social media users.
4. Start a jewelry making business ($24M/year)
Starting a jewelry making business in California provides a fantastic opportunity for creative entrepreneurs. An example of a thriving jewelry business in the state is QALO, co-founded by KC Holiday in Santa Ana. Specializing in functional wedding rings designed for active lifestyles, QALO has garnered a community of over 2 million members and achieved more than $100M in revenue since its inception in 2013.
Located in Santa Ana, QALO is a testament to California’s entrepreneurial spirit. The founders started with no manufacturing or eCommerce background but built a successful business from a dining room table. This example demonstrates that with passion and innovation, you could turn a simple idea into a significant brand. For more details on their journey, see the QALO case study.
QALO co-founders transformed the jewelry industry with their innovative focus on product evolution, resulting in over 2 million community members and more than $100M in revenue since 2013.
5. Start a mattress brand ($24M/year)
If you're considering starting a mattress brand in California, you could tap into a lucrative market by offering a range of mattresses catering to different customer needs. One successful example to draw inspiration from is US-Mattress, founded by Joe Nashif in Livonia, MI. Joe started the business with just $1,500 and has managed to grow it into an e-commerce giant, generating $750,000 a month, while also maintaining physical stores.
Joe's journey highlights the potential for success in this field, especially if you can carve out a niche or offer exceptional customer service. US-Mattress specializes in both name-brand and lesser-known mattresses, making it a versatile choice for consumers. Learn more about Joe's story and how he built US-Mattress here.
Meet Joe Nashif, the founder of US-Mattress.com, who started his business with just $1,500 and now generates $750,000 a month as an online mattress retailer shipping across the US and also having a number of stores in Michigan, specializing in offering name-brand and lesser-known mattresses.
6. Start a pet store ($22M/year)
Starting a pet store in California could be a lucrative and rewarding business venture, especially given the state's high population of pet owners. You could offer a range of products and services including pet food, toys, grooming supplies, and even pet care services, catering to a community that loves and pampers their pets.
Look to the success of iHeartDogs, a lifestyle store and blog for dog lovers, as an example. Founded in Anaheim, California by Justin Palmer, iHeartDogs has grown to an impressive scale with over 25 million community members on Facebook. They sell a wide array of products for dogs and dog owners and have served over 1.5 million customers while supporting animal rescue efforts through every sale. For more details on their journey, check out their case study.
iHeartDogs is a lifestyle store and blog with over 25 million members in its Facebook communities, which sells products for pet dogs and donates to specific programs that rescue animals, totaling over 1.5 million pet heroes served.
7. ($21.6M/year)
Starting a digital marketing or SEO agency could be an excellent business opportunity in California, particularly due to the state's tech-savvy and entrepreneurial environment. Kevin Miller, a former Google employee, co-founded GR0 in Los Angeles in April 2020. GR0 specializes in organic growth through a unique three-pronged approach to SEO involving content writing, backlink acquisition, and on-page optimizations.
The business quickly gained recognition in the SEO field and grew to over 75 full-time employees and 150+ clients, with a projected revenue of approximately $18MM in 2021. If you are in California and have expertise in online marketing or SEO, you could follow a similar path by offering focused, high-quality services to businesses seeking to strengthen their online presence. To learn more about their journey, visit the case study on Starter Story.
Former Google employee co-founded GR0 in April 2020, an agency focused on organic growth through a unique three-pronged approach to SEO, which quickly became a name in the SEO field with over 75 full-time employees and 150+ clients, projected to yield approximately $18MM in 2021.
8. Start a dog treat business ($21M/year)
Starting a dog treat business could be a lucrative opportunity in California, given the state's large population of passionate pet owners who seek high-quality and healthy products for their furry friends. You could follow in the footsteps of Kyle Goguen, who founded Pawstruck in Los Angeles, California. Kyle identified a gap in the market for affordable, all-natural dog treats and built his e-commerce business to satisfy this demand.
Pawstruck has grown tremendously, earning a spot as one of the fastest-growing companies in the United States, ranking #87 on the Inc 500 in 2018. If you are interested in launching a similar venture, you might find inspiration in Kyle's success story. To dive deeper into Kyle’s journey and the growth of Pawstruck, check out the full case study here.
Pawstruck.com founder and CEO Kyle Goguen shares the story of how his all-natural, reasonably-priced pet supply e-commerce business became one of the fastest growing companies in the US, ranking #87 on the Inc 500 in 2018, and is projected to surpass 8 figures in revenue in 2019.
9. Start a film production company ($18M/year)
Starting a film production company in California presents a unique entrepreneurial opportunity due to the state's robust entertainment industry and abundant talent. You could follow in the footsteps of Lemonlight, an on-demand video production company co-founded by Hope Horner in Los Angeles. Lemonlight has produced over 7,000 videos for more than 3,000 brands, reaching $6 million in sales without external funding, and growing to a 45-person team.
Lemonlight's success was indeed started in California, focusing on affordable, high-quality digital video content for businesses of all sizes. They have worked with renowned clients like Amazon, TripAdvisor, and Hyatt. You could capitalize on similar opportunities by leveraging California's extensive network and resources, especially in the bustling city of Los Angeles. For more inspiration, you can explore Lemonlight's full case study on Starter Story.
Lemonlight CEO, Hope Horner, co-founded an on-demand video production company that has produced over 7,000 videos for more than 3,000 brands, generating over $6 million in sales and growing to a 45-person team, all without taking any outside capital and being recognized in Inc 5000 and Entrepreneur 360 for three years in a row.
10. ($18M/year)
Starting a food service consultancy can be a fantastic business idea in California, leveraging the state's vibrant culinary scene and its diverse array of events and corporate needs. Food Fleet, founded by Jeffrey Mora in Los Angeles, provides a perfect example of how to turn this concept into a thriving enterprise. By helping mom-and-pop food vendors enter corporate venues and securing national contracts with companies like Sodexo and Levy Restaurants, Food Fleet grew over 160% in just one year.
Jeffrey Mora's company manages millions in sales and offers a range of services from consulting and food manufacturing to turnkey solutions and event management. This business illustrates the extensive opportunities available in California’s bustling food service industry. For more detailed insights into Jeffrey Mora's entrepreneurial journey and the success of Food Fleet, check out the full case study.
Food Fleet grew over 160% in just one year and managed over 20 million in sales for its clients, securing multiple contracts with the likes of Sodexo, Levy Restaurants and more, due to its understanding of catering client needs and its advanced turnkey and design services.
11. Start a mobile survey app ($18M/year)
Starting a mobile survey app could be an excellent business idea in California, given the state's booming tech industry and innovative ecosystem. TapResearch, founded by Aaron Platshon in Menlo Park, California, serves as an exemplary success story in this field. TapResearch capitalizes on the need for rapid consumer insights by delivering surveys to hundreds of millions of people through mobile apps, helping businesses make quick and informed decisions.
If you're entrepreneurial-minded and looking to dive into the tech space, consider the possibilities of launching your own mobile survey app in California. TapResearch, for example, generates roughly $1.5M in monthly revenue and has a highly scalable respondent network that is a testament to the potential of such a venture. For more insight into TapResearch’s journey and business model, check out their case study.
TapResearch generates roughly $1.5M in revenue per month through their Sample and Insights platforms, which allow market researchers to access survey respondents they need and make fast and easy decisions through a highly scalable respondent network that delivers surveys to hundreds of millions of people.
12. Become a countertop manufacturer ($13.2M/year)
If you are entrepreneurial-minded and considering a business in California, you could become a countertop manufacturer. This industry offers opportunities in both residential and commercial markets. By offering unique materials like concrete, you could cater to current interior design trends.
A great example is Concrete Countertop Solutions, founded by Ed Baldoni in Scott Township, PA, which has grown from an idea to over $13.2M in revenue annually. They initially focused on concrete countertops but expanded into products for the swimming pool industry. For more insights on how this business achieved success, you can read their case study.
Concrete Countertop Solutions, a small but dedicated team that has grown from an idea to over $12M in revenue in 10 years, has succeeded by expanding into the swimming pool industry and investing in advertising, with their instructional videos and targeted social media campaigns contributing to their accelerated growth.
13. Start an autocad specialist business ($12M/year)
Starting an AutoCAD specialist business in California could offer numerous opportunities, especially if you leverage the state's strong demand for design, architecture, and engineering services. You could assist a wide range of clients from various industries in creating technical drawings and blueprints, elevating project accuracies and efficiencies. This type of business requires proficiency in AutoCAD software, a keen eye for detail, and an understanding of industry-specific needs.
A shining example of a successful related venture is Growthink, founded by Dave Lavinsky in Los Angeles, CA. Growthink began by writing business plans for entrepreneurs, later expanding to offer business plan templates, software, and an investment banking division. The company has impressively assisted over a million entrepreneurs in their capital-raising and business planning efforts, showcasing how leveraging niche expertise can lead to substantial growth and success.
A case study about Growthink, a business planning and capital raising company that has helped over 1 million entrepreneurs, discusses the founder's journey from side hustle to expanding product offerings, attracting customers through content creation and search engine marketing, and using AI to streamline operations and develop an AI business plan generator.
14. Create an online course ($12M/year)
One great small business idea for California is to create an online course. This opportunity leverages the state's strong tech infrastructure and the global reach of the internet while allowing you to share your expertise and passion with a wide audience. Animal Behavior College Inc., started by Steven Applebaum in Santa Clarita, California, is a prime example. This vocational school offers hybrid courses combining online and in-person hands-on learning, focusing on training professional dog trainers, pet groomers, and veterinary assistants. Their innovative model has led to impressive success, achieving double-digit growth each year from 2001-2014, and generating around $1 million in monthly revenue.
If you have specialized knowledge or a unique skill set, considering the creation of an online course could be a worthwhile venture. It provides flexibility and access to a global student base. For inspiration, check out the full case study of Animal Behavior College Inc., an excellent example of how a local California business has made a significant impact in the animal care industry.
Animal Behavior College, a vocational school that trains animal lovers to become professional dog trainers, pet groomers, veterinary assistants, cat trainers and aquatic management specialists, achieved double-digit growth every year from 2001-2014, with revenue reaching $1 million per month on average, thanks to its innovative hybrid model of distance and hands-on learning and strong focus on the needs of pet owners and animal welfare.
15. Start an aerial imagery business ($12M/year)
If you're looking to start a unique and innovative business in California, you could start an aerial imagery business. This venture involves capturing high-quality images from the air using drones or aircraft to provide valuable insights for various industries, including agriculture, real estate, and environmental monitoring. Aerial imagery offers a fresh perspective that can help clients make more informed decisions based on accurate, up-to-date information.
A successful example of this business model is TerrAvion, founded by Robert Morris and Cornell Wright in San Leandro, California, in 2013. TerrAvion specializes in delivering subscription-based imagery for agriculture, offering growers detailed, current pictures of their fields throughout the growing season. With their innovative technical setup and commitment to providing low-cost, overnight image deliveries, TerrAvion has become a leader in the field. You can read more about their inspiring journey and practical business insights in their case study.
TerrAvion delivers subscription imagery overnight throughout the growing season, having been founded in 2013 by Robert Morris and Cornell Wright, with flights taking place every day of the year capture image data and allowing their customers to have a real up-to-date picture of their fields.
16. Start a skin care product line ($12M/year)
Starting a skincare product line in California opens up unique opportunities due to the state's strong emphasis on health and wellness. You could follow in the footsteps of Annmarie, a successful venture founded by Kevin Gianni in Berkeley, California. This natural, organic skincare and beauty company stems from the founders' dedication to making informed decisions about skin health, using hand-selected organic and wildcrafted ingredients crafted with added plant extracts for maximum effectiveness.
For inspiration, consider the Annmarie case study, where Kevin and his wife transitioned from YouTube influencers to owners of a seven-figure business with over 105k subscribers on their existing platform. Their story began in Berkeley, California, where they prioritized transparency and integrity in their skincare line, responding to the industry's lack of ingredient disclosure. To learn more about their journey and gain insights for your own venture, check out their case study.
Kevin Gianni, CEO and founder of Annmarie Skin Care reveals how he and his wife went from being youtubers to having the ability to run their seven-figure, natural, organic skincare and beauty company, with over 105k subscribers, using their existing platform.
17. Start an online wine business ($12M/year)
If you're considering starting a unique and engaging business in California, you could explore the idea of an online wine business. Leveraging the state's rich wine culture and abundant wineries, you could create an online platform that offers curated wine selections to a targeted audience, focusing on exceptional customer service and exclusive offerings.
A great example of this in action is The Wine Spies, founded by Agent Red in Santa Rosa, California. Established in 2007, The Wine Spies offers a new wine every 24 hours on their platform and only sells wines they absolutely love. Their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has garnered them a fiercely loyal customer base. If you want to learn more about their journey, you can read the full story here.
The Wine Spies is an online wine marketplace, founded in 2007, that only sells wines it loves and has a fiercely loyal customer base that has kept the company profitable and growing steadily with over a decade of exceptional service and value.
18. Start a saas company ($10M/year)
Starting a SaaS company could be an excellent business idea in California, given the state's strong tech ecosystem and access to a talented workforce. In particular, San Diego has proven to be fertile ground for SaaS innovations. One inspiring example is Regpack, founded by Asaf Darash. Regpack is an online payment management and registration platform that offers customizable software for complex onboarding and payment needs, ultimately helping customers increase their revenue by an average of 30%.
Regpack has grown significantly, boasting a team of 31 employees and generating over $800k in monthly revenue. For those with a knack for software development and a vision for solving intricate business problems, following in Regpack's footsteps could be a rewarding entrepreneurial path. To learn more about Regpack's journey, check out their case study.
In this case study, the founder and CEO of Regpack, an online payment management and registration platform, shares the journey of building and growing the business, with impressive highlights including a 30% revenue increase for customers and a team of 31 employees making over $800k each month.
19. Start a sign business ($9.6M/year)
Starting a sign business in California offers numerous opportunities, and you could indeed find success in this industry. Designing and producing high-quality signage for businesses can be very lucrative as companies always need effective ways to advertise their brand and attract customers. A prime example of a successful sign business is Front Signs, which was started by Gevorg Hambardzumyan in Burbank, CA.
Front Signs began with just four friends but has grown to a team of 42 employees, generating an average monthly revenue of $800,000. They have attracted over 500,000 clients nationwide, including major brands like Coca-Cola and Six Flags. By offering comprehensive services like designing, sign-making, installation, and maintenance, Front Signs has become the largest sign-making company in Burbank, showcasing the potential success you could achieve in the signage industry in California.
Front Signs is a B2B sign-making company that started with four friends and grew to a team of 42 employees, generating an average monthly revenue of $800,000 from over 500,000 nationwide customers, including Coca-Cola, Six Flags, and Armani Exchange.
20. Start an idea management software ($9M/year)
Starting an idea management software company could be a lucrative opportunity for entrepreneurs in California. These platforms enable businesses and government organizations to collect, prioritize, and develop innovative ideas from employees, customers, and the public. One successful example is IdeaScale, a B2B SaaS company founded by Rob Hoehn in San Francisco, which has grown to nearly $750,000 per month in revenue. IdeaScale's crowdsourcing software has been instrumental for innovation departments, facilitating digital transformation and continuous improvement across various industries.
Rob Hoehn started IdeaScale with a focus on customer-driven growth, inbound search optimization, and customer retention. The business, rooted in California, has leveraged the state's robust tech ecosystem to thrive. This example illustrates the significant potential for starting an idea management software business in the Golden State. For further details on IdeaScale's journey, you can read their full case study.
IdeaScale, a B2B SaaS company with a focus on innovation, has grown to almost $750k/month by listening to its customers, investing in inbound search optimization, and prioritizing customer retention and support.
21. Start a cannabis business ($3.26M/year)
With California being a pioneer in cannabis legalization, you could capitalize on the rapidly growing market by starting your own cannabis business. With legal marijuana sales projected to hit $22 billion by 2022, the opportunities are immense for both new and experienced entrepreneurs (source).
Whether you are considering cultivation, retail, or ancillary services, California's established market provides a supportive environment for growth. There are numerous success stories from entrepreneurs who have ventured into this industry and made it big, providing inspiration and insight for your business journey. To dive deeper into the idea, explore more details here and check out some successful case studies.
Plain Jane, an online CBD company founded by two college roommates, offers unique products and has generated over $20K a month in sales within five months, attracting and retaining customers through social media, authentic stories, and content.
22. Start a cbd business ($1.02M/year)
Starting a CBD business in California could be an excellent opportunity given the state's progressive stance on cannabis and related products. California's large, health-conscious population is increasingly interested in natural remedies and wellness alternatives, making it a fertile ground for CBD enterprises.
With the CBD market projected to grow by a CAGR of 21.7%, you could tap into high-demand areas such as becoming a CBD distributor or creating a CBD subscription box service. You could even explore niche markets within the state by starting a CBD podcast or becoming a CBD blogger and reviewer. For inspiration, check out successful CBD business case studies to see how others have thriving ventures in this booming industry.
Plain Jane, an online CBD company founded by two college roommates, offers unique products and has generated over $20K a month in sales within five months, attracting and retaining customers through social media, authentic stories, and content.
23. Start an artificial intelligence business ($720K/year)
Given California's reputation as a tech hub, particularly with Silicon Valley, an artificial intelligence business could thrive in this environment filled with innovative minds and cutting-edge resources. The state's robust technology sector provides ample networking opportunities, access to top talent, and a market that is eager for AI advancements.
Furthermore, with the global AI market projected to grow significantly, you could capitalize on this trend by offering solutions ranging from AI-driven consulting services to developing sophisticated machine learning algorithms. For inspiration and real-world examples, check out these successful AI business case studies.
AdviNOW Medical uses artificial intelligence to automate clerical work, resulting in doctors being able to focus solely on patients and patients seeing more doctors every day, leading to increased profitability while solving healthcare issues.
24. Build an ai tool ($3.57M/year)
California is a prime location to start an AI tool business due to its thriving tech ecosystem and access to top-tier talent. Home to Silicon Valley, the state offers unparalleled networking opportunities with leading tech companies and startups, which could be valuable for collaboration, inspiration, and market access.
You could tap into California's significant investment landscape to secure funding for research and development in AI technologies. Furthermore, the diverse economy in sectors like healthcare, finance, and retail presents numerous opportunities for AI tools to streamline operations and enhance efficiencies, making it an ideal environment for your business to grow. Check out these successful case studies to see how other entrepreneurs have navigated this industry in California.
SkillSoniq, the world's first AI-powered recruiting app, connects companies with skilled freelancers on a trial basis, saving companies 60%+ in hiring costs and earning $350,000+ in gross revenues in its first year, with a current average of $40,000 a month, and plans to raise a second round of seed funding to achieve escape velocity and continue to form a world-class company.
25. Create a mobile app ($844K/year)
Starting a mobile app business in California presents a unique opportunity due to the state's robust tech ecosystem and talented pool of developers. With Silicon Valley as the global hub for technology and innovation, you could tap into endless resources and potential partnerships to bring your app idea to life. Plus, California's diverse population offers a fertile ground for testing and launching apps that cater to a wide range of user needs and preferences.
Moreover, the state's forward-thinking culture and high smartphone penetration make it an ideal market for innovative mobile solutions. Whether your app is designed to enhance productivity, provide entertainment, or address specific challenges, the possibilities are vast. For more details on how to get started, you can read about the mobile app business idea and check out some successful case studies for inspiration.
BACH, an app that plans and books bachelorette parties, has grown from $0 to >$1M net revenue run rate in less than 6 months, gained over 100,000 users in their first 60 days, and has over 40,000 parties using the app this month.
26. Start a software development agency ($6.53M/year)
If you're entrepreneurial-minded and living in California, starting a software development agency could be a lucrative venture. Given the state's vibrant tech ecosystem, particularly in Silicon Valley, you're positioned in a hotspot where demand for customized software solutions is exceptionally high.
Businesses are constantly seeking innovative ways to streamline operations and cut costs. By developing bespoke software solutions, you could offer high-value services tailored to meet their unique needs, enabling you to charge premium rates. For inspiration, check out these successful case studies of thriving software development agencies.
A software agency started by a non-technical founder helps diverse clients with their minimum lovable product, boasting a revenue of over $700,000 this year with a 20% profit margin and a team of 8.
27. Start a roadside assistance business
California's expansive road network and high volume of daily commuters make a roadside assistance business a viable and essential service. The constant flow of traffic means numerous opportunities to assist drivers facing issues like flat tires, dead batteries, and lockouts.
Given the state’s focus on environmental sustainability, you could also incorporate eco-friendly practices such as offering mobile EV charging services. If you’re considering starting a roadside assistance business, check out more details on this business idea or read successful case studies to gain insights and inspiration.
28. Print on demand business ($4.94M/year)
Starting a print-on-demand business in California is a smart move due to the state's vibrant and diverse market. With a large, trendsetting population and a strong culture of creativity, you could easily tap into numerous niche markets ranging from tech enthusiasts in Silicon Valley to fashion-forward individuals in Los Angeles.
Additionally, California's tech-savvy residents make it an excellent place to leverage online marketplace platforms like Amazon, eBay, and Etsy to reach a global audience. This business model’s minimal startup costs also allow you the flexibility to operate from home, giving you the opportunity to turn your creative ideas into a profitable venture. For inspiration, you can check out some successful case studies about entrepreneurs who have thrived in this space.
Founder Roy Kirchner shares how he started an eCommerce business specializing in 3D printing with an initial investment of $65,000, which now averages monthly gross sales of $330,000 and has partnered with international manufacturers and local businesses while offering technical support and education.
29. Start a content creation business ($963K/year)
Starting a content creation business in California could be an excellent opportunity due to the state's strong digital economy and diverse industries. As a local entrepreneur, you could leverage your proximity to tech hubs, entertainment centers, and innovative companies to create highly engaging and relevant content.
With the flexibility to offer freelance gigs or full-service agency models, you could tailor your services to meet the specific needs of client businesses. This personalized approach backed by your writing talent could significantly boost lead generation and brand visibility. Learn more about this lucrative business idea here and get inspired by these success stories.
Power Move Marketing is an innovative digital marketing company founded by Hailey Brooke McFadden, which has achieved an impressive monthly income of $22,075 and is projected to make almost $300,000 in its first year, by offering a one-stop-shop for e-commerce businesses looking for a marketing powerhouse with a female positive culture.
30. Start an etsy shop ($570K/year)
Starting an Etsy shop in California is a fantastic business idea, especially with the state's vibrant arts and crafts scene. You could leverage California's diverse culture and creative communities to offer unique, handmade products that stand out in the marketplace.
Moreover, California's robust economy and large population provide a substantial customer base for your products. With the right product idea and a visually appealing storefront, you could tap into this market and effectively build your brand. For more inspiration and detailed steps, check out successful case studies on how others have thrived with their Etsy businesses.
Chasing Planner Peace is a planner company that has expanded from selling planner inserts on Etsy, to offering a one-stop shop customizable planner experience with over 300 inserts, a planner line, and various other related products, gaining a monthly revenue of around $25,000 at its busiest time of year.
31. Start a freelance writing business ($751K/year)
Starting a freelance writing business in California could be an excellent opportunity for various reasons. Given California's vibrant and diverse economy, there is a high demand for content across multiple industries, including tech, entertainment, and lifestyle. As a freelance writer, you could tap into these thriving sectors and offer specialized content services that cater to local businesses looking to enhance their online presence.
Additionally, California's tech-savvy environment means you could leverage advanced tools and platforms to streamline your workflow, thereby increasing your productivity and income potential. The potential to network with a wide array of clients within the state also allows for a steady stream of projects. For more details on starting a freelance writing business, check out this guide, and be inspired by successful case studies from others who have thrived in this field.
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.
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Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
