The 40 Best Home-Based Businesses To Start In Delaware [2024]
Interested in starting a business in Delaware in 2024?
We put together 45 of the best businesses you can start in Delaware today.
For each business idea, we’ll show you real-world examples of how you can start your profitable, home-based small business in Delaware.
Here's the full list:
1. Start an email automation platform ($4.8M/year)
Starting an email automation platform offers a lucrative business avenue, especially in a tech-friendly state like Delaware. For example, Stripo, launched by Dmitry Kudrenko, is a flourishing email template builder designed to simplify the email creation process for marketers by eliminating the need for coding skills. Founded in Wilmington, DE, Stripo has scaled impressively, reaching one million users globally and generating a monthly recurring revenue of $400,000.
If you’re in Delaware and have an interest in the tech sector, you could create a similar platform, capitalizing on the state's supportive business environment. Stripo’s success story demonstrates the potential for growth and innovation within the state, making it an ideal location to launch your own email automation business. For more on Stripo’s story, check out their case study.
Case study about Dmytro Kudrenko and his flagship product, Stripo, an email template builder for marketers that went from zero to one million users worldwide and has a monthly recurring revenue of about $400,000 in an effort to simplify the email creation process and provide flexibility in email design without coding skills.
3. ($180K/year)
Starting a home-based software marketplace could be a lucrative opportunity for entrepreneurial minds in Delaware. Cogneve, INC., founded by Stan Alexandru Gabriel in Middletown, Delaware, is an exemplary case of successfully tapping into this sector. Their main project, Tekpon, addresses a significant problem—helping individuals and businesses choose the right software, thereby reducing wastage in a market where $30 billion is spent annually on unused software.
Tekpon now generates around $4,000 per month and has secured investments from private angels and venture capitalists, aiming to become a unicorn in the near future. This software marketplace also boasts a large community with over 65,000 active members in their Facebook group, Entrepreneurs and Startups. You can read about their inspiring journey here. This case highlights the potential for success when you identify a persistent problem and provide a valuable solution from your home in Delaware.
Tekpon, a software marketplace launched by Alexandru Stan, is helping individuals and companies combat a yearly $30bn issue of buying and never using software, generating $4,000/month, and has secured investment from private angels and two VCs with hopes of becoming a unicorn within the next three years, all while holding one of the largest Facebook groups for founders: Entrepreneurs and Startups, with over 65,000+ active members in the last 60 days.
4. Start a b2b lead generation service ($2.07M/year)
Starting a B2B lead generation service in Delaware could be particularly advantageous due to the state's strategic location and thriving business environment. With its proximity to major East Coast markets like New York, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C., you could tap into a diverse range of businesses that require continuous streams of high-quality leads to grow and succeed.
Delaware is also home to many incorporated businesses due to its business-friendly laws and tax advantages, increasing the potential client base for your lead generation services. If you have skills in sales, data analysis, and relationship-building, this scalable business could be your next entrepreneurial success. For more details on this business idea, check out Starter Story's in-depth article and read successful case studies to get inspired.
A 20-year-old digital nomad and serial entrepreneur shares his journey of starting a successful digital marketing agency, Nomads with Solutions, which specializes in Facebook lead generation, and offers insights on client acquisition, personal branding, and focusing on self-improvement.
5. Start a no code platform ($3.69M/year)
Starting a no-code platform business in Delaware could offer a unique opportunity for entrepreneurial minds in the state, given its rising demand for digital solutions. Delaware's favorable business climate, including its advanced legal structure and supportive startup ecosystem, provides a solid foundation for launching such an innovative venture. You could leverage these benefits to build a successful platform that democratizes app development, allowing users to bring their ideas to life without needing programming skills.
Moreover, Delaware's proximity to major tech hubs and a growing interest in tech entrepreneurship make it an ideal location for a no-code platform. By tapping into this local interest and the state's strategic geographical location, you could attract a diverse user base willing to pay for accessible and rapid application development solutions. To get inspired, check out these successful no-code platform case studies and learn more about the business idea.
Codemap.io is a freelance & agency marketplace for no-code, low-code, and automation, enabling anyone to hire no-code experts to build their products, MVPs, and apps up to 10x cheaper and faster than with traditional development, with 900+ clients, close to $2,000,000 in created projects, and 110+ hires made, all achieved in less than 6 months.
6. Build an ai tool ($3.57M/year)
Given Delaware's growing tech-savvy environment and close proximity to major hubs like Philadelphia and Washington, D.C., starting an AI tool business could present ample opportunities. With a diverse range of industries thriving in the state, from healthcare to finance, your AI tool could cater to various local businesses seeking to automate processes and enhance efficiency.
Moreover, Delaware offers a favorable business climate with supportive infrastructure and initiatives aimed at tech innovation. The state's strategic advantages could enable you to design and market AI tools that local enterprises can adopt to stay competitive. For more details on the AI tool business idea, check out this page, or to see successful case studies, go here.
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.
7. Start an email marketing tool ($2.82M/year)
Starting an email marketing tool business in Delaware could be a great opportunity for several reasons. As a state known for its business-friendly regulations, Delaware provides an excellent environment for entrepreneurs to innovate and grow. You would be entering a booming industry with the global email marketing tool market expected to reach $2.53B by 2028, making it a lucrative field.
Additionally, Delaware’s central location on the East Coast means you could easily network with a variety of other businesses and startups in nearby major cities. This geographical advantage could allow you to seamlessly integrate your tool with a multitude of clients, from small businesses to large enterprises. For inspiration and successful case studies, you can check out our success stories to see how others have thrived in this space.
H-supertools founder Hasan developed a set of free SEO and digital marketing tools generating $2k per month in profit using Google Adsense, affiliate marketing, selling ad spaces, and email, plans to launch a membership option, and has attained over 80k registered users and 300k monthly visits in less than two years.
8. Start a seo services ($1.05M/year)
An SEO services business is a great venture to start in Delaware due to the state's growing number of small businesses that need to boost their digital presence. By helping local businesses improve their online visibility, you could play a significant role in driving traffic to their websites, which is essential for customer acquisition and growth.
With relatively low startup costs, all you need is a computer, internet connection, and basic SEO expertise to get started. You could begin by offering your SEO services to small businesses in Delaware that are eager to enhance their search engine rankings. For inspiration, check out these successful case studies to see how other entrepreneurs have thrived in this field.
This case study describes the journey of Russell Michelson who, after leaving his corporate job, turned his WordPress skills into a thriving boutique SEO agency earning $20k/month, thanks to client referrals and Upwork.
9. Start a sales automation platform ($1.92M/year)
Starting a sales automation platform in Delaware could be a smart move for entrepreneurial-minded individuals. With the state's strong business-friendly atmosphere and robust support for small enterprises, your platform could become an essential tool for local companies looking to streamline their sales processes. By automating tasks like lead generation, follow-ups, and data management, you could help Delaware businesses enhance their efficiency and focus more on closing deals.
Additionally, the increasing trend toward digital solutions makes the timing ideal to venture into this field. Companies are actively seeking ways to optimize their sales operations and reduce administrative burdens. By offering a well-designed, user-friendly platform, you could tap into this growing market demand and provide real value to businesses in Delaware. For more details on this business idea, check out this article and successful case studies here.
GreenRope, a self-funded CRM and marketing automation platform with over 1,000 customers in 20 countries, was built organically and focused on creating a positive, customer-centric culture without outside investment, with an all-in-one interface solving challenges in managing sales, marketing, customer service, and operations.
10. Start a project management tool ($1.95M/year)
Starting a project management tool business in Delaware presents a unique opportunity given the state's thriving business environment and strong emphasis on innovation and technology. As organizations in the region continuously seek solutions to improve workflow, accountability, and efficiency, developing a user-friendly project management tool could cater to these growing needs. With a software-as-a-service (SaaS) subscription model, you could establish a steady stream of revenue while providing vital services to local and even global businesses.
Delaware's favorable business laws and tax advantages make it an attractive base for both startups and established companies, further increasing the demand for effective project management solutions. By leveraging these local benefits and focusing on innovative features like task lists, Gantt charts, time tracking, and collaboration tools, you’re well-positioned to capture a significant market share. For more details on what it entails, check out this article on project management tools, and get inspired by successful case studies.
GreenRope, a self-funded CRM and marketing automation platform with over 1,000 customers in 20 countries, was built organically and focused on creating a positive, customer-centric culture without outside investment, with an all-in-one interface solving challenges in managing sales, marketing, customer service, and operations.
11. Start a consulting business ($1.77M/year)
Starting a consulting business in Delaware could be an excellent opportunity for entrepreneurial-minded individuals. Given that the global consulting industry is valued at about $250B, there is ample room for growth and success in this field. Delaware's business-friendly environment, known for its favorable tax laws and supportive legal framework, provides a solid foundation for establishing a home-based consulting business.
Furthermore, you could benefit from the wealth of resources and case studies available on Starter Story which can guide you through launching and scaling your consulting venture. By examining successful consulting business case studies, you might gain invaluable insights and inspiration tailored specifically to Delaware's unique market dynamics.
Cybersecurity consulting firm Eden Data, launched in March 2020, scaled to four team members and generated over $45k MRR without large startup costs through their unique Virtual CISO offering, which outsources cybersecurity and compliance needs for a flat monthly price, rather than charging by the hour or for long-term commitments.
12. Start a technology consulting business ($1.64M/year)
Starting a technology consulting business in Delaware could be a lucrative opportunity, given the state's growing emphasis on digital transformation and innovation. With its thriving business community and numerous startups seeking IT guidance, you could play a pivotal role in helping these enterprises leverage technology to achieve their strategic goals.
Given that many entrepreneurs in Delaware may not come from a tech background, your expertise could be invaluable in navigating the complexities of current technology trends. For more details on starting a technology consulting business, check out this article and explore successful case studies for inspiration.
How a Ph.D. in computer engineering created a patented agile framework and turned it into a profitable training and consulting business, after realizing that his accumulated technology knowledge was losing value over time.
13. Start an ai-based business ($335K/year)
Starting an AI-based business in Delaware offers immense potential for growth and innovation. Delaware's business-friendly regulations and strategic location near major East Coast tech hubs provide an excellent ecosystem for tech entrepreneurs. Whether you are looking to develop AI-driven customer service bots or predictive analytics tools for healthcare, the opportunities to drive efficiency and reduce operational costs for businesses are vast.
For tech enthusiasts and entrepreneurial-minded individuals, the AI sector is a goldmine of possibilities. By leveraging artificial intelligence to create solutions that address real-world problems, you could be at the forefront of the next major technological advancement. For inspiration, check out successful case studies that demonstrate the potential of AI businesses.
LowCode Agency uses no/low code tools to build custom-made apps at 80% lower cost and 70% faster than traditional app development agencies, growing double digits every month and targeting $150,000 in sales in their first year.
14. Start an off road tours business
Starting an off-road tours business in Delaware is a fantastic opportunity, especially given the state’s diverse landscapes, including its picturesque beaches and scenic woodland trails. You could provide exhilarating adventures for both locals and tourists, tapping into the growing demand for outdoor recreational activities.
Delaware’s moderate climate allows for year-round business, and its proximity to highly populated areas provides a steady stream of potential customers. By offering unique, guided off-road tours, you could create memorable experiences that set your business apart. For inspiration and insights, check out successful case studies on off-road tours businesses.
15. Start a marketing consulting business ($1.47M/year)
Starting a marketing consulting business in Delaware offers a wealth of opportunities due to the state's robust business environment. Delaware's status as a corporate haven, with over half of U.S. publicly traded companies and 66% of the Fortune 500 incorporated there, means potential clients are plentiful and varied. You could tap into a diverse market of small businesses and startups looking for expert guidance to elevate their marketing efforts.
Moreover, Delaware's central location in the Mid-Atlantic region provides easy access to major markets like New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C., allowing you to expand your client base. Establishing a consulting business here allows you to leverage Delaware's business-friendly policies and network with a wide array of enterprises. You can check out some successful case studies to draw inspiration and see what's possible.
A successful podcast production company that grew from one client making $15/hour to a team of 10 contractors producing over 30 shows per week with revenue of over $10k/mo, primarily through referrals and with a focus on providing high personal touch and being picky about working only with clients who are a good fit.
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Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
