The 38 Best Home-Based Businesses To Start In Michigan [2024]
Interested in starting a business in Michigan in 2024?
We put together 96 of the best businesses you can start in Michigan today.
For each business idea, we’ll show you real-world examples of how you can start your profitable, home-based small business in Michigan.
Here's the full list:
1. Start a custom prints business ($36M/year)
Starting a custom prints business could be an ideal home-based opportunity in Michigan, offering services such as screen printing, digital printing, and embroidery on various apparel and promotional products. One inspiring example is Underground Printing, founded by Rishi Narayan in Ann Arbor, Michigan. This business, which began in a college dorm room, has grown into a national provider with over 35 locations and has been recognized three times on Inc. Magazine's 5000 fastest-growing companies list.
UGP's success story highlights the potential for growth in this industry, especially with a customer-centric approach that drives strong word-of-mouth promotion. If you aspire to establish a custom prints business, taking inspiration from UGP might guide you in the right direction. For more detailed insights, check out the full case study.
National custom printing apparel and promotional products provider, Underground Printing, shares their start-up success story which has led them to be ranked amongst Inc. Magazine’s 5000 fastest-growing companies for three years running, with a customer-centric business model driving strong word-of-mouth promotion.
2. Start a supplements company ($6M/year)
Starting a supplements company in Michigan could be a lucrative opportunity given the growing demand for health and wellness products. One inspiring example is VADE Nutrition, founded by Joe Johnson in East Lansing, Michigan. This business offers Dissolvable Protein Scoops, providing consumers with a convenient and portable option for their protein needs.
VADE Nutrition has successfully expanded from selling exclusively through their website to major retail outlets and e-commerce platforms such as Amazon and GNC.com. The company even landed a deal on Shark Tank with Mark Cuban and A-Rod. To learn more about their journey, you can check out their case study here.
VADE Nutrition provides on-the-go consumers with convenient and portable Dissolvable Protein Scoops featuring 20 grams of protein, 4.4 grams of branch chain amino acids and only 90 calories, which has expanded from selling only through the website to retail stores and e-commerce sites such as Amazon, BodyBuilding.com, Groupon and GNC.com, culminating in a successful Shark Tank pitching to get a deal with Mark Cuban and A-Rod.
3. Become a real estate photographer ($2.64M/year)
If you have a knack for photography and an interest in real estate, you could become a real estate photographer in Michigan. Real estate photography involves taking high-quality images of properties, which are essential for attracting potential buyers and renters online. The demand for visually appealing real estate listings is rising, making this a lucrative home-based business opportunity.
A prime example of a successful real estate photography business in Michigan is PhotoUp, started by Devon Higgins in Grand Rapids. PhotoUp specializes in real estate photo editing and digital marketing services. What began as a small team in 2012 has grown into a company with over 200 employees globally, generating nearly $3,000,000 in revenue. For a deeper look into PhotoUp’s journey, check out their case study.
Case Study: PhotoUp is a real estate photo editing company that has gone from a team of 10 to over 200 employees in the Philippines, with over 60 contractors around the world and expects to close in on $3,000,000 in revenue this year.
4. Start a clothing boutique ($1.8M/year)
If you're considering starting a home-based business in Michigan, venturing into a clothing boutique could be a lucrative and fulfilling option. Leveraging online platforms, you could create a niche for trendy and stylish apparel that caters to various demographics. An excellent example of this is The Kewl Shop, started by Sasithon Bella and her husband Charles. They began by focusing on designer bandage and bodycon dresses, which helped them reach their first million in revenue by selling 10,000 dresses in just 3.5 years.
You could emulate their strategy by honing in on a specific type of clothing and mastering SEO and paid advertising to drive traffic to your online store. Based in Michigan, The Kewl Shop has grown significantly by maintaining a high net gain with targeted marketing techniques and a keen understanding of their product and consumer base. For a deeper dive into their journey and practical insights, you can read their full story here.
How an online dress shop sold 10,000 dresses in 3.5 years to reach their first $1 million in revenue, and now generates an average net gain of 22% with consistent SEO and paid advertising strategies.
5. Start a men's grooming company ($1.2M/year)
Starting a men’s grooming company in Michigan could be a lucrative and rewarding business opportunity. Doug Geiger started CanYouHandlebar in Mount Clemens, Michigan. His journey began with a simple moustache wax recipe made on his kitchen countertop. The business quickly grew, making “a million bucks” within the first three years and expanding into a 10,000 square foot facility. This expansion led to a network of international retail partners rooted in a dedication to quality products and exceptional customer service.
If you have a passion for men’s grooming and a knack for innovation, you could follow Doug’s example. Learn more about CanYouHandlebar’s inspiring journey here. This success story showcases the possibilities for entrepreneurial-minded individuals in Michigan who are looking to create their niche in the men’s grooming industry.
Men's grooming product company Can You Handlebar grew from a kitchen countertop with a stolen crockpot to making a million dollars in the first three years, expanding to a 10,000 square foot building and a network of international retail partners, with a focus on quality products and customer service.
6. Start a book reviewing business ($1.08M/year)
Starting a book reviewing business in Michigan could be a lucrative endeavor, especially given the state's rich literary culture. By offering detailed and thoughtful reviews, you could cater to avid readers, librarians, and booksellers who are always on the lookout for new and diverse titles. A great example of this business idea in action is Foreword Reviews, which was started by Victoria Sutherland in Traverse City, MI. What began as a small magazine for indie presses has grown into a comprehensive media company, providing a variety of publishing services over the past two decades.
Foreword Reviews initially had a print run of 7,500 copies and has since evolved into one of the most profitable businesses in the book industry. This success story demonstrates the potential of a well-executed book reviewing business in Michigan. For more on how Victoria built Foreword Reviews, you can check out the full case study here. Such a business not only supports independent authors and presses but also enriches the local and global literary community.
Foreword Reviews is a media company that started out as a magazine with a print run of 7,500 copies, serving as a brochure for publishing services including foreign rights exchange and digital content, and twenty years and some intense pivots later, it has become one of the most profitable in the book business.
7. Start a kitchen utensils business ($780K/year)
Starting a kitchen utensils business could be an exciting and profitable venture in Michigan. The demand for innovative and ergonomic kitchen tools is continually growing as people spend more time cooking and baking at home. You could leverage platforms like Kickstarter to validate your ideas and gain initial funding, much like Michael Chou, the founder of Midnight Kitchen Tools in South Lyon, MI. He identified a market need for ergonomic kitchen gadgets and successfully launched products like the Midnight Scoop and Midnight Slice.
If you're considering this type of business, learning from successful entrepreneurs in your state could be valuable. Michael began his journey by creating an ergonomic ice cream scoop and later expanded to other kitchen tools, achieving significant success through e-commerce and strategic partnerships. For more insights into how he achieved this, you could read the case study on Midnight Kitchen Tools. This real-life example shows that with creativity and persistence, you could turn a simple idea into a thriving home-based business in Michigan.
Midnight Kitchen Tools founder Michael Chou shares how he identified a need in the market for ergonomic kitchen tools, and built a successful business through Kickstarter campaigns, e-commerce capabilities, and partnerships with other companies.
8. Start a cleaning products business ($420K/year)
Starting a cleaning products business in Michigan presents a promising opportunity for those passionate about sustainability and natural products. You could create eco-friendly and non-toxic cleaning supplies that appeal to health-conscious consumers. Michigan's growing market for sustainable products is evidenced by the success of MamaSuds, founded by Michelle C. Smith, which generates an impressive monthly revenue of $18k and has customers in 9 countries and all 50 US states.
MamaSuds became a well-loved brand by offering natural, synthetic-free household cleaners and soaps. The company’s commitment to health and wellness, along with its rebranding efforts, has significantly increased its visibility and growth. To dive deeper into Michelle's journey with MamaSuds, you can read her full story here. This example shows that starting a cleaning products business in Michigan could not only meet local demand but also achieve broad success.
MamaSuds, a natural cleaning and soap company created by Michelle Smith, has an impressive monthly revenue of $18k, has sold products to 9 countries and all 50 US states, and has just undergone a rebrand that contributed to significant traffic growth.
9. Start an outdoor apparel brand ($360K/year)
Starting an outdoor apparel brand in Michigan could be an exciting and lucrative business venture. The state's diverse landscapes, from its lakes to its forests, provide an excellent backdrop for outdoor activities, and there is a strong demand for high-quality gear that caters to these adventures. One inspiring example is MuskOx, a men's outdoor apparel brand created by Bradley Hoos in 2019. This Detroit-based company designs durable, functional clothing for everyday adventures and has already achieved significant success, generating $10k in monthly revenue and building a loyal customer base.
MuskOx's journey exemplifies the potential for outdoor apparel brands in Michigan. Launched by a Michigan native, the brand focuses on creating versatile, high-quality clothing that caters to the adventurous spirit of its customers. With products like The Grand Flannel and the Charleston Performance Hoodie, MuskOx has made a name for itself by offering thoughtfully designed gear. For more details on their story, you can check out the full case study on Starter Story.
MuskOx, a men's outdoor apparel brand created in 2019, has gained a supportive customer base and already generated $10k in monthly revenue, offering quality gear for everyday adventure that is designed to last.
10. Start a men's clothing line ($240K/year)
Starting a men's clothing line in Michigan presents a great opportunity for entrepreneurial-minded individuals due to the state's vibrant fashion scene and supportive business environment. A prime example is Lawrence Hunt, founded by Jeff Schattner in Detroit. This innovative start-up has successfully captivated the market with their unique sweat-wicking dress shirts that skillfully blend the professional look of traditional cotton shirts with the performance features of athletic wear, reaching approximately $20,000 per month in revenue by 2019.
By looking at the success of Lawrence Hunt, you could create a niche market for stylish yet functional men's apparel in Michigan. For a deeper dive into their journey and business strategy, you can check out this case study. With dedication and a tailored approach, you could make an impactful entry into the men's fashion industry right from your home in Michigan.
Lawrence Hunt Fashion uses a balance of performance and professional wear to create sweat-wicking dress shirts, reaching $20,000/month in revenue in 2019 and expanding into corporate apparel and a membership program in 2020.
11. Start a digital agency ($240K/year)
Starting a digital agency in Michigan opens a wide array of opportunities for budding entrepreneurs, especially with the rapidly growing demand for online presence and digital marketing services. You could focus on a niche market, such as a specific industry or service, to set your agency apart and attract dedicated clients. For instance, Dox Design, based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, was started by Kaila Piepkow, who combined her knack for design with her passion for pets. This pet industry-focused design agency offers bespoke branding, graphic, and website design services, and it has seen substantial growth since its inception in 2016.
If you’re looking for inspiration, you might want to check out Dox Design's journey from modest beginnings to generating up to $12K in monthly sales. Kaila's dedication to providing exceptional design services for pet businesses and animal lovers proves that targeting a specific niche can be both fulfilling and profitable. So, if you have a hobby or passion, consider turning it into a specialized digital agency right here in Michigan!
Dox Design, a pet industry-focused design agency, grew from $4K to $12K in monthly sales since launching in 2016, with over 12 clients and $22K in closed business in its highest month by providing bespoke branding, graphic and website designs for pet businesses and animal lovers.
12. Start an ice cream scooper business ($216K/year)
If you’re entrepreneurial and based in Michigan, you could start an ice cream scooper business that revolutionizes how people enjoy their favorite frozen treat. Michael Chou, an aerospace engineer, founded the Midnight Scoop in South Lyon, Michigan, with the innovative idea of creating a scoop that eliminates the wrist-prying motion typically needed to serve hard ice cream. His product quickly gained popularity, soaring from zero sales to $18,000 in monthly revenue shortly after its release.
Chou’s engineering background allowed him to design a scoop that leverages stronger arm muscles instead of relying on weaker wrist motions. The Midnight Scoop became a successful case study in turning a simple yet frustrating problem into a profitable business. For more insight into Michael Chou's journey and his Michigan-based business, check out the full case study here.
Aerospace engineer Michael Chou created the Midnight Scoop, designed to help you scoop hard ice cream by eliminating the need for a wrist-prying motion, with the product going from zero sales to $18k per month after the first month upon release.
13. Start a furniture business ($161K/year)
Starting a furniture business could be a lucrative opportunity, especially if you focus on niche markets or innovative products. Modern Workspace, started by Wes O'Donnell in Norton Shores, Michigan, serves as an inspiring example. Originally selling full-sized medical carts, Modern Workspace transitioned into compact computer desks and recently, bulletproof backpacks, reflecting a flexible approach to market demands.
Wes O'Donnell leveraged his healthcare background and network to carve out a profitable niche, thriving in the eCommerce space. If you are entrepreneurial-minded and live in Michigan, you could use a similar strategy, tapping into local industry connections and evolving your product line based on market needs. For more insights into how O'Donnell succeeded, check out the full case study on Modern Workspace.
How a military veteran turned business coach started and grew multiple profitable eCommerce businesses, including Modern Workspace and Best Michigan, leveraging his healthcare background, network, and storytelling skills, and using a variety of marketing strategies including Instagram, Facebook, Google Adwords, influencers, and SEO, to achieve passive income and pursue his passion for speaking and coaching other entrepreneurs.
14. Start a stationery business ($48K/year)
Starting a stationery business could be a fantastic home-based venture in Michigan, offering you the chance to channel your creativity into producing unique, hand-crafted items like greeting cards, notebooks, and vinyl stickers. One inspiring example is Jordyn Alison Designs, a local business by Jordyn in Michigan. She has successfully expanded her product line to include greeting cards, vinyl stickers, notepads, apparel, and more, while leveraging social media to promote her launches and gauge customer interest.
Jordyn Alison Designs has grown to average $3,000 per month by focusing on quality, unique designs, and an engaged online presence. If you’re passionate about design and hand-lettering, this could be an excellent opportunity for you to dive into the stationery market. For a detailed look at her journey, check out Jordyn's case study.
Jordyn Alison Designs owner Jordyn, has grown her hand-lettered stationary business to average $3,000 a month by expanding her product line to include greeting cards, vinyl stickers, notepads, apparel and more, while also using social media to promote her launches and gauging customer interest.
15. Start a cork maps business ($48K/year)
Starting a cork maps business could be an excellent home-based venture for those in Michigan looking to combine creativity with entrepreneurship. By crafting detailed and personalized cork maps, you could tap into the growing market of unique home décor items that also serve as a functional tool for tracking travel adventures. These maps can be customized with pins to highlight visited locations or planned trips, making them a fantastic conversation piece for any home.
GEO 101 Design, founded by Nick Fortosis in Zeeland, Michigan, is a shining example of this business idea in action. Using a CNC router in his garage workshop, Nick has grown sales to $2,000 per month through his website and Etsy shop, with plans to double revenue each year. His story showcases the potential for a simple home-based idea to turn into a steadily growing business. For more about Nick's journey and how he built GEO 101 Design, check out the case study.
GEO 101 Design founder Nick Fortosis created unique cork maps using a CNC router in his garage workshop, and grew sales to $2,000/month through his website and Etsy shop, with plans to double revenue year over year.
16. Start a product review blog ($24K/year)
If you're looking to start a home-based business in Michigan, you could consider launching a product review blog. This venture allows you to explore different products, share your honest opinions, and build a community of readers who trust your insights. A successful example from Detroit, MI is Super Smash Cache, founded by Cy, who turned a passion for critiquing body-safe sex toys into a $2,000-a-month part-time digital business.
Cy's journey from a free WordPress blog to a profitable, self-hosted site demonstrates the potential of this business model. By investing in education, self-hosting, and networking within the NSFW community, Cy was able to build a loyal audience and monetize the blog effectively. If you're entrepreneurial-minded and enjoy sharing your views on various products, this could be a lucrative and flexible online business idea for you in Michigan.
Sex blogger turns a free WordPress blog into a $2,000 a month part-time digital business by investing in education, self-hosting, and building relationships within the NSFW community.
17. Start an online influencer business ($24K/year)
Starting an online influencer business in Michigan offers tremendous potential given the state's thriving community of creatives and brands. By leveraging social media and digital platforms, you could connect local businesses with influencers to promote their products and services, creating mutually beneficial partnerships. These businesses can see increased visibility and sales, while influencers gain access to lucrative collaboration opportunities.
A prime example of this business model is Afluencer, founded by Brett Owens in Sacramento, CA. Afluencer is a two-sided marketplace that connects brands with influencers and helps influencers, creators, and ambassadors find paid gigs. The platform boasts over 6,500 active influencers and 1,000 brand users, achieving an impressive 100% year-over-year revenue growth. This success story illustrates the high demand and scalability of an online influencer business, making it a compelling venture for entrepreneurs in Michigan.
Afluencer is a two-sided marketplace that connects brands with influencers and helps influencers, creators, and ambassadors find paid gigs, with 6,500+ active influencer users and 1,000+ brand users yielding 100% YoY revenue growth.
18. Start a camping brand ($24K/year)
Starting a camping brand could be an exciting opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts in Michigan, a state known for its scenic landscapes and numerous camping spots. You could develop a line of essential camping gear and accessories tailored to meet the specific needs of campers in this region.
Dry Camp, founded by Paul Schauer and Anthony Benacquisto, is a prime example of such an endeavor. Dry Camp offers sturdy, lightweight products like Waterproof Dry Bags and Double Hammocks, which are perfect for Michigan's varied outdoor activities. The brand has grown to generate $1,500 to $2,000 in monthly revenue through various sales channels, attesting to the potential of this business idea. For more detailed insights into their journey, you can check out their full case study.
Dry Camp founders, Paul Schauer and Anthony Benacquisto, share how they researched, designed, and launched their camping brand, which now brings in $1,500 to $2,000 in monthly revenue through multiple sales channels, with Waterproof Dry Bags and Double Hammocks as their flagship products, and reveal their tips on finding manufacturers and attracting customers.
19. Start an art business ($12K/year)
Starting an art business in Michigan offers a unique way to channel your creativity while tapping into a diverse and appreciative customer base. Twisted Boards, founded by David Cruickshank, serves as an inspiring example. Based in Royal Oak, Michigan, this company has transformed innovative three-dimensional dry erase boards into a successful venture, growing from a basement operation to a full-fledged manufacturing plant and fulfillment center.
If you possess a knack for creativity and product innovation, an art-based business like Twisted Boards could be your gateway to entrepreneurial success in Michigan. With startup costs of about $100k, David was able to develop and protect his intellectual property, which has significantly aided in business growth. To gain further insight into David’s journey and how Twisted Boards grew to be in 150 stores nationwide, check out this case study.
Twisted Boards is a company manufacturing three dimensional dry erase boards with an impressive broad customer base, growing from a basement to a manufacturing plant and fulfillment center in Michigan, with start-up costs of approximately $100k, and developing an intellectual portfolio that will help the business grow.
20. ($12K/year)
If you're looking for a dynamic home-based business idea in Michigan, consider launching a platform that connects entrepreneurial minds. Entrepreneur Power Hour, started by Bobby Housel in Ann Arbor, MI, is a prime example of this. Bobby founded the business during his sophomore year at the University of Michigan in 2021. The platform has successfully brought together over 300 student founders across two major universities, fostering meaningful connections and collaborations among college entrepreneurs.
By organizing regular meetups and creating a robust network, Entrepreneur Power Hour has significantly impacted the fragmented world of college entrepreneurship. As this initiative expands nationwide, there's immense potential for you to replicate or innovate on this concept in Michigan. To learn more about Bobby's journey and the growth of Entrepreneur Power Hour, check out the full case study.
Learn about how Entrepreneur Power Hour grew to over 300 student founders across two college campus communities and their plan to expand nationwide and empower alumni to invest in the next generation of college founders through their syndicate fund, Founder's Cupid.
21. Start a b2b lead generation service ($2.07M/year)
Starting a B2B lead generation service in Michigan could be a highly lucrative venture due to the diverse and thriving business landscape in the state. Michigan's robust sectors, such as automotive, manufacturing, and tech startups, continually seek reliable pipelines of business clients to sustain growth. By providing a service that identifies and nurtures high-quality leads, you could help these companies expand their reach and drive sales.
This service mitigates the challenging task many businesses face in finding and engaging potential clients. Using a combination of research, cold outreach, and advanced technology tools, you could build an effective network of potential business clients for other enterprises, ensuring a consistent demand for your services. If you possess skills in sales, data analysis, and relationship-building, this business idea presents a rewarding opportunity to carve a niche in Michigan's dynamic economy. For more details, check out more information on starting a B2B lead generation service and explore real-life success stories for inspiration.
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.
22. Start a branding agency ($783K/year)
Given Michigan's diverse economic landscape from automotive to tech startups, there is an expanding demand for effective branding strategies across various industries. Starting a branding agency offers you the opportunity to tap into this growing market by helping businesses enhance their visibility and client engagement.
With cities like Detroit undergoing robust revitalization and Ann Arbor being a tech hub, you could quickly find clients eager to refine their brand identities. For inspiration and to understand the success potential, check out these successful case studies. This business idea can provide a fruitful and fulfilling entrepreneurial path that capitalizes on local businesses' needs for professional branding solutions.
How one founder started a luxury boutique branding house and quit her corporate job, becoming a successful entrepreneur with a team of contractors, interns, and VAs, expanding services to personal styling, social media management, and content creation, while building an online course and planning to become a community for female entrepreneurs.
23. Start a pet company ($4.12M/year)
Starting a pet company in Michigan offers numerous opportunities for entrepreneurial-minded individuals. With Michigan being home to many pet lovers, there is a substantial market for various pet-related products and services. You could cater to the needs of pet owners by offering specialized pet foods, unique toys, grooming services, or even pet-sitting and training. The flexibility to operate from home or another preferred location makes it a convenient option for many budding entrepreneurs.
Additionally, the growing trend of pet humanization means people are more willing than ever to spend on high-quality products and care for their furry friends. You could leverage this trend to create a successful business while fulfilling your passion for animals. To get inspired and learn from others, check out some successful case studies of pet companies. For more information on this business idea, visit our detailed guide.
Furry Fellas Pet Service LLC is a successful pet sitting and dog walking business that brings in over half a million dollars in sales per year, boasts 3,500-4,000 social media followers, employs 42 individuals and has been voted in the top 3 pet sitting/dog walking companies in the RI/MA area for eight years in a row.
24. Start a supplements company ($4.71M/year)
If you're considering starting a home-based business in Michigan, a supplements company could be a rewarding venture. With a growing focus on health and wellness, Michiganders are increasingly seeking quality dietary supplements, vitamins, and protein powders to support their fitness goals and daily nutrition needs. This market presents a ripe opportunity to tap into a health-conscious consumer base.
Moreover, starting a supplement brand is relatively inexpensive and can be managed from the comfort of your home, allowing you to minimize overhead costs. You could easily market your products directly to consumers or collaborate with local fitness centers and wellness influencers. For inspiration and to learn more about this business idea, check out this detailed guide and read some successful case studies from entrepreneurs in the supplements industry.
A military officer turned entrepreneur built sports nutrition brand Bare Performance Nutrition from $15,000 in year one to on track to generate $6m in revenue this year, leveraging social media platforms and creating interactive, relatable and valuable content to create a community and a brand voice.
25. Start a cannabis business ($3.26M/year)
Starting a cannabis business in Michigan could be a lucrative opportunity due to the state's progressive stance on marijuana legalization. With the legal marijuana sales projected to reach $22 billion by 2022, the market is ripe for new entrepreneurs looking to capitalize on this growing industry.
Whether you have years of experience or are new to the cannabis sector, Michigan's favorable regulations and booming demand provide a fertile ground for innovation. You could gain inspiration and insights by exploring successful case studies of others who have thrived in this field.
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.
26. Start a sales automation platform ($1.92M/year)
If you're looking to leverage Michigan's vibrant and diverse business landscape, starting a sales automation platform could be a lucrative opportunity. With a robust mix of industries ranging from automotive to tech startups, there's a significant demand for tools that can streamline sales processes and boost efficiency.
Focusing on developing a sales automation solution allows you to tap into the broader trend toward digital transformation, helping local businesses optimize their sales efforts. You could transform routine tasks into automated systems, allowing companies to focus more on closing deals. To dive deeper into real-world examples, check out these successful case studies to gather inspiration and insights.
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.
27. Start a technology consulting business ($1.64M/year)
Starting a technology consulting business in Michigan could be a lucrative venture given the state's growing tech landscape. With cities like Detroit and Ann Arbor increasingly becoming tech hubs, local businesses are in constant need of technology consultants to help them stay competitive and innovative. Explore this business idea further.
You could leverage your IT skills to bridge the gap for entrepreneurs who lack a technological background, helping them harness tech solutions for growth. Plus, Michigan's diverse range of industries—from automotive to healthcare—offers a broad client base for technology consulting services. For inspiration and real-world examples, check out our collection of successful technology consulting business case studies from Michigan and beyond.
How a Ph.D. in computer engineering created a patented agile framework and turned it into a profitable training and consulting business, after realizing that his accumulated technology knowledge was losing value over time.
28. Start a real estate business ($3.37M/year)
If you have an eye for detail and a passion for property, starting a real estate business in Michigan could be a lucrative opportunity. Michigan's bustling housing markets and diverse urban and rural landscapes create a dynamic environment for real estate entrepreneurs. Whether you focus on residential properties in cities like Detroit and Ann Arbor or explore commercial real estate opportunities, the potential for growth is significant.
With a real estate business, you could purchase, sell, manage, or invest in land and buildings, capitalizing on the state's evolving infrastructure and economic landscape. By leveraging your knowledge in architecture and building materials, you could provide unique insights that set you apart in the market. For more inspiration and success stories, check out real estate business ideas or explore successful real estate business case studies on Starter Story.
This case study is about T. C. Lewis & Co, a real estate investment and management firm that successfully diversified their approach to include sales, development, remodeling, and construction, with property management being the key to investor doors and organic growth.
29. Start a tech company ($7.85M/year)
Starting a tech company in Michigan could be an excellent opportunity given the state's robust infrastructure and growing tech ecosystem. With renowned universities like the University of Michigan and Michigan State University, you'll have access to a highly educated workforce, innovative research, and potential partnership opportunities.
Moreover, Michigan's proximity to major business hubs such as Detroit and Ann Arbor can provide ample networking and investment prospects. As the global tech market continues to grow, leveraging Michigan's strong educational resources and business networks can help your tech company thrive. For more details on starting a tech company, check out our business idea page and read some successful case studies for inspiration.
Co-founder of Madwire JB Kellogg grew his business from just the two of them in a tiny office to over 500 employees and $100 million in annual revenue in under 10 years, by focusing on exceptional customer service and a multi-channel inbound strategy.
30. Start a subscription box business ($1.17M/year)
Starting a subscription box business in Michigan could be a lucrative endeavor due to the state's diverse population and strong local industries. Whether it's locally sourced products, artisanal foods, or unique Michigan-themed items, there are ample opportunities to create a subscription box that resonates with local and national consumers alike.
Additionally, Michigan's thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem provides resources and support systems to launch and grow your business effectively. With a well-defined niche and high-quality products, you could cater to the specific interests and needs of your target audience, making your subscription box business not only viable but potentially very profitable. For inspiration, check out these successful case studies.
Vowed Box Co. is a line of curated, quirky gift boxes with non-traditional brides in mind, offering four different products that have helped the business become profitable most months since its launch in 2018, with a monthly income of roughly $600.
31. Start an audio sharing app ($720K/year)
Starting an audio-sharing app in Michigan presents a unique opportunity due to the state's robust tech scene and growing startup ecosystem, particularly in areas like Ann Arbor and Detroit. With recent investments in tech infrastructure and a highly educated workforce, you could tap into a pool of local talent to develop and launch a successful app.
Moreover, the demand for innovative audio solutions is on the rise, making it an opportune time to get involved in this booming market. Leveraging Michigan's support for small businesses and access to funding, you can build and scale your app effectively. For inspiration, check out these successful case studies to see how others have turned this idea into a thriving business.
Wavve, a SaaS product helping podcasters and audio creators promote their content on social media, has grown to $75k in monthly recurring revenue with over 70,000 signups and clients including ESPN Radio, Dave Ramsey, and BBC.
32. Build an ai tool ($3.57M/year)
Starting an AI tool business in Michigan has tremendous potential due to the state's strong emphasis on the tech industry. Michigan's growing tech ecosystem, particularly in cities like Ann Arbor and Detroit, offers a vibrant community of tech enthusiasts and ample networking opportunities. You could leverage this network to create innovative AI solutions tailored to various industries including automotive, healthcare, and manufacturing, all central pillars of Michigan's economy.
Moreover, there's burgeoning interest from businesses looking to automate their processes and enhance customer experiences through AI tools. As the demand for smart solutions increases, you could position yourself at the forefront by developing AI applications like chatbots, virtual assistants, and machine learning platforms. The financial prospects are also promising, with AI-driven software revenues projected to skyrocket. For inspiration and insights, check out some success stories of entrepreneurs who have successfully launched AI tool businesses.
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.
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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.
