50 Million Dollar Business Ideas [That You Can Start]
Have you ever wondered how entrepreneurs have built a business to $1M+/year?
Well, we've got the answers for you, because we've interviewed thousands of founders running million dollar companies.
Here's a list of 50 million dollar business ideas, along with real-world examples of founders who built them.
1. Start a supplements company
A supplement business makes money by selling dietary supplements, vitamins, protein powders, and health foods to customers.
These products are often sold directly to customers or through distributors and retailers.
Your target customers will likely include fitness enthusiasts, health-conscious individuals, wellness influencers, and those who prioritize their nutrition daily.
Starting a supplement brand is becoming increasingly popular because it's relatively inexpensive, and you can run the business from your home.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $3,500,000/month
How long does it take to build: 200 days (?)
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.
2. Create an online course
An online course business involves creating and selling digital classes teaching specialized skills or knowledge to subscribed students.
As an entrepreneurial course creator, you identify educational gaps around topics you have expertise in and develop engaging video lessons and supplementary materials.
With flexibility around self-paced or cohort-based structures, building a student base provides passive income potential.
For founders who enjoy information-sharing, launching an online course platform presents a lucrative way to monetize your instructional talents with small startup costs by serving eager lifelong learners seeking convenient access to emerging subjects.
How much you can make: $275 — $1,000,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 88 days (?)
Learn how one couple created a successful personal finance blog, The Savvy Couple, that now makes over $20,000 per month and has sold thousands of digital workbooks and courses, by focusing on purposeful content and optimizing their ROI with efficient time management.
3. Start a hair product line
Starting a hair product line can be a fun and profitable way to build a new income stream. It's also fairly easy, as long as you plan it out (and maybe do a little bit of market research before creating your sales funnel). There's a reason we often talk about trends in hip-hop and pop culture when we talk about hairstyles — they often have a lot to do with advancements in the hair product industry. The industry is expected to grow to 102 billion dollars by 2024.
How much you can make: $550 — $2,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 272 days (?)
Private Label Extensions is a hair distribution and technology company that builds hair brands from A to Z for entrepreneurs, achieving over $650,000 in monthly sales and ranked #278 of the fastest-growing companies by Inc Magazine for 2018.
4. Start a bedding company
At the end of a hard day, we all need a good night’s sleep. A good quality mattress, bedsheet, or pillow makes all the difference when it comes to sleeping comfortably. That’s why many people invest in quality bedding materials, making it a profitable business idea.
The first step to starting a bedding business is to choose your niche. You need to decide what bedding you want to specialize in, which will help determine the products you’ll sell. Do you want to focus on luxury sheets? Or perhaps more affordable linens that are still high-quality?
Next, you’ll need to find a manufacturer who can supply the bedding products you want to sell. You’ll want to research different options and ensure they can provide what you need at a reasonable price.
Once you’ve got all that lined up, start setting up your website and social media accounts! These are essential tools for any business owner—especially in today’s digital landscape.
How much you can make: $10,000 — $3,500,000/month
How long does it take to build: 100 days (?)
Sheets & Giggles, an eco-friendly bedding brand, earned nearly $500,000 and 6,000 orders in the first 6 months of business through Indiegogo, and utilizes pun-based marketing and a DTC model to tap into a fragmented, low brand loyalty market.
5. Start a socks business
Socks are a low-cost, high-profit business. One of the more affordable businesses you can start.
The market itself has a size of 47 billion USD in 2020 with an annual growth rate of 6%..
If you want to be successful in this industry, it is important that your socks are comfy to wear and stylish to look at. People would want to wear socks that will make them look great without sacrificing comfort.
How much you can make: $2,500 — $1,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 150 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 10 hours/week
Learn how Dane Jensen and his business partner grew their sock business from a monthly subscription to a $12M+ revenue business that mainly sells custom socks, by developing a manufacturing supply chain in the United States, using various marketing channels, and gradually expanding the business.
6. Start a skin care product line
The skincare business is a multi-billion dollar one, and it shows no sign of slowing down. New anti-aging products are entering the market at a nearly exponential rate, and the competition for consumers' money is growing more and more.
The industry was valued at 130 billion USD in 2021 and will expand at an annual growth rate of 4.6% up to 2030. This is surely a type of business that you should not miss. You'll need to build your creativity on your products and make sure that it is all safe and useful in improving the skin of your customers.
How much you can make: $300 — $1,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
Two moms start a side hustle selling all-natural body products, doubling sales since their launch in 2017 with over 75 craft shows, promoting a non-profit source for their shea butter and self-promotion through podcasts, lining up retail interest from exposure.
7. Start a pet store
Pet stores are retail businesses that sell animals and pet supplies. They are a leading industry category with sales of approximately $4.5B U.S dollars and positive sales growth of 2.7%.
You can set up a pet store in many places, like supermarkets, malls, or pet supply stores.
The first thing to do is to find a location for your store. A good place would be an area with many residential buildings, schools, and colleges as this will give you access to many customers. It would help if you also looked for a location near public transport as it will make it easier for people to come and visit your store.
How much you can make: $400 — $1,833,333/month
How long does it take to build: 238 days (?)
Mechanical engineer and avid bike rider Mike Leon turned his hobby of creating a safe bike-to-leash attachment for his service dog into a 6-figure business, shipping from hundreds to thousands of 1-Running-Dog Bike Tow Leashes per year to dog owners, military and law enforcement, and search and rescue teams.
8. Start a smart home camera business
Consumers use smart home cameras to capture video of or around their homes. This can be done remotely via a smartphone. It can also be used for security purposes.
Starting a home camera business will require some investment, such as equipment, software, and other R&D costs.
The smart home camera market is on fire. The worldwide wireless home security cameras systems market size is projected to reach $18B by 2030. There's a new, exciting, and fast-growing business opportunity.
How much you can make: $18,000 — $1,000,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)
Wyze Labs' CEO and founding members, who met while working at Amazon, have successfully launched their first product, a smart home camera, in October 2017, selling over 300k units within the first six months, using a direct-to-consumer low margin, high volume model along with their strong relationships with suppliers in China.
9. Start a quilt business
If you're crafty and creative, then selling quilts might be a great business for you.
Approximately, the size of the quilting industry is 4.2 billion USD.
How much you can make: $800,000/month
Project Repat turned their customers' memorable t-shirts into 2,000 custom quilts per week backed with cozy fleece, generating $10MM in sales per year from fine-tuning the production process making textile jobs more affordable and eco-friendly in the United States, with grown revenue of 70% over last year.
10. Start a cleaning service
A housecleaning side business is a beautiful idea for people with free time on weekends or even weekdays. The side hustle idea requires little capital to start. During the launch, you can choose to offer the service to your neighbors and scale as you gain experience. The average salary for a house cleaner is $17.32 per hour.
By starting a house cleaning business, you are tapping into an enormous market with plenty of clientele. There could always be demand for your cleaning service, which keeps you in business as you help homeowners keep their homes spotless.
How much you can make: $3,000 — $600,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 70 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 7 hours/week
MaidThis®, launched by Neel Parekh in Los Angeles with just one cleaner in 2013, has achieved over $10 million in total revenue by focusing on cleaning Airbnbs and vacation rentals, thanks to its successful remote business model and new-age marketing tactics, and has now launched MaidThis Franchise to expand the business further.
11. Start an idea management software
Idea management software is designed to help businesses and teams collaborate and track their ideas. The act of managing ideas can heavily influence the outcome of teams and projects, which can mean the difference between success and failure for a company.
You'll need to ensure that you have a solid foundation of coding and prototyping to build this kind of software. On top of that, you'll want to have good sales and marketing skills to sell this software to companies and executives.
How much you can make: $66,000 — $750,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
UK-based Idea Drop is a software-as-a-service (SAAS) allowing businesses to identify, refine and execute innovative ideas through its platform, which is already being used by MT, Ericsson, and the Kent Police Force, offering a public challenge facility allowing clients to crowdsource ideas, with one Covea idea implemented via the platform estimated to save the company £2.5m over five years.
12. Start a drinkware brand
A drinkware brand sells home and houseware products like cups, koozies, mugs, and other drinking accessories. If you've decided to try and create a business selling drinkware, there are certain things you need to know. You can do it from the comfort of your own home. You can get started for free, avoiding the hefty cost of setting up a brick-and-mortar shop. And if you take advantage of the right marketing strategies, you could be on your way to making money within a few weeks. The demand for custom-branded drinkware in the workplace has increased substantially over the past decade.
How much you can make: $115,000 — $12,000,000/month
BruMate is a successful insulated drinkware brand focused on the adult beverage community, with a flagship product that generated $2.1M in sales in 2017 and is now doing over $1.1M per month in sales, with plans to do $20M this year.
13. Start a dog treat business
Dog treats are a cornerstone of the dog food market. If you enjoy baking and love dogs, you can combine these passions to create healthy, natural, and tasty treats for your furry friends.
As a dog treat entrepreneur, you have the opportunity to make delicious canine confections that are both good for dogs and enjoyable to eat.
Focus on ensuring your products meet the nutritional requirements and will be safe for their consumption, and consider introducing specialty services like custom birthday cakes and holiday gift boxes to provide an inviting niche.
Leverage online and local markets to transform homemade dog treats into a thriving and rewarding enterprise.
How much you can make: $400 — $1,833,333/month
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
Toronto-based Treats Happen saw a gap in the market for healthy dog treats, and now makes roughly $15K per month. Their biggest lesson? As a brand, they don't just sell on their website but want to be available on as many profitable channels as possible.
14. Start a fulfillment business
As e-commerce becomes the pillar in our retail landscape, fulfillment businesses are becoming more important.
Fulfillment companies enable e-Commerce by processing order receipts, packing, delivering, and handling returns from clients. These businesses act as a third-party warehouse and their core responsibilities include preparing and shipping orders. Thus, they store goods until they are ready to send to stores and customers. If you are planning to start a fulfillment service, some of the services will include:
- Same day-delivery
- Customer support through chat, text, and phone call
- Complete order tracking from arrival at the fulfillment center to delivery to customer's door
- Custom API integration
- Climate-controlled storage space
To start a fulfillment center you need to find space, streamline with software, and set up and understand business KPIs with the target e-Commerce companies.
How much you can make: $150,000 — $25,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 135 days (?)
ShipMonk, a technology-driven fulfillment center, went from $130K in revenue in 2014 to nearly $30M in 2018 and was named America's Fastest Growing Fulfillment Center, with projected revenue of $60M for 2019.
15. Start a CRM business
A Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software keeps track of prospects, clients and their contacts and also helps you monitor your sales pipeline as well as to create reports for business intelligence.
The CRM market is a $50B and growing industry.
How much you can make: $5,000 — $2,100,000/month
How long does it take to build: 105 days (?)
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.
16. Start a publishing business
Starting a publishing business can be a rewarding and lucrative endeavor for those with a passion for literature and strong business acumen. This type of business involves producing and distributing written materials such as books, magazines, and digital content.
To start a publishing business, you need a solid business plan outlining your goals and target market. You will also need to secure funding to cover the costs of printing and distributing your materials. This can include obtaining loans or seeking investors.
In addition to financial resources, you will need a team of professionals with expertise in editing, design, marketing, and sales. It’s important to build a diverse and skilled team to ensure the success of your business.
Success in the publishing industry requires a strong understanding of current trends and adapting to changing market conditions. Stay current on industry news and continually seek new opportunities to grow and expand your business.
Starting a publishing business requires hard work, dedication, and a willingness to take risks. But with the right team and strategy, it can be a fulfilling and profitable venture.
How much you can make: $2,000 — $2,000,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 105 days (?)
Reedsy, a book publishing services marketplace that connects authors with freelancers, has driven over $1m in GMV, features over 1,500 vetted freelance professionals, and sees over 1,000 projects every month.
17. Start a cannabis business
Have you ever thought of starting your own cannabis business?
The cannabis industry has been continuously growing throughout the years. The legal marijuana sales are projected to reach $22 billion by 2022.
No matter your level of experience, the cannabis industry has a lot to offer. There are inspiring stories of entrepreneurs that made it big in this particular industry.
How much you can make: $2,500 — $3,100,000/month
How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)
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.
18. Start a diagnostic tools business
In an ever-evolving world where technology and healthcare intersect, starting a diagnostic tools business can be the right combination of purpose and profit. Simply put, this enterprise involves developing or distributing cutting-edge tools that doctors, clinicians, and healthcare workers use to diagnose and treat patients' conditions.
Being at the crux of human lives and scientific discovery, the demand for accurate diagnostic tools will always be significant. With the advent of personalized medicine, the need for diagnostic tools continues to rise, opening an opportunity for a rewarding business venture.
Getting involved means working with manufacturers, understanding the medical and technological aspects of the diagnostics, and reaching out to the relevant market sectors. It might seem daunting, but remember, you're placing important tools in the hands of professionals who can make a real difference in healthcare and, subsequently, people's lives. Who wouldn't want to be part of such a vital cog in the healthcare wheel of progress?
How much you can make: $4,200,000/month
Diesel Laptops, a B2B company that sells diesel diagnostic hardware, software, and services, successfully doubled revenue each year to make $20 million annually within three years, grew from its founder's garage and dining room table to a 21,000 square foot facility with over 90 employees by listening to customer pain points and offering the bundled products, technical support and repair information to attract and retain diesel technicians and repair shop owners.
19. Start a custom prints business
Custom print businesses often focus on printing everything, including business cards, photos, and even custom T-shirts.
To start an online custom prints business, choose a niche to help your business stand out and attract the right target audience. Then, focus on producing quality prints of different sizes, materials, and designs. You may hire designers online or search for designs in online design communities. Then, validate the designs before you begin mass production. Finally, set up an online store, and launch the business.
Remember that with the growth in popularity of selling custom prints, expect to face stiff competition. Therefore, you should market your custom prints on social media to maximize your reach.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $3,000,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 365 days (?)
Framed Tweets, an online store that offers customers the opportunity to frame tweets as art, started by grossing $20k in its first year and increasing to $110k in the second year, and now has monthly gross sales of $20k from Instagram ads, spending about $300 a day.
20. Become a vehicle exporter
Imagine this, an enterprise that involves the excitement of international trade and the allure of high-end cars. That's the opportunity a vehicle exporting business presents.
In simple terms, this business involves acquiring vehicles locally and selling them to international buyers. Thanks to increasing globalization and technology, connecting with customers worldwide is easier than ever. Elegant sedans, resilient SUVs, or vintage collectibles, the choice of what to sell is entirely yours.
This business presents a thrilling blend of negotiation, logistics, and diplomacy. It's not just about finding the right car for the right buyer, but also about understanding import-export regulations, shipping protocols, and foreign exchange rates.
To provide major value, consider specializing in hard-to-find models, high-demand vehicles, or offering auxiliary services like detailed vehicle inspections. The world of vehicle exporting is vast and explorative, and it's a journey worth embarking on for driven entrepreneurs; ready to conquer.
How much you can make: $491,000 — $2,300,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $20 (?)
How long does it take to build: 1 days (?)
Learn how one entrepreneur, without a college degree, built a vehicle exporting business from his bedroom to $26 million in gross sales his first year and went on to net an impressive $2.3M per month through agile team management, technology integration, and cultivating relationships with global auto dealers and brokers.
21. Start an online food business
Gone are the days when food lovers needed to leave their homes for delectable delights. Insert: online food business. This venture allows individuals or groups to offer ready-to-eat meals or pre-packaged ingredients for home preparation, straight to customers' doorsteps.
In simple terms, the business centers on creating and selling meals through an online platform. In a world perpetually pursuing convenience and variety, this idea caters to a diverse audience—busy professionals seeking nutritious meals, cooking novices craving guidance, or adventurous eaters exploring global cuisines.
As an owner of an online food business, you'll be involved in menu planning, sourcing ingredients, preparation, packaging, and delivering—while constantly innovating and adapting to the ever-changing food trends and dietary preferences. With the right blend of business acumen and culinary passion, the online food business can offer a unique opportunity to merge profit with satisfaction—giving people the gift of good food while filling a fundamental market gap.
How much you can make: $2,000 — $3,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 135 days (?)
Healthy Chew is a profitable weekly meal preparation service that grew from 200 to 10,000 weekly bowls in just over 3 years, with an overall sales figure of $1.8 million, achieved through effective branding and personalised customer service.
22. Start a mystery game store
Engaging their intellect and curiosity, who doesn't love a good mystery? By establishing a mystery game store, you'll cater to this innate fascination. The business proposition is simple: provide various tactile puzzle games, brain-churning intrigue games, and immersive mystery-based board games in one dedicated shop.
While online gaming has its allure, there's an undeniably compelling appeal associated with tangible games: the physicality of puzzle pieces, the anticipation when spinning a wheel, and the thrill of playing against others face-to-face.
Your store will bring individuals together, aspiring to create a buzzing community of mystery enthusiasts. It can serve as a hub for game nights, puzzle solving events, and intriguing product launches. As the proprietor of this venture, you'll possess the ability to stimulate minds, promote in-person connectivity and provoke thrilling wonder in each customer. Consider stepping into the enchanting world of mysteries and become a pioneer of this unique retail experience.
How much you can make: $4,000 — $5,000,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 63 days (?)
Hunt A Killer is a subscription-based entertainment company that delivers monthly immersive, interactive story experiences and has grown from 146 subscribers in October 2016 to shipping one million episodes in August 2019, with acquisition costs ranging from $50-60 and gross margins at/or above 60%.
23. Start a hygiene product company
Starting a hygiene products business can be a lucrative and rewarding venture. This type of business involves producing and selling products that help people maintain cleanliness and personal hygiene, such as soap, hand sanitizer, and disinfectant wipes.
To start and run this business successfully, you will need to have a solid understanding of the market and the needs of your target customers. You will also need a reliable source of raw materials, such as oils and fragrances, to create your products.
In addition, you will need to have a good business plan in place, including a marketing strategy and a financial plan. You will also need to be willing to invest time and resources into research and development to ensure that your products are of high quality and meet the needs of your customers.
Finally, it is essential to have a solid online presence to reach a wider audience and market your products effectively. This can include a website, social media accounts, and an email list to stay in touch with your customers.
Overall, starting a hygiene products business requires a combination of market research, product development, and effective marketing. With hard work and dedication, this business can be a rewarding and profitable venture.
How much you can make: $30,000 — $5,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 332 days (?)
A hygiene solutions company founded by Jonathan Bradford now earns £500k/month, after years of developing a wall-mounted antibacterial wipe dispenser that is used in health clubs, workplaces, and in over 100 locations worldwide, and also developing an electronic washroom hygiene monitor.
24. Start a jewelry making business
The global jewelry market size was valued at $278B in 2018 and is expected to reach $292B by 2025.
The industry comprises manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, and jewelry designers. Unlike many other industries that have gone through leaps in technology, the jewelry industry has remained untouched for over 40 years.
If you know how to make jewelry, then this might be a great way to make some extra money.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $2,000,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $3,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)
A primary school teacher found his passion for jewelry-making, turning it into a successful business generating $2500-3000 per month through sales at the Creative Queenstown Arts and Crafts Market, online, and through stockists, with plans to expand and eventually make it his full-time profession.
25. Start a photo printing business
Are you keen on preserving moments and keen on business? Here's an idea for you: a photo printing service. This business centers around printing digital images onto physical mediums - think high-quality paper photos, canvas prints, or personalized photo gifts.
In today's digital age, there's a certain charm to physical photographs, creating a tangible memory people can hold on to. You'll be offering customers a nostalgia-inducing service, bringing their shots to life and enabling them to cherish these moments eternally. Strategizing your business for both online and physical interactions will expand your reach to photo enthusiasts far and near.
Entering the photo printing business might also tap into your creative side, allowing you to experiment with different materials and styles. With the right marketing approach and high-quality service, this business idea could be a profitable venture that allows you to combine passion with profit.
How much you can make: $400 — $1,500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $150 (?)
How long does it take to build: 62 days (?)
CanvasChamp, a custom photo products company founded in 2012, has grown to offer 60+ personalized photo gift products with revenue of 1.5m$+/mo through SEO and successful digital marketing strategies.
26. Create a digital wallet app
A digital wallet is a financial transaction application that runs on mobile devices. In today’s digital era, people demand the freedom to purchase anything and be able to pay from their digital wallets.
With technological advancement, making digital payments has become easier than ever before. Anyone can use mobile payment platforms to pay and accept payments online. Therefore, creating a digital payments wallet can be a great business opportunity.
To create a digital wallet, conduct extensive market research and create a business plan. It would help if you could hire competent programmers to create a secure payment gateway.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $1,500,000/month
How long does it take to build: 215 days (?)
iCard is a leading e-money institution that offers a unique and 100% digital bank account alternative, with their app and services supporting the daily payments of people in over 30 European countries, and since launch in late 2017, the iCard app has seen around 500,000 downloads.
27. Start a food delivery business
In today’s busy lifestyles and schedules, cooking is no longer a priority to many. People like to order-in food from their nearest restaurants or food joints and enjoy a meal in the comfort of their homes.
The food delivery business is like a courier service through which restaurants deliver food to their customers.
You can offer retail food delivery services to restaurants within your locality if you have a truck. Customers order through a restaurant or grocer’s website, and the owners contact you to deliver.
How much you can make: $14,000 — $1,800,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $3,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
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.
28. Start a mattress brand
Do you want to start a mattress business? Starting a mattress brand is a lucrative business you can set up in any part of the world. The truth is that the demand for mattresses is increasing as the population continues growing. Data shows that the global mattress market is growing by a CAGR of 6.7% over the past few years, and this growth will not slow down anytime soon. However, whether you shall be a wholesale or a retail mattress business, finding a good location is the key to the success of your business!
In recent years, strip malls have remained a good position for consumer goods such as mattresses.
How much you can make: $2,000,000 — $3,500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,750 (?)
How long does it take to build: 95 days (?)
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.
29. Start a publishing business
Starting a publishing business can be a rewarding and lucrative endeavor for those with a passion for literature and strong business acumen. This type of business involves producing and distributing written materials such as books, magazines, and digital content.
To start a publishing business, you need a solid business plan outlining your goals and target market. You will also need to secure funding to cover the costs of printing and distributing your materials. This can include obtaining loans or seeking investors.
In addition to financial resources, you will need a team of professionals with expertise in editing, design, marketing, and sales. It’s important to build a diverse and skilled team to ensure the success of your business.
Success in the publishing industry requires a strong understanding of current trends and adapting to changing market conditions. Stay current on industry news and continually seek new opportunities to grow and expand your business.
Starting a publishing business requires hard work, dedication, and a willingness to take risks. But with the right team and strategy, it can be a fulfilling and profitable venture.
How much you can make: $2,000 — $2,000,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 105 days (?)
Reedsy, a book publishing services marketplace that connects authors with freelancers, has driven over $1m in GMV, features over 1,500 vetted freelance professionals, and sees over 1,000 projects every month.
30. Start an online advertising agency
An online advertising agency helps businesses promote their products or services on the internet.
To start this business on a budget, first learn the basics of digital marketing through free online resources.
Create a professional website and set up profiles on social media platforms to showcase your skills.
Build a portfolio by working on mock campaigns or offering discounted services to friends and family, and gradually market your services to attract clients.
With dedication, you can grow your agency over time.
How much you can make: $10,000 — $1,250,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
Iman Gadzhi made over $1.2M in profit within two years with his social media marketing agency and education company, where he teaches entrepreneurs how to start and scale a profitable SMMA, with over 45 of his students making over six figures with their SMMA, and over 300 students having quit their regular jobs.
31. Start a crime scene cleanup business
Are you ready to work in situations that may include bloodborne pathogens? Crime scenes and trauma cleanup business idea is one of the fastest-growing and highly profitable businesses you can start today.
The crime scene cleaning business involves handling dozens of cold cases which involves double-checking crime scenes. You can offer cleaning up after suicides, homicides, and other types of violent crimes. Also provide emergency services for when an unexpected death occurs at a home or business.
32. Start a laptop accessories brand
Laptop accessories are items that enhance the functionality of a laptop. These can include external hard drives, docking stations, and carrying cases.
To start a laptop accessories brand, you will need strong marketing and design skills. You should also have a good understanding of the laptop market and what accessories are more popular.
The recent trends in the laptop accessories industry are moving towards eco-friendly and sustainable products. Businesses are looking for ways to reduce their environmental impact and offer their customers products that are made from sustainable materials.
Starting a laptop accessories brand is a great way to enter the world of product design. This type of business growing in popularity as people are looking for ways to personalize their laptops.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $1,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 186 days (?)
Chargeasap, a Sydney-based startup, has raised over $3.7 million and delivered to more than 130 countries, and now generates over $500,000 per month selling a range of portable batteries and charging accessories.
33. Start an aerial imagery business
The sky's the limit with an aerial imagery business. This venture involves using drones or aircraft to capture high-quality images and videos from above.
From real estate to agriculture and construction, a range of industries demand aerial views for various purposes such as planning, marketing, and monitoring projects. The core of your business would be to offer these imaging services on a contractual basis. You'll need to invest in reliable drone technology and perhaps even get certified, depending on regional regulations.
This business stands out because of its niche market and evolving technological advancements. As industries continue to seek more dynamic ways to manage and visualize their operations, your ability to provide superior aerial imagery could be highly lucrative. Interested in capturing a bird's-eye view and turning it into a profitable endeavor? This might be the business idea you’re looking for.
How much you can make: $1,000,000/month
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.
34. Start a speaker store
Music enthusiasts and audiophiles, have you ever considered turning your passion into a business? A speaker store could be a lucrative venture. In simple terms, you're selling high-quality audio equipment like speakers, sound systems, and accessories.
By offering curated selections from top manufacturers, you can attract both amateur and professional musicians, podcasters, and home theater aficionados. With the increasing appetite for advanced sound systems, there's plenty of room for growth.
Managing a speaker store involves sourcing reliable suppliers, maintaining an inviting retail space, and keeping up with the latest audio technology trends. If you’re knowledgeable about sound quality and enjoy helping customers find the perfect audio setup, this business can be deeply rewarding.
How much you can make: $1,000,000 — $4,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
This case study follows the success story of a car audio enthusiast who started a business selling audio products, projecting to break 10 million dollars in sales this year, using word of mouth, social media and streamlined team members to build the business.
35. Start a marketing agency
Marketing agencies can be a great option for businesses looking to advertise in different ways. For businesses, hiring a marketing company can help them achieve success as they don't have to spend money on employees or needed equipment. Marketing agencies are not inexpensive and there are many different variables that come into play when deciding which one is the best fit for your business.
You want to start a marketing agency, but don't know where to begin. You're not alone, there are thousands of entrepreneurs across the globe that have the same ambition. Luckily for you, compiled a list of how other agencies were able to grow their agency and scale effectively.
How much you can make: $1,300 — $8,500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 45 days (?)
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.
36. Start a cycling tools business
Embrace the growing cycling trend by starting a cycling tools business. In straightforward terms, this venture involves selling essential tools and accessories to cycling enthusiasts, from beginners to seasoned cyclists.
Your role will be to source high-quality tools like multi-tools, tire repair kits, and bike maintenance products, ensuring that cyclists have the gear they need to stay on the road.
Given the increasing popularity of cycling for health, commuting, and recreation, the market demand is substantial. For those passionate about cycling, this business provides an opportunity to turn a hobby into a revenue stream.
Imagine curating a range of trusted cycling tools while connecting with a community that values quality and reliability. This business idea doesn’t just cater to a demand; it contributes to a healthier and more eco-friendly lifestyle, making it both practical and fulfilling.
How much you can make: $750,000/month
How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)
UK-based PRO BIKE TOOL, an online retailer of affordable bike tools and accessories, sells 32 products across 10 marketplaces, making a monthly turnover of $750k, and has grown from its initial $5k investment.
37. Start a children's clothing business
The children's clothing industry has grown rapidly over the last few years, and in 2022 was valued at $263.30 billion.
Starting a children's clothing business gives you the opportunity to be your own boss while working in a field you enjoy. While you have to be prepared to work long hours and put in lots of hard effort, it can be extremely rewarding if successful.
How much you can make: $500 — $1,333,333/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 190 days (?)
Argentinian startup Bambox has grown its monthly recurring revenue to $60,000 and ships more than 1,100 boxes of baby essentials a month, a figure expected to help it achieve an annual recurring revenue of about $750,000 in 2019, after launching its first subscription service in July 2017.
38. Start a team collaboration app
In a world where remote work is becoming the norm, a Team Collaboration App is essential for seamless communication and productivity. This idea revolves around building a platform that enables teams to share files, manage projects, and communicate effectively in real-time.
Think of it as a one-stop-shop for every need your team may have—whether that's video conferencing, task management, or document sharing. The beauty of this idea lies in its flexibility and scalability, accommodating small startups to large corporations.
Developing such an app involves planning user-friendly interfaces and integrating robust security features. You'll need to maintain a steady pace of updates and customer support to keep users satisfied and engaged.
If you possess a knack for solving workplace inefficiencies and a passion for coding or project management, this is a venture worth considering. Team Collaboration Apps are not just tools; they're the backbone of modern remote work culture.
How much you can make: $2,000 — $1,833,333/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
Meister Labs, creators of MindMeister and MeisterTask, have close to $10 million ARR with their Freemium subscription business model, providing software tools for small to medium-sized businesses from all verticals and private users as well, which include 11 million MindMeister and 3 million MeisterTask users.
39. Start an ecommerce platform
Over the past decade, eCommerce has become an indispensable part of the global retail framework. According to statistics, over 2 billion people prefer shopping online.
While brick-and-mortar stores are still making more sales compared to online sales, the adoption of eCommerce is still rising, mainly because of the increased speed and convenience of online shopping.
Therefore, starting an eCommerce platform could set you on the right path to building a futuristic business.
How much you can make: $100 — $2,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 150 days (?)
A 3D CAD designer and product inventor who started as a side hustle and averaged $9,000 a month in revenue, shares his insights on the ups and downs of owning a service-based business alongside an eCommerce store, as well as lessons learned in customer acquisition and in generating multiple streams of passive income.
40. Start a marketing agency
Marketing agencies can be a great option for businesses looking to advertise in different ways. For businesses, hiring a marketing company can help them achieve success as they don't have to spend money on employees or needed equipment. Marketing agencies are not inexpensive and there are many different variables that come into play when deciding which one is the best fit for your business.
You want to start a marketing agency, but don't know where to begin. You're not alone, there are thousands of entrepreneurs across the globe that have the same ambition. Luckily for you, compiled a list of how other agencies were able to grow their agency and scale effectively.
How much you can make: $1,300 — $8,500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 45 days (?)
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.
41. Start a dermatology business
The beauty and wellness industry is booming all across the globe. Not only has the demand for skin care, nail care, hair care, and face care products increased, but also people are conscious of the benefits of consulting experts.
If you are enthusiastic about beauty and wellness and want to start a business, you may consider starting a dermatology business. Dermatologists specialize in skin, hair, and nails. They help patients who suffer cosmetic disorders like hair loss and scars.
Cases of skin disorders among the elderly and the need for skin care and beauty solutions among younger and middle-aged people are reasons services of dermatologists are in high demand. To start the dermatologist business, research the market and choose a niche that you may specialize in.
How much you can make: $1,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
ProMD Health is a rapidly expanding aesthetic dermatology business, boasting a CAGR of over 40%, with four offices, a franchise, a philanthropic initiative, a tattoo removal business, a telemedicine company, and more, all while giving power to their physicians through ProMD Development Group.
42. Start an outsourcing business
Outsourcing is when a business obtains a product or a service from an outsider provider rather than building it in-house. Small companies outsource so they have enough time to attend to critical functions like production.
Many businesses are looking to outsource their non-core activities. Therefore, starting an outsourcing business in 2024 has never been more lucrative.
Start your outsourcing business, identify a niche, and develop a well-researched and complete business plan. Then, invest in the necessary equipment and technology to enable you to deliver services to the customers.
Depending on the nature of your business, you may need staff to help you with service delivery. Finally, when your business is up and running, start marketing and focus on delivering superior service to attract repeat customers.
How much you can make: $50,000 — $1,399,996/month
How long does it take to build: 140 days (?)
This case study follows the founder of SupportNinja, a company that specializes in providing back-office and customer support outsourcing for tech companies, which generates over $9M ARR, has over 100 clients, and has seen a growth rate of 3,684% in the past 3 years.
43. Start a finance blog
A finance blog is a feature appearing as part of an online publication relating to finance and consisting of articles or personal commentary. A finance blog earns income through sponsored content or simple marketing programs. To succeed in business, a finance blogger should:
- Have a good writing background
- Understand the industry from a concept or fundamental standpoint
- Be passionate about the topics
- Be well organized and maximize the work schedule.
Starting a finance blog involves a low financial investment, while there is a considerable possibility for success. There are minimal overhead costs, saving you time and money. Therefore, starting a finance blog is an incredible business opportunity.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $3,000,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $200 (?)
How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)
Financial media company MarketBeat, founded by Matt Paulson, provides objective financial information and real-time market data to empower individual stock investors to make better trading decisions, generating approximately $8 million in revenue in 2019 and ending the year with over 1.3 million unique email subscribers due to a freemium model with 75% of revenue from advertising and 25% from subscriptions.
44. Dropshipping men's grooming products
The global market for men’s grooming products is witnessing steady growth due to growing consumer preferences, and it is expected to witness a CAGR of 4.29% in the next few years.
Products such as shaving foams, face creams, after-shave lotions, and body sprays are among the highest in-demand men’s grooming products.
To start a men’s grooming products dropshipping business, high-quality research products, find a market, build a website and launch the business. Remember, as you begin the drop shipping business, people will come up with ideas. Listen to your customers, and implement necessary ideas to ensure the company is booming.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $650,000/month
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
A 22-year-old Korean American entrepreneur shares the story of how he pivoted from a beard growth cosmetic business to a beard care brand, built a strong community with a 30% customer retention rate, and scaled to a six-figure revenue with primarily Facebook ads.
45. Start a solar energy business
Switching to solar energy has become the best way to save money by reducing utility bills. Are you interested in starting a business that focuses on renewable energy solutions?
A solar company can be a great business idea. You can set up a solar energy plant and sell the power to households and businesses without requiring them to purchase the entire solar energy system.
How much you can make: $600,000 — $2,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Clean Energy Solutions, a solar-energy provider based in LA, has grown over 6700% from 2014 to 2019, with monthly revenue around $600,000 and plans to expand its energy-efficient affordable housing division, thanks to its unique solar program allowing clients to save money using solar energy at a lower price than their utility would charge.
46. Start a dolly product
Struggling to move heavy items? The dolly business might just be your solution.
This idea involves selling or renting out versatile and durable hand trucks designed to transport heavy goods efficiently. Whether it's for businesses needing to move inventory or homeowners relocating furniture, there’s always a demand for reliable dolly products.
To start, you'll need to source high-quality dollies, either through wholesale suppliers or by manufacturing your own. Consider offering a variety of models tailored to specific needs, such as stair-climbing dollies or foldable versions for easy storage.
Marketing your dolly products can be straightforward, focusing on e-commerce platforms and local ads to reach both individual and business customers. Provide excellent customer service to build a loyal clientele, and consider offering additional services like delivery and maintenance.
This business requires initial investment in inventory but has the potential for steady returns, especially if you tap into local moving companies, warehouses, and retail stores.
How much you can make: $583,000/month
UpCart LLC, the company behind the patented line of all-terrain folding carts and hand trucks, has seen tremendous growth over the past few years, with sales increasing from $3.2M in 2016 to a projected $7M in 2018, thanks in part to its QVC Sprouts live-sell success and viral Facebook marketing efforts.
47. Start a mobile veterinary service
A mobile veterinary service is just what it sounds like, your pet receives veterinary care in a car. A mobile unit is much cheaper than building a clinic.
As the number of pet owners is growing, there is also an increase in the number of pets that require check-ups and emergency services. If you are looking for a relatively low investment way to start a business, then starting a mobile veterinary service might be the right business for you.
How much you can make: $580,000/month
A mobile veterinarian built her business HousePaws on a community-based marketing approach, which helped her take the team from just herself to over 100 employees and more than 7 million dollars in revenue in less than 10 years.
48. Start a proposal software app
A proposal software app is a program that streamlines the process of creating, sending, and closing proposals, quotes, contracts, and other sales documents. The common users of proposal apps include consultants and business executives who want to generate a personalized and professional-looking proposal. A good example of a proposal software app is Proposify
In creating your proposal app, first, understand how the target users interact with their proposals. Then, provide them with a suite of options so they choose ones that they feel convenient to use. Ensure your software enables the user to produce sleek business proposals quickly.
Typically, the proposal software should be intuitive for any user and should include critical automation and support client interaction tracking, to make proposal creation easy. Build a great product that solves your customer’s pain.
Finally, set up a customer support team that will be directly responsible for guiding customers through the onboarding process, and work towards retaining and expanding accounts.
How much you can make: $570,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $100 (?)
How long does it take to build: 205 days (?)
Proposify, an online business proposal SaaS company, currently serving over 8,000 customers and doing over $7M in annual recurring revenue, was founded by CEO Kyle Racki who turned his old proposal app idea into a successful business by focusing on user pain points, building a great product, and prioritizing customer service.
49. Start a white pages tool
No one wants to play detective when looking for crucial contact information. Enter the concept of a white pages tool - a streamlined online platform that offers quick and easy access to a wide database of personal and businesses contact details.
This fall under a digital version of the traditional telephone directory, with immense potential considering the massive migration to online communication. The core business involves gathering, verifying, and updating contact information, offering it to users on an interactive and user-friendly interface.
Entrepreneurs with a knack for data management and keen attention to detail would find this business idea particularly riveting. Your customers would range from individuals searching for long-lost contacts to businesses keen on expanding their clientele.
With today's need for efficient and reliable communication, a white pages tool is a necessity, not just a luxury. And that's a marketplace commandment you'd want your business to capitalize on.
How much you can make: $6,000,000/month
Spokeo is a people information service helping over 15 million users a month search and connect with others through organizing over 14 billion records into easy-to-understand reports generating over $6M per month.
50. Start a business communications software
Picture a world of effortless business communication. That’s the premise behind starting a business in business communications software. Essentially, your enterprise would create cutting-edge tools that facilitate seamless communication within, and possibly even between, companies.
This business reaches deep into a company's workflow, streamlining processes, amplifying productivity, and thereby increasing profitability. With a well-developed product, you could help businesses bridge communication gaps, enhance collaboration, and foster a more engaging and efficient work environment.
Given the modern era's emphasis on technology and remote work, the market for reliable, user-friendly communication software is nothing short of massive. As this is a largely uncharted territory with countless untapped opportunities, it's an exciting field to navigate with your business idea. As the architect behind the communication tools of tomorrow, you'll not only shape how businesses interact, but could also break new ground in the realm of business software solutions.
How much you can make: $5,000 — $10,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
PEAR Cards is a card-based tool/game that empowers players to open up and initiate positive conversations, and with the help of Ad Magic, their Kickstarter had an all-or-nothing fundraising goal, which they met with so much support the company is now growing through the power of Twitter and Instagram.
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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.
