The 40 Best Home-Based Businesses To Start In New Hampshire [2024]

Updated: September 10th, 2024

Interested in starting a business in New Hampshire in 2024?

We put together 45 of the best businesses you can start in New Hampshire today.

For each business idea, we’ll show you real-world examples of how you can start your profitable, home-based small business in New Hampshire.

Here's the full list:

1. Start a children's clothing business ($2.4M/year)

Starting a children’s clothing business can be a profitable and fulfilling venture, especially if you aim to address a specific need or problem faced by parents. In New Hampshire, Dahlia Rizk founded Buckle Me Baby Coats, a company that produces puffy winter coats designed to be safely used in car seats. The business idea came to Rizk when she learned that traditional puffy coats are unsafe for car seat use and decided to create a coat that eliminates this risk.

Buckle Me Baby Coats has been incredibly successful, reaching $50,000 in monthly revenue within its first two years. This demonstrates that identifying a unique problem and offering a specialized solution can be a pathway to business success in New Hampshire. For more details about the journey of Buckle Me Baby Coats, you can read the full case study here.

How A Single Mom Designed A $50,000/Month Car Seat-Friendly Kids Coat

A New Hampshire Mom of three founded Buckle Me Baby Coats two years ago, which now makes $50,000 monthly, offering a puffy winter coat designed to safely use in the car seat.

Read by 8,896 founders

2. Start a home equipment business ($780K/year)

For entrepreneurial-minded individuals in New Hampshire, starting a home equipment business could be a promising venture. Equipped with the ability to create innovative and useful products, you could tap into the local and national markets effectively. Take, for instance, Moki Doorstep, a business started in Newington, New Hampshire by Zachary Brown. This home-grown enterprise created a vehicle rooftop assistance step that saw remarkable success, raising $110,000 in sales during a month-long Kickstarter campaign and selling 3,000 units.

Zachary Brown's Moki Doorstep leveraged immediate interest from a larger company to license the product, making it available in major retailers like REI and Dicks Sporting Goods. The product's success story underscores the potential for home equipment businesses in New Hampshire, where a good idea backed by determination can lead to spectacular growth and retail presence. To learn more about this inspiring journey, check out the detailed case study.

How This $65K/Month Step To Improve Car Roof Access Was One Of The Largest Shark Tank On-Air Deals

Moki Doorstep, a vehicle rooftop assistance step, raised $110,000 in sales and sold 3,000 units during their month-long Kickstarter campaign and licensed their product after immediate interest from a larger company, with their product now available in major retailers like REI, Dicks Sporting Goods, Pep-boys, and Duluth Trading Post.

Read by 20,893 founders

3. Become a shopify app developer ($504K/year)

If you're an entrepreneur in New Hampshire with a knack for programming, becoming a Shopify app developer could be an exciting and lucrative home-based business idea. You could create apps that help e-commerce store owners enhance their online stores, automate tasks, and provide better customer experiences. This business idea leverages the booming e-commerce industry and the rapid growth of Shopify as a platform.

A successful example from right here in Manchester, New Hampshire is Bonify, co-founded by Dan Pepin. Bonify transitioned from a small web development agency to a prominent player in the Shopify app market, generating $15,000 in monthly revenue with plans to double that by the year's end. They achieved this by developing popular apps like Custom Fields and Mr. Arigato - Task Automator. You can learn more about their journey and insights in their case study.

How We Are Building Profitable Shopify Apps From Our Consulting Experience

Bonify co-founders successfully transition from a small web development agency to a lifestyle SAAS company by building Shopify apps, reaching $15,000 monthly revenue and planning to double it by year end through improved marketing and new features.

Read by 7,848 founders

4. Start a skin care product line ($420K/year)

Starting a skin care product line in New Hampshire is a promising business opportunity, especially if you focus on niche markets. You could create products that cater to specific needs such as natural skin care solutions for athletes, or eco-friendly and sustainable options. With a growing interest in personal care and wellness, a skin care line can capture a loyal customer base both locally and online.

A specific success story from Greenland, New Hampshire is w.o.d.welder, founded by Keegan Pafford. This company specializes in natural skin care for athletes and was built through engaged interactions and consistent product innovation. Within their first year, they generated $86,000 in sales, demonstrating the potential for growth in this space. This example underscores the possibilities for aspiring entrepreneurs in New Hampshire who want to make an impact in the health and wellness industry.

Starting a Natural Skin-care Product Line for Athletes And Growing to $35,000/month

Co-founder Keegan Pafford shares the story behind w.o.d.welder, a 4-year-old athletic essential company that specializes in natural skin care for athletes and active lifestyles; the business was built on Instagram and generated $86,000 in sales during its first year, with growth continuing through engaged interactions with customers and expansion of product lines.

Read by 7,740 founders

5. Start a cannabis business ($3.26M/year)

Starting a cannabis business in New Hampshire could be a lucrative venture given the state's evolving cannabis laws and increasing public support for legalization. With legal marijuana sales projected to reach $22 billion by 2022, there are ample opportunities for entrepreneurial-minded folks to carve out a niche in this burgeoning market.

New Hampshire’s favorable stance on medical cannabis provides a fertile ground for businesses looking to enter the industry. Whether you’re interested in cultivation, dispensary operations, or ancillary services, there's significant potential for growth. For more details, visit our page on the cannabis business idea or explore successful case studies to get inspired.

How Two College Roommates Started An Online CBD Business

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.

Read by 17,982 founders

6. Start a subscription box business ($1.17M/year)

Starting a subscription box business in New Hampshire presents exciting opportunities for entrepreneurial-minded folks. With the state’s growing emphasis on supporting small businesses and its tight-knit community culture, you could easily carve out a loyal customer base who are eager to receive curated, niche products right at their doorstep every month. Whether you focus on local artisan goods, specialty foods, or unique crafts, the subscription model allows you to tap into the specific interests and needs of the New Hampshire market.

Moreover, the high demand for subscription boxes makes this a potentially profitable venture. By providing high-quality, exclusive products and exceptional customer service, you could build a thriving business. If you're curious about successful examples of subscription box businesses, check out some success stories here to get inspired.

How I Started A Gift Box Business For Non Traditional Brides

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.

Read by 31,437 founders

7. Start a content creation business ($963K/year)

Starting a content creation business in New Hampshire presents a fantastic opportunity due to the state's thriving local economy and growing emphasis on digital presence. You could leverage your writing expertise to help small businesses and startups across various industries enhance their online visibility and engage more effectively with their target audiences.

Additionally, New Hampshire's community-oriented culture and network of entrepreneurial resources offer a supportive environment for your business to flourish. Whether you opt for freelance projects or establish a full-service agency, your polished content can make a significant impact, driving lead generation and brand growth for clients. For inspiration and proven tactics, check out these successful case studies.

How I Started A $22K/Month One-Stop Shop Marketing Company For E-commerce Businesses

Power Move Marketing is an innovative digital marketing company founded by Hailey Brooke McFadden, which has achieved an impressive monthly income of $22,075 and is projected to make almost $300,000 in its first year, by offering a one-stop-shop for e-commerce businesses looking for a marketing powerhouse with a female positive culture.

Read by 11,647 founders

8. Start an etsy shop ($570K/year)

Starting an Etsy shop in New Hampshire could be a lucrative home-based business opportunity, given the state's rich cultural heritage and appeal for unique, handmade items. The thriving local art scene and penchant for artisanal goods provide a perfect backdrop for selling handmade crafts, vintage items, or art supplies.

Additionally, the tight-knit communities in New Hampshire can help you build a loyal customer base quickly, as word of mouth can spread efficiently in smaller towns and cities. To see how others have achieved success, check out these successful case studies from other Etsy sellers who have turned their creative passions into profitable businesses.

How I Started A $12K/Month Business Selling Productivity Planners Online

Chasing Planner Peace is a planner company that has expanded from selling planner inserts on Etsy, to offering a one-stop shop customizable planner experience with over 300 inserts, a planner line, and various other related products, gaining a monthly revenue of around $25,000 at its busiest time of year.

Read by 64,289 founders

9. Start a freelance writing business ($751K/year)

Starting a freelance writing business in New Hampshire offers a multitude of possibilities for aspiring entrepreneurs. Given the state's vibrant educational hubs and a diverse economy, you could tap into various industries, from tech and healthcare to tourism and academia. The flexible nature of freelance writing allows you to craft your own schedule while capitalizing on local networking opportunities and resources.

Moreover, New Hampshire's stunning landscapes can serve as a serene backdrop, fostering creativity and productivity. By leveraging your strong writing skills, deadline-driven mindset, and self-starter attitude, you could carve out a successful niche. For more insights on becoming a freelance writer, visit our detailed guide and check out success stories from others who have thrived in this field.

How I Started A $80K/Month Content Writing Business

How David Tile turned a freelance writing gig into an $80k/month business, discussing lessons learned through managing growing demands and maintaining a remote team operation.

Read by 24,814 founders

10. Become a bicycle manufacturer

Starting a bicycle manufacturing business in New Hampshire could be a timely and profitable venture. With a growing emphasis on health and sustainable transportation, you'll find a ready market eager for locally-made, high-quality bicycles. The state's scenic landscapes and numerous biking trails offer an excellent backdrop for promoting your products to both locals and tourists. Given the growing global bicycle market, which is expected to reach a CAGR of 8.2% in the next decade, there's ample opportunity for growth and expansion.

Furthermore, government initiatives and increasing health consciousness among New Hampshire's residents make this an ideal time to start. By narrowing down your niche, creating a user-friendly website, and effective marketing, you could tap into diverse customer bases. For more inspiration and detailed steps on how to successfully launch this venture, check out our full guide on bicycle manufacturing and look at successful case studies from other entrepreneurs.

How I Turned My Love For Bikes Into A $12M/Year Electric Cargo Bike Business

Yuba Group has pioneered the field of an entirely new segment in the cargo bicycle industry, with a 15-year-old company that has put over 50,000 cargo bicycles on the road, becoming a $15M company.

Read by 5,021 founders

11. Start a pet company ($4.12M/year)

If you love animals and want to make a living from your passion, starting a pet business in New Hampshire could be the perfect fit for you. The state's strong sense of community and abundance of pet owners create a significant demand for pet-related products and services. New Hampshire's pet-friendly culture offers you plenty of opportunities to cater to a broad customer base, from grooming services to pet supplies.

Additionally, running a home-based pet business provides flexibility to manage your operations efficiently. You could operate from the comfort of your home or partner with local shelters and pet stores to extend your reach. Explore some successful case studies for inspiration on how to make your venture thrive in the Granite State.

How I Started A $54K/Month Pet Sitting And Dog Walking Business

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.

Read by 20,746 founders

12. Become a content strategist ($767K/year)

Starting a content strategist business in New Hampshire could be a lucrative endeavor given the state's thriving small business ecosystem and its strong sense of community. With businesses in New Hampshire looking to grow and strengthen their online presence, you could provide essential services that help them connect with their target audiences more effectively and achieve their business objectives.

Additionally, given the increasing trend of remote work and the state's favorable business climate, you could operate this business from the comfort of your own home. By leveraging your skills in market research, data analysis, and project management, you could build a reputable content strategist business helping local companies succeed. For more information on how to start a content strategist business and see successful case studies, visit Starter Story.

How I Started An $8K/Month Technical Content Marketing Agency

Draft founder, Karl, built a productized service for technical content, generating $10k in (mostly) recurring revenue in just three months of running the business, showing the success of skill-stacking and the impact of word of mouth and maintaining a strong network in a service business.

Read by 10,110 founders

13. Start a skills training business ($1.14M/year)

Starting a skills training business in New Hampshire could be an exceptional opportunity due to the state's diverse economic landscape and growing demand for professional development. With the global skills training market expected to reach $47.2B by 2027, there is a solid market potential that you could tap into while addressing local needs.

The startup costs are relatively low, making it accessible for entrepreneurs who want to make a meaningful impact. By leveraging your expertise and offering specialized training, you could enhance the skill sets of individuals and businesses, potentially charging premium rates as your portfolio grows. For more inspiration, check out some successful case studies from others in the field.

We Built A $180K/Year Learn-To-Code Community

Online learning community Frontend Mentor has over 200,000 members, with over 1,500 paid subscribers generating over $15,000 MRR, offering professionally designed challenges to improve front-end coding skills with a freemium business model and a focus on real-life experience.

Read by 12,687 founders

14. Start an explainer video business ($906K/year)

Starting an explainer video business in New Hampshire offers exciting possibilities for entrepreneurs looking to tap into a growing market. With numerous small and medium-sized businesses in the state looking to enhance their online presence, there's a substantial demand for high-quality, engaging video content to illustrate their products and services effectively.

New Hampshire's supportive business environment and its proximity to major markets like Boston make it an ideal location to establish your business and attract a diverse range of clients. By leveraging your creativity and technical skills, you could help local companies stand out in a crowded digital landscape through captivating explainer videos, whether they're live-action or animated.

How I Created A $10K/Month Company That Makes Animated Explainer Videos

Italian entrepreneur Marco Gatti shares how he started Whiteboard.ee, a video marketing company that creates personalized animated videos, with a focus on doodle whiteboard animation, and currently invoices about $10,000 per month, having recently expanded internationally.

Read by 7,420 founders

15. Start a web development business ($1.09M/year)

Starting a web development business in New Hampshire could be an excellent opportunity due to the state's growing tech sector and the increasing number of small businesses needing online presence. With your coding and design skills, you could help local businesses in areas like Portsmouth, Manchester, and Nashua improve or establish their websites, making them more competitive in today's digital economy.

Moreover, New Hampshire's community-driven culture could open the door for networking opportunities and collaborations with other local startups. To gain more insights into this business idea, you could read more details here and explore successful case studies from entrepreneurs who have thrived in this space.

I Built A $300K/Year Vue.js Component Library

Vuetify is a popular open-source user interface library, built with the Vue.js framework, that generates revenue through digital content and services such as paid digital content in the Vuetify store, direct support through consulting, ad revenue from Carbon ads on the documentation pages, and donations/sponsorships via GitHub and Patreon, generating an average income of $6,500 per month.

Read by 46,494 founders

meet the author
Pat Walls

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