15 Pandemic Friendly Business Ideas You Can Start In 2024
Looking to start a pandemic friendly business but not quite sure what to start?
If you're looking to start your own pandemic friendly business, there are several low-investment options you can choose from.
We put together a list of 15 business ideas you can start today:
1. Start an online course sales business
Do you know you can make money selling what you are passionate about? People are making money creating courses and selling them online. Common online courses include music, cooking, coding, web design, dropshipping, etc.
Thus, you can turn it into a passive income by launching online classes if you have a skill. All you need is to choose a target audience, create the online course and choose an online learning platform where you can sell the course.
The e-learning market is expected to be worth over $645 Billion in the next few years.
How much you can make: $100 — $300,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
A multipreneur shares how she built a successful print on demand side hustle, generating $120,000 per year through multiple brands spread over various platforms.
2. Start an ecommerce store
An eCommerce business is a company that sells products or services online. Ecommerce businesses have many advantages over brick-and-mortar businesses, including lower overhead costs, increased flexibility and reach, and the ability to reach a wider audience.
eCommerce is booming right now because of the convenience and efficiency it offers consumers. Consumers can buy products from their favorite brands on a platform that makes the whole process easier than ever. They don't have to leave their homes or go out in public, they can just sit down at their computer, tablet or smartphone and browse through all of the options available to them.
To start an ecommerce business, you'll need to set up a website where customers can browse your inventory and purchase items, as well as payment processing software that allows you to accept credit card payments. You'll also need to choose a shopping cart software and manage inventory tracking software.
How much you can make: $350 — $13,500,000/month
How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week
Southern Elegance Candle Company, founded by D'Shawn Russell, started as a side hustle making around $200 per weekend at a local Farmers Market, but now averages approximately $20,000 per month in sales across their retail site, wholesale site, and Faire.
3. Start a subscription box business
Subscription box businesses offer customers a niche set of products on a monthly basis.
They're in high demand as they add value to customer service, offer exclusive products and can be highly profitable.
To start a subscription box business, understand your niche market, provide quality products, perfect your box design, build a good relationship with fulfillment companies, and market your service.
How much you can make: $400 — $400,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $210 (?)
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
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.
4. Become a freelance app developer
A freelance app developer is a programmer who creates mobile apps for Android and iOS devices. Freelance app development business targets creating various apps that give a user-friendly experience.
To become a freelance app developer, first, touch up on your skills. There are several courses available online. Once you obtain the certification, choose your niche and focus on your skill set.
Then the best way to showcase your work is to build a portfolio website where you will display your skills, projects, and testimonials. Another way to promote yourself is to create your brand and blog. This will, in turn, build a network, and you will be able to connect with people and attract more clients.
How much you can make: $6,000 — $500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $750 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
A software agency started by a non-technical founder helps diverse clients with their minimum lovable product, boasting a revenue of over $700,000 this year with a 20% profit margin and a team of 8.
5. Start a dropshipping business
Dropshipping is a business model where you sell products to customers without holding inventory.
Instead, when a customer makes a purchase, you buy the product from a third-party supplier, who then ships it directly to the customer.
To start a dropshipping business on a budget, choose a niche or category of products you want to sell.
Next, set up an online store using platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce. Then, find reliable suppliers from platforms like AliExpress, list their products on your store, and focus on marketing and customer service to grow your business.
Remember to carefully manage your expenses and monitor your profit margins to ensure profitability.
How much you can make: $6,000 — $3,000,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $8,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 10 hours/week
Entrepreneur Kamil Sattar has developed multiple six-figure drop shipping businesses, and his company, e-commerce mentoring, specializes in helping others create their own successful companies, with favorite platforms including using Shopify and apps such as Loox reviews and SMSBump.
6. Start a grocery store
A grocery store sells a wide variety of food products, fresh or packaged, and other household & personal care items. The grocery store industry is the largest retail channel that makes $682 billion in the United States.
To start a basic grocery store, you can expect to spend a minimum of $50,000. Ideally, the bigger expense would be the rent, equipment, labor cost, cash registers/POS systems, and software. Some of these are recurring monthly fees. However, the location, size of the store, competitors, and local customers will significantly impact the business. A new grocer should sell more items for a lower price to make a more significant profit.
A new grocer can also save costs by buying the items from local distributors. The distributor is the middleman between the manufacturer and the grocery store selling it. Once the store cost and location are decided, the next step is to obtain a seller license. In most states, a grocer's license is required to run a grocery store.
Thus an average grocery store has a profit margin of 3% to 5%. The profit rates depend on the store's location, size, and popularity. On average, a small to medium grocery store can make a profit of up to $300,000 annually if all the profit factors are considered.
Another way to make your business more profitable is to diversify your store and add amenities like a coffee shop or stocking up the front of the store with magazines, batteries, etc., as these items can cross a margin of up to 70%. As a rule of thumb, offering lower prices on higher purchases will ultimately win more customers and increase profitability.
7. Start a packers & movers business
Packers and movers are service providers that pack and move customers' belongings, easing the relocating experience from start to end.
The moving and packers' industry is set to experience growth over the next decade. The growing population and influx of multinational corporations are reasons for the current and anticipated demand for moving and packers' services.
Therefore, starting your movers and packers' in 2024 can be rewarding if you ensure the right business approach.
To start, identify the niche, prepare a business plan, and acquire the necessary equipment and freight. An online presence is essential for running the movers and packers. A website and active social media presence will advertise your business.
Besides, you must ensure proper competitor research to focus on strategies to help your business stand out.
How much you can make: $60,000 — $2,500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $8,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
A 23-year-old founder started a moving company that now averages $115,000 a month in revenue and has record monthly sales of $158,000 by prioritizing customer service and using simple, common sense practices like friendly movers and a transparent pricing structure.
8. Start a virtual tutoring business
Looking to leverage your expertise and help students around the world? Start a virtual tutoring business. A virtual tutoring business involves offering personalized educational support to students via online platforms. It's a flexible way to earn income, especially for those with specialized knowledge or teaching experience.
Setting up is straightforward: choose a subject area, create an engaging online presence, and use video conferencing tools to connect with students. The need for academic support never wanes, and the convenience of online learning makes this an appealing option for busy students and parents alike.
Building trust through strong testimonials and effective teaching strategies can set you apart from competitors. It's a rewarding opportunity to make a tangible impact in students' academic lives while maintaining the convenience of working from home. If you’re passionate about education and have the skills to convey complex concepts clearly, virtual tutoring might be the perfect business venture for you.
How much you can make: $100,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 365 days (?)
TutorCruncher Co-founder Samuel Colvin details the success story of his tutor management software company, which has grown to become the leading software in the UK with over one million users worldwide and is set to expand its market through the launch of a new Tutor App.
9. Start a delivery business
Starting a delivery business can be a great opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to enter the transportation industry. The business involves transporting goods and packages from one location to another, either locally or internationally.
To start a delivery business, you must invest in a reliable vehicle, such as a van or truck, and secure insurance coverage. You will also need to research and understand the regulations and requirements for transporting goods in your area.
To be successful in this business, it’s important to offer competitive pricing and exceptional customer service. You can differentiate your business by offering specialized services, such as same-day or white glove delivery for fragile items.
Another key to success in this industry is effective time management and organization. You will need to have a system in place for tracking and managing orders and deliveries and keeping your vehicle well-maintained to avoid any delays or issues on the road.
Overall, starting a delivery business can be a rewarding and lucrative opportunity for those who are organized, customer-focused, and have a reliable vehicle. You can build a successful business in the transportation industry with a little hard work and dedication.
How much you can make: $200,000 — $500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $3,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
HalalWorldDepot is a Halal online marketplace that started three years ago as a meat and grocery delivery service and has now expanded to offer a wide variety of Halal products, with a customer return rate of 50-60%, profitability at 16-25%, and over 10,000 customers, with plans to expand to Canada and the United Kingdom within three to five years.
10. Start a virtual accounting business
Starting a virtual accounting business is an excellent opportunity for those with a background in finance or accounting. With the rise of remote work and technology, starting your own virtual accounting business has never been easier.
A virtual accounting business involves providing accounting services to clients remotely. This can include bookkeeping, payroll, tax preparation, financial reporting, and more. With the right tools and software, you can offer these services to clients no matter where they are located.
To start a successful virtual accounting business, you’ll need a strong understanding of accounting principles and regulations. A bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance is often preferred, as well as relevant certifications such as a CPA. You’ll also need to be proficient in using accounting software like QuickBooks or Xero and be comfortable working with clients remotely.
One key to success in a virtual accounting business is to specialize in a specific area of accounting. This could be working with small businesses, freelancers, or a particular industry. Focusing on a specific niche can better serve your clients and stand out in a crowded market.
A virtual accounting business can be relatively low-cost in terms of startup costs. In addition to education and certifications, you’ll need a computer, accounting software, and possibly a website to promote your services. You may also want to invest in marketing to attract clients and grow your business.
Overall, starting a virtual accounting business is an excellent opportunity for those with a background in finance or accounting looking to work remotely and be their boss. You can build a successful and profitable business with the right skills and marketing efforts.
How much you can make: $8,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 7 days (?)
A4E, a full-service accounting business, grew five times from when it started about a year ago when it was only offering tax services, and its current MRR is around $8k with a targeted MRR of $13k, providing 100% done-for-you accounting solutions that combine bookkeeping, taxes and CFO services under one roof and for an amazing value for US-based businesses in tech-related industries and services.
11. Start a face mask and hand sanitizer making business
12. Start a cleaning & maintenance business
A Cleaning & Maintenance business is a service-based business in which you are the owner, operator, and lone employee. In a cleaning and maintenance business, you provide a specific service such as carpet servicing or pest control. It's important to note that although it seems straightforward, this business type can grow very quickly if done properly.
Cleaning and maintenance can be a real hassle, especially if you have a lot of employees or just your own staff. The cleaning and maintenance industry generates over $40B a year in the US alone. This makes it one of the largest, most competitive industries in the USA.
Starting a cleaning and maintenance business is pretty easy. You can start small with residential clients or businesses. Just make sure you check with your local government to ensure licensing (or certification) requirements.
How much you can make: $100,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $499 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
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.
14. Become a drug manufacturer
15. Start a fitness and wellness programs business
Looking to blend physical fitness and mental wellbeing in one cohesive program? Consider starting a fitness and wellness programs business. This idea centers on offering a variety of fitness classes, nutritional advice, and wellness practices like meditation and yoga to clientele who seek a balanced lifestyle.
You can cater to individuals, small groups, and even corporate clients seeking to improve employee wellness. It’s not just about getting people to exercise; it's about creating a holistic approach to health that integrates body and mind. Utilize social media to build a community and create engaging content that demonstrates the benefits of a balanced lifestyle.
This business will require a good understanding of health and wellness, the ability to personalize programs, and effective marketing strategies to attract and retain clients. If you're passionate about fostering a healthier community, this venture offers a meaningful way to make a positive impact.
How much you can make: $250 — $275,000/month
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
Serena Jenkins-Hannah created a fitness brand, Serena Hannah Athletics, that has generated over $100,000 in sales over a year and a half, with $70,000 of those sales coming during COVID-19, through selling their #1 item, the Hannah Booty Band System, on Amazon, and has now expanded to Shopify to add cash flow.
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Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
