Passive Income Ideas For Artists [Updated for 2024]
I know you're busy. I'm busy too. So, what's the best way to make money without actually having to do anything? Passive income!
But don’t be mistaken. You have to work hard to achieve this passive income.
In this blog post, I'm going to share some ideas for how artists can make passive income. Stay tuned for tips on how to get started!
1. Launch an online classes platform ($64.7K/month)
Tired of the traditional classroom setting? Build an online classes platform.
In simple terms, an online classes platform allows educators to create, market, and sell their courses to a global audience. This business idea leverages the growing demand for remote and flexible learning solutions.
With a diverse range of subjects and the ability to cater to different learning styles, you're meeting an essential need. This market is ripe with opportunities for specialized courses, certification programs, and interactive learning experiences.
Starting this venture requires a robust platform, effective marketing, and continuous engagement with your audience. It's a rewarding project that allows you to make education accessible while generating revenue.
Running your own online classes platform combines technology, education, and entrepreneurship in a way that can truly make a difference. For those passionate about teaching and learning, this is an idea worth pursuing.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $175,000/month
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
2. Start a lease management software
Tired of juggling multiple leases and struggling with endless spreadsheets? Lease management software can simplify the entire process for you. This business idea involves developing a software solution to help property managers, landlords, and tenants manage lease agreements more efficiently.
Imagine a platform where all lease-related activities—from contract creation to tenant communication—are centralized. Users benefit from automated reminders for lease renewals, streamlined rent collection, and analytics to keep track of property performance. It’s a solution aimed at minimizing the hassles and maximizing the efficiency of leasing tasks.
Creating lease management software requires expertise in software development and a solid understanding of the real estate market. It involves collaborating with industry professionals to ensure the tool meets practical needs. If you have a knack for tech and a passion for real estate, this business idea is worth exploring. It offers an opportunity to alleviate common lease-related headaches and bring value to property management.
3. Start an online shopping business ($150K/month)
Looking to tap into the ecommerce boom with minimal overhead? An online shopping business might be the perfect fit. This venture involves setting up a digital storefront where customers can browse and purchase a wide array of products. By utilizing user-friendly platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce, starting your own online store has never been more accessible.
Building an inventory, managing stock levels, and ensuring timely shipping are all part of the daily grind. But the reward? A highly scalable business model with global reach and the potential for significant profits.
If the idea of curating your own product line and reaching consumers worldwide excites you, then the online shopping business is worth considering. With dedication and the right strategies, you could build a thriving ecommerce empire.
How much you can make: $2,500 — $500,000/month
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
4. Start a portfolio website business
Want to showcase your skills and talents to potential employers or clients? Start a portfolio website business. This idea involves creating and managing personalized websites that display the work and achievements of individuals in various fields.
You'll be responsible for designing aesthetically pleasing and functional sites while helping clients curate their best work to attract opportunities. With the increasing importance of online presence, there's a growing demand for custom portfolio websites.
You'll need to develop web design skills and have an eye for detail to succeed. Most of the work involves collaborating with clients, understanding their needs, and translating those into an engaging online portfolio. It's a rewarding venture if you enjoy blending creativity with technical expertise.
How much you can make: $350/month
How much does it cost to start: $3,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
5. Start an art gallery
For artists, getting the attention of traditional brick & mortar stores is an enormous challenge with slim odds of success. Fortunately, online marketplaces make it possible for artists across the globe to sell their artwork internationally.
With art galleries contributing up to 45 billion dollars, they can be a great business opportunity. If you are interested in the art industry, you can start an online art gallery.
How much you can make: $876/month
How long does it take to build: 150 days (?)
6. Become an ebook writer
Want to turn your storytelling skills into a business? Consider becoming an ebook writer. Writing ebooks involves creating and publishing digital books on various topics, from fiction to self-help.
This business allows you to share your expertise or imagination with a broad audience, potentially generating passive income. By self-publishing on platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing, you can reach readers without the need for a traditional publishing deal.
Commitment is key: you'll spend hours researching, writing, editing, and promoting your work. Tools like Grammarly for editing and Canva for designing book covers can facilitate the process. If you have a knack for writing and a strong work ethic, this could be your ideal venture.
How much you can make: $17,000/month
Time commitment per week: Min. 3 hours/week
7. Start a content creation business ($80.3K/month)
As a content entrepreneur, you get to flex your writing skills across different formats and subjects to elevate marketing campaigns.
Offering niche-specific expertise lets you provide targeted messages tailored for client goals and audiences.
With the freedom of freelance gigs or full-service agency models, starting a content studio allows creativity and strategy to enhance brand stories and digital experiences.
Whether supporting one company or many, a personalized approach backed by writing talent positions your content creation venture to drive lead generation and visibility for today’s content-compelling market.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $500,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 75 days (?)
8. Start an online course sales business ($85K/month)
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 (?)
9. Start an online franchise and licensing opportunities business
Looking for a promising way to enter the dynamic world of online business? Consider launching an online franchise and licensing opportunities business. This model allows you to offer aspiring entrepreneurs the chance to buy into a proven business system, with the added benefit of online scalability.
Essentially, you'll be the bridge between franchise owners and prospective business buyers, providing a platform for them to connect. You’ll manage the intricacies of franchise agreements, licensing rights, and compliance – allowing franchisors to focus on their core operations while you handle the digital logistics.
The appeal lies in the potential for ongoing revenue streams from franchise fees and licensing agreements, making it an attractive venture for those with strong organizational and marketing skills. If you’re looking to be part of a thriving sector with endless opportunities for growth, this business idea warrants serious consideration.
How much you can make: $100,000/month
How long does it take to build: 48 days (?)
10. Start an ebook reading app business
Imagine turning the love for reading into a profitable venture. An ebook reading app business allows users to access a vast library of digital books right from their devices. This business capitalizes on the growing preference for digital media, offering convenience and a seamless reading experience.
Your task will involve developing a user-friendly app that supports multiple formats, collaborates with publishers, and provides personalized recommendations. You’ll need a keen eye for UX/UI design and some knowledge of app marketing to attract and retain users.
In a world where people are constantly on the go, a well-optimized ebook reading app can provide literary escape and, simultaneously, generate steady revenue. If you're passionate about books and technology, this business idea merges both worlds into a lucrative opportunity. Embrace the digital wave and help others discover their next great read from the comfort of their screens.
How much you can make: $17,000/month
How long does it take to build: 300 days (?)
11. Start an anti-subscription service business
Tired of subscription fatigue? Enter the anti-subscription service business.
This innovative idea offers customers the freedom to access products or services without the commitment of a recurring monthly fee. Think of it as a pay-as-you-go model where customers only pay for what they use, whether it’s software, entertainment, or specialty goods.
With people becoming increasingly wary of endless subscription charges, there’s a ripe market for offering flexible, no-strings-attached alternatives. As a business owner, you'll need to forge strong partnerships with vendors and craft compelling, one-off pricing strategies.
If you’re looking to provide a refreshing alternative in a saturated subscription market, this business idea could be your next venture. It’s about giving people control and choice, tapping into a growing desire for flexibility and simplicity.
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
12. Start a youtube channel ($146K/month)
For anyone looking to start a successful YouTube channel, there are plenty of YouTube channel success stories that can be used as inspiration and encouragement. In addition, YouTube has an established monetization system and boasts incredible popularity, making it a potential platform for revenue generation.
In this article, we'll look at different approaches you can use to help promote your channel and grow your viewers. While there's no quick and easy way to success, you can take these tips to build your own YouTube Channel Success story. If you love content creation, you can capitalize on YouTube's popularity to earn extra income.
If you want to join the Youtube partner program to monetize your channel, you will need to reach a minimum of 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours in the previous 12 months.
How much you can make: $800 — $1,000,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $750 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week
13. Print on demand business ($411K/month)
A print-on-demand business involves selling customized products without upfront inventory costs.
The business model utilizes dropshipping production and fulfillment services to print custom apparel, home goods, phone cases, and other merchandise one order at a time.
By leveraging online marketplace platforms like Amazon, eBay, and Etsy as virtual storefronts, print-on-demand sellers can focus on designing trendy and unique products while reaching global audiences.
With minimal startup costs and the freedom to run operations from home, launching a print-on-demand model empowers aspiring founders to monetize their creativity and build ascalable business at their own pace.
How much you can make: $200 — $3,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)
Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week
14. Start an art lessons business
Are you a professional artist? Teaching arts and crafts online can be a small but profitable business venture.
You can target kids interested in becoming artists or talented teens who want to advance their artistic skills. To start an arts business, train yourself in arts and crafts and plan a curriculum suitable for your target audience.
Advertising your business will help you to reach a larger audience.
15. Start an online art prints business
The art print is a fast-growing segment. Although there is a lot of competition in the fine art marketplace, selling original art prints online can be profitable.
You do not have to rely on original artwork sales alone for financial stability in your artistic career. Selling copies and digital art from different artists is a simpler way of starting your online art print business.
16. Start an art business ($61.4K/month)
Starting an art business can be a great idea if you have a passion for art.
You’ll be able to work on your schedule, set your prices, and do something you love—while supporting yourself or even making money!
There are so many different avenues available to you as an artist-entrepreneur right now—from selling your work online (on sites like Etsy), through galleries or museums, or even at craft fairs and flea markets.
How much you can make: $876 — $415,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
17. Start a website designer ($22.8K/month)
Delivering digital artistry for the modern age, becoming a website designer offers a blend of creativity and technical skill.
Simply put, a website designer is responsible for crafting the visual layout and user experience of a website. It’s not just about making things look good; it’s about creating intuitive, engaging digital environments where users can seamlessly navigate.
The demand for polished online presences is ever-growing, making this a business idea with considerable potential. Companies and individuals alike are always in need of visually appealing, functional websites to represent their brands and interests.
For those with a flair for design and a knack for technology, website design can be both rewarding and versatile. Building a portfolio and honing your skills can pave the way for a successful career, blending artistry with strategy.
How much you can make: $2,350 — $100,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $4,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)
18. Start a chatbot affiliate marketing business
Want to earn from the growing AI trend? Consider a chatbot affiliate marketing business.
This involves using chatbot technology to promote affiliate products. You create and manage chatbots that engage users, recommend relevant products, and drive sales through affiliate links.
Chatbots can interact with customers 24/7, providing personalized recommendations and nudging them towards purchases. Automation means you can generate income even while you sleep.
Starting out requires choosing a niche, building chatbots using services like ManyChat, and partnering with affiliate programs. You will need to invest time in learning about chatbot platforms and affiliate marketing strategies, but the scalability and passive income potential make it worthwhile.
A chatbot affiliate marketing business leverages both the AI and ecommerce trends. If you're looking for a tech-driven online business, this could be your next venture.
How much you can make: $7,000/month
19. Sell e-books ($75K/month)
An e-book business involves selling digital books online.
To start such a business, you would need to have a website or an online platform like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing or Smashwords, where you can list and sell your e-books.
To sell e-books, you need to decide on the type of content and set up your listings. This involves creating a cover, writing a description, and selecting categories and keywords.
Promoting your e-books is another important aspect of running an e-book business. You can use social media and online marketing strategies to reach your target audience.
Offering promotions and discounts can also help you encourage sales and attract new customers.
How much you can make: $15,000 — $120,000/month
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
20. Start an online art prints business
The art print is a fast-growing segment. Although there is a lot of competition in the fine art marketplace, selling original art prints online can be profitable.
You do not have to rely on original artwork sales alone for financial stability in your artistic career. Selling copies and digital art from different artists is a simpler way of starting your online art print business.
21. Start a drop shipping business
Want to enter the world of ecommerce without the hassle of managing inventory? Dropshipping could be your answer. In this business model, you set up an online store, but instead of keeping stock, you partner with suppliers who handle the storage, packaging, and shipping for you.
Starting a dropshipping business means you can focus on marketing and customer service while suppliers take care of the logistical heavy lifting. This reduces the upfront costs and risks typically associated with traditional retail.
Imagine running a store where you sell a variety of products without having to worry about warehousing or overstocking. With platforms like Shopify and dropshipping apps such as Oberlo, finding products and integrating them into your store is straightforward.
For those looking to dive into ecommerce with minimal investment and maximum flexibility, dropshipping presents a compelling opportunity. It’s an efficient way to tap into the online marketplace and start generating income.
How much you can make: $10,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $2,550 (?)
How long does it take to build: 48 days (?)
22. Start an e-book writing business ($34.8K/month)
An eBook business is profitable and flexible, letting you start a business from anywhere, while it is a low-cost business that is easy to start. You can make a living self-publishing and selling eBooks online as long as you are ready to invest your time and money in it.
Anyone can start an eBooks business! Just choose a niche that interests the target audience, and ensure in-depth research.
How much you can make: $2,000 — $62,500/month
How much does it cost to start: $67 (?)
How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)
23. Start an etsy digital products business ($6.14K/month)
An Etsy digital products business involves creating and selling digital goods on the Etsy platform.
These can include items like printable art, digital planners, e-books, graphic designs, and more.
To start this business on a budget, first identify a niche or category you're passionate about and skilled in.
Create high-quality digital products using free or low-cost tools like Canva or Google Docs.
Then, set up a shop on Etsy, optimize your product listings with relevant keywords, and promote your shop through social media and online communities to attract potential customers.
How much you can make: $3,000 — $10,417/month
How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)
How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)
24. Start a start a blog ($57.5K/month)
Ever considered sharing your insights and passions with a wide audience? Starting a blog might be your ideal business venture. A blog allows you to write and publish articles on topics you're passionate about or knowledgeable in, reaching readers across the globe.
Launching a blog involves choosing a niche, setting up a website, and consistently generating valuable content. It's a flexible business that offers autonomy and a platform to voice your opinions, teach, or entertain.
Interest grows when you realize the potential for income through ad placements, sponsored posts, and affiliate marketing. It's an opportunity to build a personal brand, connect with a community, and even turn a side project into a full-time career.
If you've got a unique perspective or specialized knowledge, starting a blog is a compelling way to share it while creating an avenue for growth and income.
How much you can make: $15,000 — $100,000/month
How long does it take to build: 179 days (?)
More business ideas
- 25. Start a print on demand coaching
- 26. Start a baking subscription service business
- 27. Start a print on demand coaching
- 28. Start an online equine store business
29. Start a start a blog ($57.5K/month)
Ever considered sharing your insights and passions with a wide audience? Starting a blog might be your ideal business venture. A blog allows you to write and publish articles on topics you're passionate about or knowledgeable in, reaching readers across the globe.
Launching a blog involves choosing a niche, setting up a website, and consistently generating valuable content. It's a flexible business that offers autonomy and a platform to voice your opinions, teach, or entertain.
Interest grows when you realize the potential for income through ad placements, sponsored posts, and affiliate marketing. It's an opportunity to build a personal brand, connect with a community, and even turn a side project into a full-time career.
If you've got a unique perspective or specialized knowledge, starting a blog is a compelling way to share it while creating an avenue for growth and income.
How much you can make: $15,000 — $100,000/month
How long does it take to build: 179 days (?)
30. Start a product design business ($100K/month)
Got a flair for creativity and a knack for solving problems? Starting a product design business could be your ideal venture. In simple terms, product design involves creating and refining products to meet both user needs and market demands.
Starting out, you'll need to engage with clients to understand their vision, sketch designs, create prototypes, and collaborate with manufacturers. The real work here is in the details—every line and material choice contributes to the finished product.
This business is perfect for those who thrive on innovation and enjoy seeing their ideas come to life. It’s all about blending functionality with aesthetics, making things that are not only beautiful but also useful. Having a portfolio of well-designed products can set you apart in a competitive market.
If you're passionate about creating tangible objects from abstract ideas, this business will give you the satisfaction of making an impact on everyday lives.
How much you can make: $10,000 — $300,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 225 days (?)
31. Start a drive-thru art gallery business
Introducing the drive-thru art gallery - a unique and scintillating business idea that combines the convenience of a drive-thru with the beauty of art. This innovative concept allows art enthusiasts to view and purchase artwork without leaving their cars.
The drive-thru art gallery business entails setting up a physical space, preferably in a busy location with high foot traffic, that showcases various art pieces from different artists. The space should be designed to be easily viewed from a car, with a curved path that allows for a gradual viewing experience.
To operate a successful drive-thru art gallery business, you should keep a few tips in mind. Firstly, it is essential to curate a diverse and high-quality selection of artworks that appeals to a wide range of audiences. This can be achieved by working closely with local artists and galleries to showcase their work.
Additionally, investing in a strong marketing and advertising strategy is crucial to attracting customers to your drive-thru art gallery. This can be done through social media campaigns, print advertisements, and word of mouth.
Lastly, providing excellent customer service and creating a unique and memorable experience for visitors is crucial in establishing a loyal customer base. This can be achieved by offering personalized tours and information about the artworks on display and providing easy and efficient purchase options.
In conclusion, the drive-thru art gallery business is an exciting and eminently profitable idea that appeals to art enthusiasts and busy individuals alike. Your drive-thru art gallery will surely be a resounding success by curating a high-quality selection of artworks, investing in a strong marketing strategy, and providing excellent customer service.
32. Start a hair products affiliate marketing business
The hair products affiliate marketing business is an exciting opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to enter the beauty industry. As an affiliate marketer, you will be responsible for promoting and selling hair care products from various brands on your website or social media platforms.
To run this business, you must have a strong online presence and understand how to market products effectively. You will also need to research and select the best hair care brands to partner with, as well as negotiate commissions and terms of the partnership.
One of the benefits of running a hair products affiliate marketing business is the flexibility it offers. You can work from anywhere and set your own schedule as long as you have an internet connection. Additionally, you can earn a good income through commissions and sales.
Another advantage is the opportunity to educate and inform your audience about the latest hair care trends and products. By sharing your knowledge and experience, you can establish yourself as a trusted source of information in the beauty industry.
Overall, the hair products affiliate marketing business is a rewarding and lucrative opportunity for those interested in the beauty industry and passionate about marketing and promoting products.
More business ideas
- 33. Start an arts & crafts fair business
- 34. Start a business license and permit services
35. Start a start a blog ($57.5K/month)
Ever considered sharing your insights and passions with a wide audience? Starting a blog might be your ideal business venture. A blog allows you to write and publish articles on topics you're passionate about or knowledgeable in, reaching readers across the globe.
Launching a blog involves choosing a niche, setting up a website, and consistently generating valuable content. It's a flexible business that offers autonomy and a platform to voice your opinions, teach, or entertain.
Interest grows when you realize the potential for income through ad placements, sponsored posts, and affiliate marketing. It's an opportunity to build a personal brand, connect with a community, and even turn a side project into a full-time career.
If you've got a unique perspective or specialized knowledge, starting a blog is a compelling way to share it while creating an avenue for growth and income.
How much you can make: $15,000 — $100,000/month
How long does it take to build: 179 days (?)
36. Start a wordpress instructor business
Launching a business as a WordPress instructor taps into the ever-growing demand for web development skills. This venture involves teaching individuals or groups how to build, customize, and manage websites using the powerful WordPress platform.
Starting out, you'll design comprehensive courses tailored to beginners or advanced users, offering them step-by-step guidance through workshops, tutorials, or online classes. The flexibility of this business allows you to set your own pace and adapt content to meet varied learning needs, making it an appealing option for those with a passion for teaching and tech.
With the consistent need for online presence across industries, the potential client base is expansive, from small business owners to aspiring bloggers. By becoming a WordPress instructor, you're not just teaching technical skills, but also empowering others to create and control their digital spaces. This business idea is ideal for those who want to make a tangible impact while enjoying a rewarding teaching experience.
How much you can make: $2,350/month
How much does it cost to start: $600 (?)
How long does it take to build: 365 days (?)
Frequently asked questions
Can you build passive income as an artist?
Yes, you can build passive income. As an artist, you can use your spare time to do a particular task, gig, or extra work. Due to the increase in expenses, inflation, and other things, building a passive income is becoming more of a necessity.
Of course, a passive income isn't meant to consume all of your time. After all, your primary concern is to finish your tasks as an artist.
A passive income not only helps build financial stability. Moreover, it helps you create a better future while you continue doing your tasks as an artist.
Now, a passive income doesn't necessarily mean one thing. In general, you can build a passive income by doing something you enjoy as an artist. As such, we have several ideas for you to know. These ideas can help you identify which one you like, so you enjoy your spare time and earn simultaneously.
Building passive income as an artist is possible since you get more flexible online work opportunities. So it's possible to do so, especially when you have some time to spare.
How can you build passive income as an artist?
Once you have established that you want to build passive income, the next thing to ask is how you would do so without compromising your artist duties.
In general, you'll find plenty of opportunities to build passive income as an artist. The key here is to evaluate what you want, how much you want to earn extra, and what passive income opportunity suits you as an artist.
With the ideas we share, you can build a passive income and work your way through financial stability while still keeping up with your duties as an artist.
Is passive income for artists truly passive?
Most passive income sources for artists are truly passive, meaning you don't have to work. However, such sources need some foundation to start.
In general, you won't necessarily have a passive income source without doing anything apart from being an artist. But, in most cases, you must work and spare some time and effort to start. Afterward, passive income starts, and you enjoy the benefits of your work.
Having a passive income isn't as easy as wanting it. As an artist, you should note that any income requires work. The only difference is that most passive income sources only require initial work.
On the other hand, some passive income sources would need you to spare some time, effort, and even some resources to continue. Such a thing is completely normal, and as an artist, you know you're doing it right when it's not so easy.
Conclusion
Online passive income is an excellent option if you are an artist looking for ways to make some extra money. Several options are available, and many of them can be started with little to no investment.
Do your research, find something that interests you, and get started! You may be surprised at how quickly those extra dollars start adding up. What have you got to lose?
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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.
