80 Small-Scale Business Ideas You Can Start Today [2024]

Updated: July 24th, 2023

Interested in starting a small-scale business in 2024?

We put together 79 of the best small-scale businesses you can start in today.

For each business idea, we’ll show you real-world examples of other small-scale businesses to help you see what it really takes.

Here's the full list:

1. Build an iPhone app

The iPhone is the most popular mobile device in the world. It has changed how we interact with information, entertainment, and communication.

The iPhone has also changed the way we interact with each other. Since its release in 2007, it has become a staple in most people’s lives. It is more than just a phone; it is a tool for staying connected to friends and family and creating new connections.

The iPhone app market is an ever-changing landscape of innovation: it’s not just about making something that works well; it’s about creating something that stands out from the crowd.

It would help if you had something that appeals to your audience to succeed in this market. This can be as simple as ensuring your app has a catchy name or as complex as developing an entire brand identity around your app’s functionality.

How much you can make: $150 — $2,000,000/month

How long does it take to build: 190 days (?)

Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week

How I Created A $60K/Month App That Collects In-Person Payments Through Stripe

Payment.co, an app built on top of the Stripe payment gateway for creating card-present charges, has grown to process over $70M in volume annually since launching in 2015, with the app collecting a 1% service fee on every single charge.

Read by 23,496 founders

2. 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

How I Started A $100K+/Month Home Cleaning Service For Busy Individuals And Airbnb Hosts

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.

Read by 21,827 founders

3. Start a dessert boxes store

Gifting is a culture that cements how we relate to those close to us. Consumer goods stores have innovated various gifting methods and dessert boxes happen to be one of them.

If you love baking and you have a passion for entrepreneurship, starting a dessert boxes store can be a highly rewarding venture.

Here are some ideas for your inspiration.

How much you can make: $2,000 — $500,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 75 days (?)

I Make $1.5M/Year Shipping Chocolate Penises To Your Friends

Dick At Your Door is an e-commerce shop that grew almost 10x within the last eight months by selling anonymous pranks such as 5 oz chocolate penises, and its founder shares his journey that started as a joke to becoming a professional chocolatier.

Read by 16,660 founders

4. Start a SEO agency

An SEO agency is a company that provides search engine optimization services to businesses. The function of an SEO agency is to help businesses rank higher in search engines through organic or paid means.

SEO is a rapidly growing industry, with experts across all aspects of the field already making six-figure incomes and expecting to see these earnings grow dramatically over the next few years. Getting into SEO today, before it gets too saturated, will allow you to establish a strong base in a new career, with an excellent chance for success.

It’s easier than ever to start your SEO agency. The tools are there, and the competition isn’t as stiff as it used to be. If you’re considering starting an SEO or digital marketing agency, it might be a good idea to learn how other digital agencies succeed.

How much you can make: $1,000 — $1,800,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)

How I Started An SEO Agency For Lawyers Generating $3.6M/Year

Rankings.io is a hyper-focused SEO agency that helps elite personal injury law firms dominate first page rankings and was ranked #858 in the Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing companies in America for 2018, with a current revenue just under $300,000 per month, with plans for a record-breaking year.

Read by 38,807 founders

5. Start a freelance writing business

Freelance writing can be a good career choice if you are looking for a flexible online job.

Working as a freelancer gives you the flexibility to define your work schedule. You can work from home at any time. Freelance writers work across various niches, writing about various topics assigned by the client,

To earn good money as a freelance writer, you need the following personal qualities:

  • Strong writing skills
  • Ability to meet deadlines
  • Stay on the cutting edge
  • Be a self-starter
  • Be up-to-date with the current writing tools & writing trends
  • Proper communication skills

How much you can make: $700 — $500,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 56 days (?)

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

6. Start a transcribing service business

Looking for a business that leverages your attention to detail and typing skills? A transcribing service might be what you're searching for.

In simple terms, transcribing involves converting audio or video recordings into written text. This service is valuable for industries like legal, medical, or media that require accurate documentation of spoken content.

The demand is consistent, but it’s not without its challenges—accuracy and speed are crucial. You'll need a good ear, patience, and the ability to handle different accents and technical jargon. With the right tools and a bit of practice, these can be manageable.

A transcribing service can be started with minimal investment, relying primarily on your ability to market your service and build a clientele. If you’re detail-oriented and looking for a flexible business, this could be your next endeavor.

How much you can make: $2,000 — $200,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)

How I Started A $3K/Month Transcription And Typing Service

A South African entrepreneur started a transcription and typing service business from home in 2005 with a few basic marketing strategies and solid service, despite challenges in a tough economic environment and the pandemic, and is making a success of virtual working with versatile services.

Read by 4,831 founders

7. Become a proofreader

Proofreading business is a service that helps customers review their written work and ensure it is ready for publication. Typically, a proofreader corrects grammatical errors and provides the written piece meets any relevant style guide.

As a proofreader, you can work online, allowing you to choose what time to work.

If you plan to start a professional proofreading business, make sure you possess the following skills:

  • Have an excellent grasp of grammar
  • Ability to correct mistakenly capitalized words
  • Familiarity with the proper use of capitalization
  • Use spell-checkers to flag misspelled words

Proofreading is a great way to enhance content quality. With the increased use of written content marketing to reach a broader market, the demand for professional proofreaders has grown tremendously. Professional proofreaders earn an average of $12/hr. And $30/hr.

Therefore, consider proofreading as a business if you are looking for a great side hustle idea or simply looking for ways to increase your income.

How much you can make: $2,000/month

How I Added $2,000 To My Monthly Income Proofreading Blog Posts

A proofreader was able to build a consistent income of ~$2,000 per month from scratch with zero experience in the field, no expenses, and barely any upfront costs by targeting bloggers and content creators who want their content to be copy edited and proofread.

Read by 15,013 founders

8. Start a catering business

A catering business is responsible for providing food & beverage-related services for vast types of events.

Catering businesses are known to be more flexible than other businesses because they don’t have to worry about location or pricing and can even work 24/7. They can cater anywhere and offer any price point that they want.

However, starting a catering business requires a lot of planning.

To start a successful catering business , you'll need to plan and prepare menus, manage budgets, handle clients, and more.

In addition, catering allows you to meet more people and show off your cooking skills.

How much you can make: $4,000 — $6,000,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

Pivoting From Social Media Aggregator To $6M/Month People Search Tool

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.

Read by 20,898 founders

9. Start a sewing and alteration business

Do you have sewing skills and looking for an entrepreneurship opportunity? You can start your sewing and alteration business.

A sewing and alteration business offers customers clothing repair, custom tailoring, button replacement, and other alterations. You can start a sewing and alteration business at home or set up a retail location.

To start a sewing and alteration business, you will need a commercial-grade sewing machine and a marketing strategy, so target customers learn about your business.

How much you can make: $200 — $6,500/month

How I'm Turning My Patch Embroidery Side Project Into A Full Time Business

A patch embroidery business based in New York City has grown to earn $6,500 per month on average within 18 months of starting, thanks to no custom embroidered minimum patches and a strong Instagram presence, with a future focus on B2B customers.

Read by 14,821 founders

10. Start an online fitness business

Thinking of starting an online fitness business?

Online fitness is growing rapidly in popularity because it’s convenient, affordable, and accessible to everyone. The best part is that you can stay in your home to start.

Starting an online fitness business can be a great way to make money and help people. When you start an online fitness business, you don’t have to worry about overhead costs like rent or maintaining a physical location - all you need is a computer and an internet connection to get started.

How much you can make: $2,000 — $500,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $2,500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)

How I Started A $48K/Month Business With An Online Fitness Training Service

This case study is about a former personal trainer who launched his online personal training platform, TeamFFLEX, starting with no money and a lot of drive, and grew it into a 6-figure business in less than a year, now doing $48,000 a month with potential for continued growth.

Read by 26,258 founders

11. Start an antique business

Owning an antique and vintage business can be fulfilling and profitable for those targeting the elite.

Antique businesses focus on procuring items at a low price and restoring them, then selling them at a profit. The items can include old toys, cars, bikes, household items, crafts, vintage jewelry, etc.

Opening an antique item store may seem somewhat daunting. However, once you have researched the items available and acquired the necessary skills and expertise, you will be ready to kick off.

For some, a storefront with enough storage for antique items might fit the bill. For others, an online store will work pretty well. Regardless of your approach, the secret is applying your entrepreneurship strategies to an overall framework for success.

How much you can make: $15,000/month

How I Left A 25-Year Career To Start A $15K/Month Antiques Restoration Business

How a former educator built a successful antique restoration business from scratch, growing from a 2-car garage to a 2200 sq. ft. space over seven years, thanks to communication skills, dedication to organization, regular website updates, and utilization of Google My Business and Maps.

Read by 10,178 founders

12. 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 (?)

How I Took Food Trucks Corporate And Built A $18M Business

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.

Read by 15,654 founders

13. Start a real estate business

Are you a qualified architect with a broad range of knowledge in the real estate field? Starting a real estate business can be a profitable venture.

Real estate involves purchasing, selling, managing, or investing in land and buildings.

To become a successful real estate business owner, you must have finely honed visual awareness and a strong understanding of various building materials and structures.

How much you can make: $1,500 — $1,500,000/month

How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)

How I Started A $500K/Month Real Estate Investment Business

This case study is about T. C. Lewis & Co, a real estate investment and management firm that successfully diversified their approach to include sales, development, remodeling, and construction, with property management being the key to investor doors and organic growth.

Read by 12,046 founders

14. Become a chocolate maker

Rarely do you come across someone who does not love chocolate. That’s good reason to start a chocolate making business!

According to statistics, the global chocolate market size is expected to grow at a CAGR rate of 4.6%.

Starting a chocolate business can yield profits in any part of the world. However, to achieve the high profit margins, you ought to make chocolate with quality ingredients. Then, create a niche with a unique selling proposition.

How much you can make: $12,000/month

Selling Dog-Themed Chocolate and Donating All Profits to Animal Rescue

Rescue Chocolate is an NYC-based vegan, organic and fair-traded chocolate company that donates profits to animal rescue organizations and has partnered with hundreds of fundraising groups in 8 years.

Read by 7,286 founders

15. Start a youtube channel

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

How This Couple Makes $5K/Month Generating Content About Ways To Make Money Online

Learn how this entrepreneurial couple made $5-7k a month by helping others find legitimate work from home jobs and creative ways to make money online through their blog and YouTube channel, as well as offering two flagship products designed to help beginner freelancers and new bloggers accelerate growth.

Read by 14,508 founders

16. Start a mobile photography business

Want to start your own photography business? You're not alone. With the rise of social media and photo-sharing, blogging, and online retailing, it's never been easier to start making money behind your camera.

There are photographers shooting weddings, creating images for ad campaigns, freelancing for magazines, touring the world, taking photographs of destinations — the list is endless!

To start mobile photography , research the target audience and determine which specialization area is more lucrative. Invest in high-quality, professional cameras, lenses, and a computer with professional software photo-editing software.

How much you can make: $2,000 — $500,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 190 days (?)

Embracing the Experience Economy with a $300K/mo Photo Booth Startup

Photobooth Supply Co. offers a profitable business opportunity through their sleek and portable photo booths, with up to 97% satisfaction rate and a focus on customer experience, in a fast-growing event industry where photo booths are exploding.

Read by 16,909 founders

17. 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 (?)

How I Started A $120K/Month Online Course For Social Media Marketing Agencies

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.

Read by 15,822 founders

18. Start a clothing boutique

If you have an eye for fashion trends and retail experience, opening a clothing boutique can be a great opportunity for you to tap into the lucrative fashion retail industry and be your own boss.

To succeed in this venture, you need to identify your target customers, curate your inventory to match their style and leverage social media marketing to build a loyal following and grow your business rapidly.

Focusing on specific customer segments, such as petite, plus-size, budget-conscious customers, or underserved groups instead of competing with major chains can further help you stand out in the market.

Opening a specialized clothing boutique lets you monetize your passion while serving customers that traditional stores often ignore.

How much you can make: $500 — $600,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

How I Grew My Clothing Boutique to $10K/Month in 6 Months

Boutique Rye is an online-only women's clothing and accessories boutique that has grown to 3,200 Facebook Group members and a successful website through organic customer sharing, live sales, and open communication with customers.

Read by 36,945 founders

19. Start a tour company

Starting a tour company is a great way to bring your love of travel to life. You can share your passion with others and help make their dream vacations come true!

There are many types of tour businesses, so choosing something you are passionate about and knowledgeable about is best. Here are a few of the most popular tour companies to start:

  • Food & Drink Tours
  • Adventure & Sporting Tours
  • Sightseeing & Historical Tours
  • Shopping Tours
  • and many more!

It’s also essential to determine what mode of transportation you want for your tour company, as this will determine the initial startup costs needed for your company.

To get started, find out if you need a license to operate in your state. Some states require tour companies to be licensed, while others do not. If you are required to be licensed, talk with the licensing agency to find out what steps must be taken before you can apply for that license.

How much you can make: $3,750 — $500,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $2,500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

How I Started A Wildly Successful Food Tour Business

How Jessica Baumgart founded a successful food tour business in Denver, which broke even and started making a profit after just three months, generating $20,000/month in revenue from offering different food tour experiences.

Read by 21,177 founders

20. Start a food parlour business

21. Start a smoothie company

Over the next five years, the smoothie market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.3%.

This increase is attributed to the growing consumption of healthy beverages in emerging economies and a greater awareness of the need to live a healthier lifestyle.

Starting a smoothie company today can create a lucrative business opportunity. Before starting a smoothie company, research its benefits and overall profitability.

Also, research the requirements you need to operate the smoothie company in your area without stress from the authorities.

22. Start a medical store business

A medical store is a retail establishment that sells healthcare products, medicines, and wellness items.

These stores typically provide a range of over-the-counter and prescription medications, along with health and hygiene products like vitamins, first aid supplies, and personal care items.

For someone interested in starting this business, it offers the opportunity to serve the community by providing essential health-related products and contributing to public well-being.

The medical store business is lucrative due to the consistent demand for healthcare items, and as people prioritize their health, the market for these products remains stable, making it a promising venture for aspiring entrepreneurs.

How much you can make: $84,999/month

How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)

How I Started And Grew A $1M Medical Clinic

A physician-founded clinic in Southeast Michigan has skyrocketed to success, generating $85k monthly revenue, expanding to multiple locations, and offering a blend of urgent, primary, and obesity care through nimble adaptation and strategic use of technology.

Read by 128 founders

23. Become a yoga instructor

The first step to becoming a yoga instructor is obtaining a certification from an instructor-affiliated institution near you. Your next step should be drawing up a business plan considering various projections. Finally, determine whether to open a brick-and-mortar establishment, offer online yoga classes, or a hybrid model.

The option has far more responsibilities for brick-and-mortar establishments, like paying rent and utility expenses. Also, check business-zoning requirements and acquire the required licenses. Proper marketing strategies will help you build clientele fast and grow your business.

How much you can make: $59,000 — $60,000/month

How long does it take to build: 282 days (?)

How I Started A $60K/Month Personal Training Company

Live Fit, a personal training company founded in 2011, grew from earning $80,000 in their first year with two trainers to earning over $760,000 in 2019 with 12 trainers and two locations, thanks to a focus on building trusting relationships and providing a variety of services to clients.

Read by 8,577 founders

24. Start a marketing consulting business

Marketing consulting is a business that helps other businesses and organizations improve their marketing strategies and tactics. The improvement involves conducting market research, analyzing data, developing marketing plans, and offering guidance on effectively reaching target audiences.

To start a marketing consulting business, you will need a strong understanding of marketing principles and how to apply them in a business context. Marketing consultancy requires formal education or training in marketing or a related field and experience working in the industry. You will also need strong communication and problem-solving skills to consult with clients effectively.

To operate a successful marketing consulting business, you will need to be able to effectively assess a client’s marketing needs and develop a plan to address those needs. Managing clients’ needs involve market research, analyzing data, and creating marketing materials such as brochures, websites, and social media campaigns. You will also need to be able to communicate your recommendations to clients and work with them to implement the marketing plan.

In addition to these technical skills, you will also need to be able to manage your business effectively. Managing a business involves setting fees, marketing your services to potential clients, and managing your finances.

Overall, a marketing consulting business can be a rewarding and challenging career for those passionate about helping businesses succeed through effective marketing strategies.

How much you can make: $100 — $1,250,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)

How I Started A Successful Podcast Production Company

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.

Read by 19,195 founders

25. Start a mobile store

26. Start a lawn care service

Are you ready to begin your lawn care business and be your boss? A lawncare business offers lawn aeration, Seeding, fertilizing, soil acidity tests, and controlling weeds, among other services. If you love creating amazing landscapes, consider starting a lawn care company.

To start lawn care legally and run it profitably, you must register the business legally. You can get into a franchise or start a business from scratch. Decide what lawn care services you will offer and your target clients.

To offer effective service, purchase lawn care equipment, and hire skilled lawn care personnel.

How much you can make: $10,000 — $375,000/month

How long does it take to build: 75 days (?)

Uber For Lawn Care: How I Built A $30M Software

GreenPal has bootstrapped their business to over $30 million a year in revenue, after securing an unsecured line of credit for $85,000, and have built the operating system and platform for small lawncare companies to run their entire business through, becoming live in all 50 US states and having 1.2 million homeowners using the platform.

Read by 5,247 founders

27. Start a seasonal items business

Seasonal items are always in demand, and starting a seasonal items business could be your ticket to tapping into a consistent stream of eager customers.

This venture involves rotating your inventory to match the needs of each season—think holiday decorations, summer beach gear, winter sports equipment, and more. You’ll need to source products, manage inventory transitions, and market your goods effectively across different times of the year.

Why consider it? Seasonal items often spark excitement and drive impulse buys, leading to brisk sales. Plus, the rotating stock keeps your business fresh and ever-relevant, attracting repeat customers eager to see what’s new each season.

If you're strategic about your product choices and marketing efforts, a seasonal items business can be both rewarding and constantly engaging.

28. Start a bakery

Everyone loves baked goods, be it sweet items like cakes, muffins, and cookies or savory baked food like pizzas, buns, bread, and puff pastry. Baking takes a lot of effort and patience, which is why many people buy baked items from stores or restaurants instead of baking them at home.

Starting a bakery can be a rewarding business opportunity if you have a passion for baking. If you plan to start a bakery, consider that happy customers often become repeat customers. Therefore, always focus on quality and work on customer satisfaction.

To start a bakery , pick an ideal format. Some options include:

  • Counter-style bakery
  • A hybrid bakery with a cafe,
  • Food truck with a bakery
  • Home bakery.

Write a suitable business plan and choose the correct location.

How much you can make: $2,500 — $25,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,250 (?)

How long does it take to build: 75 days (?)

How This Couple Left France To Build Their "American Dream:" A Six-Figure Online French Bakery

French chef and founder of online bakery Pastreez, Anthony Rosemond, shares keys to success including validating ideas with the market, focusing on SEO and organic growth, building customer relationships through email and SMS, never offering discounts but offering freebies, and diversifying the business with new products and content on social media.

Read by 8,073 founders

29. Start a video game parlor

A video game parlor is a business that provides a space for people to play video games, either on a console or computer. The business typically charges customers an hourly or daily fee to access the gaming systems and may also offer food and drinks for purchase.

To run a successful video game parlor, it is essential to have various games available for customers. This can include the latest and most popular games and older classic titles. Keeping the gaming systems and equipment well-maintained and in good working order is also essential.

Another critical aspect of running a successful video game parlor is creating a welcoming and enjoyable customer atmosphere. This can include comfortable seating, clean and well-lit facilities, and friendly and helpful staff. It is also essential to have strict rules for behavior and enforce them to ensure a positive experience for all customers.

Finally, it is crucial to have a strong marketing and advertising strategy to attract and retain customers. This can include social media campaigns, advertising in local publications, and hosting events or tournaments.

Overall, a video game parlor can be a fun and lucrative business opportunity for entrepreneurs passionate about gaming and creating a positive customer environment.

30. Start an internet service provider business

The global broadband internet services market has grown significantly over the past decade. As the work-from-home culture becomes the new normal, more people will need a network connection. Therefore, starting an internet service provider business can be a lucrative opportunity.

You must get your ISP license approval and invest in network infrastructure to start an ISP business.

How much you can make: $30,000 — $430,000/month

How long does it take to build: 221 days (?)

How I Built A Wireless Carrier Company At 28 And Grew It To $430K/Monthly Revenue

This case study is about how Chaymeriyia Moncrief launched Tesix Wireless Network, a prepaid wireless carrier with around 7,000 mobile subscribers and an average monthly revenue of $430,000 from mobile subscriptions, box sells, and activations kits, targeting young adults and millennials who want lower phone services, zero fees, no contracts, and zero limits on their data by leveraging influencers, raising funds, and building an online presence.

Read by 3,187 founders

31. Start a toys store

Starting a toy store can be a fun and rewarding business opportunity for anyone looking to tap into the lucrative toy industry. The business involves sourcing and selling a wide range of toys and games for children of all ages. This could include everything from classic board games and dolls to the latest electronic gadgets and tech toys.

To start a toy store, you will need to do market research to identify what toys are prevalent in your area and what age groups you will target.

You will also need to secure a physical location for your store, whether a standalone shop or a space within a shopping mall. You will also need to stock your store with a wide range of products and decide on a pricing strategy to attract customers while allowing you to profit.

Running a toy store involves a lot of customer interaction, so excellent customer service skills are necessary. You will also need good business management skills to handle inventory, pricing, and sales.

Marketing your store through social media and local advertising can also help bring in customers and drive sales.

Starting a toy store can be a fun and rewarding business opportunity for anyone with a passion for toys and a desire to bring joy to children. With the proper planning and execution, you can turn your toy store into a thriving business.

How much you can make: $1,661 — $250,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,500 (?)

How I Started A 1.6K/Month LEGO Reselling Business At The Age Of 14

A high school student turned his love for LEGO into a $1.6k/month business, Summerfield's Toys, by reselling sets online through eBay, BrickLink, and Facebook Marketplace, in addition to buying and reselling brand new sets.

Read by 27,915 founders

32. Start a customized gifts business

Looking to turn a love for unique, personalized items into a profitable venture? Consider starting a customized gifts business. This involves creating bespoke items like engraved jewelry, custom-made mugs, or tailored wall art, catering specifically to each customer's preferences.

Customization allows you to tap into the growing market for personalized experiences, providing gifts that customers feel deeply connected to. Setting up this business requires creativity, a good eye for detail, and some basic design skills, but the reward is a loyal clientele who come back for unique, memorable gifts.

You don't need a large inventory; instead, you'll work on-demand, making items as orders come in. Platforms like Etsy or your own Shopify store can help you reach a broader audience. It's ideal for those who enjoy hands-on work and have a knack for creating things that stand out. Turn your passion for crafting into a thriving business.

How much you can make: $1,000 — $749,997/month

How much does it cost to start: $8,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

How We Built A $468K/Year Corporate Gift Platform That Services 200+ Countries

Discover how Giftsenda harnessed 18 years of international gift delivery expertise to process over 40,000 orders in 200+ countries during one holiday season, and offers a gifting platform that slashes campaign costs by up to 85% for Sales & Marketing teams.

Read by 5,204 founders

33. Become a mobile makeup artist

A makeup artist is a beautician who offers general makeup services, including facial aesthetics, thorough makeup, and creating custom looks for celebrities and even actors on movie sets.

You can serve clients from their homes or offices as a makeup artist. Therefore, makeup artists avoid paying rent or paying expensive licenses. Besides, makeup artists get to meet different famous people.

To stand out as a professional makeup artist , keep up with the developments in the cosmetology industry, and focus on providing personalized customer service.

34. Open an ice cream parlour

Ice cream is something that people of all ages equally enjoy globally, making it a profitable business to venture into.

This frozen dessert industry has registered massive growth in recent years, a trend that shows the industry’s potential.

If you are looking to start your ice cream business, follow these steps:

  • Decide whether to make your ice cream or to source from established ice cream brands
  • Write an effective business plan for the ice cream shop detailing the goals, strategies, and plans
  • Fund your business idea
  • Choose a spacious shop in an area with plenty of foot traffic
  • Offer different ice cream flavors

Opening an ice cream parlor is not easy work. However, if you do it right, it is rewarding and can be a lot of fun.

How much you can make: $16,000 — $400,000/month

How long does it take to build: 730 days (?)

On Starting A $16K/Month Handmade Natural Ice Cream Business

The Good Scoop, a California-based artisanal ice cream shop, started with a small Italian countertop ice cream maker and now has a production facility, wholesaling to various venues, offering frequent scooper programs, and using Instagram as their primary advertising platform.

Read by 16,159 founders

35. Start an online hobby classes

Online hobby classes are an excellent business opportunity for those passionate about a particular skill or activity. To start an online hobby class business, you need a website or platform to host your classes, a high-quality camera and microphone, and a well-organized curriculum.

The online education industry is expected to reach $350 billion by 2025, making now a great time to start this business. To operate your business successfully, you should offer high-quality classes and be responsive to students’ needs. By providing a positive learning experience, you can build a loyal customer base and generate positive reviews.

Starting an online hobby class business allows you to share your skills and turn your hobby into a successful business.

How much you can make: $1,000 — $7,800,000/month

How We Developed And Launched A Platform To Find Tutors And Online Classes

MillionCenters is a hyperlocal TUTOR/COACHING-CENTER connecting platform that aims to be the one-stop platform for all learning needs, with 50,000 plus downloads and growing in double digits growth rate month-over-month and a customer acquisition rate of USD 1.

Read by 8,732 founders

36. Become a wedding planner

A wedding planner assists with designing, planning, and managing a wedding, so the bride and groom have the happiest day. Wedding planners enjoy a flexible working schedule and opportunities to travel locally and globally, and it’s a great career with numerous growth opportunities.

To start a wedding planning business, identify your target clientele and study their wedding cultures so you can offer the clients excellent service. Remember, excellent wedding planning is all about having the passion and knowing how to harness that passion for designing weddings that bring out the emotions of those in attendance.

How much you can make: $774 — $200,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $6,735 (?)

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

How Starting The New York Food Truck Association Resulted In A $200K/Month Business

How a former food truck owner founded the successful New York Food Truck Association which generated over $1M in its first year of business, providing local vendors with high-margin ancillary revenue streams, and saw consistent growth of 50% YoY.

Read by 8,622 founders

37. Start a babysitting business

Babysitting service entails providing baby care to infants and children either in their homes, with registered caregivers, or in a child care center. A babysitting service requires a low startup cost and is a low overhead business with high profit margins.

The target market includes affluent and middle-income families where both parents are working. Baby sitters earn a fixed monthly income or are paid per hour depending on the agreement that suits both sides.

38. Start a funeral service

For many, death is one of the most challenging life events. For that reason, starting a funeral business may sound awkward and unconventional. However, if you think about it, death is a “natural” and essential part of life. Therefore, starting a funeral business can be a profitable business idea. A funeral service provides the following services:

  • Burial services
  • Cremation services
  • Repatriation services
  • Memorial services
  • Pet cremation
  • Exhumation Services

If you are starting a funeral service, you may choose some or all of the above services.

39. Start a provision store business

40. Start a food supply business

Running a food supply business offers a rewarding opportunity to meet a universal need. At its core, this venture involves sourcing, transporting, and distributing food products to restaurants, grocery stores, and institutions.

The business hinges on building strong relationships with farmers, wholesalers, and retailers to ensure a consistent flow of high-quality goods. Securing reliable suppliers and efficient logistics networks will be time-consuming, requiring careful planning and negotiation.

However, the work pays off. As the demand for fresh, locally sourced, and exotic foods continues to rise, your role as a food supplier becomes indispensable. You get to be the linchpin of the food industry, ensuring that kitchens are stocked and meals are served. If you have a knack for logistics, a passion for quality food, and the ability to manage complex operations, then running a food supply business could be a fulfilling and profitable endeavor.

How much you can make: $385,000 — $1,500,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 370 days (?)

How I Took Food Trucks Corporate And Built A $18M Business

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.

Read by 15,654 founders

41. Start a nanny placement service business

Starting a nanny placement service can be a rewarding and lucrative business idea for anyone passionate about helping families find the best care for their children. This type of business involves matching qualified nannies with families needing childcare services.

To start a nanny placement service, you will need to understand the local market and the needs of families in your area. You will also need to be well-connected with nannies and have a thorough screening process to ensure that you only work with the most qualified and reliable candidates.

To run a successful nanny placement service, you will need to have excellent communication skills and build relationships with families and nannies. You will also need to be able to negotiate fair wages and contracts and be able to handle any conflicts that may arise.

In addition to these skills, you will also need a solid business plan, including marketing strategies and financial planning. You will also need to be able to handle the administrative tasks involved in running a business, such as billing and payroll.

Starting a nanny placement service is a great business idea for anyone who is organized, detail-oriented, and passionate about helping families find the best childcare solutions. With hard work and dedication, you can create a successful and fulfilling business that helps families and nannies alike.

42. Start an accounting firm

Accounting firms provide audit, assurance, consulting, financial advisory, risk management, and tax compliance services.

Professionals are increasingly choosing to work independently rather than for employers. Thus, you may consider starting an accounting firm if you are an accountant.

To ensure a successful business, you must have a blend of accounting skills and experience. Like starting any other business, you must have the drive and the initiative to start your business.

Overall, the success of an accounting firm depends on marketing your services.

How much you can make: $8,000 — $500,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)

How We Started A $8K/Month Bookkeeping, Tax And CFO Service

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.

Read by 10,133 founders

43. Start an organic farm

An organic farm uses ecologically based pest control and biological fertilizers derived from animal and plant wastes.

More people have become conscious of the health benefits of organic farm produce. As a result, the demand for organic farm produce is overgrowing, creating a business opportunity for farmers across the globe.

Therefore, if you are interested in organic farming, consider starting the business. You do not need massive land to begin your organic farm.

Start with creating an organic farm in your backyard using vertical farming. You can grow flowers, vegetables, or cereals on your organic farm.

44. Start a marriage bureau business

Looking to connect people in love but unsure where to start? Consider launching a marriage bureau business. This venture involves matching individuals interested in marriage by providing an organized, systematic approach to finding compatible partners.

At its core, a marriage bureau requires you to build a database of clients, understand their preferences, and set them up with potential matches. You'll handle everything from initial consultations to follow-up meetings, ensuring a personalized experience for each client.

Interest in this business grows from its timeless demand—meeting the need for meaningful connections in a busy world. Despite the effort in managing client expectations and maintaining privacy, the satisfaction derived from successful matches can be deeply rewarding.

If the idea of helping people find lifelong partners intrigues you, a marriage bureau could be the perfect business to start. With an aptitude for matchmaking and dedication to client happiness, you could facilitate many happily ever afters.

How much you can make: $30,000 — $50,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 1 days (?)

How I Started A Multi-Million Dollar Marriage Proposal Planning Business

Michele Velazquez's Marriage Proposal Planning company, The Heart Bandits, has made over $5M planning proposals for NFL athletes and busy executives across 5 continents.

Read by 12,477 founders

45. Start a hot air balloon ride business

46. Start a foreign language training business

Are you interested in starting a foreign language training business? Great!. Language training can be a rewarding and lucrative business idea, especially if you have a passion for teaching and a talent for languages.

You will need some basic materials and resources to start a foreign language training business. First, you must choose which language(s) you will teach. It’s essential to have a strong foundation in the language(s) you plan to teach, so it may be necessary to take additional courses or become certified in the language(s) you choose. You will also need to create a curriculum and materials for your classes, such as textbooks and worksheets.

You will need to find students to take your classes to operate your business. Finding students can be done through advertising and marketing, such as creating a website or social media presence and reaching out to local schools and businesses. You will also need to decide on a pricing structure for your classes, whether by the hour, session, or course.

Teaching foreign languages can be a rewarding and fulfilling business, especially if you have a passion for language learning and teaching. You can start and operate a successful foreign language training business with some basic materials and resources.

How much you can make: $120,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $60 (?)

How long does it take to build: 5 days (?)

How I Started A 7-Figure Online Language Learning Platform Thanks To SEO

Live Lingua, an online language learning platform, built a 7-figure business on a bootstrap budget using SEO and launched thanks to the Mexican swine flu, with the company now growing at around 20% a year every year since then.

Read by 4,764 founders

47. Start a party planning business

Party planning involves budgeting, establishing party timelines, selecting and reserving ideal party sites, acquiring permits, theme décor, and coordinating party catering and transportation.

Are you organized, creative, and client-focused? You can put those skills into starting a successful party planning business. To become a party planner, you must desire to help other people enjoy themselves. Besides, you need diplomacy, salesmanship, and multitasking skills.

How much you can make: $3,500 — $500,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)

Time commitment per week: Min. 6 hours/week

How I Started A $35K/Month Event Decor Business

Akshay Patel's event rental and decor business, Simply Decor, Tents, and Events, saw an average ticket price of $2,000, as their advertising budget decreased from $20k to $5k, leading to 40% of their clients coming through social media advertising, 30% from expos, and 30% online in google, yahoo, and other platforms.

Read by 17,922 founders

48. Start a chatbot development business

Businesses use conversational AI chatbots to take customer engagement to the next level. Typically, chatbots deliver consistent responses to customers, which helps the business avoid issuing irrelevant or misguiding details to the customers.

As more people focus on using the internet in shopping, education, and research, businesses are deploying chatbots to provide 24/7/365 support to their customers.

For example, online shoppers interact with businesses through chatbots, while students can use chatbots to help with their studies and research.

Therefore, starting a chatbot development business can be a lucrative venture.

How much you can make: $7,500 — $180,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $750 (?)

How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)

How My AI Side Project Grew To $15K MRR In Just A Few Months

This case study article is about the founder of SiteGPT, an AI chatbot platform, who started the company as a side project and achieved $15k MRR in just 6 months, overcoming challenges such as building the first version of the product and finding product-market fit.

Read by 7,762 founders

49. Start an insurance agency

Are you hoping to start an agency in the service industry? How about starting your own insurance agency?

In the past decade, the insurance industry contributed more to the US GDP than banks for the first time. Insurance statistics show that the industry has been pretty good lately, and the trend is not slowing anytime soon. Factors driving growth in the insurance sector include sustained economic growth, better interest rates, and greater investment income. Besides, insurance companies adopted investments in technological and operational efficiencies during the pandemic, a move that has helped the industry thrive.

Perhaps you are an insurance agent wanting to quit a 9 to 5 job and start a new chapter of self-employment. Or maybe you are considering a career change and seeing potential in the insurance industry. Whatever the reason for wanting to start an insurance agency, it can be a great idea.

However, building an insurance agency is no small task. Ensure you have enough equity and get ready to work hard and make smart decisions.

How much you can make: $250,000/month

How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)

I Offer Visa Insurance For English Speakers In France [& Make $3M/Year]

Fabien grew FAB FRENCH INSURANCE from scratch with just $10k, achieving a turnover of over $2.5M after just six years in business, by focusing on the English-speaking community living in France and using affiliate marketing and automating the quotation process online to streamline lead generation and weed out customers who weren't willing to get into the sales funnel.

Read by 2,989 founders

50. Start a soap making business

Are you looking for an easy business you can start from home? Soap making is a relatively easy cottage business you can start today.

Soap is one of the products you will find in every household. Therefore, soap is a product that will remain in demand, making soap making business a lucrative idea.

To start a soap-making business from home, research the competition and choose the niche your business will focus on. You can make scented soaps mixed with essential oils or non-scented soaps for washing utensils.

Choose a business name and create a business plan indicating your entity type, mission statement, and soap marketing strategy.

How much you can make: $1,200 — $20,000/month

How long does it take to build: 747 days (?)

On Starting A Homemade Organic Soap Brand From The Kitchen

Kiss My Crown Essentials founder Warnisha Foster shares her journey from creating organic soap products in her kitchen to selling over 500 soaps in her first month with a mission to let mothers know that they are seen, beautiful, and a necessity.

Read by 7,641 founders

51. Start an aquarium house business

The aquarium business stocks a variety of home aquariums and supplies, along with a varied stock of freshwater and saltwater fish. Also, an aquarium business offers system startup and maintenance.

Starting an aquarium is a very profitable retail business. Luckily, starting an aquarium business in metropolitan cities is very easy. To start an aquarium business, write a plan and find an ideal commercial space for the company.

Before launching the ornamental fish business, you should know how big the market is, conduct a competition analysis to determine who you are against, and craft a competitive strategy.

How much you can make: $5,800/month

How much does it cost to start: $1 (?)

How long does it take to build: 365 days (?)

How I Bought My Friends Business For $2500 And Grew It To $100K/Year

Aquarium maintenance business owner, Larry McGee, generates $100,000 annually servicing 60+ aquariums in central Arkansas-area businesses, while also offering offline and online marketing courses; his repeat customer base is key to his 25-year success.

Read by 4,665 founders

52. Start a mobile garage service

A mobile garage service involves a mechanic who performs vehicle repairs and maintenance in the customer's desired location.

With the global increase in total vehicle registrations, the demand for qualified mechanics has also increased. However, people are getting busier and prefer hiring a mobile garage service. If you are a qualified mechanic, starting a mobile garage service could open a new window of opportunities for your profession.

53. Start a scented sticks making business

Scented sticks are a convenient and long-lasting way to infuse a room with your favorite fragrances. Also known as reed diffusers, the scented sticks are a popular segment in the home fragrance market.

Key factors driving the high usage of reed diffusers include their increased use in residential and commercial places such as corporate offices, homes, restaurants, and even hotels.

To start a scented sticks-making business, define your niche, review customer demands, and research any gaps. Focus on filling the gaps by providing the features customers in your niche expect.

How much you can make: $2,500/month

How much does it cost to start: $100 (?)

How I Started A Candle Brand With $100 In 30 Days

Find out how a candle brand started with less than $100 and, in just eight months, achieved $5,000 in revenue, landed deals with major companies such as Greetabl and Kinder Beauty, and enjoyed a 86% profit margin thanks to its eco-friendly, handmade, and affordable candle products.

Read by 17,085 founders

54. Start a package drinking water business

55. Start a pickle business

Pickle is a juice of vegetables or fruits preserved in brine or vinegar. The global demand for packed pickles is snowballing, making it a viable fruit & vegetable business idea.

How much you can make: $10,000/month

How We Launched A Viral Pickle Juice To Cure Our Hangovers

Brine Brothers sells all-natural pickle brine (pickle juice), generating over $10,000/month and winning an investment from Barstool and Jon Taffer, and is determined to become a million-dollar beverage company.

Read by 15,932 founders

56. Start a designer lace business

57. Start a health club business

A health club business can be a rewarding venture that promotes wellness and community. In simple terms, it's about creating a space equipped with exercise machines, fitness classes, and wellness programs where people come to improve their health and fitness.

The appeal lies in serving the ever-growing need for physical fitness and well-being. You'll be managing facilities, hiring knowledgeable staff, and curating an inviting atmosphere that motivates members to achieve their fitness goals. But it’s not just about physical space; think beyond the gym – personal training, nutrition counseling, and online classes can diversify your offerings.

Wellness is a priority for many, and starting a health club harnesses this fact while helping people live healthier lives. If you're passionate about fitness and have a knack for business management, this could be the ideal venture to consider.

How much you can make: $59,000/month

How long does it take to build: 200 days (?)

My Neighborhood Gym Brings In £60K/Month

Discover the inspiring story of Alma Curry, founder of Meridian Fitness, as she shares her vision to create a holistic fitness community that offers top-notch training classes, affordable gym membership prices, and a variety of fitness programs for people of all ages.

Read by 1,118 founders

58. Start an ice cream cone production business

59. Start a buttons business

A button business involves creating and selling custom buttons to individuals and businesses. These buttons can be used for various purposes, including promotional materials, political campaigns, and personal expression.

To run a successful button business, it is essential to have a strong understanding of the market and the types of buttons that are in demand. This may involve conducting market research and staying up-to-date on industry trends. It is also essential to have a strong online presence, as many button orders are placed online. This may involve creating a website and social media accounts to showcase the business and its products.

Another critical aspect of running a successful button business can produce high-quality buttons in a timely and efficient manner. This may involve investing in the necessary equipment and materials, as well as having a reliable team in place to handle production.

Other tips for running a successful button business include offering various customization options, such as different sizes and shapes, and building relationships with clients by providing excellent customer service. It is also essential to focus on marketing and advertising efforts to reach new customers and drive sales.

60. Start a cotton buds business

Cotton buds are commonly used to clean the ear canals by removing earwax, applying and removal of makeup, and cleaning arts and craftwork.

Cotton bud business is one of the most profitable to start, and it is not difficult for any person who wants to get into entrepreneurship. One can launch a small-scale cotton bud manufacturing company and grow it by re-investing the profits.

61. Become a candle manufacturer

Candle manufacturing is one of the best small business ideas you can start from home. Making candles comes with a low startup cost and does not require much equipment. If you plan to start a candle manufacturing business, hone your craft and get comfortable with the candle-making process.

How much you can make: $4,000 — $1,000,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $5,200 (?)

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

Selling Over 4,500 Candles

Wax & Wick is a 100% soy candle company with wood wicks, that creates environmentally-friendly products; starting off making $1,000 a month in 2015, they brought in about $20,000 per month during Q3 2017 and plan to add ten new scents and a premium sized jar for 2018's $50,000 per month goal.

Read by 19,361 founders

62. Start a jute bags business

Jute, popularly known as the "natural fiber," is used for manufacturing various items, including sacks, furniture accessories, and other rustic threads. Jute fiber is reusable and biodegradable. Starting a jute bag-making business is a great decision.

Jute bag making is a low-cost investment that results in a highly demanded and fashionable bag, making the business a highly profitable opportunity.

63. Start a noodle business

We live in a fast-growing world where people prefer instant and fast-food preparation. As a result, the noodles market potential has tripled in urban and rural areas. The noodles market level is increasing daily due to the increase in customers. This trend makes the noodles business a lucrative opportunity for people of all ages.

Noodles business may consist of production, wholesale, and retailing service.

64. Start a shoe lace business

65. Start a tempered smartphone glass business

Global rapidly rising per capita income is fueling the demand for luxury, including smartphones and other mobile devices. The increased adoption of smartphones has opened up an opportunity for manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers of tempered smartphone glass.

Based on the current smartphone adoption rate, experts estimate that the global SmartScreen screen protector market will expand at a compounded annual growth rate of 6.8%. Thus, the smartphone screen protector business has become increasingly popular and provides many benefits to users.

66. Start a staple pins business

Are you looking for a low-investment and profitable business you can operate from home? Staple pins production could be the best choice for you. Staple pins are commonly used office stationery that attracts a high demand.

You can start a staple pins production business as a franchise, a sole proprietorship business, or a partnership with an established stationery business.

67. Start a cake decorating class

68. Start a paper manufacturer

Numerous businesses mesh well with the typical small business model of low overhead, low inventory, and low to moderate output. A paper manufacturing business is one such type of enterprise. There is a built-in marketplace for your product with little work involved in marketing. Paper is one of the most widely used materials with a wide range of applications in our day-to-day life. It also finds applications across industries such as packaging, publishing, etc.

Some popular paper products manufacturing business ideas include tissue paper manufacturing, kraft paper manufacturing, stone paper manufacturing, thermal paper manufacturing, butter paper manufacturing, art paper manufacturing, seed paper manufacturing, notebook manufacturing, and many more.

69. Start a daycare

Daycares provide educational, medical, and social services for the children of working parents either during school hours or when the parents are out of the home for an extended period of time. This can be a lucrative enterprise if you start a daycare in an area where it is needed.

As the growth of families has become dependent on two incomes, the need for quality daycare has skyrocketed. Starting a daycare business is challenging but rewarding. You will face many challenges but can overcome them as long as you are ready to make the sacrifices required.

70. Start a disposable plates and cups business

Nowadays, people are shifting towards disposable cutlery, not only as an affordable option but also as an eco-friendlier choice.

Disposable plates and cups are a single serving and can be recycled or disposed of easily. These eco-friendly plates and cups provide a more convenient option for serving eatables during events and parties.

Furthermore, experts estimate that demand for disposable cutlery will keep rising as people consistently adopt takeaway food chains, fast-food consumption, small commercial eateries, and even roadside food vendors.

With the need for disposable plates and cups set to increase, starting a business in this sector can be a lucrative opportunity. The opportunities in this industry range from manufacturing to wholesale to retail.

71. Start an envelopes and files business

Finding a niche in the everyday office supplies market might be your next big move. Envelopes and files are universally needed, whether for businesses, schools, or individuals. This venture involves producing or sourcing a range of envelopes and filing products, then selling them directly to consumers or businesses.

Starting this business requires a solid supply chain and understanding of paper products. Developing a network of reliable suppliers is crucial. Your focus will be on creating a diverse product range and effective marketing strategy to attract customers.

This industry presents a steady demand, making it a reliable business choice. Whether you choose to sell online or through a physical storefront, there's room to grow. For those looking to enter the office supplies market, starting an envelopes and files business can be a practical and rewarding endeavor.

How much you can make: $5,200/month

How I Built My Own Business Improving Online Dating Profiles

The Match Artist helps singles take amazing photos for their online dating profiles through a 3-hour executive shoot, coaching, and email course, pioneering a new genre of photography, with an average monthly revenue of $5,000-$6,000 and a plan to double down on paid ad campaigns in the future.

Read by 12,558 founders

72. Start a coconut hair oil business

Consumer demand for plant-based beauty products has increased tremendously. An excellent example of a plant-based beauty product that has seen high demand in recent years is coconut hair oil. According to experts, the coconut oil market size will exceed $7 Billion in the next few years.

Coconut hair oil has been lauded for being good for the scalp and providing moisturizing benefits to human hair. Besides, beauticians believe coconut hair oil works better to repair dry hair.

Therefore, starting a coconut hair oil production line can be lucrative.

73. Become a dance choreographer

Dance choreographers create compositions and plans and arrange dance movements and patterns for dances, especially ballets. Choreographers also develop different interpretations of existing dances for an individual or group of dancers.

To become a dance choreographer, you will need to take training lessons. You may pursue a degree in musical theater and take relevant dance coursework. The training enables you to master different dance types and learn how to create dances.

74. Become a graphic designer

Graphic designing involves creating sketch designs and materials for corporate clients, advertising agencies, public relations firms, and publishers. Besides, graphic designers provide visual solutions to specific company images, log design, and branding problems.

Graphic design is an excellent career for creative thinkers who enjoy using their talent and artistic skills combined with technology and communication abilities to come up with unique solutions for their clients.

How much you can make: $1,000 — $81,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $700 (?)

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

How I Started A $6K/Month SEO And Digital Marketing Agency In Bangladesh

This case study features Md. Yousuf Ali, the founder of Rank Trends, who shares how he started a successful digital marketing agency, which generated a revenue of over $6k per month through SEO and video production services.

Read by 12,516 founders

75. Become a mobile DJ

Mobile DJ carries their DJ kit with them and entertains clients at weddings, birthdays, and corporate parties or events. There is plenty of demand for mobile DJs, and customers will pay well to be entertained at their premises or parties.

To become a mobile DJ, first, learn the art of DJing, specifically how to DJ open-format style. If you are a beginner, enroll in online classes where you will learn the best DJing practices.

How much you can make: $996/month

How much does it cost to start: $50 (?)

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

How I Created Niche Infoproducts For DJs That Now Generate $1K/Month

Learn how DJ Tobander created a successful niche info-product business generating $1,000 a month through selling collections of DJ sets for special occasions and working with affiliates, with only modest costs and simple tools like WordPress, AWeber, LeadPages, and Digistore24.

Read by 7,444 founders

76. Start an errand service

Errand services help people and businesses who have daily errands to run but need an extra hand. So, they seek professional help who can do their chores on time with utmost efficiency.

You can provide various services as an errand business, including grocery shopping, picking up + sorting through mail, going to the bank, and much more.

Starting an errand business is relatively easy. Consider offering package deals as a way of getting and retaining customers. Most errand businesses charge per hour, and you may charge per mileage if the task involves driving.

77. Start a sports skills coaching business

Unleash your passion for sports and help others excel in their favorite games by starting a sports skills coaching business. Partnering with individuals, schools, or sports clubs, you can offer personalized training to help athletes improve their performance and achieve their sports goals.

Your deep understanding of the game, strategic insight, and ability to break down complex techniques will be invaluable. No two days will be the same as you're constantly tweaking training plans, responding to individual progress, and witnessing the exciting growth of your athletes.

Expand the scope of your sessions beyond just skill development. Include fitness, nutrition, and psychological strength training. Your enterprise could become the guiding light athletes need to reach the next level of their career. Wrap your life around the exhilarating world of sports and inspire others with your passion and expertise.

How much you can make: $3,000 — $16,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $175 (?)

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

My Golf App Side Project Makes $36K/Year

Golf course software startup Live Tourney saw $18k in revenue, with $3k MRR after launching in 2023, focusing on a simple web-based live leaderboard solution for golf events and targeting customer growth through cold calls and innovative recruitment strategies.

Read by 4,424 founders

78. Start an online course creation business

Starting an online course could be perfect if you want a passive income. Whatever your background, you could start teaching online and earn a passive income.

All you need to start an online course is patience, imagination, and an enabling eLearning platform where you can connect with the relevant audience.

Online courses may take time and require a lot of effort to start selling. However, once your audience finds the content resourceful, they start sharing and recommending it through their network. Remember, creating an online course could take longer than expected, so remain focused and give your best.

How long does it take to build: 365 days (?)

79. Become a music tutor

Are you passionate about music or looking for a profitable coaching business? How about becoming a music tutor?

To start a music coaching business, decide your target audience and location and set your rates. For example, you can meet new students through a community event, online, or a music club, or target the local community. Set rates for your music classes and advertise your business to get as many clients as possible.

How much you can make: $30,000 — $70,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $5,035 (?)

How long does it take to build: 160 days (?)

I Created A $480K/Year Online Piano Lessons Business With $100

Piano In 21 Days built a low pressure and flexible online piano course, bringing in 5 figures every month while allowing the founder to spend time on other interests and family while its profitable business runs itself.

Read by 6,124 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.