1. Social Media Manager
One of the biggest needs that businesses struggle with is how to attract, influence, and sell on social media. Since social media is such an important tool from branding and marketing, good social media managers are in high demand. A social media manager’s responsibilities include writing and scheduling posts, creating content, answering customer questions, managing ads, and more. Corporate social media managers make between $34,432 to $56,571 annually. As a for-hire social media manager, you can be more competitive with your prices or even charge more if you can deliver results.
2. Web Designer
If you have a knack for designing websites, then a web design business may be an option for you. The difference between a web developer and web designer is that web designers are responsible for the design of the visual layout of websites. Developers are more on the back-end of websites making sure the code is clean and the site is functional. One of the major challenges to overcome as a web designer is pricing. There is a lot of competition for web design so you will have to choose whether you are going to charge by the hour or by the project. The good news is that you can vary your pricing strategy depending on the client.
3.Tutor
Tutoring can make a good startup business for teachers and anyone passionate about helping people. Tutors provide supplementary instruction in a range of topics. You do not need to have a degree in teaching or any other training to be a tutor. The startup costs are also low, and you can teach in a client’s house or your home or another location like the library. Tutors earn between $10 to $75 per hour based on the areas of study and the level they instruct.
4. Life Coaching
People generally desire to improve various aspects of their lives. This market opportunity is what life coaches tap into. Life coaching involves helping people to make significant improvements in areas such as relationships and careers. There are several courses available for life coaches. Coaches generally exhibit strong interpersonal skills as the business heavily relies on interactions with people.
5. Instagram Coaching/Consulting
Over 1 billion people use the Instagram app every month. Of these users, a huge chunk of them are trying to grow their brands and following. Instagram coaches charge $150 an hour just for consulting. As a consultant, you will be tasked with expanding a company’s or an influencer’s brand. An Instagram coach will typically improve the aesthetics of their client and advise them on which photos and videos to post.
6. Running Facebook Ads
Facebook is a popular social marketing platform with a vibrating advertising scene. Running ads for clients is quite viable as a business idea as more and more companies are pushing their marketing efforts online. The first step you should make is to single out the particular clients you want to work with and organize meetings. As your agency grows in clients’ numbers, ensure you are constantly learning to keep up with the Facebook algorithm.
7. Amazon Reseller
Amazon has thousands of resellers, but there is still room for more. Reselling is a simple concept where people buy from retailers and subsequently sell the products on online avenues. Amazon is a vast marketplace, and some businesspeople have struck gold in it. Take this Minneapolis native, for example, who has made millions from reselling items from Walmart. As a reseller, aim to sell quality products that will satisfy your customers.
8.Virtual Assistant
Virtual assistants execute various tasks for their online clients. Some of these tasks include sending and responding to emails, conducting research for blog content, posting and editing blog posts, and updating social media.
Virtual assistants that charge per hour are paid between $15 to $100. Full-time assistants can even make six figures. You can increase rates as you broaden your portfolio. One perk in this business is the flexibility to work from anywhere. Flexible schedules also make virtual assistants an attractive business.
9.Google ad Specialist
Google receives the most search traffic of all search engines. A business will, therefore, find it tasking to track the specific customers they want to attract. A Google ad specialist will use ads as baits to lure in target customers.
A Google ad specialist should be skilled enough to direct a substantial number of highly-motivated customers to their clients. You will need to pass two assessments given by Google to become certified as a Google ad specialist.
10.Creating Online Courses
Online learning was valued at $165 billion in 2015 by the research firm GM in 2015, and this value is projected to increase to over $250 billion in 2023. The market is therefore pretty big. You only need a profitable idea and a course outline. There are numerous software solutions that make it easy for you to get your course well outlined. Once you set a price, you are all set for the launch.
11. Pet Sitter
If you love spending time with animals, becoming a pet sitter could be a rewarding way to turn your passion into profit. Platforms like Rover make it easy to get started and connect with pet owners in need of care for their furry friends. Pet sitters can earn up to $2,000 per month, depending on the amount of time and dedication they invest. The flexibility of this business allows you to choose your schedule, and it’s a great option for anyone looking to combine their love for animals with a reliable income stream.
12. Etsy Seller
Etsy is a popular online marketplace that specializes in handmade, vintage, and custom products. With over 33 million active buyers, it’s an ideal platform for creative entrepreneurs who want to sell unique, one-of-a-kind items that may not be available in mainstream stores. Whether you’re skilled in crafting, designing, or curating vintage pieces, Etsy offers a space to reach a global audience and build a business around your creativity. It’s especially suitable for artisans looking to showcase their personal creations.
13. eBay Reseller
Becoming an eBay reseller is a straightforward way to start an online business. All you need to do is set up an auction account, which you can tailor to fit your style. As a reseller, you can choose to specialize in a particular product category or sell a variety of items. Many resellers find success by sourcing products from garage sales, flea markets, or wholesalers, then flipping them for a profit. eBay’s massive user base makes it a prime marketplace for finding buyers, whether you’re selling collectibles, electronics, or second-hand goods.
14. Freelance Content Writer
If you have a knack for writing, freelance content writing offers an excellent opportunity to turn your talent into a business. With minimal startup costs and a flexible schedule, you can work from anywhere while exploring various niches. Freelance writers are in high demand for projects like ghostwriting, copywriting, and web content creation. Many online platforms offer ways to connect with clients looking for skilled writers, allowing you to take on a variety of projects and build a portfolio while earning a steady income.
15. Video Spokesperson
A video spokesperson acts as the face and voice of a company on its website or social media, delivering engaging messages to capture viewers’ attention. As more companies invest in video marketing to promote their products and services, the demand for spokespersons is growing. This business involves creating compelling, on-camera presentations that encourage audiences to explore a brand further. If you enjoy being in front of the camera and have strong communication skills, this could be a fun and lucrative business to explore.
16.Wedding Photographers
Most of the photographers who shoot weddings opt to be freelance. This business will need a level of experience, and you can choose to back up a more established photographer before venturing on your own. The median projected pay for wedding photographers is $62,135 annually. Top rated photographers make over $77,833, and there is no limit to the amount you can generate as a freelance wedding photographer.
17. Special Occasion Photographer
A special occasion photographer is involved in projects such as birthday parties, baby showers, and baby announcements, christenings, and product launches. To start, you can do a couple of free events to launch your portfolio. Your rates will increase as your experience expands.
18. Uber/Lyft Driver
There are thousands of Uber and Lyft drivers that serve millions of users. Any body can drive using these apps. However, there are some people who make an entire living from rideshare. You need to fulfill several requirements to be a certified Uber driver including being at least 21 years old. Lyft similarly demands some thresholds from their drivers. There is more market in the cities than in the suburbs, and you thus stand to make more in large cities with a substantial population.
19. App Developer
Developing an app may seem daunting at first, but with consistent practice and the right tools, it becomes much more manageable. There are user-friendly platforms like AppyPie that allow you to create apps without any coding knowledge.
App developers, particularly those focused on the Android platform, are in high demand and can earn an average salary of $97.6K annually. With the growing reliance on mobile technology, this is a lucrative business opportunity for anyone willing to invest time into learning and mastering app development.
20. Airbnb Hosting
As an Airbnb host, you can earn an average of $607 per month by renting out your property or a spare room. Signing up to host on Airbnb is free, and the platform charges a relatively low flat fee of 3% per reservation, making it one of the more affordable options for hosts.
With an impressive 800,000 stays happening every night globally, Airbnb offers a vast and growing market for hosts to tap into. Whether you have an entire home or a small space to rent out, this business can provide a steady income stream with minimal upfront investment.
21. Music Lessons
People are always looking to learn how to use a musical instrument, and your knowledge may help jumpstart your music lessons business. You can teach an individual or even a group, and you will have to tailor your instruction to meet the level of skills of your students. You can opt to charge per hour or lesson.
22. Selling Baked Goods
If you love to bake cookies, cupcakes, or any other sweets, you may be able to launch your own business selling baked goods. In the past, to sell baked items would require a potential entrepreneur to open up a bakery. These days, anyone can begin selling goods online to friends, family, and strangers using visual platforms such as Instagram and Pinterest.
23. Instagram Influencer
Traackr, an influencer management platform, reported that 72% of major brands are investing a substantial part of their advertising budgets to influencers. Influencers are disrupting traditional methods of marketing by having an effect on the purchasing habits of their followers.
Some Influencers have reported making as much as $10,000 per post or video if they have millions of followers. To get into this business, you will need to cultivate a recognizable brand and a sizable online following.
24. Auto Detailing
Auto detailers clean the interiors and exteriors of automobiles. The job description can require simple tasks to more complex ones including steaming and deodorizing interiors. The higher the quality your business can offer, the more you will charge for these services. Upgraded services, for example, can be charged for over $175.
25. Lawn Care Services
Providing lawn care services is a business that requires no formal education or training, making it accessible to almost anyone. Most of the skills needed can be learned on the job through hands-on experience, which allows you to start small and gradually expand your expertise. The demand for lawn care services is consistent, as clients need regular maintenance to keep their lawns in good condition throughout the year. This stability ensures a reliable stream of business, especially during the spring and summer months when lawn care is in high demand.
One of the key advantages of starting a lawn care business is its scalability. What may begin as basic lawn mowing and trimming can evolve into offering a wider range of services such as weeding, fertilization, gardening, and landscape design. As your skills grow and your client base expands, you can invest in more advanced equipment and hire additional staff, allowing you to serve more customers and increase your revenue.
In the first year, earnings can range anywhere from $5,000 to $50,000, depending on the size of your operation and the region you’re serving. For more established lawn care businesses that number can grow to as much as $250,000 annually as they expand their service offerings and build a solid reputation in the market. The combination of continuous demand, scalability, and growth potential makes lawn care a viable and lucrative business opportunity.
26. Event Planning
Starting an event planning business can be both exciting and rewarding, and many planners begin working from home to keep initial costs low. One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to specialize in social events, like weddings and parties, or focus on corporate events, such as conferences and company retreats. Each market offers unique opportunities and challenges, so it’s important to choose based on your strengths and interests.
Successful event planners typically possess qualities like creativity, organization, and strong negotiation skills. The ability to stay calm under pressure and manage multiple tasks at once is crucial, as clients rely on you to handle all the details, often on tight deadlines. While no formal training is required, building a network of vendors and cultivating industry knowledge can help you succeed.
Event planning is a highly adaptable business that offers the flexibility to grow as your reputation and client base expand. With dedication and a talent for creating memorable experiences, you can turn this into a profitable venture.
27. Pet Groomer
Most pet owners lack the ability and time to groom their pets and are on the lookout for reliable professionals. The 10% top rated animal care workers, including pet groomers, make more than $36,000 a year while the lowest 10% make below $18,000. The industry has attractive potential. The U.S. Bureau of Statistics estimates that the number of jobs in the animal care industry will increase by 20% between 2016 to 2026.
28. Start a Clothing Line
Many people mistakenly believe that starting a clothing line requires wealth or fame, but in reality, many successful fashion entrepreneurs have built their businesses from the ground up with limited resources. The key to launching a successful clothing line lies not in status, but in understanding the market and identifying a viable need to serve. By finding a gap in the market—whether it’s a specific style, demographic, or ethical approach—you can create a brand that resonates with your target audience.
To succeed in the competitive fashion industry, it’s essential to focus on four key elements: niche, brand identity, design, and quality. Choosing a niche helps you stand out in a saturated market by catering to a specific audience or style that sets you apart from larger, more generalized brands. Your brand identity, including your logo, values, and message, plays a critical role in attracting customers and building loyalty. Design and quality are equally important, as they ensure that your products not only look good but also meet the high expectations of today’s consumers.
As a startup, you’ll likely begin with a small team, so it’s important to be comfortable working closely with a few individuals who will grow alongside your brand. Collaboration and adaptability are key as you scale the business and navigate challenges together. With the right strategy, focus, and dedication, it’s entirely possible to create a successful clothing line without the need for vast financial resources or celebrity status.
29. Bike Delivery
The startup costs for a bike delivery business are well under $2,000, and the business can be a part-time venture. Ensure you have a courier license if it is necessary for your local area. To begin, you can accept the same rates the motorized couriers charge for small parcel delivery and make more profits. The business can also be easily operated using a mobile phone. As the business grows, you should invest in a central dispatch system to manage more bike couriers.
30. Rent your Car
The car sitting in your driveway could make you a lot of passive income. Numerous companies have established themselves as reliable matchmakers of car owners and car rental including Getaround and Car and Away.. Your online pitch in these platforms will display the vehicle details, location, price, and availability. Most of these platforms require renters to purchase large insurance policies, even in excess of $500,000 prior to renting your car. Any damage to your vehicle will be fixed with a deductible from these insurance policies.
31. Office Cleaning
As an office cleaner, your responsibilities will involve cleaning offices and other commercial spaces after business hours.These tasks are typically outlined in the cleaning contract and can include vacuuming, wiping down surfaces, window cleaning, and ensuring restrooms are cleaned and restocked. Since your work takes place outside of regular business hours, this venture offers flexibility, making it a good option for those looking for part-time or evening work.
Starting an office cleaning business is something you can easily manage from home, provided you secure the necessary permits and insurance to operate legally. For the cleaning business model, you’ll also need to invest in essential cleaning supplies such as a transport cart, cleaning chemicals, towels, trash bags, and a vacuum cleaner. These initial expenses are relatively low, which makes this a cost-effective business to start.
To grow your office cleaning business, implementing a marketing campaign is crucial, even if it’s on a small scale. Word of mouth, local advertising, and online platforms can help you attract new clients. Establishing strong relationships with a few key businesses can lead to repeat contracts, referrals, and long-term stability. With consistency and attention to detail, an office cleaning venture has the potential to expand, providing a reliable income stream with the option to hire additional staff as your client base grows.
32. Build a WordPress Plugin
Building a WordPress plugin can be a highly profitable venture, especially given the platform’s widespread use and popularity in the blogging and website development space. Plugins are one of the key factors that have contributed to WordPress’s dominance, as they allow users to easily extend the functionality of their websites without needing extensive coding knowledge. By creating a plugin that solves a specific problem or fulfills a need for WordPress users, you can tap into this vast market and generate consistent revenue.
The key to a successful WordPress plugin is addressing a particular pain point or need within the WordPress community. This could be anything from improving SEO, enhancing site speed, streamlining content management, or adding new features that aren’t readily available in the default WordPress setup. By identifying a gap in the current plugin offerings, you can develop a solution that stands out and becomes indispensable for website owners.
Once developed, you can sell your plugin on your own website or through popular marketplaces like CodeCanyon, which is known for distributing WordPress plugins and themes. In addition to making the plugin functional, it’s important to ensure it’s user-friendly and well-supported, as WordPress users highly value plugins that are easy to install, maintain, and update. Regular updates and responsive customer support will help build trust and loyalty, encouraging more purchases and repeat business.
33. Start a Blog
Starting a blog can be a great way to tap into the wide array of earning opportunities the internet provides. Through methods like affiliate marketing, advertising, sponsored content, and selling online courses, bloggers can generate substantial revenue once they build a following. The beauty of blogging is that many platforms, such as WordPress or Blogger, are free to use, allowing you to get started with minimal upfront costs. As a blogger, you also have the freedom to choose your niche, whether it’s lifestyle, finance, health, technology, or any other area of interest, making the process both profitable and personally fulfilling.
However, earning through blogging requires more than just publishing posts. The key to success lies in building and maintaining strong engagement with your audience. This involves creating high-quality, valuable content that resonates with your readers, encouraging them to return to your blog regularly. Consistent posting, understanding your audience’s needs, and optimizing your content for search engines (SEO) are essential to growing your readership and attracting advertisers or affiliate partners.
As your blog gains traffic, you can maximize monetization efforts by strategically placing ads, partnering with brands for sponsored content, or using affiliate marketing, where you earn commissions by recommending products or services to your readers. Additionally, once you’ve established yourself as an authority in your niche, you can expand your revenue streams by offering paid courses, eBooks, or exclusive content. The potential for income grows as your blog and audience develop, making it an excellent long-term business opportunity for those committed to creating engaging and consistent content.
34. Start a Vlog
A vlog is a social media account or even a personal website which an individual or group uses to post short videos. YouTube is the most popular website with vloggers since it is used by millions of people every day. A vlog is a great business idea for people interested in filmmaking and videography and those who enjoy curating engaging content. The earning potential in YouTube is limitless. Take this list for example, where the top vloggers earn over $10 million from their respective platforms. The beauty of vlogging is that there are numerous niches you can choose to focus on like gaming, make-up, comedy, and photography.
35. Start a Podcast
Podcasts are blogs available in an mp3 form which can be downloaded on computers and phones. Podcasts can be entertaining or educational, and many people are listening to them for personal development. Even more exciting, you can start a podcast with less than $100. You will need to come up with your podcast’s artwork and name and decide on the theme you will be creating your content around. There are many podcast hosting platforms like Podbean and Libsyn.
36. Personal Trainer
Personal training is an incredibly lucrative training as more and more people are adopting healthy lifestyles. You can get started in the sector with a high school diploma and train for a short time or on the job. The average personal trainer salary in the United States is $68,002 as of 2024. As your business grows, you can diversify to online workout subscriptions, boot camps, and selling membership models.
37. Nutritionist
A nutrition business is ideal for people who, in addition to helping others, are enthusiastic about the health and wellness industry. You will be tasked with helping people reach their health goals. Depending on the state your practice will be in, you will require relevant training and licensing. Nutritionists can make as much as $76,400 every year.
38. Business Consulting
A business consultant assists clients in problem-solving, planning, and strategy and helps them to develop relevant skills. You only need to harness your particular gift which may be in public relations, marketing, IT, accounting, taxes, and insurance. You should, however, check if your particular chosen skill needs certification or a license. For your business to succeed, stay on top of all the trends in your specific profession.
39. Child Care Services
Child care services are a necessity especially among working parents and single-parent families. Do you love caring for children? You can turn this passion into a business with a few hundred dollars. You can start running a home-based operation and invest in it to the point of earning millions of dollars yearly. Your startup checklist should include things like licensing, insurance, health, safety, and children programs like outlined here.
40. Tax Preparation
A tax preparation business caters to the tax concerns of individuals and groups. You will have to navigate through the local, state, and federal tax systems and file returns for your clients. You will greatly benefit from taking a professional course.
The business is at its most intense from January to mid-April. During tax season, you will have to meet the deadlines of the tax agencies. Your charges will depend on the complexity as well as the time you will spend preparing and filing the returns.
41. Buying Domain Names
Domain names are sold for hundreds of dollars every day. Large domain name purchases involve millions of dollars like the 2009 sale of Insure.com for $16 million. Once you launch your business, you should build a high-quality domain registry. You can anticipate the domains that will become popular, or you can buy high-profile domains and bet on them appreciating. The names can be geographical, generic, or business.
42. Food Trucks
A food truck may look like a simple business idea, but it may catapult you to unimaginable wealth. This entrepreneur established a million-dollar food chain from a taco food truck. To avoid getting overwhelmed, begin selling food products that you are familiar with. You will foot minimal overheads with a food truck, and you will, therefore, raise your initial investment in a short time. A food truck can also adapt to any space making it incredibly flexible.
43. Drone Services
You can make money with drones by offering a range of services. You can sell aerial footage and photos to institutions such as golf courses and beach resorts or online. To start, find local landscapes and grow your customers and credibility by sharing your portfolio. You can even post your footage on YouTube and seek partnerships. Aerial surveying services is another money-making venture for people with drones. Drones have also become essential in wedding photography.
44. Junk Removal
If you’ve got a truck, van, or have access to one or the other, you can haul away people’s trash as a profitable business. Many city ordinances prevent its residents from discarding large amounts of trash, as well as certain items, by placing them curbside. A service that can remove people’s unwanted things conveniently is a great way to make extra income.
45. Caregiver
About 77% of older Americans would like to receive care in their homes. A home caregiver assists seniors with things like light housework, doctor visits, showering and dressing, and transportation needs. Startups in this industry typically charge approximately $15/hour in the first year which increases according to experience and references. To start, scour the internet for the specific interests you will offer. These interests can be printed on a brochure and distributed to places like church and community bulletin boards and social workers. You can get the business up and running with less than $100.
46. Home Cleaner
Unlike janitorial cleaning which is often done by large companies, residential cleaning requires less capital and labor. You can even do the cleaning yourself. The key strategy in this field is customization where you should be keen on the specific needs of every client. A consistent uniform, word of mouth marketing, and attention to detail will go a long way in making your small cleaning business profitable. You can further put down your logo and brand on paper.
47. Computer Repair
People with the technical skills to fix different components of a computer are a hot commodity in the tech market. But the skills are not enough, and you need to approach the opportunity with a business mindset which means having a business plan, marketing the business, and getting certified. You can work from home, at clients’ sites, or a retail storefront. A little research on the amounts other repair shops in your locality are charging will guide your rates.
48. Jewelry Designer
Making jewelry is as lucrative as it is glamorous. The global marketplace has never been more receptive to brands from all over the world. This Australian entrepreneur grew her jewelry designing venture from local infancy, to international spotlight. The first step is to mold a brand that people will want to be associated with. Trends such as eco-friendly pieces and retro-vintage products are some of the current opportunities.
49. Home Inspector
You stand to make a lot of income as a self-employed home inspector. You will undergo training, and once you obtain your license, you are set to go. Home inspectors in the US earn an average salary of $58,000 based on figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. You will receive about $450 per inspection with an earning potential of $91,000 every year.
50. DJ
Making a living as a DJ is quite doable if you live in an area where the population is large enough. And, if people in your area like to host parties and other events. Though it isn’t the norm, some DJs like Calvin Harris regularly attract multi-million contracts.
This industry requires more than talent, however, and you will need to polish your self-promotion and networking skills. Once you get the necessary equipment, work on mastering your techniques. You can use such platforms as Facebook to post your mixes and attract fans. A substantial following will help you get gigs and repeat bookings after that.
51. Car Reselling
To get started, you will have to become a master at identifying good and bad deals. You will have more luck selling ordinary cars in the lower price ranges instead of highly-priced cars. Although exotic vehicles are more profitable, they have few customers. You can use online platforms like craigslist to buy cars directly from users. You can also rent lots or advertise cars on bulletin boards.
To open up a car dealership requires a lot of startup capital in order to purchase the vehicles and rent lot space to display those vehicles. However, you may be able to purchase cars and resell them without opening a dealership. Some states will allow you to sell 2-6 cars per year without a dealer license. Cars can be purchased by private owners through sites like Autotrader or even Craigslist.
52. Credit Repair Specialist
Becoming a credit repair specialist is an attractive option for individuals with a strong understanding of credit management, as the field typically requires no specific licensing or formal educational requirements. This makes it accessible to anyone willing to learn the ins and outs of credit repair. However, obtaining certifications from a professional organization can enhance your credibility and give you the tools to better serve your clients. Certification programs can provide you with deeper insights into credit laws, dispute resolution, and financial best practices, empowering you to handle more complex cases with confidence.
As a credit repair specialist, your primary responsibility is to assist clients in improving their credit scores by helping them address negative items on their credit reports. You will review their credit reports in detail and present a range of options for handling negative marks, such as late payments, collections, or charge-offs. These options often include negotiating settlements with creditors, disputing inaccuracies or outdated information, and creating strategies for paying off debts in a way that maximizes credit improvement. Your goal is to guide your clients toward better financial health by helping them understand how to improve their credit and by advocating on their behalf to remove or correct damaging entries.
Providing clients with a clear, actionable plan for credit repair is key to earning their trust and building a successful business. In addition to addressing their immediate credit concerns, educating clients on how to maintain good credit habits for the long term can establish lasting relationships and generate positive referrals. With the rising demand for credit repair services, especially as consumers seek to improve their financial standing, this field offers significant opportunities for growth and a steady client base.
53.Graphic Designer
Graphic designers’ roles have expanded over the last several years. Many businesses not only need logos and branding, they need social media and website graphics. Because of this, graphic designers are still very much in high demand. If you have an artistic eye and can learn to use programs such as Adobe Illustrator, Gimp, Photoshop and other software, you may want to consider starting a graphic design business. The average salary for a freelance graphic designer is around $50,028 annually.
The challenge for a designer business today will be getting clients with the rise of AI tools to create logos. While AI seems to still be learning and not as good as human designers, some businesses may still use AI to do simple designs that graphic designers traditionally have done.
54. Financial Budgeting
Financial budgeting is an excellent venture for people who love budgeting and personal finances. You will also need to research the best practices in the industry and acquire a level of certification. Software programs such as reporting software and a client relationship management system will further make you more efficient and reliable.
55. Painting
There are little barriers to entry in the painting business. You only need business registration, a website, insurance, and equipment as detailed here. The Department of Labor estimates that painters earn an average median income of $37, 960 annually. Most of these painters have a high school diploma, and they learn through apprenticeship programs run by established professionals.
56. Triathlete/ Running Coaching
You can build a coaching business around your love for athleticism. The number of athletes participating in triathlons has been growing significantly over the years, and this is a beneficial platform especially for people interested in multisport. Triathletes are continually looking for quality coaching, and their median incomes are pegged at $126,000. Athletes have taken the search for coaches online, and you, therefore, need to establish a digital presence. Once the firm is running, you will need to look for new athletes constantly.
57. Career coach
A career coach provides professional insight to people to help them grow their careers. There are more qualified individuals in the job market than ever before while jobs are scarce. Most career coaches charge by the hour, and they offer individual as well as organizational services. The costs to start this business can amount to thousands of dollars including insurance, certification, networking, and marketing expenditures as outlined here. Career coaches are mostly notable leaders in their own business communities. This foundation not only encourages trust from your clients but also provides a networking pool to get your business started.
58. Concierge Services
Most people associate concierges with hotels but the professionals can execute a range of tasks for individuals and corporate. You should first identify your potential clients and what services they would be interested in.
Busy career people, for example, would have a range of errands they want to be assisted with such as shopping. You would benefit from having a service location although some personal clients would require you to work in their residential spaces. To stay on top of the concierge business, you should attend conferences and workshops and transfer the skills to your team as well.
59. Smartphone Repair
Technicians who specialize in cell phone repair average $15 per hour. One of the most vital factors in this job is skilled technicians. Ensure you have a sustainable balance of junior and senior employees. You should also train the junior staff as quickly as possible so that the tasks that they can handle continuously expand. Research on vendors in your locality for affordable and quality spare parts. You can also opt to get these products online. Adding other products and services will attract more customers.
60. Software Developer
The median wage for software developers stood at $127,790 in 2023. The top software developers make over $160,000 annually. The BLS further estimates that the software development industry will grow by around 31% by 2026 with over 250,000 added jobs.
This remarkable growth is driven by the increasing demand for software across virtually every industry, from finance to healthcare to entertainment. As businesses continue to digitize and rely more heavily on technology, the need for skilled software developers will only expand. Companies are constantly seeking professionals who can develop new applications, improve existing systems, and ensure cybersecurity, making software development one of the most in-demand fields globally.
For those entering the industry, the career opportunities are vast, ranging from mobile app development to artificial intelligence and machine learning, as well as cloud computing and blockchain technologies. Software development also offers flexibility, as many developers have the option to work remotely, freelance, or start their own businesses.
In addition to competitive salaries, software developers benefit from job security, given the high demand and continuous evolution of the tech industry. The rapid advancements in technology mean that new programming languages, tools, and platforms emerge regularly, giving developers the chance to continuously learn and expand their skill sets. With such robust growth projections and earning potential, software development remains an attractive and dynamic career path for those with a passion for technology and innovation.
61. Content Marketing
Most companies struggle with creating steady web traffic that will captivate and retain customers. To start, it is important that you differentiate yourself with other companies offering SEO services. This is the point where you will rely on your particular skills to define your niche. Clients will further have varying needs. While others will need a little assistance with their content game plan, others will require you to direct all activities in relation to their content strategy. It is essential that you develop a range of services for each budget. When it comes to having a team, you have the option of utilizing freelancers or hiring in-house staff.
62. Content Editing
Content editors are tasked with evaluating web content to ensure that it is optimized for various internet platforms. As a content editor, you need to value research as you will have to need lots of it in many subjects. You should also keep with the SEO practices so that the work of your client garners good rankings. In the age of blogs and websites, individuals and companies need to make sure that their web content is the best that it can be.
63. Videographer
You can turn your love for videography into a full-time business. There are multiple videography services that you can offer including sports, documentaries, weddings, acting/modeling portfolios, and corporate training resources. Videography is a creative industry, and you need to seek a wealth of fresh insight regularly. Ensure that you document these pursuits as they will serve as your inspiration directory. There are avenues where you can sell your stock footage including Shutterstock. The buyers mostly look for videos featuring landscapes, people, and buildings. The current popularity of vloggers could also be a blessing to your business as vloggers need high-quality videos.
64. Video Editor
Video editing is a business that can let you work from home and manage a small team. You do not need expensive equipment, and you can make do with a powerful laptop that can hold a lot of editing software. To get started, you can work on a few projects with more established businesses. It helps if these colleagues have a substantial following on social media so that you get potential referrals. These projects will come in handy when you need to display your portfolio for clients. You also need to invest in reliable storage for the clients’ files.
65. E-commerce
Unlike physical stores, e-commerce businesses can be created with just a few clicks. You, however, need to be clear about what products you will offer and the niche you will focus on. Acquiring knowledge about search engines is crucial for a web-based company, and you need to market to your potential market extensively.
66. Resume Writer
Resume writing is not as known as other forms of writing but it can be a viable business idea. These women for example generate over $45k from resume writing endeavors. You need to obtain certification and to learn more strategies, you can join organizations like the National Resume Writers’ Association and the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches. There is a ready market of local, national, and international clients. Your business can also benefit from attendance to events and networking programs. Maximize on your social media platforms to attract clients as well.
67. Motivational Speaker
Motivational speaking is a form of public speaking that relies on compelling and inspiring deliverance. The amount of pay depends on skill, reputation, experience, and background. Travel is often needed. There are no set requirements for these professionals, but a proven track record in your area of study will go a long way in encouraging clients to hire you. Some reports state that motivational speakers have a median yearly salary of $107,173, and the highest earners take home over $300,000 every year. You should look-out for speaking engagement opportunities in television studios, convention centers, community centers, schools, churches, festivals, and radio stations.
68. Travel Blogger/Vlogger
Travel bloggers/vloggers seem to have a glamorous life of constant travel and engagement in interesting activities. Take this blogger for example who earns a six-figure income every year on his quest to travel to all of the world’s countries. Being successful in this field, however, requires work and focus. Innovation is equally important as the audience is looking for outstanding content. As your business booms, you will need to seek the services of various professionals such as video and audio editors, SEO experts, and photographers. Quality is everything in this industry, and you need to invest in your blogging/vlogging platform regularly.
69. Club Promoter
Club promoting is an excellent venture for people who are passionate about nighttime business. These professionals earn an average of $25,000 yearly but can make more due to the endless opportunities available. The first step is to gain experience which can be achieved through working for an established promotion company. A network will help you win a foot in the door, so talk to club owners, DJs, producers, and marketing materials vendors. Social media profiles are essential to reach out to your audience, and you need to have an impressive brand on platforms like Facebook and Twitter.
70. Music Production
Producers help artists to achieve their artistic goals. Some modern producers do not even work with artists. Instead, they develop their own music by the use of digital software like Fruity Loops. The income varies on the artists a producer collaborates with and the kind of music that they create. Some producers double as artists, and this further adds to their overall revenue. The Bureau of Labor and Statistics states that salaried music producers earn $55,000 on yearly average . Some producers find it more lucrative to earn on royalty-basis. Songs can generate millions in revenue which means that the producer involved will have a handsome return.
71. White label supplement
To start a white label supplement business, you need to identify an in-demand product. Not all supplements will turn out to be lucrative, and that is why you need to be keen on the needs of the customers. After evaluating your target market and competition, you will proceed to formulate a viable and useful product. A supplement manufacturer is a crucial team player in the business, and you need to develop a relationship with them. Ensure your manufacturer is reliable, compliant, and affordable.
72. Mobile Mechanic
Do you want to profit from your interest in automobile repair? Starting a mobile mechanic business may be just the solution for you. The vehicle repair business is sustainable because new cars are released on a daily basis. You can decide to specialize in one of the numerous niche ideas available in this field as listed here. Customers will judge your competitiveness by your capability in repair, pricing, and accessibility. The market already features many mobile mechanic businesses, so you need to focus on getting your customers. You can choose to focus on households as well as startup businesses.
73. Locksmith
Depending on the state or city where you are based, you may need to get a license. Training can help jumpstart your venture, and you will need to keep practicing to perfect your art. The specializations in this field include commercial, forensic, institutional, and mobile locksmiths. You will need various tools, and you should research the available equipment that you can purchase. Seek out other locksmiths in your area for advice on areas like organizational structure. The business will subsequently need network and advertisement.
74. Wedding Planner
Weddings are a beloved social activity, and for wedding planners, the events are big business. In the US, more than 80 billion is spent every year to fund over two million weddings. This money has catapulted a lot of wedding planners into wealth. The highly experienced planners take home six figures, and you need to develop patience as a novice wedding planner and grow your business organically. To supplement your income, you can stock a variety of wedding merchandise to rent out to clients. As a planner, you will be privy to the new trends, and you can use this opportunity to make yourself a supplier as well.
75. Moving Services
Moving companies help people and companies move their belongings and operations. You can start locally if you do not have a lot of capital and buy/rent a van instead of big trucks. Relocation businesses need legal authorization that varies from state to state. Your initial inventory will require things like moving dollies and pads, furniture belts, wrapping materials, and ropes. These basics will help you look professional. Renting the items, in addition to a moving truck, will set you back a little under $200. Moving and transportation insurance is necessary for this line of business.
76. T-shirt Business
A T-shirt company is a relatively easy business to launch. You need to determine your niche and design as well as the quality of both the printing and the t-shirts. A printer/drop shipping partner is vital to your business which is why you should expose yourself to numerous options to get the very best in shipping pricing, print pricing, and t-shirt quality. You can get t-shirt mock-up templates on the internet both free and premium. The above steps will help you develop a lucrative business as this entrepreneur did.
77. Sandwich Shop
To launch a sandwich shop successfully, you need to have enough capital to cover the initial food stock, equipment, and payroll. Location is perhaps the most critical criteria in the success of restaurants. Spaces in a prime-spot in urban and suburban areas can be a bit pricey. A sandwich shop needs adequate spaces for food preparation as well as for customers to sit. You will also need to locate the best suppliers for such food items as cheeses, vegetables, beverages, and meats. Your staff should be adequately trained to serve customers and work efficiently.
78. Catering
If you enjoy cooking for others, a catering business model might be the enterprise for you. A catering business can make you between $30,000 to $80,000 a year, depending on whether it’s full-time or part-time. Entreprenuer.com estimates that you can use anywhere from $10,000 to $50,000 to get started in catering. To begin, it is a good idea to focus on small catering events so that you can improve your practices. A catering business opens you to many clients as your potential customers are the ones consuming your food in various events. This company will, however, need to meet the health and licensing requirements of its home state or city.
79. Snow Plow Services
Snow plowing services are engaged to remove snow from personal homes and commercial spaces. You can opt to get paid for every session or be contracted for the winter season. In addition to a driving license, business owners can also get accreditation and training from organizations like the Accredited Snow Contractors Association. The startup costs run into the thousands for the purchase of a truck, salt sprayer, snow blower, plow, and salt. To reduce these costs, you can get a second-hand truck. To beat the competition, you can offer additional services like salting and shoveling.
80. Mobile Makeup Artist
Make-up artistry is an excellent business idea for people excited about the beauty industry. As a mobile make-up artist, you will travel from client to client and set your rates as your brand grows. You will be a step ahead if you seek some form of training and certification. The most important item in the work of a mobile makeup artist is their professional kit which contains a range of skincare products. The top-rated products do not come cheap, but they will build an excellent reputation for your company in the long-run.
81. Handyman Services
A handyman business is ideal for people with some manual skills. To avoid getting overwhelmed, start with the services you are good at and grow from there. You also need to evaluate the contractor laws in your state so that you know which services require a contractor license. Handymen earn an average of $17.88 per hour, and they may make more income from overtime . If the business is running efficiently, however, you can charge as much as $100 per hour like this entrepreneur here.
82. Selling eBooks
Writing has gone digital, and it is a perfect time to turn your passion for writing into a business. Write about the things you know most and the niche where you have the most experience. Choosing a catchy title will grab the attention of the readers. The cover page should also be eye-catching, and you can use one of the numerous online platforms for design. The next step is writing a description for your book, where you talk directly to your target readers and promise to solve a problem for them. The most consuming part about ebooks is publicizing and advertising. You can, for example, send a copy to a popular blogger for a review.
83. Internet Marketing
Internet marketing has become essential as more and more businesses take their operations online. Marketers employ online marketing strategies to help their clients promote their goods and services. The scope of their job includes email marketing, SEO, social media promotion, and pay per click advertising. According to Payscale, internet marketers have a median income of $46,638 which is quite attractive. You can charge between $20 to $100 per hour or even more depending on your experience and the services. As an internet marketing specialist, you can give your services virtually and can, therefore, work from any location.
84. Affiliate Marketing
Many online businesses offer affiliate programs. You will get a unique link when you sign up which you can use when you write about their products. Affiliate marketers link buyers and sellers and get a commission upon completion of a sale. Trying to promote many products may diversify your efforts too much. Instead, look for a few unique products which are profitable and which have a vast market. Affiliate marketing requires traffic, and so you should attract a lot of visitors on your site and place ads on other sites with high engagement. This marketer describes the profitable core practices of an affiliate marketer.
85. House Sitting
Homeowners hire a house sitter for the peace of mind of having an individual look after their possessions. Others want house sitters to feed their pets, collect their mail, and water their plants. Pay typically varies between $25 to $50 a day. You can charge more if you live in the house or you also look after pets. House sitting is a relatively cost-effective startup as you only need to meet transport expenditures between clients’ homes. Managing house-sitters for your business is a bit challenging since you need to ensure you are bringing in reliable and honest workers.
86. Fiverr Gigs
Fiverr is an internet marketplace which lets freelancers display their portfolios and attract clients. The list of gigs you can place on this platform are endless, and they cover marketing, administrative support, writing, web design, software development, and design. Establishing a personal brand earlier on will go a long way in making your presence stand out on the marketplace. You should also get the app to keep up with buyer requests on the site. More tips to earn big on Fiverr are outlined here.
87. Voice Over Specialist
Voice-overs are a solid way of earning a living, provided you arm yourself with the necessary knowledge and tools. If you do not have a home studio, you can pay for time in recording studios until you earn enough to set up yours. To get started, aim to make several demos that you can send to clients to demonstrate your skills. Voice actors can choose to earn per job or per project. For a 30 or 60 second commercial, you can charge around $250 while an audiobook can generate about $3000 per book.
YouTubers may need this service as well. While AI voice narration is getting very good, human voices are still more engaging and authentic if you really want to capture the attention of an audience.
88. Selling Stock Images
To get started in selling stock images, visit several stock photography platforms. You should factor in a couple of factors before selecting an avenue including the target audience, ease of success, pricing, ease of looking for imagery, loading speeds, and ease of uploading. Some of the microstock websites include Shutterstock, Almany, and iStockphoto. Your chosen site should at least offer a commission rate of 40%. Stock imaging is a quality-reliant venture; therefore, your photos should be fundamentally good. Invest in quality photography tools and also ensure you are uploading the things that customers are interested in.
89. Open a Restaurant
People love to eat out, that is why there are so many restaurants each with their own customers. Restaurants are an expensive startup with the median startup cost pegged at $250,000. Your salary as the owner will most likely not make you rich when you are getting started, and you will make about $36,000 to $72,414 in the first to the fourth year of operation . Renting and renovation a restaurant space can prove expensive with square costs per foot clocking in as much as $52 in Los Angeles. You can expect to spend more money on equipment, payroll, insurance, legal fees, and marketing as explained here.
90. Carpet Cleaning
Carpet cleaning businesses generally charge 30 cents for every square foot with the aim of generating $80 to $100 per hour. The industry has enterprises that clean carpets, rugs, and upholstery for residential as well as commercial clients. The customers for your carpet cleaning firm can include retailers, restaurants, churches, and warehouses. To launch your services, buy the necessary supplies, insurance, and equipment and you are good to go.
91. Dog Walker
Dog walking is a viable business for people who spend a lot of time around dogs. Walking dogs is not as easy as it may seem as you have to build relationships with both the clients and their pets. Dog walkers generally charge from $15 to $25 a day. The industry is dependent on reputation, and you need to invest in networks. If you do it right, your firm may become as profitable as this dog lover did.
92. Local Tour Guide
There are a couple of websites that can support your start as a local tour guide. This business is excellent for people who are adventurous and would like to show tourists the different attractions in their hometown. Websites that you can review include Vayable, Shiroube, and ToursByLocals. Tour guides typically earn from $50 to $150 per day and experienced guides can make anywhere between $30,000 to $60,000 annually.
93. Teaching People How to Code
Many people are looking to learn how to code, and your knowledge may earn you a substantial income. If you are not yet confident about your teaching skills, you can start as a TA first and grow from there. An online course can be lucrative for your business, and you can put it up on websites such as Udemy.
94. Subscription Box Service
Subscription boxes can be used to satisfy numerous needs, from clothes, candles, beauty products, and electronics. They can make you money too if you are not afraid of implementing your ideas. You will need to first decide on what you are going to sell and where the market is. As for the products, you can stock them yourself or partner with companies. You can opt to ship using a third-party firm or ship them yourself. Some companies ship the boxes straight from your partner as well.
95. Life Insurance Professional
The retail life insurance sector is highly competitive, and over 90% of new agents leave in the first year. To succeed, you will need to be patient and focused. Life insurance offers the largest commissions in the insurance field since it often provides 100% or even more of the premium. Your business will need legal approval, and you will be required to sit licensing classes to evaluate your knowledge in the relevant guidelines and laws. When hiring staff, opt for individuals with prior insurance experience to reduce training costs.
96. Bookkeeping and Accounting
Companies hire bookkeeping businesses to manage their revenues and income, process payrolls and handle their tax concerns. A couple of organizations can certify you as a bookkeeper including the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers and the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers. Your business will need bookkeeping/accounting software like QuickBooks. The startup costs for this business can be fairly low if you are working from home and not leasing a working space.
97. Data Entry
Data entry is a business for proficient typists with an eye for detail. Many companies deal with some form of raw manual data which will give your business a broad target market. The minimal costs of this enterprise can make it easy to launch it on your home. You just require fast internet and database software like Microsoft Excel and QuickBooks. You do not need any certifications although some clients would be more inclined to hire you if you have some sort of training.
98. Logo Design
Logo designers typically have a creative flair and an eye for captivating designs. In addition to formal credentials, you need to familiarize yourself with graphic design software including Adobe Illustrator. The average median salary for logo designers is about $47,000. A strong portfolio will make it easy to convince clients to hire you, and you also need to craft a personal brand. You also need to polish your networking skills and get consistent referrals.
99. Become a Taskrabbit
TaskRabbit is an online mobile avenue for everyday tasks and services. The services you can offer on the platform range from home repairs, moving, cleaning, handywork, delivery shopping, and events. You will negotiate the different parameters of a particular job with a seller, and the company takes 15% of the agreed hourly charge. You need to perform your tasks satisfactorily so that you get positive reviews from your clients.
100. Professional Organizer
Atmosphere can affect people’s well-being and moods. But when it comes to organizing their home, home office, garage, attic or basement, most people don’t know where to start. If you have a knack for organizing and decluttering, becoming a professional organizer may be for you. The average rate for professional organizers is approximately $25/hr. Reputation and trust are key when you’re running a professional organizer business so it is best to go out of your way to make sure your clients are 100% satisfied with your work.
Are there any other businesses we missed? Let us know in the comments and don’t forget to share this with friends and colleagues.
This article was first published in 2017 but has been updated and expanded
Tom is a member of the Editorial Team at StartUp Mindset. He has over 6 years of experience with writing on business, entrepreneurship, and other topics. He mainly focuses on online businesses, digital publishing, marketing and eCommerce startups.
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