The entrepreneurial landscape brims with potential and vibrancy. No longer do you need massive capital or a brick-and-mortar store to kick off a business. Today, with just a sprinkle of creativity and a dose of determination, you can launch a new venture.
If you’ve landed on this page, you’re probably searching for a good business idea—an idea that’s light on the pocket but heavy on returns, promising both a fulfilling journey and potential profit. Below, we’ll explore 56 small business ideas tailored just for the budding entrepreneur of today.
56 small business ideas to pursue in 2024
1. Dropshipping
Are you looking to sell products online but lack the funds for inventory and storage? Consider dropshipping. Dropshipping is an ecommerce business model where you don’t manage any physical products.
All you need to do is establish an online store and partner with suppliers. These suppliers will handle the storage, packaging, and shipping of orders to your customers. Get started by creating your online store via Shopify and using a dropshipping app to source products.
→ Click Here to Launch Your Online Business with Shopify
2. Print on demand
If you’re searching for promising online business ideas, print on demand (POD) is worth considering. In this model, you design items like phone cases, mugs, or t-shirts, but you don’t handle the manufacturing or fulfillment. Your suppliers take care of printing, packaging, and shipping, and you pay only after a sale—meaning no initial costs.
Ready to kickstart your POD journey? Get started by creating a Shopify store and integrating a POD app, such as Printify.
3. Translation
Multilingual individuals are always in demand. If you’re proficient in two or more languages, consider launching a small business to capitalize on these skills. Begin by seeking clients on platforms like Upwork and Flexjobs to establish your portfolio. As your client base grows and you collaborate with more companies, consider expanding by hiring other translators with expertise in different languages.
4. Data entry
If you are proficient with spreadsheets or skilled in organizing systems and processes, running a data entry business could be a perfect fit for you. Since every business relies on data, data entry clerks are vital for compiling, storing, and managing large amounts of information.
Get started by reaching out to local companies to offer your expertise. You can also join freelance platforms such as Upwork and Fiverr to find clients.
5. Website flipping
Website flipping is gaining traction, especially among recent graduates and individuals working from home. The concept is simple: Acquire an existing website, refine its design and content, and then sell it at a markup.
You can find websites in need of a revamp on platforms like Flippa. Once finished, focus on enhancing the site’s design, content, and SEO. You can then list it for sale on the same platform to potentially make a profit.
6. Affiliate marketing
Affiliate marketing involves promoting products or services through affiliate links. When someone clicks on your link and makes a purchase, you earn a commission.
Before joining an affiliate marketing program, consider various factors to find the best fit for your needs. Evaluate the commission rates, payment terms, and cookie duration offered by each program. Taking these things into account will help you choose the most suitable program to maximize your earning potential.
7. Home-based catering
If you have a knack for cooking and view it as a creative outlet, launching your own business in home-based catering could be a fulfilling venture. Your initial investment will vary. For instance, if you focus on smaller events you can manage yourself, costs may be more modest.
To kick things off, most home-based caterers set up a website, get involved in local food markets, or join platforms that let culinary experts earn from their skills.
8. Financial organization service
Launch a service that guides entrepreneurs in separating their personal and business finances. First, assist them in setting up distinct bank accounts and adopting software to monitor business expenses. Then, explain the tax and legal upsides to keeping finances apart. With your guidance, they’ll learn to maintain financial order effortlessly.
9. Dog walking
It can be difficult to keep up with a furry friend, particularly high-energy breeds with limited outdoor access. As a professional dog walker, you’ll be helping pet owners in the community keep their dogs happy, healthy, and well exercised.
You can establish a presence for your dog walking business on a number of platforms, including Wag!, Rover, and Care.com. Offer promotions for new clients and build a positive reputation by requesting reviews from those you’ve worked with in the past.
10. Virtual assistant
One of the most successful business ideas is offering virtual assistant services. Everyone from large enterprises to solopreneurs needs help with the day-to-day management of their business. You can use your excellent organizational skills to take some weight off their shoulders.
Land your first few clients by responding to listings on platforms like FreeUp, PeoplePerHour, or Virtual Assistant Jobs. This is a proven business model, as people are always looking for efficient virtual assistants.
11. Voiceover services
Voiceover artists provide professional narration for a variety of projects, such as podcast intros/outros, explainer videos, and audiobooks. Begin by refining your voice and recording skills through online tutorials and practice sessions. Develop a portfolio demonstrating your versatility across different genres and styles. Then, promote your services on freelancing platforms or by creating a website to attract potential clients.
12. Coding
Coding has long been a monetizable skill across industries. You can acquire foundational knowledge through courses, but true mastery comes from practical experience. Consider building a website to showcase your abilities, reach out to brands you admire for potential collaborations, and develop a portfolio featuring your work in website and app development.
13. Online reselling
Online reselling involves buying products cheaply from manufacturers or wholesalers and then selling them at a higher price to make a profit. To kick things off, focus on items you’re familiar with or that are in demand. Use platforms like eBay, Amazon, or Etsy to reach buyers. Quick tip: Take great photos and write clear descriptions to boost your sales.
14. Personal shopping
Do you have a knack for identifying fashion trends? If friends and family often seek your clothing advice, consider turning that talent into a personal shopping business.
Personal shoppers select clothing for clients who lack the time or inclination to shop. This involves assessing the client’s current wardrobe, browsing various online boutiques, and choosing items that fit their style. The variety of products in online stores means you don’t always have to shop in-person.
15. Car detailing
Contrary to popular belief, you can turn car detailing from a hobby into a thriving small business. Clients typically pay anywhere from $50 to $400 per vehicle, so with a consistent client base, you stand to earn a substantial profit.
Your marketing strategy holds the key to your success in the car detailing business. Create a website or utilize social media platforms to promote your services, and always encourage happy clients to leave reviews. Consider offering introductory discounts or package deals to entice new customers.
16. Boat cleaning
Here’s a unique idea that might interest you: boat cleaning. This service focuses on boats docked for off-season storage or those in need of repairs. Start by offering your services to individual boat owners with vessels parked at their homes.. You can also partner with marinas to provide your services as an added value to their customers.
17. Online tutoring
If you’re an expert in art, math, or another subject, consider starting your own small business in online tutoring. A bachelor’s degree in the subject you plan to teach is usually a must. Sites like Skooli and Tutor.com are great places to connect with students in need.
It’s beneficial to teach topics you’re passionate about and knowledgeable in, ensuring you provide real value. And with tools like Zoom, conducting online sessions is a breeze. Online tutoring not only taps into your expertise but also stands out as one of the more accessible small businesses to kick off.
18. Greeting cards
Greeting cards are always in style. So, if you have a good eye for design or just love showcasing your artwork on physical items, consider making greeting cards to sell online.
Before you start looking for clients, you need to have a handful of designs ready to go. Tools like Photoshop and Canva make it easy to create custom card designs. Additionally, you’ll need to stock up on supplies required to create greeting cards (ink, paper, etc.).
19. Content writing
Almost every company with a web presence needs help creating content for product pages, blogs, etc. As such, starting a content writing or copywriting company could be one of the most profitable business ideas for you. Popular websites for finding those first few customers include Remote.co, Problogger, and BloggingPro.
You can also join content writing groups on Facebook to get more exposure for your business. To make a good impression on clients, consider offering keyword optimization or custom graphics as part of your services.
20. Newsletter
A newsletter lets you talk straight to an audience that’s already interested. If you’ve got internet savvy and know things others want to learn, think about launching a newsletter. You just need an email service and a plan to get subscribers. Then, you can earn by selling spots to sponsors, or by selling your own products or services right through the newsletter. Or, if you gather enough subscribers, start charging for your newsletter.
21. Makeup artist
If making people look their best with makeup is what you love, starting a makeup artist business could be your calling. Focus on weddings, photoshoots, and special events. You have the choice to cater to local clients or travel for a broader clientele. To get started, advertise on local Facebook groups, and don’t forget to launch a website and distribute flyers.
22. Online dating consultant
For those passionate about matchmaking, offering online dating consulting services can be a great business idea. This type of service involves assisting clients with all aspects of their online dating journey, from creating attractive profiles to providing personalized guidance for finding compatible matches. Offer it to some friends first and leverage their success stories to promote your business to other singles.
23. Homemade products
If you’re skilled in making unique crafts like soap, drinks, or baked goods, consider turning it into a business. You can sell your creations at local farmers markets or online platforms like Etsy to reach a wide audience.
To really make your mark, think about adding a personal touch to your products. For example, you could offer custom flavors for drinks or personalized labels for soaps and baked goods.
24. WordPress support
A lot of websites out there are hosted on WordPress, and almost every WordPress website owner requires support in some form. So, if you’re familiar with the ins and outs of this platform, you’ll have several opportunities to make money.
Clients may contact you to fix their CSS, find and address security holes, and more. While you can use platforms like PeoplePerHour and Upwork to get your first clients, we recommend creating a custom website and listing your services there. That way, you’ll be able to avoid high commissions and build high-quality relationships with your clients.
25. Career coaching
With rising unemployment and a saturated job market, there’s no shortage of people needing help finding jobs. If you have a talent for helping your friends and family find suitable employment, you can probably help others too.
Consider starting a career coaching business where you help people figure out what the best career is for them, and teach them how to nail an interview, what traits define a good candidate, and more. You can look for clients in Facebook groups or on platforms like Coach.me.
26. Email marketing
Are you good at writing emails? Have you cracked the code for crafting subject lines that people can’t help but click? If so, you can step into entrepreneurship and make money by launching an email marketing business.
You can find companies that need help with their email strategy on platforms like PeoplePerHour and Upwork, as well as via cold outreach. Once you show your expertise in engaging recipients, clients will see the value in your services and many may agree to the price you quote them. Major brownie points if you can help grow their email list.
27. Contract cleaning
Not everyone has the time or skills to clean on a regular basis. By becoming a professional cleaner, you can assist home and business owners with scrubbing, dusting, vacuuming, and more, all while enjoying flexibility in your working hours due to the ongoing demand for cleaning services.
Startup costs for household cleaning businesses are extremely low. Cleaning supplies and materials usually cost less than $100, though you might also consider investing in specialty equipment like steam vacuums or carpet cleaners. Setting up a website or social media page can be an effective and low-cost way to promote your services.
28. Meals to go
There’s a growing demand from those who struggle to find the time to cook nutritious and healthy meals. This trend offers a perfect opportunity to start your own local meals-to-go business.
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to invest heavily in a large commercial kitchen. A shared rental kitchen can efficiently cater to a meals-to-go business. These spaces come equipped with essential supplies and can be rented by the month, day, or hour. You can find shared-use licensed commissary kitchens on websites like The Kitchen Door.
29. Landscaping services
Are you passionate about gardening and yard work? Starting a landscaping business could be the perfect avenue to transform your hobby into a profitable venture. Landscaping services encompass a wide range of jobs, from mowing lawns to planting flowers and shrubs. Depending on your local climate, the demand for these services may vary seasonally.
To secure your initial clients, you might consider going door to door in your community or utilizing platforms like TaskEasy. Websites such as HomeAdvisor can also connect you with potential clients in your area.
30. Charity business
Have you ever dreamed of making a difference through your business? Now’s your chance. Infuse your company with a mission and allocate profits to a cause you care about. Partner with nonprofits or directly contribute to social good while staying transparent about your efforts.
You can also utilize tools like the Give & Grow Donations Shopify app to seamlessly incorporate your mission into your business and engage customers in supporting meaningful causes at checkout.
31. Website testing
Did you know many digital brands hire real individuals to provide feedback on their websites? These external insights help them pinpoint and rectify problems that internal developers might have overlooked. You can leverage this demand by assembling a team of freelancers and establishing your own website testing company.
For each project you undertake, your team would be provided with a set of questions to guide them as they navigate a client’s website. They’d then share their impressions on the site’s user experience and potential improvements through video feedback.
You can find work through websites like UserTesting, Ferpection, and TryMyUI.
Did you know many digital brands hire real individuals to provide feedback on their websites? These external insights help them pinpoint and rectify problems that internal developers might have overlooked. You can leverage this demand by assembling a team of freelancers and establishing your own website testing company.
For each project you undertake, your team would be provided with a set of questions to guide them as they navigate a client’s website. They’d then share their impressions on the site’s user experience and potential improvements through video feedback. You can find work through websites like UserTesting, FerpectiFerpectionon, and TryMyUI.
32. SEO
Do you have experience in generating backlinks and improving the search engine visibility of a website? If yes, then there’s an opportunity for you to cash in on your skill set.
Site owners worldwide require the services of SEO experts, so opening a business in this field could turn out to be one of your best decisions. To attract clients, target a niche audience, leverage past experiences, and highlight your success stories. With monthly retainers of $500 to $1,000, selling SEO services is one of the best business ideas to make money in 2024.
33. App development
App development is one of the best profitable small business ideas, since so many companies require an app. The cost of starting this venture has also drastically gone down due to the growth of tools and affordable developers.
Today, you can use software like OmniGraffle or Sketch to create the wireframes and mockups before you decide to publish the app. There’s also the opportunity to earn passive income by creating apps for the general audience.
34. Virtual dance studio
The upsides to a virtual dance studio are pretty obvious: You don’t need to rent a big space, and it’s convenient to record, publish, and share the choreography at your own discretion. It’s even possible to give dance classes from home, making it one of the best home-based business ideas.
To start a virtual dance studio, you’ll need to invest in video conferencing software, such as Zoom. You’ll also need high-speed internet to ensure there are no lags or buffering during the livestream. Make sure to arrange enough classes per month so that your students learn their routines fast.
If you have a passion for creating your own unique choreography, you may also find opportunities to partner with dance schools to give their students access to your content on a membership basis.
35. Stock photography
If you have the ability to capture great candid moments or recently did a portrait shoot of a relative, you can become a stock photographer by registering a sole proprietorship under your name.
Most stock photography websites pay you a royalty for every download on their platform. Another option is to launch your own photography website and sell images directly to people, which is only viable if you have the resources to invest in marketing.
36. Instagram consulting
If you know the secrets to Instagram engagement, consider starting an Instagram consulting business. Clients will pay you for crafting engaging captions, responding to comments, creating attractive bios, and more.
You can monetize these services by charging a specific rate per hour or by project. This is the ideal business model for digital nomads, as all tasks can be managed from a laptop or smartphone.
37. Video production
The initial investment for this venture includes a basic lighting set, wireless microphones, one to two cameras (and lenses), and editing software such as Adobe Premiere or Final Cut Pro. Consider sourcing second-hand equipment to cut down on startup costs.
You can offer to produce video content for companies’ YouTube channels, manage graduation and wedding videography, and more. While there’s no restriction to the types of projects you can do, specializing in a niche makes it easy to stand out in a busy marketplace.
38. Software education
Are there people in your circle struggling with computer software? If so, starting a software education venture could be lucrative. Your students might range from entrepreneurs enhancing their IT capabilities to small business owners mastering tools like Excel and PowerPoint. As the primary expert, you can spearhead most of the training sessions.
As enrollment grows, consider bringing onboard freelance software experts to cover specialized topics. While renting a space for physical classes is an option, virtual classes could reduce costs and broaden your reach.
39. College preparation
The business of assisting high school students in securing college admissions is thriving. As IBISWorld notes, the testing and educational support industry’s market size was a staggering $17.9 billion in 2023
Initiate your venture by choosing a specific aspect of college prep, like ACT tutoring or admission essay coaching. Once your niche is clear, register your business and start reaching out to students.
40. Niche staffing agency
Nearly every industry has open jobs, and employers are keen to hire the best people for their companies. Your task as a niche staffing agency is to match employees to employers in your sector of choice.
Figure out what type of roles you’ll be staffing (Junior? Mid-level? C-level?) so you can identify the right candidates for the position. Additionally, consider the employment terms that your agency will share with potential candidates. You can be a temporary, temporary-to-permanent, or long-term staffing agency based on the needs of the market.
41. Digital event planning
One of the best small business ideas is to open up a digital event planning company. In this business, you’ll plan, organize, and report on digital events like webinars and online summits for different companies.
Money can be made by charging an hourly fee for your service, selling sponsorships, etc. If you ever dreamed of planning a wedding or exhibition, but never quite had the time to organize anything, you can still channel your inner facilitator by planning digital events for people and businesses.
42. Personal training
Being a personal trainer transcends simple exercise instruction. Personal trainers craft tailored plans, providing both motivation and consistent accountability. Clients invest not just in workouts, but in the comprehensive expertise a personal trainer offers.
This expertise isn’t confined to gym walls. The surge of virtual training sessions allows personal trainers to tap into a global clientele. For those deeply passionate about fitness, establishing a personal training business stands at the intersection of profit and passion.
43. Child care
If you love working with children and can obtain the necessary licenses, starting a child care business might be a great opportunity for you. The increasing need for child care services and the lack of enough providers create an ideal situation for launching a new business. To differentiate your venture, consider offering personalized care options or engaging activity programs tailored to children’s ages and interests.
44. Home enhancement
Got an eye for aesthetics and space management? Consider getting into home enhancement, where you transform everyday spaces into showpiece properties. Initially, you can magnify the appeal of homes using the owner’s existing items, keeping startup costs low. As you gain momentum, many professionals in this field curate their own collection of versatile furnishings.
45. Tour guide business
Another small business idea is starting a tour guide business. Sure, there’s a lot of competition out there. But you can differentiate yourself by offering unique experiences. Consider crafting specialized tours that cater to niche interests, such as historical walking tours of your town’s most haunted spots, or curated food tours that showcase the city’s culinary delights.
46. Life coaching
Life coaches guide individuals through career shifts and help them create lives they adore. If you’re skilled at decision-making, communicate well, and like steering people toward their dream lives, this might be your calling. Get a qualification first. Then, grab clients through social media and local ads, and, eventually, word-of-mouth will do its magic.
47. Furniture upcycling/restoration
Furniture upcycling has become popular as people look to refresh their living spaces. If you’ve developed skills in restoring furniture and enjoy giving a new lease on life to well-loved pieces, think about starting a business in furniture restoration or upcycling. Search for hidden gems in local charity shops or reclamation centers to refurbish and sell, or offer your services to update people’s existing furniture.
48. Board game customization
Personalized board games are becoming popular as people look for unique, custom-made entertainment options. This business caters to everyone: single players, families, and companies who want special games. To start, think about if you want to make the games yourself or hire a specialist to do it. If you decide to make them, look at YouTube videos and online guides to learn how.
49. Massage therapy
Massage therapists offer a service many seek for relief and relaxation. Here’s how you can run your massage business:
- Go to clients’ houses to provide massages.
- Open a center where clients can visit you.
- Team up with a chiropractor, salon, or acupuncturist and work together.
First, you need to get certified. After that, you can start adding more services, like beauty treatments or relaxation therapies.
50. Personal storage help
Dealing with excess belongings is something a lot of people struggle with. They sometimes even end up needing extra space to store their stuff. As a personal storage helper, you step in to sort this out. You help decide what to keep, what to donate, and what to store. This job revolves around being organized and assisting people in decluttering their spaces.
51. Coffee shop
Turn your coffee enthusiasm into your own coffee shop. You can either join a franchise or start from scratch. Once your shop is up and running, make it a go-to place by organizing events, offering deals, and becoming a vital part of the community.
52. Food store
If you’re an expert in a certain type of food—or simply have a deep love for a specific product—consider opening a dedicated food store. With a clear business plan, transform your passion into a niche hub for cheese, wine, craft beers, or specialty olive oils, drawing in those with similar tastes.
53. Food truck
Starting a food truck is more affordable than opening a restaurant, since all you need is a vehicle and cooking gear. To do well, pick a certain type of food or cuisine because space is tight. If buying a truck is too costly, consider leasing one through a company such as the Food Truck Group. This way, you can start small and, if things go well, possibly open a restaurant later.
54. Vending machines
Vending machines provide convenient access to a variety of products without the need for human interaction. They cater to individuals seeking quick purchases in high-traffic locations like hospitals, schools, and community centers. To start this business, research and secure agreements with property owners for strategic machine placement.
55. Eco-friendly refill shop
As people become more eco-conscious, refill stations for everyday products like laundry detergent and cooking oil are gaining traction. These businesses appeal by helping customers reduce plastic waste and promoting sustainability. To get started, create a functional setup with clearly labeled bulk dispensers for various products.
56. Interior design
Many people can buy furniture and décor but don’t know how to pull a room together. That’s where you come in. Start by decorating friends’ homes to match their vision with your flair. Great interior design mixes client dreams with your know-how. Document your work, share it online, and watch your fanbase grow.
Start a small business today
There you have it—a list of 56 small business ideas that will make you money in 2024. To give yourself the best chance of success, focus on one idea at a time until you find one that aligns with your abilities.
Thousands of entrepreneurs have implemented these business ideas to make money, so you can be sure that you’re putting your time and effort into something viable and proven. Whether you’re a college student, a work-at-home parent, or simply someone looking to start a business, remember there are plenty of opportunities to earn a sizable income.
