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24 Business Ideas That Could Be Worth Millions Focus on one of the many problems people have that you could help them solve.

By John Rampton • May 28, 2021

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

The advance of the internet has democratized admission to the world of entrepreneurship. From virtually anywhere in the world (provided internet access), makers can launch real, viable businesses capable of generating millions of dollars a year.

While technology has lowered the barrier to entry to starting a business, there's still an infinite supply of problems just waiting to be solved. With tons of ideas out there, the primary ingredient for building a startup -- besides time and a bit of luck -- is execution. You just have to get started. To get you started, here are 24 viable business ideas.

unique business ideas quora

Gmail Extension Creator

Modern businesses rely on email to get their work done. There are dozens of opportunities to build Gmail extensions that automate parts of a professional's workflow to save time and money.

Related: 20 Gmail Hacks Only Savvy Users Know

unique business ideas quora

Drone Videographer

Improvement in aviation technology has made it easier than ever to get a drone up and flying over a beautiful landscape or building. The commercial and residential real estate industries are practically begging for more drone videographers to serve their agents and home developers.

Related: Revolutionizing the Film Industry With Remote-Controlled Drones

unique business ideas quora

FAQs Chatbot Builder

Companies waste dozens and dozens of hours a week answering support questions from their customers. Help them automate this process by using a simple chatbot.

Related: Top 10 Best Chatbot Platform Tools to Build Chatbots for Your Business

unique business ideas quora

Drop Shipping Business Owner

You can start an e-commerce business without holding any inventory. This practice, known as drop shipping , offers a lot of opportunity if you can dominate the right niche.

Related: 6 Steps to Building a Successful Online Drop Shipping Business

unique business ideas quora

Online Course Creator

If you know an industry or task really well, you can easily create and sell an online course that teaches people a new skill. You'll just have to invest the resources upfront that are necessary to develop the class.

Related: 8 Steps to Creating a Profitable Digital Course

unique business ideas quora

Social Media Manager

You can run social media accounts for a number of different companies if you market yourself well. Advertise your ability to drive sales and increase ROI by leveraging the reach of multiple social channels.

Related: Tips for Running Your Best Social Media Campaign Ever

unique business ideas quora

Online Influencer

It's a common dream nowadays to become an internet celebrity, and there's a reason: Building a wide audience on the internet can give you immense influence that can be monetized at scale.

Related: What I've Learned From Spending $10 Million on Influencer Marketing

unique business ideas quora

Affiliate Marketing Partner

Affiliate marketing is a partnership that bloggers, content creators or marketers can have with an online retailer. The retailer pays a commission for every referral sale the partner sends their way.

Related: Top 10 Affiliate Marketing Tracking Software Platforms

unique business ideas quora

Event Planner and Promoter

Restaurants, clubs and other physical venues often struggle to get customers in the door. Using your ability as a marketer, you can be compensated for directing traffic to these locations.

Related: The Price Is Right: Turning a Profit in the Event Planning Business

unique business ideas quora

Real Estate Investor

In any market, there are opportunities for buying and selling real estate to make a profit. With a bit of capital, you can begin taking more risks on your assets and making long term investments in residential and commercial real estate. Just be sure to do your research before you get started.

Related: 8 Ways Real Estate Is Your Smartest Investment

unique business ideas quora

Ghostwriter

You can turn your ability to write well and quickly into a serious business if you find the right clients. Try freelancer platforms like Upwork and Freelancer.com. As long as you provide consistent and quality content, over time, your business is bound to grow.

Related: The Entrepreneur's Complete Guide to Ghostwriting

unique business ideas quora

Content Translator

Being fluent in another language can be extremely valuable to people who need their websites translated. Put up a simple website, and you can start charging for "translation as a service" for websites, documents and presentations.

Related: Going Global? 3 Strategies to Ensure Nothing's 'Lost in Translation'

unique business ideas quora

Website Flipper

Using Flippa or any other online business marketplace, you can buy and sell projects, domains and websites. With the right eye, you can find great deals on promising ideas and turn them for a profit with just a small investment in the right areas.

Related: 7 Lucrative Online Jobs That Can Skyrocket Your Income

unique business ideas quora

Newsletter Writer

Building a newsletter with an active following is an extremely lucrative business opportunity because advertisers will pay serious dollars to get their names in front of the right audience. Start with a small niche that you can really provide value to, and you'll likely see your subscriber list grow over time.

Related: 4 Steps to Building A Profitable Digital Newsletter

unique business ideas quora

Freelance Designer

Learn how to use Photoshop or sketch, and you can start charging clients for your design work. As a freelancer , you'll be able to make your own hours and dictate your own progression as your business grows.

Related: The Non-Designer's Guide to Hiring a Great Freelance Web Designer

unique business ideas quora

Personal Trainer

If you enjoy fitness and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, then personal training could be a prime business for you. There's always a market for it through people who are looking to get in shape -- and looking for someone to push them in the right direction.

Related: How To Add Wellness Coaching to Your Personal Training Business

unique business ideas quora

Craigslist Flipper

Craigslist can be a goldmine finding deals that you can flip for a profit. There are plenty of resources available online that can help you identify the good deals from the rest of the pack.

Related: How to Make a Fortune With $100

unique business ideas quora

Farmers' Market Seller

If you know any farmers in your area, you can reach out to them and offer to sell their products at farmers' markets. Rather than paying upfront, you can mitigate your risk by partnering with the farmers in exchange for commission.

Related: College Entrepreneurs Find a Green Niche in an Online Farmers Market

unique business ideas quora

Paid Advertising Consultant

Most businesses rely on some sort of paid advertising to drive leads for their business. Become an expert at Google AdWords or Facebook ads, and you can start charging clients for managing their spend.

Related: Need Clients? The 5 Best Ways to Market Your Consulting Business

unique business ideas quora

Whether it is for the ACT, SAT or just general schoolwork, many students could use support to do their best in different subjects. Become a resource that helps students succeed in the classroom, and many parents will likely be willing to pay you for the help.

Related: To Rapidly Enhance Your Business, Stop Selling and Start Teaching

unique business ideas quora

Outsourced Assistant

Well-paid CEOs do not have the time or energy to worry about many of the administrative tasks that can come with the job. If you can give wealthy people their time back by acting as an outsourcd assistant, many will be more than happy to compensate you appropriately.

Related: What Successful Entrepreneurs Outsource to a Virtual Assistant

unique business ideas quora

Believe it or not, you can turn a profit off of beinga "professional reviewer," or someone who reviews products by publishing thoughts about them online. It will take some time to gain some domain authority, but after a while, you could become a thougth leader in your space.

Related: A Top TripAdvisor Reviewer Talks About How Reviews Work, for Good and Bad

unique business ideas quora

Becoming a life coach is as simple as determining which of your past experiences you can use to provide value to others. Whether it is providing actionable strategies or general advice, you can likely find a niche as a life coach or mentor.

Related: The 10 Best Cities For Starting a Life-Coaching Practice

unique business ideas quora

Website Designer

There are plenty of companies and professionals out there who want a website to represent them online but don't have the skills to create it. Many are more than willing to pay for a quality website that will better display their brand image.

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24 Unique Business Ideas That Will Make You Money [2024]

Looking for a business idea that will set you apart from the competition?

We put together a list of the most profitable unique business ideas that anyone can start today!

Some of these are pretty weird and crazy business ideas, but that is actually what makes them successful.

If you're looking to do something original, then this list is for you.

Here's the list:

1. Start a dog walking business

Are you a dog lover? If so, you can turn your passion for animals into a profitable side hustle that allows you to earn extra income for your mortgage, a vacation, or paying off student loans.

As a dog walker, sitter, or boarder, you can earn an average annual income of between $10,000 and $30,000 by offering your services to dog owners in need of a caregiver for their furry friends.

To get started, register on a credible dog-walking app and create a compelling profile that showcases your experience, skills, and love for dogs.

With your dedication and expertise, you can help dog owners ensure their pets receive the care and attention they need while building a thriving business that fulfills your passion for animals.

How much you can make: $15,000 — $54,000/month

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

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

Time commitment per week: Min. 2 hours/week

unique business ideas quora

Furry Fellas Pet Service LLC is a successful pet sitting and dog walking business that brings in over half a million dollars in sales per year, boasts 3,500-4,000 social media followers, employs 42 individuals and has been voted in the top 3 pet sitting/dog walking companies in the RI/MA area for eight years in a row.

unique business ideas quora

2. Create a board game ($4.5K/month)

Creating your own board game can be fun, challenging, and rewarding. Games are an integral part of our culture and are played by people from all walks of life.

You can create a board game from scratch with basic programming knowledge or several hours of practice. Board games are easy to manufacture, can be made from home, and can become top-rated and profitable businesses.

How much you can make: $1,500 — $30,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $300 (?)

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

Time commitment per week: Min. 10 hours/week

Case Study How I Built A Successful Business Out Of My Passion For Board Games Facade Games has raised over $1 million on Kickstarter and sold about 80,000 copies of their board games around the world, with the goal to publish one new game a year on Kickstarter and build on their line of games in books as well as a new party game line in the near future. $30K Monthly Revenue 7 10.4K

3. Invent a hangover cure ($105K/month)

Hangover cure products are specially formulated remedies that aim to alleviate the unpleasant symptoms caused by excessive alcohol consumption.

These products are designed to provide relief from issues like headaches, nausea, and fatigue that are commonly experienced after a night of drinking.

The ingredients of these remedies are carefully selected for their hydrating and replenishing properties, which help to restore the body's balance and speed up the recovery process.

Due to the widespread social culture of drinking and the need for a quick and reliable solution to recover from a night out, the demand for effective hangover cures is high.

As a result, this has created a lucrative business opportunity for those looking to capitalize on the market.

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

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

Case Study 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. $10K Monthly Revenue $-2 Startup Costs 18 14.3K

4. Create an online course

An online course business involves creating and selling digital classes teaching specialized skills or knowledge to subscribed students.

As an entrepreneurial course creator, you identify educational gaps around topics you have expertise in and develop engaging video lessons and supplementary materials.

With flexibility around self-paced or cohort-based structures, building a student base provides passive income potential.

For founders who enjoy information-sharing, launching an online course platform presents a lucrative way to monetize your instructional talents with small startup costs by serving eager lifelong learners seeking convenient access to emerging subjects.

How much you can make: $350 — $3,735,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,700 (?)

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

unique business ideas quora

Learn how one couple created a successful personal finance blog, The Savvy Couple, that now makes over $20,000 per month and has sold thousands of digital workbooks and courses, by focusing on purposeful content and optimizing their ROI with efficient time management.

unique business ideas quora

5. Start a city maps business

The city maps business involves creating and selling customized maps of cities, neighborhoods, or specific areas.

The city maps can be used for decorative purposes, navigation aids, or as unique gifts.

To start this business on a budget, you can begin by researching and selecting popular cities or areas to create maps for.

Next, design the maps using graphic design software or outsource the design work if needed.

Finally, consider selling the maps online through platforms like Etsy, your own website, or at local markets and events.

How much you can make: $200 — $416,666/month

How much does it cost to start: $2,600 (?)

How long does it take to build: 45 days (?)

unique business ideas quora

How a pair of engineering students co-founded Mapsery, a unique custom map poster business, and grew it into a $3.5k/month side hustle with a 25% profit margin in just over two years, despite facing increasing competition in the map poster niche.

unique business ideas quora

6. Start an axe throwing business

Throwing axes is a great way to relieve stress, bond with friends and coworkers, and even make some money.

Axe throwing is a new and exciting activity that is growing in popularity, especially for corporate or business events.

How much you can make: $60,000 — $80,000/month

unique business ideas quora

Forged Axe Throwing is a successful axe throwing venue that teaches people the art of axe throwing while hosting tournaments, generating $960k of revenue per year and hosting over 30k people in their venue in a year.

unique business ideas quora

7. Become a professional cuddler

Imagine being a professional cuddler for a living. Getting paid to snuggle your clients may sound strange, but this type of service has been in high demand over the last few years.

Think of 'snugglers' as a more personal therapist. They get paid for many services: hugging their clients, listening to their problems, coaching them, comforting & reducing stress, cooking and eating meals together and more.

How much you can make: $1,500 — $8,800/month

Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week

unique business ideas quora

Professional cuddler, Sam Varnerin, developed her successful one-to-one cuddle service, Snuggle with Sam, as a result of recognising the universal human need for connection and touch, which also led to her opening Sam’s Snuggle School, a course for aspiring professional cuddlers.

unique business ideas quora

8. Create tiny homes ($295K/month)

People love living in small spaces. They're affordable and easy to maintain. Starting a tiny house-building business is a great way to help people and make money. You need to be licensed and insured to work in the state you live in, and you will also need a business license. Additionally, you will also have to research how much it costs to build a tiny house as well as what materials are needed for the project.

Tiny houses are becoming increasingly popular, offering a unique opportunity for you to get involved in the construction industry. The tiny homes industry is expected to grow to 3.57B by 2026 .

How much you can make: $295,000 — $10,000,000/month

How long does it take to build: 700 days (?)

Case Study We Make $1.8M/Year Renting Tiny Homes To Travelers Tiny Away, a network of eco-friendly 'tiny houses' across Australia, has grown to over 75 private locations and brings in an average of $156,000 in monthly rental revenue, appealing to city dwellers seeking unique and comfortable accommodation experiences. $295K Monthly Revenue $300K Startup Costs 5 7.3K

9. Build treehouses ($63.5K/month)

Tree houses are fun escape places for both young and adults alike. The kids use the tree houses for fun, play, and hiding, while the adults love spending their free time relaxing and enjoying the cool breeze on tree tops. Plus, this tree house concept is becoming quite popular in the hospitality industry as well.

Therefore, starting a tree house construction business could be a lucrative business opportunity. To build a tree house, you need unique design and architectural skills. A custom treehouse business can be a fun, challenging, and rewarding way to make money.

How much you can make: $63,500/month

How long does it take to build: 395 days (?)

Case Study How I Started A $63K/Month Custom Built Treehouse Business And Got Featured In Over 85 Publications Founder, Dustin Feider, shares how he started O2 Treehouse Commercial, a custom-built treehouse business generating $63K/month, which has been featured in over 85 publications and has a two-year backlog of projects waiting, along with the launch of Treewalkers, a treehouse hospitality franchise seeking to reconnect people with nature on a larger scale through a crowdfunding equity campaign via StartEngine. $63.5K Monthly Revenue $12K Startup Costs 5 6.13K

10. Start a cat cafe business

The only thing that can make a local cafe better is cats. Grab a cup of coffee and snuggle a cat at the same time. Recently, cat cafes have been popping up around the country. Some of these cafes are independent operators, while others work with local humane societies to get cats adopted.

Create a network of cat cafes where people can interact and play with cats. Once established, a cat cafe business can increase its revenue by hosting events. Events often draw lots of people in, and a business can charge more for each person because there's a special event taking place.

You might consider the following options for your cat cafe business:

  • Adoptions: This type of cat cafe has cats that can be adopted. Some cat cafes specialize in rescued cats while others specialize in pedigree cats. These cat cafes can also have a combination of both.
  • Permanent residents: This type of cat cafe has several resident cats on the premises. Similar to the adoption cafes, these can be cats that have been rescued or pedigree cats, or both.
  • Full-service dining: This type of cat cafe has a full menu of food and beverages for its customers and sometimes for its cats as well.
  • Themed cafe: This type of cat cafe is designed around a specific theme. Garden themes and whimsical themes are quite popular.

11. Start a glamping business

Glamping is the ultimate in eco-chic these days. A glamorous twist on camping, glamping feels more like a 5-star hotel and less like roughing it.

You could turn your backyard into a campground that earns money every day.

12. Start a sensory deprivation tank business

Experience total isolation and float your way into blissful serenity. The sensory deprivation tank business has been growing, 20-25% as of a few years ago .

As our lives become more chaotic and stressful, people will continue to look for ways to destress, and float tanks might be one way that they pull out their wallets.

13. Start a pet hotel business

Starting your own pet hotel business is not as difficult as you might think. With the right knowledge and hard work, you can achieve a lot in the pet industry.

A pet hotel is a place where people bring their cats and dogs for short-term boarding. It's a business that provides pet-sitting services in which customers can board their pets while they're out of town, or while they're at work.

Over 60M households own dogs or cats in the United States. What happens when they leave town or go on vacation? Pet boarding is a lucrative industry that can be served locally in any state or city across the world.

14. Start a cat treats brand

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

unique business ideas quora

Cat Sushi went from repackaging tuna flakes to creating a unique pet treat brand by leveraging their connections to the pet industry and focusing on a beautiful design that set them apart from their competition.

unique business ideas quora

15. Start a puppet fabric store

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

unique business ideas quora

Puppet Pelts founder Laurie Nickerson explains how she started her company by filling a void in the market, grew it primarily organically through word of mouth to become a leader in puppet skin textile manufacturing, and is currently expanding her product line to include unique shags and colors.

unique business ideas quora

16. Start a weighted blankets brand

Are you looking for a unique business idea to help people feel calm and relaxed? A weighted blanket brand might be the perfect fit for you!

Weighted blankets are a popular therapeutic tool that uses deep pressure touch to provide comfort and security. They can be especially helpful for individuals with anxiety, ADHD, or sensory processing disorders.

Starting a weighted blanket brand requires research and planning, but it can be fulfilling and profitable. First, you’ll need to decide on the type of blankets you want to offer. Options include different sizes, weights, and materials such as cotton, Minky, or fleece. You’ll also need to choose a reliable supplier and determine your pricing strategy.

Next, you’ll need to consider your marketing and sales strategy. This could involve setting up an online store, attending trade shows, or partnering with retailers. You’ll also want a solid social media presence to connect with potential customers.

Finally, don’t forget about customer service! Providing excellent service and support to your customers will help you stand out in the market and build a loyal customer base.

Starting a weighted blanket brand requires dedication and hard work, but it can be a rewarding and lucrative business idea. If you’re passionate about helping people feel more comfortable and relaxed, this could be the perfect opportunity for you!

How much you can make: $21 — $416,000/month

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

unique business ideas quora

Baloo Living, a Bali-based wellness company founded in 2018, saw incredible success in its first year, reaching six and seven-figure sales figures within just three and 12 months respectively by offering a high-quality, thoughtfully-designed weighted blanket.

unique business ideas quora

17. Start a golf simulators business

Everyone wants to believe they can be as good as a pro when they step up to a tee. A golf simulator is one way to keep practicing and building golf skills. Golf simulators have exploded in popularity over the past decade, making them a profitable business venture.

Golf simulators allow one to practice and play virtual golf on courses 24/7, indoors or outdoors. The simulators record player's real-time metrics showing how one is doing and highlighting areas that need improvement. The golf simulators market overview report shows projected growth of 8.3% over the next few years. Therefore, the golf simulators have great market potential.

To start a golf simulator business, research the options available from different golf simulators and their features. Find a good location for your golf simulators, research the target audience and develop projections.

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

unique business ideas quora

Australian startup founder Igor built a virtual golf empire selling affordable golf simulators for personal and commercial use, leading to the growth of his e-commerce platform and establishment of an event hire business, all through the power of online networking.

unique business ideas quora

18. Start a respirator mask business

How much you can make: $90,000/month

unique business ideas quora

In this case study, Michael details:

  • Start: Bought the business for the cost of a car
  • First customers: Focused on a very specific niche, pet groomers
  • Growth: 70% of the sales come from Amazon
Don’t let the naysayers bother you.

unique business ideas quora

19. Start a flight tours business

Over the past few years, there has been a noticeable surge in the popularity of aerial sightseeing as people increasingly seek unique and thrilling experiences.

This trend has opened up an incredible opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to start a business in scenic air tours and tailor-made flight experiences.

This business model allows you to take advantage of the growing demand for awe-inspiring aerial views of picturesque locations across the country while giving you the flexibility to set your own schedule.

By providing your clients with an unforgettable experience, you will be creating memories that they will cherish for a lifetime.

So, if you are passionate about adventure, beauty, and flexibility and want to turn it into a profitable business, the aerial sightseeing industry could be the perfect venture for you.

How much you can make: $30,000 — $1,500,000/month

How long does it take to build: 210 days (?)

unique business ideas quora

Envi Adventures, a Troutdale, Oregon-based air tour business, grew from making $7,000 in a month in its first year to over $30,000 a month in its second year, using Instagram and influencer marketing to create an interactive, personalized experience for guests.

unique business ideas quora

20. Start a hammock brand

Over the past few years, the demand for hammocks has shot up.

The global hammock market is projected to reach $639 million in the next few years.

The demand for hammocks is growing among campers and outdoor enthusiasts due to the ease of installation and use. Hammocks are lightweight and ideal for carrying around when going for outdoor backpacking and hiking trips.

With hammocks' popularity rising, starting a hammock line today can be profitable. To start your hammock business, research the market to find out who uses hammocks more. You can be a hammock maker, a wholesaler, or a retailer.

Register your business and apply for the certificates you need to run a successful venture.

How much you can make: $240 — $80,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $49 (?)

unique business ideas quora

Maca founder Ben started a direct-to-consumer handmade Mexican travel hammock business from scratch, generating sales through partnerships with Vanlife and RV communities and utilizing product reviews to build social proof and customer trust.

unique business ideas quora

21. Start a discount travel website

Discount travel websites help travelers save on the cost of travel. Besides, discount travel websites help hotels and travel agents achieve full booking and highlight promotions.

More people search for discount offers on travel websites. Thus, starting your discount travel website can be a lucrative business opportunity.

How much you can make: $70,000 — $1,500,000/month

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

unique business ideas quora

I Know The Pilot founder Garth Adams shares how he grew his airfare and accommodation deals newsletter from a simple WordPress site to over 780,000 email subscribers, 110,000 app users, and 550,000 Facebook fans on a 100% free business model, and how he's pivoted domestically during the Covid-19 pandemic.

unique business ideas quora

22. Start a knife sharpening service

Every household has a bunch of knives in it. All those households have dull knives that may need sharpening to serve the owners well. Therefore, there is already a market for your knife sharpening business. To start the business, drive down the road, knock and ask the homeowners if their knives need sharpening.

How much you can make: $1,500 — $200,000/month

unique business ideas quora

Knife Aid, a mail-in knife sharpening service, has seen a steady increase in sales month over month since launching in early 2019 and is now trading at $250,000 per month largely due to the service being "something every American home is in need of," gaining huge PR boosts, and offering a unique supply-and-repair service that requires very low investment.

unique business ideas quora

23. Start a food truck

Food trucks are a highly profitable business that offers customers a variety of meal options out of a mobile truck. This basically operates inside a large vehicle equipped with kitchen and food products. Starting a food truck is a dream for many people, but it's more challenging than it looks. To make it work, you need the ideal location and menu.

To start a food truck business in a particular city, it is mandatory to check what kind of food trucks are already operating, identify a gap, and bring in some new experiences. Then, with the right plan and the right approach, you can be on your way to starting your own food truck empire.

How much you can make: $29,166 — $61,650,000/month

unique business ideas quora

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.

unique business ideas quora

24. Become an interior designer

Interior designing involves making indoor spaces safe, functional, and beautiful by determining space requirements and selecting essential & decorative items such as colors, lighting, and materials.

The global luxury interior design market is growing at a CAGR of 9.0%. The growth metrics show there is great potential for entrepreneurs targeting households.

If you are starting a luxury interior design business, focus on style and specialty. Add valuables with creative professions, such as interior design, so you stand out from the rest. Ensure you hire the right people and hone the brand identity.

How much you can make: $100,000 — $415,000/month

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

unique business ideas quora

Mother and daughter duo turn passion for antiques and design into a boutique design firm with over $1 million in annual revenue and hundreds of trophy projects, showcasing the importance of grit, determination, and passion in building a successful business.

unique business ideas quora

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unique business ideas quora

8 Unique Business Ideas to Set Yourself Apart

Let’s face it: trying to stand out or be different isn’t something you’d prioritize as a first-time entrepreneur. After all, society has taught you to play it safe and blend in until you gain enough experience to innovate. 

But with the global economy becoming more and more competitive, it’s crucial to find ways to set yourself apart from other companies from Day 1 of your entrepreneurial career. In that context, nothing beats the edge you gain by adopting a unique business idea.

Unique businesses tend to have less competition, but the competition they do have ensures there’s a demand for the product. It’s important to differentiate yourself, but the success of your venture depends less on what your business idea is and more on how you execute that idea. 

If you’re looking for a unique business idea, here’s a few to get you started:

unique business ideas quora

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unique business ideas quora

8 unique business ideas to try in 2022 

1. become a personal shopper and promote your services on tiktok.

Did you know that TikTok is a fast-growing source of revenue for ecommerce businesses? That’s right— a lot of TikTok users are buying products directly on the video-sharing app rather than shopping from brands’ websites. But not all users have the time to make shopping choices⁠—and that’s where you can build a business by providing personal shopping services.

Personal shopping is where you purchase items on behalf of another person —in this case, a TikTok user. You’ll need to demonstrate skills in finding the best buys on TikTok, so it helps to learn how to research products on the app. Additionally, you’ll need to know how to use the app’s ecommerce features to make a direct purchase. It can be a good idea to offer your service to friends who use TikTok, so you can gain some experience and get a testimonial or two to share with future clients. 

→ Click Here to Launch Your Online Business with Shopify

Once you’re fully comfortable doing product research and shopping for items on TikTok, you can promote your services via word of mouth , social media, and offline marketing.

unique business idea exampe: TikTok consultant

2. Launch your own novelty t-shirt brand

If you’re a creative person and you can reflect people’s passions via art, you can get a slice of the $3.91 billion market that is custom t-shirts. People use t-shirts to express themselves: their identities, values, interests, or sometimes just the influencers they like. 

You might not think of t-shirts themselves as unique, but the reason the business seems so viable is because the niching opportunities are endless. Whether they feature stunning artwork, intricate designs, catchy jokes, or LGBTQ slogans ⁠—no other brand will be selling your designs.

To get started, find yourself a good print-on-demand company and set up a storefront on Shopify . Then come up with original designs, add them to your shirts, and get paid when someone orders from your business. 

3. Launch a podcast and build multiple income streams

Podcasts may be free to download, but the people making them don’t always work for free. Through affiliate programs, tiered Patreon subscriptions, and online live events, any podcaster can start making an income from their content.

Podcasting begins with a topic you’re passionate about—a book, a hobby, or an educational topic. Then, with people who love discussing those topics, you can put together a weekly podcast in which you inform and explore.

You’ll need recording gear and a little knowledge of audio editing to create podcast episodes. Set yourself up a weekly recording session and get your voice out there to build an audience. With time, you can start using different monetization strategies to generate revenue from your podcast. 

4. Offer virtual assistance to other businesses

With so many companies shifting their focus to online operations, the demand for virtual assistants is growing. These individuals are contracted workers who can handle a wide range of tasks, from bookkeeping to email marketing to personal tasks like managing schedules or arranging trips. You could assist virtually as a full-time business or a side job.

Since business owners can hire virtual assistants from anywhere in the world, this business doesn’t restrict you to a specific location. To set yourself apart from the competition, become skilled at handling specific tasks that businesses struggle to find talent for, like optimizing sales funnels or building post-purchase email campaigns . 

offer virtual assistance to businesses

5. Start a gifts and flower delivery business

Everyone loves that feeling of receiving a thoughtful gift basket or flowers from people who care. Why not try your hand at being the one who gives people that feeling? Requiring only an initial investment and a little creativity, you can quickly build a venture that you can manage from the comfort of your own home . 

Using social media sites such as Facebook or Instagram, investigate what gifts are popular in your area, then design a set of packages for potential customers. Or base your ideas on popular themes like:

  • Celebration gifts: birthdays, Mother’s Day, Father’s Days, marriages, or new babies
  • Household baskets: cleaning, car, or gardening products; cheese, chocolate, or beer or wine selections
  • Personal care: spa/beauty products
  • Hobbies: coffee or tea baskets, games, films, or seasonal products

You can gradually spread out to other areas after beginning with a focus on local delivery.

6. Offer mobile detailing services in your area 

Ever heard of mobile detailing? It’s the act of thoroughly cleaning and restoring a vehicle directly in the premises of its owner. This eliminates the need for a physical business location, reducing the initial startup and overhead costs.

You can start your own mobile detailing business with relatively low investment—most detailing kits cost less than $100. Most of your customers will come from gated communities, suburbs, and areas where people keep more than one vehicle. 

Get the word out that you’re offering auto detailing services by distributing flyers in your target market. Offer gift cards and discounts to first-time customers to generate repeat business. Also consider making a Google Business Profile and sending customers its link so they can leave a review about your service. Positive reviews can influence other people’s perception of your service in a good way, bringing more clientele without any ad and marketing spend.

unique business ideas quora

7. Create and sell travel guides

Travelers love exploring their holiday destinations, and who better to show them around than a local? Whether looking for cinemas, restaurants, events, or just the best historical sites⁠, people who reside in a travel destination often have first-hand knowledge of the places to visit there. 

You can compile your knowledge of your local area into a travel guide that serves as a handy resource for tourists. But don’t limit your revenue stream to one product—you could sell books, maps, audio walking tours, and even augmented reality tours to grow your business income.

The best part is that you don’t have to live in a big city like London or Paris to create guides for travelers. Often, smaller tourist destinations provide greater opportunities, since fewer tourist resources are available. 

And you don’t have to niche by just your location either. You might make travel guides or maps for a specific group of hobbyists. For example, Skater Maps offers skate park maps for skateboarders and BMX riders, detailing the best routes through Australia.

8. Open a tea room and sell products to patrons

If you love tea and can judge its quality even before tasting it, a tea room business may be a good fit for you. This business doesn't require the crowds that flock to Starbucks, but you’ll still need a unique menu to draw patrons from your neighborhood and beyond. To get some inspiration, check out these tea menu templates available online. 

Choosing the right location is also highly important. Tea consumers often have a spontaneous desire to drink the aromatic beverage, so your shop needs to be where people spend time, such as near shopping malls, local attractions, and fuel stations. 

Once you’re set up, you can look into expanding your menu beyond just tea. For example, you can offer sandwiches, biscuits, and cakes to complement your beverages. You can even look into making and selling your own merch , much as shops like Starbucks do. Customers who love your shop will undoubtedly enjoy the chance to sport their own shirts, travel mugs, and tote bags featuring your logo and branding.

unique business idea: tea room

Jump-start your entrepreneurial career with a unique business idea

Starting a new business is exciting and daunting in equal measure. You’ll need to come up with an idea, but also execute it differently to ensure you stand out from the competition. 

Try not to get bogged down in coming up with something no other company has touched. Rather, think about how you can create a more memorable experience with an existing idea in your audience’s minds.

With a bit of effort and creativity, you can build a highly successful and valuable business. 

Unique business ideas FAQ

What are some unique business ideas.

The best business ideas either cater to a niche, underserved market or offer a new spin on an existing product or service. To get some inspiration, check out our list of unique businesses above.

How do you come up with a unique business idea?

To come up with a unique business idea, think about successful companies you find inspiring. What is it about their product or service that makes them stand out? How do they approach other aspects of business, like marketing and customer service? Often, analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of other businesses can spark an idea for your own successful small business.

How can you make business ideas profitable?

There’s no blueprint for making a business profitable, but if you’re providing a unique service, it helps to promote your brand through email and social media marketing, as well as to have multiple revenue streams to draw from.

Want to learn more?

  • How to Make Money Online for Free: 11 Best Ways in 2022
  • 10 Business Tips for New Entrepreneurs in 2022
  • How You Can Use Holiday Shopping to Generate Sales
  • Idea Validation: 13 Best Ways to Validate Your Business Idea

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BUSINESS STRATEGIES

25 unique business ideas to inspire your entrepreneurial spirit

  • Emily Shwake
  • Jun 2, 2023
  • 11 min read

25 unique business ideas

Starting a business can be an exciting and personally rewarding experience, allowing you to be your own boss and turn your passions into profit. For many people, it’s even a long-held dream. Before delving into the creation of your business website , it is essential to conceive a distinctive business idea that not only captures your interest but also addresses an unfulfilled need or interest within the market. In this article, we’ll offer you some tips for coming up with a unique business idea and discuss 25 examples to provide some inspiration.

25 unique business ideas

From innovative solutions to niche services for specific industries, these ideas showcase the creativity, versatility and fresh perspective small business owners can bring to the marketplace.

Tutor underserved communities

Provide niche pet-grooming services

Offer photography services to a specific industry

Help people tackle unique hair care challenges

Offer bridal hair styling

Manage short-term home rentals

Provide alternative healing services

Put your business on wheels

Start a matching service

Set up a home maintenance service

Kick dog-walking services up a notch

Provide Instagram-friendly catering services

Offer specialized experiences to travelers in your local area

Look for an underserved cleaning niche

Set up a specialty disposal service

Become a virtual assistant

Provide virtual online tutoring services

Sell handmade apparel

Turn your art or craft skills into an online retail opportunity

Offer pet-sitting services

Incorporate CBD oils into everyday products

Set up a dropshipping business

Provide specialty aesthetician services

Offer consulting services to specific industries

01. Tutor underserved communities

Unique service business ideas often depend on identifying underserved customer bases. Texas-based Brain Bridge caters to students with special needs, offering educational testing, advocacy, consulting and tutoring. Owners Rachel Hadcock and Annie Rubalcava customize their approach to every client, ensuring that all their needs get met in a way that is right for them.

Read more: How to start a tutoring business

02. Provide niche pet-grooming services

If you’ve ever had a dog or cat, you know that their paws and nails are extra sensitive. Because of that, providing them with proper care is not only important but also difficult. As a seasoned veterinary assistant, the founder of Wizard of Paws has a keen understanding of these concerns and the expertise necessary to provide a safe, “fear-free” experience for pets and owners alike.

03. Offer photography services to a specific industry

Photographers are a dime-a-dozen, so building a thriving photography business requires some finesse. Enter Elite Photography . By specializing in real estate photography, the business can establish relationships with agents who will always need great photos to make their listings pop. You can take this idea one step further and sell your photos online as digital products .

Read more: How to start a photography business

04. Help people tackle unique hair care challenges

The Hair Rejuvenation Center & Salon understands that hair loss can have a profound impact on an individual's self-esteem and overall well-being. By combining their expertise with cutting-edge techniques and technology, the team offers personalized solutions that go beyond a one-size-fits-all approach.

But it doesn't stop there. The Hair Care Center and Rejuvenation also provides specialized cuts, perms and other styling services that prioritize the overall health and vitality of hair. Their experienced stylists take the time to understand individual needs and offer personalized recommendations to enhance hair quality, manageability and appearance.

05. Offer bridal hair styling

People tend to get pretty attached to their hair stylists, so attracting new customers can be an uphill battle. Specializing in bridal hair styling offers a unique advantage, since vendor referrals are so influential in the wedding industry. Establishing relationships with a few trusted vendors can open doors to a steady stream of clients. Hailey Jordan Martin takes this unique business idea a step further by also offering makeup services, eliminating the need for brides to hire a separate artist.

06. Manage short-term home rentals

Since its inception 14 years ago, Airbnb has fostered a flourishing ecosystem of complementary businesses. BNB Hunters exemplifies the potential of starting a business in this realm. By providing valuable assistance to Airbnb hosts who have available space but could use an extra hand, the company has carved out a significant niche. BNB Hunters offers comprehensive services, aiding hosts in managing their listings, implementing effective marketing strategies and ultimately unlocking the full potential of their properties in the competitive short-term rental market. Consider more rental business ideas .

Read more: How to start a rental property business , or How to start a real estate business

07. Provide alternative healing services

If your goal in starting a business is to make a positive impact on someone’s life, an alternative healing business could be exactly what you’re looking for. Although pursuing this path often involves extra steps (such as specific training or obtaining a license), there’s less competition in such fields. In fact, people who don’t have access to healers in their area sometimes even travel to find these treatments elsewhere. For example, a testimonial on the Hatha Holistic website said they drive over an hour to visit the acupuncture practice.

08. Put your business on wheels

Rather than asking customers to come to you, consider going to them. Because you can offer convenience in a way that brick-and-mortar competitors can’t, running a mobile business (or pursuing pop-up shop ideas ) can give you a unique advantage. Plus, it’s an ideal business to start with little money .

One noteworthy example of this unique business idea is Missouri-based Mobile Animal Services , which saves customers the inconvenience of trekking their pets to a groomer or veterinarian. Because of the unique range of services that the company provides, they also have more opportunities for customer acquisition and retention. For example, if a customer hires Mobile Animal Services to microchip their puppy, they may remember their positive experience and hire the company again to clean their dog’s ears or check its glucose levels.

09. Start a nanny-matching service

With the abundance of service providers available online, the task of finding the right one can be overwhelming for customers. A former childcare provider understood this and started The Nanny House , which matches families with nannies in Louisiana. This matching service is a particularly potent business idea because it reassures families that their children will be in safe hands.

10. Set up a home maintenance service

People often want to outsource complicated, routine maintenance tasks. So if you have repair or home maintenance skills, and like the idea of working with things rather than directly with people, consider offering maintenance services. Green Gas , for example, regularly services and maintains heating systems throughout London—offering both scheduled and emergency services. Given that many home maintenance tasks require routine checkups, you could even offer your services on a subscription basis.

11. Kick dog-walking services up a notch

Sometimes, coming up with a unique business idea is just putting a twist on an age-old idea. Sammie of Yorkshire, England did just that when she started Hack&Hike . Instead of just offering standard dog-walking services, she offers “structured pack walks” in spacious hiking areas so that dogs can safely socialize and exercise. To diversify her business model, Sammie also offers pet-sitting and equine-care equine care services.

Read more: How to start a dog walking business , Business ideas for kids

12. Provide Instagram-friendly catering services

A sure–fire way to build a thriving catering business is to build it with social media in mind. The Arizona-based company, Desert Flower Catering , specializes in beautifully styled charcuterie spreads, while offering corporate lunches, buffets and passed appetizers. In every case, the company’s groovy branding helps it stand out.

Read more: How to start a catering business , Food business ideas

Unique business ideas infographic

13. Offer specialized experiences to travelers in your local area

If you live near a popular tourist destination or have specialized knowledge of a unique industry or attraction in your hometown, consider ways you can offer personalized experiences to travelers. Offering guided tours or connecting travelers with unique local experiences can be a fun, lucrative side hustle . It’s also a great way to meet new people and show off your hometown.

14. Look for an underserved cleaning niche

When it comes to building a successful cleaning business, providing reliable and trustworthy service is key. However, if there’s a lot of competition in your area, you might need to offer something extra. For example, the founders of Carefree Airbnb built their business around short-term rentals, which require quick, frequent service.

Read more: How to start a cleaning business

15. Set up a specialty disposal service

Proper disposal of large items often requires knowledge of local regulations and environmentally friendly practices. Because most people don’t have this knowledge, getting rid of items such as broken appliances or construction waste can be trickier than it seems. Apolonia Neri recognized this almost 20 years ago and started Neri Tire Disposal , a tire removal business that is still thriving today.

16. Become a virtual assistant

Coming up with a unique home business idea can help you minimize expenses, make your schedule more flexible and eliminate your commute (and in some cases, it can lead to businesses that run themselves ). Plus, offering virtual services can help you reach a wider clientele than you could if you worked in-person. Nicole Roach uses her decades of administrative experience to build NSR Virtual Management , which offers virtual assistant services such as bookkeeping, data entry and email management.

Read more: How to start a virtual assistant business

17. Provide virtual online tutoring services

Another home business to consider is setting up a virtual classroom or tutoring center teaching your specialty skills. Ms. A’s Classroom is an online classroom that uses problem-solving and group learning to help students gain confidence in math. Ms. A also provides one-on-one tutoring. The online center provides a range of levels from K-12, as well as SAT and MCAT prep.

18. Sell handmade apparel

Selling handmade apparel online is an exciting opportunity for creative entrepreneurs in today's digital age. With e-commerce platforms and social media, you can showcase your unique designs to a global audience. To succeed, craft high-quality products with attention to detail and define your niche within the industry. For example, Miami-based Sara Swimwear offers sustainably made swimwear and ships all purposes in sustainable packaging.

Read more: How to start an online boutique

19. Turn your art or craft skills into an online retail opportunity

You can sell products on your own website or from large sites like Amazon or Etsy. An online business is a great option for artists who want to reach a wider clientele and sell their art online .

If you have a crafty hobby or you like to collect unique items, consider starting a product-based business to capitalize on those interests. Cuagua Designs makes earrings from the local flora of Humboldt County, California and sells them online. You could also consider selling subscription boxes for unique and handmade goods to keep customers engaged and built a loyal base.

Learn more: How to sell crafts online , things to make and sell

20. Make soap

Soapmaking is a unique business idea that combines creativity and entrepreneurship. With a growing demand for natural and handmade products, there is an opportunity to create personalized and high-quality soaps. By mastering the art of soapmaking and showcasing your creativity, you can attract customers who appreciate the beauty and benefits of handmade soap. For inspiration, check out Modern Muses , which sells plant-based soaps online.

21. Offer pet-sitting services

Not everyone wants to leave their pet in a dog kennel when leaving town. If you are passionate about pets, consider taking inspiration from Sloppy Paws . This North Carolina business offers in-home pet sitting so pets don’t have to deal with the extra stress of being in a new place while their owners are away.

22. Incorporate CBD oils into everyday products

By infusing CBD oil into a range of products such as skincare items, bath products or baked goods, companies like Bathing Bee have tapped into the growing demand for natural wellness solutions. By offering CBD-infused everyday products, businesses can cater to a diverse customer base seeking natural alternatives, setting themselves apart in the market and opening doors to new opportunities.

23. Set up a dropshipping business

If you aren’t the artsy type, set up an eCommerce business selling clothing or boutique items that other people design. As an added benefit, this passive income idea is a safe bet. It doesn’t involve much investment, and it won’t require as much upkeep as others on this list. It might not make you a ton of money, but even small, regular returns can add up to significant revenue over time.

Learn more: How to start a dropshipping business

24. Provide specialty aesthetician services

While many aesthetician businesses may offer a wide range of services, The Beauty Haus focuses on microblading and eyelash extensions. Specializing in these two areas not only helps the business stand out, but also enables the staff to perfect these treatments. The Beauty Haus attracts a loyal clientele and has established itself as a leader in the industry.

25. Offer consulting services to specific industries

If you have restaurant experience but don’t want to run a restaurant, consider offering your knowledge and expertise to others. The Restaurant Company offers start-up restaurant assessments, advice and administrative services to restaurants in the New York area.

Learn more: How to start a consulting business

6 tips for coming up with a unique business idea

Still scratching your head? These tips will help you come up with a unique business idea that will fit your experience, expertise and interests.

01. Brainstorm around your passions and experience

The first step in coming up with niche business ideas is to focus on your passions and interests. What do you care about? What do you spend your free time doing?

If you had to spend an entire day talking about something, what topic would you choose? These questions are a great place to start when coming up with a business idea . When you pursue your passions, you’ll have the motivation and drive needed to succeed, even when faced with challenges.

02. Research market trends and opportunities

After focusing on your passions and interests, the next step is to research the market and trending products . Start by looking for gaps that your business idea can fill. Are there areas in your field or region that are underserved or ignored by mainstream businesses? It’s essential to concentrate on these areas. Regardless of the economic climate, people will always be willing to pay for an improvement to a product or service that already exists.

03. Evaluate your skills and expertise

Besides considering your passions and interests, it’s important to factor in your skills and expertise. Figuring out where they align with people's needs will help you build a successful business in today’s passion economy . So, what are you good at? What unique skills and knowledge do you have that might be valuable to other people? Take some time to reflect on the skills you’ve acquired through work, education and hobbies.

It can also be helpful to ask close friends or family members for their thoughts on your strengths and skills. Someone who knows you well may have a different perspective and be able to identify skills that you overlook. Perhaps there are tasks that people regularly ask for your help with or certain areas where you have an advantage over others.

04. Solve a problem

Someone somewhere will always have a problem they need help to solve. With some creative brainstorming and a little research, you can come up with ways to use your skills, expertise and passions to offer fresh solutions. Try exploring these eCommerce business ideas to get you started.

05. Look for differentiation opportunities

If you find that your chosen industry is already crowded with competition, don’t lose heart. You can still enter the marketing by tweaking your product or service to stand out from the rest. Adding a unique twist can be a great way to distinguish yourself and stand out in the crowded market. Think of ways to add value or offer something new that others aren’t providing. This will help you attract loyal customers that appreciate your innovative approach and help your business grow.

06. Making your unique circumstances work for you

Consider the issues you face because of your unique circumstances and ask yourself what solution you’d like to see to those problems. Others may have the same issue, and your skill set may be the key to solving it. By looking for opportunities in your own experiences, you might solve your own problem and come up with a unique business idea.

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70 Small Business Ideas for Anyone Who Wants to Run Their Own Business

Meg Prater (she/her)

Published: July 31, 2023

A good business idea may seem hard to come by, but with some planning and preparation, you can easily launch a small business to supplement your income — or become your own full-time boss.

Small business ideas symbolically showing the spirit of a small business

Maybe you already have an idea of the business you’d like to start. But while you might feel ready for a new venture and passionate about your idea, you might be looking for some direction.

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To help get you started, here's a list of small business ideas separated into a few sections:

Best Small Business Ideas

Best businesses to start with little money, home business ideas, easy businesses to start, how to start a small business at home.

The first step to becoming a successful entrepreneur is finding a business idea that works for you. In this article, you’ll find dozens of small business ideas you can start from home and scale up as your clientele grows. Let’s get started.

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9 templates to help you brainstorm a business name, develop your business plan, and pitch your idea to investors.

  • Business Name Brainstorming Workbook
  • Business Plan Template
  • Business Startup Cost Calculator

You're all set!

Click this link to access this resource at any time.

Free Business Startup Kit

Fill out this form to build your business plan today., what makes a good small business idea.

Not all small business ideas are made equal: Some require more effort and funding than others, while some can be launched with few resources — or resources you already have. As a potential small business owner, you’ll want to save as much money as possible on training, rent, supplies, and other necessities.

Let’s go over what makes a good business idea:

  • Requires little to no training . A good small business idea will ideally leverage your existing field of expertise and require little to no training. That will not only shorten your time-to-launch, but also lessen your expenses, since training courses can cost a significant amount of money. Plus, you’ll be more confident offering services that you feel prepared to deliver.
  • Requires low setup costs. Your business should be cheap to start. Maybe you only need to purchase a website domain or buy a desk for your garage.
  • Requires little hands-on inventory or supply management . A great business idea needs few supplies and little inventory management. If you want to sell physical goods, you can either try drop-shipping and manually make goods in small batches.
  • Is based online . The best small business ideas are based online and can be carried out from your personal computer. This will automatically lower your commuting costs and give you greater flexibility over your personal and work life.
  • Can sustainably be managed by few people . As a small business owner, you won’t have the funds to hire other people to help you run your business — at least not at first. A good business idea should give you the ability to run your business on your own.

Airbnb Co-founder, Brian Chesky, said, "If we tried to think of a good idea, we wouldn’t have been able to think of a good idea. You just have to find the solution for a problem in your own life."

If you’re like Brian and you’ve already thought about a solution for a problem you encounter in your life — or you’re on the path to doing so — then starting a small business may be in your future. It may also be for you if you dream of clocking out of your nine-to-five job for the last time and becoming your own boss.

Below, we include the absolute best ideas for you to start your small business — with resources and examples to help you get started.

1. Handyman

small business idea example: handyman

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Are you always fixing things around the house? Often on-call when friends need small projects completed? Create a website , conduct a competitive analysis to determine what your time and expertise are worth, and turn to the friends you’ve helped before for referrals.

A handyman business is a good idea if you’ve already built a robust set of skills to help others fix up their homes. Consider specializing in what you feel well-prepared to do — for instance, if you know your way underneath a sink and water system, then you might provide sink fixing services to start, then expand your offerings once you earn more skills.

No certifications are needed to become a handyman, and there are no special education requirements. You might need, however, a license if you’re planning to undertake jobs worth more than a certain dollar amount. Some states might not require this license.

To start your handyman business, we recommend the following resources:

  • Handyman License Requirements by State
  • The Most Requested Handyman Services
  • Association of Certified Handyman Professionals

2. Woodworker

Similarly, if you have a passion for crafting beautiful furniture or other home goods out of wood, that could be a small business niche for you. Get started by listing a few of your pieces on sites like Etsy . Once you build a following, consider starting a website, accepting custom orders, or expanding to refinishing work and upholstery.

A woodworker small business is ideal if you already have a passion for woodworking, as well as the tools to begin fulfilling orders as they begin to come in. Since delivering a well-made product is key to keeping your customers happy, you don’t want to be “training” as you create a custom shelf or a custom storage box. It’s recommended to have at least one year of experience as a woodworking apprentice.

To start a woodworking business, there are no special education requirements, but there are a wide range of woodworking training certifications online, so we suggest starting with a certification. The Woodwork Institute , YesTomorrow , and The School of Fine Woodworking are potential places to start.

3. Online Dating Consultant

Dating consultants usually charge for their time. They help people create successful online dating profiles, source possible matches from outside the typical online channels, and offer a level of personalization that a site like Tinder can’t. Think you’ve got a knack for the match? This might be the business for you.

Online dating consultants need to have strong communication and interpersonal skills, as well as heightened levels of empathy. The good news is that there are no special education or licensure requirements, though we recommend getting a certification such as IAP College’s relationship coach certification or Hart Academy’s online dating coach certificate .

To start an online dating consultant business, you’ll need a website that shares all about you and offers free dating resources your customers might benefit from. Once they download a resource, you can loop them in for a free consultation.

4. Sewing and Alteration Specialist

small business idea example: sewing and alterations

People will always need clothing hemmed and buttons mended — and you could be the person to do it. If you love sewing and have a sewing machine at home, start by offering simple services like those mentioned above and expand your repertoire to dressmaking and design as you build a customer base and demand.

You don’t need a special license or degree to begin a sewing and alterations business, but it’s essential to build your skills so you can take on more complicated projects. High-value clients will want to customize complicated items of clothing such as suits, pants, gowns, and dresses. That’s where you’ll see the highest potential for profits.

Altering these items require special skills, however. A few courses you might consider include:

  • International Open Academy's Tailoring Course for Beginners
  • Jackson Sewing Academy’s Basic Alterations Course
  • American Bespoke Tailoring Academy’s Programs

You’ll also need to shop for sewing supplies of all colors to accommodate your clients.

5. Freelance Developer

From building websites for other small businesses to providing technical support for certain projects, quality web development is in high demand right now. As a web developer, you'll naturally have a technical skill set. Distill your knowledge and expertise so customers who don't have your experience are able to understand what it is you'll be helping them achieve.

To help with this, test your messaging on friends and family who don’t have a firm understanding of the work you do. If they’re able to summarize what you do, your messaging is likely effective among people outside of your industry. You can start finding your first freelance contracts by visiting different freelance websites .

Unlike a few other options in this list, a freelance developer does need some training to launch a successful business and start taking on projects, but if you’re a beginner, don’t worry. There are plenty of boot camps to get you up to speed with either full-stack or front-end web development. Some of these boot camps are even offered through accredited tech schools.

Some boot camps you might consider include:

  • Coding Dojo
  • Fullstack Academy
  • Georgia Institute of Technology Coding Boot Camp

These vary in price, so be sure to do extensive research to find one that fits you and your budget.

6. Personal Trainer

Offer in-home consultations, personalized nutrition and exercise regimens, and community boot camps to get the word out. Don’t forget to populate an Instagram feed with inspirational quotes, free exercise videos, and yummy snack ideas as well — it’s a common way for fitness gurus to build their brands in our digital world.

If you choose to go this route, it’s OK to start small at first, then scale up. For instance, MOURfit is a personal training business in Indianapolis that started in a shared gym, then grew to a private gym that offers group fitness, personal training, and nutrition services.

To start a personal training business, you’ll need a certification. If you already earned a degree in an unrelated discipline, we recommend starting with the NASM-CPT certification , which is nationally accredited and only requires a high school diploma or GED. You can also get a Bachelor’s degree in physical and exercise science — here’s one example from Emory & Henry College .

7. Freelance Graphic Designer

Set your own hours, choose your projects, and build a portfolio and business you’re proud of. From website design to blog graphics and more, many companies seek out experienced graphic designers for support on a variety of projects.

The good news? There are no special education requirements for becoming a freelance graphic designer, though we recommend seeking a credential (like SAIC’s graphic design certificate or RISD’s graphic design certificate ) or an Associate’s degree in design so you can confidently present your portfolio and complete your first few projects.

If you’re just starting out with graphic design, try these tips and tricks that are ideal for beginners. If you’re more experienced but need to build your portfolio to attract clients, these prompts will get your creativity flowing in no time. We also recommend reviewing other people’s work on portfolio websites to get a feel for what is “trendy” and receive feedback as you grow your small business.

Free Download: How to Hire and Work with Freelancers

8. Life/ Career Coach

If you have experience navigating career, personal, and social transitions successfully, put it to good use as a life or career coach. Many of us are looking for guidance in our careers — and finding someone with the time to mentor us can be tough.

Life/career coaches don’t come cheap, but they are able to offer clients the intense and hands-on training and advice they need to make serious moves in their personal and professional lives. After all, everyone needs some uplifting advice from time to time.

To start your life/career coaching business with confidence, you can look for a certification program (like the Life Coach School’s or Diane Hudson’s ), then apply your skills as you acquire new clients.

small business idea example: Career Coach Nariah Broadus

A resume writing business is economical, has few overhead costs, and has few educational requirements. We still recommend having an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree and a few resume samples on hand. If you still feel that you need to brush up on your resume writing skills, you can take a course like Coursera’s or LinkedIn Learning’s .

Once you’ve gotten resume writing down, you can expand your business to include cover letter writing, and even offer career coaching services in conjunction with these services.

10. Freelance Writer

If you have writing skills , there’s someone out there willing to pay you for them. Write blog posts, magazine articles, and website copy galore — just make sure you have a body of work built up to share with potential clients. Even if you create a few sample pieces to have on hand, they’ll help exhibit your work and attract new business.

To become a freelance writer, it’s essential to choose a specialty. For instance, you might choose to only write for publications in the healthcare industry (maybe because you were previously a healthcare worker), or focus on lifestyle publications. Whatever the case, specializing will help you find your niche market and gain confidence as a new freelancer writer.

There are no educational requirements to freelance writing, but you do need strong writing skills. It also helps to enjoy writing. While a certification may beneficial, getting practice and writing every day is more important. Try these writing prompts to start.

11. Landscaper

Mowing, tree-trimming, and seasonal decor are all neighborhood needs. If you have or can acquire the equipment, a landscaping business can be a lucrative affair. It’s also a great choice if you enjoy doing it for your own home and have a good eye for landscape design.

The good news is that you can start small. For instance, you could offer your neighbors seasonal planting services and start with a few perennial plants, or simply offer mulching services.

To grow your landscaping business, you should consider taking some formal training. The following organizations offer courses:

  • New York Botanical Gardens

After completing a course and getting enough experience, you can apply for a certificate from a landscaping organization. While a certificate isn’t necessary to work in the field, it can build your credentials and help you make industry connections to take your landscaping business to the next level. The Association of Professional Landscape Designers offers one potential certificate you could pursue.

Some states require licensure, especially if you’ll be using pesticides and fertilizers. Be sure to review the requirements for your state.

Learn some of the basics now with this video on landscape design from Lowe’s:

12. Videographer

Video production requires you to have invested in the equipment up front, which can be quite expensive. But that’s also what makes your services so valuable. Make sure you have a reel of your work to share or create a website with several selections of your work available for interested viewers.

There are no educational or licensure requirements for starting a video production business. As with writing and other creative arts, though, it pays to specialize. Real estate videos differ radically from wedding videos, and wedding videos differ radically from in-studio interviews and testimonials. By specializing, you target a highly specific customer who’ll benefit the most from your services, and you can also skill-up more effectively in one shooting style.

While you can find general classes on videography, you should consider taking a class in the type of videography you’d like to do. For instance, you could take The Complete Wedding Videography Course , if that’s the route you’d like to take.

Hot tip: If you’re interested in specializing in video marketing, check out The Ultimate Guide to Video Marketing and download our starter pack below.

→ Access Now: Video Marketing Starter Pack [Free Kit]

13. Photographer

Start by conducting photo shoots for your family and friends. As you build a body of work, ask for referrals and reviews. Photography businesses often grow by word of mouth, so create a Facebook page where you can tag recent clients. Photos where you tag those clients will show up in their friends’ newsfeeds, where they can view your work. You can also ask them to leave reviews on your Facebook business page.

Like with a video production small business, you’ll want to specialize. Will you do product shoots or portraits? How about wedding or fashion photo shoots? Once you specialize, you’ll be able to create a body of work that most accurately represents your strengths.

There are no educational or licensure requirements for starting a small photography business, but we recommend investing in a few photography courses, especially if you haven’t used your camera in a while. Some courses you might start with include:

  • Cornell’s Digital Photography Certificate Program
  • New York Institute of Photography’s Course

From there, seek courses that help you build skills in your chosen specialty.

If you’re not sure where to start with freelance photography, take a look at Erica Clayton’s journey into the business below. Her advice? Give yourself a firm deadline to turn a profit.

14. Bed and Breakfast Owner

small business idea example: bed and breakfast

This is another business venture that will require you to research the correct licensure from your state, but it will be well worth it to see your dreams come true. Consider what guests will be traveling to your area and create special packages and themed stays that coincide with their interests in your locale.

To start a bed and breakfast business, you’ll need a physical business location and a small staff for maintenance, customer service, and upkeep. For that reason, we recommend it if you have startup funds to start your business. (Don’t have any? Here’s how to start crowdfunding to launch your new business .)

A successful bed and breakfast business will also need an SEO-optimized website with a hotel booking system. If you create your website on the WordPress platform, you can easily create a B&B website using a hotel booking plugin — so there’s no need to code the booking form from scratch.

With Airbnb and hotels stealing market share, the competition is tough in the bed and breakfast space, so we recommend providing a unique angle to the stay. As mentioned, the stays can be themed — maybe your B&B is a vintage home with all original furniture, or maybe you offer traditional fare from your homeland.

15. Clothing Boutique Owner

If you dream of building your own fashion empire, why not start with a local boutique? Build buzz with impressive clothing styles, inspiring social media accounts, and heavy community involvement. While you can open a physical store, you can easily start online — and if that proves profitable, you can open up a local shop.

There are a few ways you can start a clothing boutique. First, you can make the clothes yourself if you already have experience in fashion design or know how to sew, knit, and curate colors and patterns.

Alternatively, you can design certain aspects of the clothing — such as a graphic or a logo — then send it to be printed on-demand at a local print shop when orders come in.

Lastly, you can dropship the items from a warehouse you’ve partnered with. This method is less reliable because there’s less quality assurance for each item, especially if you never visit the warehouses yourself. Regardless of the method you choose, starting a clothing boutique is highly doable, and you don’t need to have a fashion degree (though it certainly helps).

Take some inspiration from Sleep Ova , a luxury loungewear boutique based in Los Angeles, CA.

small business idea example: sleep ova

16. Specialty Food Store Owner

small business idea example: specialty food store

Gourmet foods, cheeses, sake, wine — you name a food, there’s a specialty food store out there for it. Put your passion for exotic olive oils to good use and open a store like American Provisions where you offer the kind of expertise and selection your audience couldn’t dream of getting from their local grocer.

To start your specialty food store, you’ll want to curate and source the items from makers that you love and trust. Ask around your community to find local makers of the food you want to sell, and the makers will likely be open to a partnership, especially if they get a cut of the profits.

When it’s time to sell, you’ll want to find a physical location, but if that investment is too high, you can start by setting up stalls at food festivals and local markets. Or you can go the ecommerce route and sell the products through your website, taking care to carefully pack perishable items.

17. Food Truck Owner

Always dreamt of owning a restaurant but not quite ready to take the plunge? Test out your concepts with a food truck. It’s a great way to become familiar with food and restaurant licensing in your state, see what people like and don’t like, and build a ravenous following before ever opening or investing in a brick-and-mortar location.

Food trucks will require a larger investment, but thankfully, you can rent the truck itself — the Food Truck Group and Roaming Hunger are two potential leasers you could look at. The cost will be high, so we recommend renting one in preparation for an event such as a food festival or concert. There, you’ll get to test out the popularity of your cuisine and see if the food truck business is right for you.

Taco Nganas , a taco truck in Memphis, TN, started with one food truck and expanded to three, building a loyal customer base along the way.

18. Car-detailing Specialist

small business idea example: car detailing

The devil is in the details, and you can be too. Car-detailing services that travel to the client are convenient for busy people who can’t find the time to run through the car wash. With this business, your clients only have to pay and the service will be done for them before they know it. Just make sure you have the flexibility, transportation, and equipment to take your business on the road.

There are no educational requirements for car detailing, but you should still take a course such as Auto Finesse’s detailing training to learn core concepts and brush up on your skills.

To get your car detailing business off the ground, you’ll need an SEO-optimized website and a way for customers to book online with you. Before you take that step, however, consider listing your services on websites like Angi , Thumbtack , and even Nextdoor.com so you can get your first local clients.

Don’t have a lot of money to start your business? Check out the ideas below.

1. Translator

Speak a foreign language? Start a translation service. Consider specializing in a specific genre of translation, like medical or financial translation, as you might be able to fill a niche need in your community.

small business ideas: translator

To become a translator, you should have a rock-solid grasp of two languages — ideally, you’ll be near native level for both. You don’t need special credentials to become a translator, but a certification (such as from the American Translators Association ) will legitimize your business and help you get clients.

Prior to gaining a certification, you can also pursue an online certificate, which will teach you the basics of translation. Some providers include:

  • University of Massachusetts Amherst
  • The University of Arizona
  • University of Georgia

2. Garden Designer

Many people have the willingness to do the dirty work in their backyards, but few have the know-how to complete the first part of this process — designing and planning the backyard space. Draw up the designs for your clients’ outdoor spaces and let them do the actual digging.

But you can also offer installation services, or hire your own contractors to fulfill the design.

small business ideas: garden designer

To become a garden designer, you should seek at least one credential so you’re well-versed in the basics and prevent damage to a client’s landscape. The American Academy of Garden Design offers courses and certificates that start at $450. A cheaper option is New Skills Academy’s Garden Design Certification ($120).

Remember, the goal is to start a business for cheap, and a certification can have a high ROI after you book your first few clients for garden design.

3. Travel Planner

The time of the travel agent might be passing, but people are still looking for those with a knack for more nontraditional travel coordination. If you always plan the perfect vacations complete with beautiful hotels, the ideal location, and a bevy of delicious restaurants lined up for every evening, consider advertising your services as a more modern approach to travel planning.

You don’t have to only plan trips for individuals, either. If you’re experienced enough, you can even start a group travel company, like Art N Soul Escapes .

You can become a travel planner by first volunteering to plan a few trips for your family and friends. Try it and see if you like it. Once you feel like you’ve gotten a good taste, attend a travel planner program and get certified. Some options include:

  • The Travel Institute Training & Certification Program
  • Penn Foster Travel and Tourism Specialist Diploma

You can also seek employment at a travel agency first, then strike out on your own once you’ve learned the basics.

4. Home Inspector

A home inspector examines a house’s drywall, electrical wiring, energy efficiency, and structural integrity to find potential issues on behalf of a home buyer. Home inspectors work in the field. They visit homes in person and provide a written inspection report. Alternatively, some home inspectors offer virtual inspections, which may be a good fit if you’d prefer to work from home.

small business ideas: home inspector

Working as a home inspector requires certification and a great deal of expertise, but it can offer a flexible work schedule and stable income. Confirm the licensing requirements in your state before getting started with this type of small business. You’ll want to make sure you’re providing the best service to your clients by having all of your credentials in order.

To become a home inspector, you should invest in a certification program, such as:

  • International Association of Certified Home Inspectors
  • ATI Home Inspector Academy

Be sure to check local authorities and universities for a course.

5. Personal Chef

We all love to eat, but few of us have the time or energy to cook healthy, delicious meals. Advertise your services to local families and businesses alike. To save on start-up costs, consider scheduling certain groups of clients together — say, vegetarians — so you can cook larger quantities of the same dish.

You can also begin by selling food in batches at local farmer’s markets or via a food truck. Once you’ve generated some awareness, you can begin taking on clients. Alternatively, you can start a delivery meal prep service by cooking 5-7 days’ worth of meals for clients.

small business idea example: personal chef

Chef Paul’s mouth-watering dishes are available to clients across the country. His clientele niche consists of athletes, corporate businesses, and local gyms.

6. Property Manager

Many people maintain properties they don’t live in — often based in different cities or states. As a property manager, you can help a property owner ensure their home is well taken care of, handle small fixes as they arise, and serve as a liaison to renters. It’s helpful if you have a background in real estate.

This option is a great fit if you have stupendous organizational, administrative, and customer service skills. As a property manager, you’ll be handling everything from screening potential tenants to collecting rent.

To become a property manager, you must first complete coursework in your desired state. We recommend working at an existing property management company to get your foot in the door. Once you’ve learned the basics, you can then start your own property management business.

7. Massage Therapist

Soothe aching muscles and promote peace for your clients as a massage therapist. As a massage therapist, you’ll offer targeted, personalized care that’s an edge above in-shop or mall massage services. To start this small business, you should invest in customer service courses, as well as a massage therapy certification.

small business idea example: massage therapist

Be sure to look into training and certification courses in your city and state, and to invest in a portable bed to take on client visits.

8. Interior Designer

Similar to landscape design — there are many people who have the ability to buy the furniture and home decor they need to fill their rooms, but few who know where to start. It might take some time to build a portfolio, but documenting your projects and sharing them online can build a fanbase beyond your wildest dreams.

To start an interior design business, we first recommend trying your hand at decorating your friends’ homes and working with their vision and specifications. One big aspect of interior design is providing fantastic customer service and knowing how to fulfill a client’s design vision while employing your interior design expertise.

You can then take an interior design course to round out your knowledge, such as the one offered by The New York Institute of Art and Design .

Need inspiration? Check out Sandra Cavallo’s interior design Instagram account.

small business idea example: interior designer

9. Nonprofit Owner

If you dream of devoting your life to a cause you believe in, it might be time to start a nonprofit. You’ll need to incorporate your business and file for 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status — and then you’ll be required to meet ongoing standards of compliance, but the payoff is making a meaningful impact on a cause you believe in.

The best thing is that you can begin a nonprofit easily from your home, even before filing for 501(c)(3) status. First, create a non-profit website (ideally with a .org top-level-domain). Define your mission and goals, and figure out how you’ll execute your non-profit activities. For instance, if you’re raising money to buy books for local schools, who will deliver them? Which retailer will you use? Start small, then expand.

Thereafter, apply for exempt status so that you’re not taxed like a regular business. The profit margins may be smaller, but the job is endlessly rewarding.

Whether you’re a math whiz, piano master, or Shakespeare aficionado, there’s someone out there who needs a little help in your area of expertise and is willing to pay for it. Advertise your services through local schools, community colleges, community centers, and even social media to get the word out and build a customer base.

To start a tutoring business, you should first gain experience educating others by either volunteering or even teaching friends and family. But you can begin straight away by listing your services locally and online and launching a tutoring website.

Be sure to define your niche. Will you be tutoring students in their homes? Or opening a local tutoring location? Which subject will you teach? Create handouts, use textbooks, and know which online resources will be best for your tutee’s learning style.

11. Consultant

If you have significant experience in or knowledge of a specific subject, consider becoming a consultant. Perhaps you’re an expert at hiring practices, have a knack for SEO , or have led multiple sales teams to six-figure success. Identify your expertise and market yourself as a consultant and charge the going rate.

Download Now: Free Consultant's Success Kit

Some consulting industries are more competitive than others, so be sure to complete your research prior to starting a small consulting business. One way to find out how competitive a consulting niche is by doing keyword search . If your target niche is highly searched or already is dominated by big companies, you may have a harder time breaking in. You can use keyword research tools to uncover keyword volume and local demand.

12. Event Planner

An event planning business is an excellent choice if you have great organizational and interpersonal skills, and it’s relatively cheap to start. You might choose to specialize in a specific type of event — like weddings or company meetings — or set yourself up as an event planner of all trades.

The good news is that event planners are always in demand. It’s not a job that can be easily automated, so this small business idea is set to thrive regardless of the digital landscape. To start, you’ll want to look for a platform that will easily allow you to advertise your availability, such as event planner directories like Eventective and WeddingWire .

If you’re highly organized, are detail-oriented, and have experience planning large events, it might be time for others to benefit from your skills.

13. Personal Assistant

Personal assistants help business owners and executives take care of administrative tasks. To launch a freelance personal assistant business, you should leverage networking opportunities on LinkedIn and attend small business events at local chambers of commerce. Most local business owners might not even know they need a personal assistant until you market your services to them.

If you’re an organized, highly-detailed person, the life of a personal assistant might be for you. Don’t want to be tied to one office or person all day, every day? Consider becoming a virtual assistant, which allows you a more flexible work environment.

To become an assistant, choose a niche — will you be helping women business owners specifically? Do you have a specific field of expertise, like bookkeeping? A website can also go a long way, and be sure to print business cards for you to hand out during networking events.

14. Consignment Shop Owner

If you have an eye for style but don’t want to invest in the inventory of a brand-new boutique, consider starting a consignment shop. It will allow you to curate a collection of clothing that matches your goals and aesthetic, without the overhead of a boutique selling entirely new garments.

The beauty of a small consignment business is that you can now start one online. You can sign up on a platform such as Poshmark , Depop , and even Etsy , then easily start selling your own used fashion from home.

Once you’ve defined your niche — such as vintage clothing, unique locally made art, or colorful shoes — you can begin sourcing new products from your local stores and thrift shops.

15. Caterer

If the personal chef gig is too restrictive for your schedule, consider catering instead. Pick your projects, work on fewer but larger events, and hone in on your time management skills.

Becoming a caterer is a natural step for those who are used to cooking for large events — for instance, you may have already catered your friend’s wedding, or brought a 20-person meal to a potluck (that counts, too!).

It’s essential that you have enough temperature-regulated storage for the meals prior to each event, and that you arrange for reliable, temperature-controlled transportation to and from your home kitchen. Alternatively, you can lower your costs by inviting customers to pick up their order at your home.

16. Gym Owner

Kickboxing gyms, yoga studios, CrossFit, oh my! Turn your passion for fitness into a community for others by creating your own gym — start one from the ground up, become an affiliate, or open a franchise location.

Available franchise opportunities include Anytime Fitness, Orangetheory Fitness, Pure Barre, Planet Fitness, Crunch Fitness, and more. Be prepared to take out a loan to finance your franchise — most agreements start with fees upward of $20,000. But the payoff can be tremendous due to brand recognition. You’ll have no trouble recruiting new members as long as you use local marketing strategies .

Alternatively, you can create a local studio, but ideally, it should be for a specific activity instead of general fitness. Yoga, pilates, bootcamp-style gyms, and martial arts perform well as independent fitness studios.

17. Boutique Agency Owner

What’s your specialty? Whether it’s marketing, social media, or PR, it might be time to start your own agency. Many other small businesses need this type of help but don’t have the resources or volume to necessitate a full-time position.

To start an agency, you would ideally have worked in your specialty for a number of years. You should also be prepared to interface directly with clients, fulfill their requirements, and temper their expectations (if they want results in an unreasonably short amount of time).

Consider building a small team and learn from other entrepreneurs who’ve successfully started their own agencies, like Duane Brown of Take Some Risk .

18. Coffee Shop Owner

Turn your caffeine addiction into something a little more lucrative. Opening a franchise or buying an existing shop are lower-risk entry points to the coffee game, but they usually require a little more cash upfront. Starting a shop from scratch requires more planning and work — but it also maximizes your earning potential in the future.

A coffee shop is an excellent fit if you already have a full-time remote job and wish to supplement your income with a small business. You can manage the coffee shop as you work at one of the tables, but be sure to have the budget to hire an experienced barista who can pick up the slack.

If you would like to open a coffee shop and run it full-time on your own, you’ll need to undertake barista training, understand worldwide coffee sources, and have excellent customer service skills.

19. Moving Company

A truck, moving equipment, manpower, and the correct permits and insurance are the building blocks of starting your own moving company . Before you buy your first fleet of trucks, however, start small with a moving van and keep your costs low.

Still sound like too much of an initial investment? Consider offering packing services only, which have a much lower financial barrier to entry. You can partner with moving companies and offer to do their packing, or have them refer clients to you.

You could even take a niche approach to the industry as Astro International has by offering international moving services.

small business idea example: moving company

20. Home Staging

If you have a flair for interior design, a staging service might serve as your creative outlet and professional calling. You can build a portfolio with little initial investment by staging homes using the owner’s existing furnishings and decor. Most stagers eventually build up an inventory of furniture as they become more established and network with area realtors.

To get your first home staging clients, you should first rely exclusively on networking. Find your local realtors’ association and attend their events with business cards handy. Once you’ve gotten your first clients and built your portfolio, you can begin posting your designs on your home staging website.

small business ideas: home staging

If you don’t yet have enough experience, be sure to pursue an interior design course before opening this small business.

These home business ideas give you a few more business options that are either based at home or online.

Frontend, backend, and every type of code in between, this skill requires no in-person interaction with your clients. But one skill you’ll want to carry over from the in-person world for this type of business is active listening. It can be easy to zone out while building a product, but developing a connection with the client is just as important as developing the code for their website.

If you keep the client top of mind when you can’t be around physically, you can ensure that you’re meeting their development needs with your coding work.

Download Now: 25 Free HTML & CSS Hacks

2. Vending Machine Owner

Since 2015, the growth rate for vending machine businesses has increased 1.4%. Even as social distancing restrictions are still in place, this business can still be lucrative if you choose the right locations. High-traffic is key — places like hospitals, schools, and community centers are smart places to start placing your machines to generate enough revenue to cover cost and turn a profit.

small business idea example: vending machine owner

3. Social Media Manager

Do you have a knack for social media? As a social media manager, you can use your skills to manage the social media accounts for companies and even individual people. Influencer marketing has become more common and many influencers rely on marketing agencies or employees to help them run their social channels.

→ Free Download: Social Media Calendar Template [Access Now]

4. Data Entry Clerk

Many businesses seek data entry clerks to help them enter information into their computer systems and spreadsheets. If you have strong computer and typing skills, this might be the business for you.

5. Audio or Video Editor

As of March 2021, there are 1.75 million podcasts available to listeners. For this reason, brands are turning to audio and visual content to connect with consumers. The catch is that many don't have the time to invest in the production of this content, or they don't have the skills to do it. Audio and video editors are in demand when it comes to producing quality content for hungry audiences.

6. Voiceover Artist

Speaking of podcasts and videos, many content creators recognize the value and level of professionalism that great voice talent can bring to a project. There are gigs out there for podcast intros/outros, narration for explainer videos, or even voice work for audiobooks. Learn how to get started with no experience from Kat Theo below:

7. Dog Walker, Groomer, or Trainer

Licensing and insurance will be the two most important factors in opening a dog walking, grooming, or training business, but your canine colleagues will surely make up for the initial red tape. To test the waters before jumping in, consider walking dogs through companies like Rover. Ready to run your own show? Consider a franchise like Dogtopia .

8. Candy Seller

If you grew up in a close-knit, southern neighborhood, you're probably familiar with the " Candy Lady ". This home business can be started by anyone who's trustworthy in the community. Aside from selling the most popular snacks, a candy seller can provide the neighborhood with fresh fruit and produce that may be harder to find if you live in a food desert.

Online Business Ideas

If you want a business idea that you can run entirely online, check out the ones below. These ideas are ideal for those looking for a passive income stream. In other words, you shouldn’t need to do too much manual work to launch these businesses from your home or preferred business location.

1. Become an online reseller.

To become an online reseller, all you need is some business savvy and some funds to invest in product stock from manufacturers — or, of course,the willingness to sell your own used items. Generally, this is a low-touch but high-performance way of creating a passive income online business.

Online resellers usually use a platform, such as Facebook Marketplace or Amazon Sellers, to sell either their own or manufacturers’ stock. The benefit of using Facebook Marketplace is that you can begin today with your own Facebook account, and simply list items that you already own.

Interested buyers typically drive directly to your home for pick-up — but if you’re not interested in human interaction, you can leave it outside and have the buyer pay via an online platform.

online business ideas: amazon seller

Amazon Sellers requires a little more up-front investment, but the yield is usually higher and you can turn your Amazon reselling business into a more passive income stream. Amazon allows you to buy stock from various manufacturers, which they then keep in their warehouses. When an Amazon user buys from you, Amazon will fulfill that order and then give you a substantial cut.

2. Try affiliate marketing.

An affiliate marketing business is a great fit if you already own a website or a blog you wish to monetize. We’ve already shared how blogging is a great business to start — if you’ve already bought a domain name and begun writing content, then using it to start your affiliate marketing business is a great option.

Affiliate marketers create blog posts and content that contain affiliate links. When a user clicks on that link, a cookie is added to their browser that tracks their activity for a specified period of time. If they make a purchase at the affiliate website, then you get a commission — usually recurring, if you’re selling subscription products.

There are countless affiliate marketing programs for you to start your online business. These programs come with many benefits, such as pre-made advertisements and lazy copy for you to use.

To create a viable affiliate marketing online business, you should choose the right blog niche , such as technology, household decor and organization, or fitness, and then find affiliate marketing programs that offer products your readership would be genuinely interested in.

3. Become a content creator or influencer.

Instagrammers, YouTubers, podcasters, and TikTokkers with more than ten thousand followers can eventually turn their accounts into a small online business that generates passive income.

As a content creator or influencer on social media, you can not only earn money from sponsored partnerships, but you can monetize your audience in other ways, such as creating Subscriptions on Instagram , allowing companies to advertise on your YouTube channel, or creating a paid-only newsletter.

online business ideas: content creator

Becoming an influencer or content creator takes hard work, but it can be a fun way to create a small online business, assuming you’re posting content that you enjoy creating. First, you should choose a niche, such as thrifted fashion, work-from-home hacks, or even industry tips. Then, you should learn how to become a social media influencer and digital creator , then create a social media content calendar .

Most importantly, have fun with this online business idea as you give it a try. The good news is that it has little overhead — all you need is a willingness to spend time on social media content creation.

4. Open a dropshipping store.

We’ve mentioned dropshipping a few times already, but this is such a great online business idea that it’s absolutely worth mentioning again. Dropshipping businesses don’t manufacture what they sell, or even buy stock from manufacturers in advance. Instead, wholesalers fulfill the order directly after a buyer places an order through your website.

Opening an ecommerce store can be forbidding for those who don’t want to deal with inventory management or supply chain logistics . Dropshipping is the best alternative.

The only thing you need is the willingness to invest in an ecommerce website builder and the ability to manage relationships with local or international manufacturers. From there, you need to only publish your site and advertise your brand via ecommerce marketing .

Learn how to start a dropshipping business here , with examples.

5. Sell print-on-demand products.

Print-on-demand (POD) is another way to start a dropshipping business, except it’s a little more frictionless because most POD services allow you to create a storefront right on their website, instead of you needing to look for a separate ecommerce site builder.

With a POD online business, you design unique artwork. The print-on-demand provider will allow you to place that design on t-shirts, hats, tote bags, phone cases, and more. You do not keep any inventory; instead, the POD provider will print it only after a buyer makes an order, then ships it directly to them.

online business ideas: print on demand shop

The only thing you need to start this small online business is a penchant for design and the budget to pay for a print-on-demand subscription (although most providers are free, and they simply take a cut of the sale). Get acquainted with design principles and color theory , and you can get started with this business in no time.

6. Become an independent author.

Think becoming an author is only for those who are extremely lucky? Think again. Whether you write historical epics or self-help guides, chances are that there’s a market to read your work, and you can now easily publish it online .

We recommend editing and proofreading your book, or hiring someone to do it, before self-publishing it. Then, it’s as simple as signing up on a self-publishing platform such as Kindle Direct Publishing or Barnes & Noble Press , uploading your file and cover, and pushing it live. You’ll enjoy benefits such as large royalties (up to 70%) and the ability to unpublish the book at any time, in case you find a typo or another change you’d like to make.

To get this online business idea off to a strong start, invest in an author website , spend some time doing social media marketing , and learn the basics of book marketing .

7. Sell downloadable digital products.

Downloadable journals, templates, art prints, designs… Some people would simply prefer to print these at home, instead of paying for the full price of the paper and the design. Downloadable digital products can be a profitable small business idea for those who are already design-savvy or who are willing to learn how to use an online design tool .

online business ideas: digital products

But if you’re not too crafty, you don’t need to create full-on journals or beautiful art prints, either; you can create templates for marketplaces such as Canva’s . There, people are able to customize a base design to their specifications, so you don’t have to worry too much about creating something specially beautiful — it’s more about functionality and customizability.

If you plan to create digital products that buyers can print at home, think about printing specifications, such as recommended paper size, paper weight, PPI (pixels per inch; a higher PPI results in better print quality), and so on. It’s essential to create a positive customer experience, even if users are ultimately responsible for what the final result looks like.

8. Publish a subscription-based newsletter.

We’ve already discussed becoming an independent author, but if long-form writing, such as novels, seems out of reach, you can always go for something much shorter and simpler: Newsletters. And the best part about paid newsletters is that you typically don’t need to have a separate website and blog; instead, you can sign up on a platform and begin publishing right away.

A website can, of course, benefit you, but the core of your revenue will come from the newsletter itself.

online business ideas: paid newsletter

With newsletter monetization platforms such as Substack or even Patreon , you can publish shorter content that features your opinion, experience, and expertise. We recommend pairing this small business idea with a robust social media marketing strategy , where your followers can learn more about you and be swayed to subscribe to a gated newsletter.

Choose a niche you’re passionate about, and this online business idea can feel less like work and more like a profitable hobby.

9. Create an online course.

If you want to monetize your expertise a little further for your online business, then creating an online course is the best choice.

To create a course, you’ll need to sign up on an online course platform such as WordPress or Teachable , sketch out a curriculum, film your lectures, and create worksheets and guides. You can be as hands-on or as hands-off as you’d like, but to make this online business as passive as possible, you’d ideally record all your lectures at once and allow users to access them by paying a premium fee.

If you’d like to try your hand at it first, you can try publishing a course on a platform such as Udemy and see if it feels viable to you. To become an online course teacher, you don’t need a specific level of education, but you should have a strong grasp on the material you’re teaching and a strong set of customer service skills to handle inquiries or course refunds.

10. Transcript videos, shows, and podcasts.

A freelance transcription business is an excellent idea for those who speak only one language and are passionate about improving communication. Transcribers listen to speech, write it out — usually verbatim — and deliver it to the original publisher in an organized document.

This small online business is a good fit for those who are looking for a part-time side business. You should be able to type quickly and have a good listening ear. Indeed has listed the top transcription companies where you can get your foot in the door.

Once you understand how the industry works, you can consider opening your own small transcription business and offering services on freelancer marketplaces such as Fiverr or Upwork .

Whether you’re looking to start your venture today or you simply don’t want to jump through the normal hoops of launching a small business, the below ideas are extremely easy to start — so easy, all you’ll need to do is sign up on a website or tell your friends about your services.

1. Vacation Host

Have you ever used a home-sharing service instead of a hotel? You could make a living by hosting visitors in your own home or renting out a room. Consider becoming a host with companies like Airbnb .

To become a vacation host, you don’t need any special skills except friendliness, courteousness, and agility (in case of guest emergencies or language barriers). A customer service course will prepare you to welcome guests and give them a pleasant stay.

You’ll need to invest in supplies and toiletries, such as new bedding and one-time soaps and toothbrushes, but the overhead is relatively small, and you can stop at any time.

2. Pet Sitter

Do you have a passion for pets? Consider becoming a pet sitter. While the pet's owners are away on vacation, either host their pet at your home or make visits to their home. Join a pet sitting service like Wag to get started.

small business idea example: pet sitter

If you start a pet sitting business, be sure to have some experience with dogs, cats, and other household pets. You should also choose a niche based on timing. For instance, do you prefer long-term arrangements? You can market yourself as an excellent vacation pet sitter. Do you only do single afternoons, or only on weekends? You can pull in clients by telling them you’ll take care of their pets during their dates or weekend trips.

3. Daycare Owner

Childcare continues to be in high demand. While nannies and nanny shares are popular right now, a good daycare is hard to find. Fill a need in your neighborhood by opening your own. And, as always, make sure you’re complying with your city and state’s zoning, licensure, insurance, and inspection requirements.

Home daycares are especially a good fit if you’re an experienced parent and have all supplies ready at home. But be warned that you’ll also need to buy more supplies to accommodate the additional children you’ll need to take care of.

We recommend getting a soft start with this business by advertising it first to your friends, families, and close neighbors. That way, you can better gauge whether it’s a good fit for you and whether you want to make the full investment.

If there’s a topic you have a heavy interest in, then there’s an audience out there with a heavy interest in it too. A blog can be used to build an online community whose engagement can be monetized. Affiliate marketing , sponsored content , and co-marketing are some ways to make money once your blog develops a following.

→ Download Now: 6 Free Blog Post Templates

Blogging is one of the most accessible small businesses to start, and there are countless niches to choose from. That said, because there are many blogs online, you’ll need to learn blog SEO and keyword research to ensure your audience finds you. That way, you actually make money out of your blogging efforts.

The great news is that a small blogging business has a ridiculously low overhead. All you need is a custom domain and your time for writing blog posts.

5. Home-Baked Goods Seller

Warehouse-made, store-bought chocolate chip cookies will never compare to a batch made with love in someone’s home. Simple desserts can be easily baked and packaged to sell at local events or around your neighborhood. Use custom labels and watch the word spread about your goods!

You can begin a baked goods business easily by opening a Facebook and Instagram profile. Facebook and Instagram are both excellent platforms to market your goods, show pictures of your previous baked products, and even showcase happy clients.

Build a loyal following slowly, and save on costs by asking clients to drive to your home to pick up their order. Choosing a niche can be helpful here, or baking in a specific style that can’t be found at grocery store bakeries. The overhead can be especially low if you already have most essential baking supplies.

6. Ecommerce Store Owner

Do you create, collect, or curate anything special? Consider starting an ecommerce store and turning your hobby into a full-time job. Whether you need somewhere to sell all that pottery you’ve been making, or an excuse to search for the sports memorabilia you love tracking down, an ecommerce store can make it financially viable for you to pursue your passion.

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Starting an ecommerce store is simple and easy. You can set up a shop using an ecommerce website builder , all of which start at a minimal monthly subscription (some even start at free). Be sure to take good photos of your products and write descriptive product pages .

If you don’t have inventory, you can always own an ecommerce store by using dropshipping . Instead of creating and shipping your products yourself, you’ll instead partner with a dropshipping website and have them mail out the orders directly to your client.

7. House Cleaner

With a low barrier to entry, house cleaning can be a great way to start doing what you love — soon. Consider advertising to homes in your neighborhood and get more bang for your buck by earning a few small businesses as clients as well. They’ll usually bring in a higher paycheck for a similar amount of work.

To become a house cleaner, you should be prepared to invest in cleaning supplies and accessories, or be willing to use your own. If you plan to serve small businesses, you should buy industrial janitorial supplies so you can get work done more effectively.

Need some inspiration? This small business cleaning service grew virtually overnight on Instagram after their content went viral during the pandemic.

small business idea example: go clean co

8. Packing Services Facilitator

Moving is always a pain, and many people hire the entire packing process out. As a packing services facilitator, you’ll be going to people’s homes and packing up their smaller items into organized boxes. To start this business, you must be comfortable with face-to-face contact and with manual labor.

small business ideas: packing services facilitator

You can begin this business by advertising in your own neighborhood. Once you’re ready to expand, consider partnering with a local moving service that will refer new clients to you. That way, you’ll have a steady stream of clients, and you won’t have to invest in a moving truck (the moving service will take care of that for you).

Business Ideas for Students

1. etsy shop owner.

Creating novelties by hand is a fun and unique way to start a small business, and you can easily sell them via Etsy . Whether you make jewelry, knitted comfort items, or even custom wigs , there’s probably a market for your products and an Etsy buyer who’s ready to purchase.

small business ideas: etsy shop owner

This idea is excellent if you’re already an expert in the craft you aim to sell. That way, you don’t need to pursue additional education or certification courses. Once you set up your Etsy store, which is free, tap into your audience with creative marketing on social media and optimize your website using keywords that describe the products you make.

2. Tour Guide

Love the local history of your city or state? Consider becoming a tour guide. Sure, you’ll need to conduct plenty of research to be able to do the job well, but that’s half the fun. Set yourself apart by offering tours that speak to a specific niche of your community’s history.

You can start a tour guide business easily. First, decide what your specialty will be. Some tour guides, like the ones at Freedom Trail in Boston , offer historical walking tours of their town’s most haunted spots while others curate guided foodie tours for guests to get a true taste of the city.

small business idea example: tour guide

Maybe you love the outdoors and are an experienced backpacker — you can then offer hiking tours. To begin, use a platform such as TripAdvisor or Airbnb, where you can sign up as a tour guide provider. Remember to launch a website, and to file for sole proprietorship status .

3. Online Class Instructor

Tutoring is often done in person and with one client at a time. Remotely teaching an online class offers more flexibility because you can teach multiple students from home. English is a common subject for online classes because of how many people want to learn it. But anything that you have a mastery over could be translated to a virtual class.

4. Small-Batch Goods Seller

Using organic, all-natural ingredients is more expensive, but worth it. There are many products you can learn how to make at home without any preservatives, chemicals, or toxins. Candles, soaps, shampoos, and moisturizers are some examples of goods you can create and tailor with custom scents. Try starting out making soap with this complete beginner’s guide to soapmaking:

5. Makeup Artist

Many people prefer to have a professional do their makeup because they may lack the proper products or just the skills. It may be for a special occasion, photoshoot, or video shoot, or another event. Being able to do a variety of different looks will make your business more attractive to more customers.

To run a successful makeup artist business, you’ll need to be social media savvy . Instagram in particular is an excellent platform to advertise your services and get new clients.

You should also consider honing in on a specific niche. For instance, you might do wedding makeup exclusively.

6. Professional Organizer

A lot of people struggle with clutter or disorganization in their homes and offices. It can be a large undertaking to create organized systems and habits. Grab a lot of storage bins and a label maker and get started!

To become an organizer, you’ll first need to have the chops: Is your own home organized? Do you enjoy making order out of chaos? Then, launch a website to market your services locally. Be sure to create local listings to ensure people find your business, including listings on Angi, Houzz, and Thumbtack.

Meg Golightly, founder at Gosimplified , has made this small business idea into a successful career.

Is your head buzzing with small business ideas yet? After all that brainstorming, you’ll need a practical plan to get started with your new small business.

  • Identify your small business idea.
  • Start as a side business or hobby.
  • Decide on your software.
  • Create a business plan.
  • Decide whether you'll be an LLC or sole proprietorship.
  • Create a business bank account.
  • Determine if your business idea works well from home.
  • Set up an office.
  • Get to work!

1. Identify your small business idea.

Whether you choose an option from the list above or have another idea up your sleeve, it’s important to have the experience, training, or skills necessary to be successful. Want to run a daycare but have never even visited a successful daycare center? Spend time conducting research to learn whether this is really the right fit for your experience, interests, and target audience.

2. Start as a side business or hobby.

Can you get your business off the ground as something you do in the evenings or on the weekends (a.k.a. a side job)? This allows you to make some mistakes, test the market, and understand whether your idea has legs before you quit your nine-to-five job and lose your primary income.

3. Decide on your software.

You’ve got a lot of things on your plate when first starting up. But one step that’s critical (and often forgotten by first-time entrepreneurs) is deciding on the software that can help you be more efficient as your business grows.

Every business is different — but almost all companies can use software to help with analytics, project management , accounting, bookkeeping, email marketing, and other basic day-to-day tasks.

One of the most important software tools every small business should utilize is a free all-in-one CRM platform to keep track of important customer information in one central database. It will help align your team and make sure you stay organized as your business grows.

4. Create a business plan.

No business plan? No business. Particularly if your small business idea requires investors, you'll need to draft up a business plan to provide an overview of your market positioning, your financial projections, and your unique competitive advantages. You can download HubSpot's free business plan templates for free to get started.

One-Page Business Plan Template

Download Free Business Plan Templates

Your business plan should include the following elements:

  • Executive summary — A high-level overview of your company and market placement.
  • Business model — Outline what your business does, who your business serves, and how your business is structured. You should include a description of what products and services you offer, and how they meet the needs of your customers.
  • Market condition — A summary of pertinent competitor information. Determine the strengths and weaknesses of your closest competitors.
  • Products and services — Use this section to describe your products and services in detail, and outline what differentiates your product from others in the market.
  • Operations and management — Outline your business’ organizational structure, key roles, and responsibilities.
  • Marketing and sales strategy — This section should describe how you will market and sell your product. Include information on your ideal customer, how you plan to position your offering, and your sales strategy.
  • Financial plan — Create a detailed outline of your business financials. Include your start-up costs, your initial financial productions, and how you anticipate generating funding.
  • Appendix — Once the above pieces are complete, end the document with an appendix summarizing your business plan.

Every business is different — but almost all companies can use software to help with analytics, project management, accounting, bookkeeping, email marketing, and other basic day-to-day tasks.

5. Decide whether you’ll be an LLC or sole proprietorship.

Two common legal structures for small businesses are limited liability corporations (LLCs) and sole proprietorships.

An LLC is a more complex business structure than a sole proprietorship and can include individuals, corporations, and other LLCs as members. Additionally, LLCs are not subject to a separate level of tax and offer the business owner liability protection and tax advantages. LLCs are formed on a state-by-state basis.

Sole proprietorships are businesses owned and operated by one person and are not identified as a separate entity from the owner by the government. While a sole proprietorship is the simplest business structure, sole proprietors are personally liable for their business.

Besides an LLC or sole proprietorship, there are a few other options for you to consider.

Sean Flannigan, Sendle's Content Manager, says, "While many small businesses might be best served by choosing an LLC or sole proprietorship, there are a few other options."

"Partnerships are great for businesses operated by several individuals. It hews most closely to a sole proprietorship in that the individuals take on the business liability and pay taxes on a personal level."

He adds, "To completely avoid personal liability, small businesses might choose to incorporate as a corporation, S corporation, or B Corp. S corporations avoid corporate taxation whereas B Corps must meet a threshold for public benefit and accountability."

Additionally, Flannigan says, "There are tons of great reasons to become a B Corp beyond just doing good business. All that said, many small businesses that aren't aimed at super-fast growth choose to go with an LLC to keep things simple while shielding owners from too much liability."

Learn more about choosing the right structure for your business from the Small Business Administration.

6. Create a business bank account.

Once you have a legally formed business and have been issued an Employer Identification Number (EIN), open a bank account specifically for your business. Having a business bank account is essential for keeping your personal and business finances separate which can help you gain an accurate picture of your business’s cash flow and financial health.

Additionally, keeping your personal and business finances separate makes bookkeeping and tax preparation easier.

Many banks offer business checking and savings accounts. Business checking accounts typically do not have a limit on the number of transactions that can take place, and issue a debit card that can be used for making business purchases. However, these checking accounts do not accrue interest.

Business savings accounts typically earn interest over time but have a limited number of transactions that can occur each month. When you’re just starting out, look for a business bank account that does not have a minimum balance requirement so you are not penalized for having low funds as you work to build your business.

7. Determine if your business idea works well from home.

Ask yourself whether your business idea will work well from home. Some businesses simply aren’t suited to be based from home. If you want to run a dog boarding center but live in an apartment without a backyard, you might want to consider a dog walking business instead.

8. Set up an office.

If your business idea is well-suited for being run from home, it’s still important you have a designated workspace. While a home office might not be possible, consider setting aside a corner in your living room or putting a desk in your bedroom for a space that inspires you and creates the conditions for success.

Need a more professional space? If you conduct client-facing work requiring you to be on video calls, no one wants to see your rumpled sheets in the background. Check out local coworking spaces for memberships that earn you access to conference rooms, desk space, and more.

9. Get to work!

You’ve put in the hard work and I’ve got good news — it’s only going to get harder. But most entrepreneurs will agree that the payoff of being your own boss, making your own hours, and working on projects that you’re passionate about will pay dividends for the rest of your life.

Starting a Small Business: FAQ

What are the types of small businesses.

The types of small business structures are sole proprietorships, partnerships, limited liability companies (LLCs), and corporations.

Which business type is best?

The best business type is a limited liability company (LLC). Operating as an LLC means that your personal assets are separate from your business assets. If your business goes bankrupt, your personal holdings won’t be affected. That said, it’s also one of the costlier types, requiring a fee paid to the state.

The easiest business type to start is a sole proprietorship. The main downside is that there’s no differentiation between you and your business.

How do I create a business idea?

To create a business idea, determine your skill set, work preferences, startup budget, and available resources. It’s important to strike the right balance between what you can feasibly offer and what you can feasibly afford in the short and long term.

We recommend starting with your skill set so that you can easily determine the niche in which you can effectively compete. For instance, if you have ample experience as a writer, you might consider starting a freelance writing business. But if you know you’d prefer to work with clients face-to-face, you might choose to start a ghostwriting business instead. That’s why it’s so important to take your work preferences into account, as well.

After that, take a look at your budget and determine the type of business you can start based on the resources at your disposal. For instance, you might not be able to afford a physical office or location, so a location-based business will likely not be a good fit. In that case, starting an online business is your best option.

What are some of the most successful small businesses?

Every small business has the potential to be successful and profitable, provided it’s backed by a strong product-market fit and a robust business plan . These two elements are essential. Maybe post-natal services are one of the most successful small businesses to launch, but if you live in an area with declining population or a large elderly population, then that small business idea won’t yield a high return on investment.

Think carefully about the market where you’re launching your business, and you’ll be more than likely to see lasting success.

What are the top growing small businesses?

top growing small businesses as reported by the bureau of labor statistics

The top growing industries are healthcare support, technology, personal care, food preparation, and community and social service. As such, launching a small business in any of these fields is bound to yield a high return on investment, but remember to take your target market into account.

Here are some small business ideas for each of those industries:

Healthcare Support

  • In-home care assistant
  • In-home elderly care provider
  • Psychological care provider
  • Pre-natal and post-natal support specialist
  • Freelance programmer or web developer
  • Freelance IT support specialist
  • Freelance cybersecurity expert

Personal Care

  • Hair stylist
  • Nail technician

Food Preparation

  • Personal chef
  • Food truck owner
  • Food delivery

Community and Social Services

  • Non-profit owner
  • Education specialist

Brainstorm Your Next Small Business Venture

Selecting a small business idea to work on is a personal decision. Money is important, but you’ll need more motivation than that to keep going. Bounce ideas off your friends and family until you reach the perfect idea that works for your schedule, fulfills your life’s passion, and makes financial sense. Don’t be afraid to ask for help throughout this process — and remember to have a little fun while you’re putting in the work.

Editor's note: This post was originally published in August 2020 and has been updated for comprehensiveness.

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40 UNIQUE BUSINESS IDEAS

Unique Business ideas - Whether it’s a unique food, sport, therapy, or rental service, getting in at the forefront with the right Unique Small Business Idea can be incredibly lucrative. This detailed guide breaks down everything you need to create your own small business today!

Exploring your options? Check out additional small business ideas .

A baby chick looking at a different chick with wild purple-striped hair with the caption

Unique Small Business Ideas

We’ve broken down our top unique business ideas into seven categories including, specialty foods, sports and entertainment, pet businesses, and many more. We've ranked their startup costs, required skill level, and earning potential to help you decide which unique small business idea is right for you.

1. COOKIE DOUGH CAFE

Spoon dipped into a bowl of cookie dough

Professional bakers or baking enthusiasts with a good sense for business may consider selling edible cookie dough. While this business can certainly remain small, the growth potential is huge. You may expand locally, regionally, and even nationally while still keeping costs low since the product can easily be shipped.

The earning potential of this business is great, considering the high markup potential of this specialty product. While costs will increase if you decide to open a brick and mortar shop, with enough business-savvy and sales, profits can grow quite high.

Learn how to start a cookie dough cafe .

2. OLIVE OIL STORE

unique business ideas quora

If you have retail experience and a love for fine, specialty foods, an olive oil store may be a good fit for you. In addition to experience managing a retail operation, you’ll need be able to speak with customers about olive oil with some degree of expertise. While not necessary, cooking and teaching experience can be very helpful as hosting cooking classes and workshops can boost interest and profits.

Opening an olive oil store requires a fairly large investment to ensure your storefront is located in an area with significant foot traffic from high-end customers. The growth potential for this business is somewhat uncertain, but with more and more customers seeking premium, artisan products, the right business plan can lead to profits of 10% to 15% on sales and even more on classes, workshops, and other special events.

Learn how to start an olive oil store .

Ready to form your LLC? Check out the  Top LLC Formation Services

And, use our free tools to help start your business:

  • Use our  Business Name Generator  for help brainstorming your new venture’s name
  • Learn  how to form an LLC , one of the  best business structures  for unique businesses
  • Use our free  business plan generator  to start planning your business today
  • Get your unique logo with our free  Logo Maker  and start branding your business
  • After finding your perfect idea learn how to  start a business

3. GOURMET POPCORN SHOP

Dispensers full of different types of popcorn

If you love popcorn and are creative in the kitchen, a gourmet popcorn business may be a good fit for you. This is another great business idea that gives you the flexibility to stay small or expand. You may sell from home, open a store, or get your products on the shelves of food stores across the country. There are also a considerable number of resources available for those looking to learn the ropes of the gourmet popcorn business before opening.

Startup costs vary considerably, depending on whether you start by operating out of your home, renting a storefront, or even buying a franchise. However, because of the significant price markup, selling gourmet popcorn can potentially be quite profitable, with some national brands worth millions of dollars.

Learn how to start a gourmet popcorn shop .

4. SEA SALT BUSINESS

Wooden spoon covered with sea salt

Anyone who is self-motivated, likes working with their hands, and has access to seawater may consider starting a sea salt business. Owners will need some level of expertise to recognize the best locations, seasons, and times to source the salt. This requires at least basic knowledge of tides, currents, and sea levels.

Once you’ve pinpointed the best source for your sea salt, the startup costs for your business are very low. You can get started with a few buckets and jars, a food processor, and a means of evaporating the sea water you collect. The low costs, virtually unlimited supply of free raw materials, and high markup potential mean a sea salt business can be extremely profitable.

Learn how to start a sea salt business .

Find a Web Domain for Your Unique Business

Securing a web domain and creating a quality website is important for the overall success of your unique business.

Find a Domain Now

Powered by godaddy.com, 5. axe throwing party business.

unique business ideas quora

Axe-throwing parties are one of the many unique niche entertainment options popping up across the country. Anyone who enjoys games and entertainment may enjoy running this exciting business. Experience with axe throwing is useful, but not required.

Insuring an axe-throwing business can be expensive due to the inherent risks involved and the novel nature of the business. If you put in the time and money, though, there is a good deal of growth and profit potential. A successful axe-throwing party business has the potential to make six figures, with larger businesses realizing revenue beyond $1 million annually.

Learn how to start an axe throwing business .

6. ESCAPE ROOM BUSINESS

unique business ideas quora

Creative individuals who love playing games and have a keen attention to detail may be good candidates to start an escape room business. While formal education and experience aren’t required, a background in design or other creative fields can be very helpful.

Escape rooms are a new and growing niche entertainment business that has blossomed over the past decade. While it’s hard to say how far this industry may grow, it continues to be a popular choice for a variety of people from small groups and parties to corporations looking for team building activities. Startup costs are moderate, as you will have to rent a location and design and furnish the room. However, a successful escape room business can bring in considerable profits, well into six figures.

Learn how to start an escape room business .

7. CHALLENGE COURSE

Woman climbing under barbed wire

Skilled marketers and salespeople who have an interest in outdoor activities and experience in military or police training, summer camps, or corporate training are uniquely qualified to run a challenge course business.

Whether it is an obstacle course, high-ropes course, zip-line, or other adventurous activity, startup costs are significant and include land, insurance, and quality staff members. However, these businesses continue to grow in popularity, attracting individuals, families, parties, and corporate clients. With the right marketing and business plan, even small challenge course businesses can bring in six figures. Larger businesses can make millions of dollars annually.

Learn how to start a challenge course business .

8. RAGE ROOM

Five people screaming

Creative thinkers and marketers with access to cheap, breakable items could turn a profit by letting customers smash things in a rage room. This is a relatively new idea, but one that can have widespread appeal. From parties looking for a unique experience to people looking to let off some steam after a breakup or job loss, a rage room can provide both entertainment and catharsis for its customers.

Startup costs are moderate, with a space for the rage room, storage, breakable objects, and liability insurance among the biggest expenses. Growth potential and profit will vary depending on your particular business model and price structure, but as popularity grows business owners may have the opportunity to expand into additional locations or even franchises.

Learn how to start a rage room .

9. INDOOR TRAMPOLINE PARK

Feet suspended in air above a trampoline surface

If you enjoy interacting with people and having fun, you may be well suited to operate an indoor trampoline park. As with all businesses, strong marketing skills will give you an advantage over the competition.

Startup costs for this business are high, as it requires a large, open indoor space and a lot of specialty equipment. However, this is a growing industry. Those in a market with no competition can be especially successful, drawing customers from a wide area and potentially expanding to multiple locations in their region. If you have the money to invest upfront, an indoor trampoline business can see a profit margin of 25% or more, with profits well into six figures.

Learn how to start an indoor trampoline park .

10. FOOTBALL BOWLING BUSINESS

Football in front of bowling pins

Another growing niche game that may be a good business opportunity for an outgoing person who enjoys fun activities is football bowling. Also known as bombowling or fowling, this activity entails throwing a football down a lane to knock down bowling pins. In addition to knowing the rules of the game, general business knowledge is critical for success in this new and fairly unknown business.

Startup costs are substantial, as the game requires a large amount of customized indoor space. Earning potential depends primarily on how many customers you can attract, but with the right marketing and a solid customer base, profits can be significant.

Learn how to start a football bowling business .

11. NERF ARENA

Photo of many people posing for a photo with Nerf guns

A Nerf arena is another business idea that’s great for outgoing savvy individuals looking to run a fun, fast-paced business. While the typical target customers are younger people, aged six to fourteen, many Nerf arenas have found they can increase revenue by also appealing to corporate and other adult groups.

Startup costs are fairly high, as a large amount of indoor space is required, along with things like equipment and insurance. Because of the high maintenance costs and lower rates charged to customers, earning potential is not as high as some of the other businesses in this category. However, a successful Nerf arena owner can still bring in a profit of around $50,000 per year.

Learn how to start a Nerf arena .

12. GAME TRUCK BUSINESS

Pile of various video game console controllers

If you enjoy video games and interacting with children, operating a mobile game truck business can provide a unique opportunity. Strong business management skills and a willingness to work on weekends are also important. While the mobile nature of this business removes the cost of renting a permanent space, the cost of outfitting the truck or trailer is still fairly substantial.

Gaming is a huge and booming industry, meaning growth potential for any related business is generally strong. Once established, low overhead costs mean game trucks can bring in a good amount of money from each event. If you’re able to book steady business, there is great potential to make some excellent profits.

Learn how to start a game truck business .

13. NINJA WARRIOR GYM

Woman swinging from hanging gym

An outgoing individual who has an interest in fitness and entertainment may be a good fit to operate a ninja warrior gym. Popularized by the TV show American Ninja Warrior, this business draws in a variety of clients. It is important for an owner to be comfortable interacting with different people and to have some general knowledge about running a business to keep people coming back.

Startup costs are high, with the business requiring a large space, special equipment, and good insurance coverage. However, the growing appeal of ninja warrior gyms means your business has great growth and earning potential.

Learn how to start a ninja warrior gym .

14. PROFESSIONAL MERMAID

Woman dressed in a mermaid costume diving in a reef

Professional mermaids have grown in popularity in recent years. This quirky business idea may be a good fit for a strong swimmer who enjoys acting and interacting with people.

While high-end costumes can be expensive, startup costs can be kept quite low for this business since it can easily be run by booking clients entirely online. As a highly specialized business, professional mermaids can charge a high hourly rate. With regular bookings, this can be a quite lucrative business, bringing in $1,500 or more per week.

Learn how to start a professional mermaid business .

15. PARTY BUS BUSINESS

Interior of a party bus, lit with neon lights with full-length couches on either side.

If you are experienced at coordinating events, enjoy working with people and providing customer service, and can think quickly on your feet, a party bus may be a good business for you. Party buses have become a popular choice for a wide range of customers looking for a fun, unique, event that’s easy to plan.

Startup expenses are substantial, with the cost of buses, salaries, and insurance among some of the biggest. You’ll also have ongoing expenses for gas and maintenance of your buses. However, with the high hourly rates you can charge, it’s possible to bring in a respectable annual profit of $50,000 or more.

Learn how to start a party bus business .

16. CONTENDER ESPORTS FRANCHISE

Row of male and female gamers

A Contender eSports franchise is another great business opportunity that taps into the ever-expanding video game market. No formal education is required, but a strong work ethic, marketing skills, and a love of gaming will help increase your odds of success.

Startup costs are high since Contender requires all franchisees to have liquid assets of at least $50,000 and a net worth of $300,000. In this growing industry, the earning potential depends largely on your ability to attract customers. With a solid marketing strategy and consistent customer base, you’ll have the potential to make excellent profits.

Learn how to start a Contender eSports franchise business .

17. VINTAGE MAPS STORE

Vintage map of the world

A very niche business, this is a good fit for historians and amateur map collectors who are passionate and knowledgeable about the topic. Many vintage maps business owners start out as hobbyists and then go on to establish galleries that house large collections of vintage maps.

Startup costs depend on whether you want to open a retail storefront or operate online, as well as the amount of inventory you want to carry and what you may or may not already have. As a niche market, growth can be limited. However, as accessibility to vintage maps decreases, the potential to expand your influence within the market increases, along with your earning potential.

Learn how to start a vintage maps business .

18. BONSAI TREE BUSINESS

A bonsai tree sitting on a table

Selling bonsai trees can be a good option for gardeners and stay-at-home workers looking for both a satisfying hobby and a business venture. While no formal education is required, owners should familiarize themselves with the various types of bonsai trees, best growing conditions, and basic techniques for raising the trees and helping them thrive.

Startup costs for seeds and other materials are relatively low, and you can turn a good profit once the trees are grown, provided you can wait 3–5 years. Bonsai are considered "high-value" trees that increase in popularity each year, especially with urban customers who lack the space to grow full sized trees. While profit margins are high, earning potential is limited by how many trees you’re able to cultivate and sell.

Learn how to start a bonsai tree business .

19. DRIED FLOWER BUSINESS

A variety of dried flowers with a mortal and pestle

An individual who enjoys gardening, understands how different types of flowers react to different drying methods, and is looking for a way to make some part-time income may consider operating a dried flower business. Normally this business is done as a side venture to a person’s full-time job, but it doesn’t have to stay that way.

A flower drying business can grow exponentially if you establish yourself in a community as the go-to for decorative plants or sentimental keepsakes. Start up costs are low, especially if you already have a suitable space for growing your own flowers. Even as a side business this venture has the potential to bring in serious profits.

Learn how to start a dried flower business .

20. DART STORE

A dartboard with three darts in the bullseye

This niche business is ideal for an expert in darts or a master craftsman who can create a product or provide service that sets their business apart from other suppliers. With a number of online vendors of dart equipment, a dart store should focus on quality and expertise. Those who can cultivate a unique style or specialty will shine in this industry.

Startup costs will vary depending on the space you choose and the raw materials used in your products. Growth can be slow since expensive, high-quality products are made to last. However, with the right products and marketing strategy, there is an opportunity to make significant profits since top-of-the-line darts equipment can be priced quite high.

Learn how to start a dart store .

21. WIND CHIME BUSINESS

Clay wind chimes hanging in a market

A wind chime business can be a good fit for anyone with an artistic, creative ear. Whether you craft the chimes yourself or purchase them from artists and craftsman, the ability to identify calming and beautiful sounds is vital.

If you choose to run this business out of your home, as many do, startup costs are quite manageable. With low costs and the opportunity for a large markup, those with consistent sales can make a fairly good profit with this business.

Learn how to start a wind chime business .

22. VINTAGE TOY STORE

Collection of vintage tin toys

A vintage toy store is an excellent venture for avid toy collectors and enthusiasts looking to turn their hobby into a lucrative business opportunity. Having experience finding and purchasing rare toys is important, along with the general business knowledge to properly market your toys to the best audience.

Startup costs are moderate, with the biggest expenses being rent for a storefront and inventory. Some business owners may choose to start their business online before expanding into a brick and mortar store, and many maintain an online presence even after opening. If you are good at finding a variety of valuable toys at good prices, the profits can be significant.

Learn how to start a vintage toy store .

23. STAINED GLASS BUSINESS

An abstract, multi-colored stained glass window

While general artistic abilities and knowledge of how to run a business are important, high levels of specific knowledge and skills are also required to run a successful stained glass business. Stained glass is generally viewed as a long-lasting work of art, and customers expect top quality.

Stained glass is an ancient industry that’s been beautifying homes and buildings for hundreds of years. Startup costs can be kept relatively low since most owners do business out of their home. With the internet available as a valuable tool to reach a wide customers base, the earning potential of this business is good. How far you grow will largely depend on who you market to and how much product you’re able to produce and sell.

Learn how to start a stained glass business .

24. CUSTOM DOLL BUSINESS

Row of dolls in various outfits

Most people who get into the custom doll business started out making dolls as a hobby. Knowledge of how to work with different types of materials can be useful to increase the types of dolls you can make. Being flexible and able to respond to the particular demand in your market will help you succeed.

Startup costs are quite low, but custom dolls is a very niche market with limited growth potential. Making each doll takes a good deal of time and effort, and there is a fairly low price ceiling. While you can definitely turn your hobby or craft into a profit, the low numbers mean it is much better suited as a supplemental income steam.

Learn how to start a custom doll business .

25. CHICKEN DIAPER BUSINESS

A chicken in a chicken diaper

The chicken diaper business suits a pretty specific type of person: someone who is creative, a good sewer, and who has experience owning or raising chickens. This business has grown specifically out of a rise in urban chicken raising, so enthusiasm for this field is important for bringing in customers.

While the industry is on the rise as thousands of people in cities around the country have become interested in raising chickens, it is still a small and fairly limited market. Even with very low startup costs, it can be difficult to make more than a small supplemental income. Still, this can be a very fun side business.

Learn how to start a chicken diaper business .

Start a Home Business in Your State

26. tiny house business.

A tiny home sitting in the middle of a meadow

If you are involved in construction, architecture, or another part of the real estate industry, the tiny house business can be a fun and profitable way to use your experience.

Startup costs vary based on the specifics of the homes you build and the real estate market in your area. Because this business requires fewer materials and less land than traditional home building, costs are generally manageable. With the current popularity of tiny houses, builders can make a sizeable profit on each home.

Learn how to start a tiny house business .

27. CUSTOM TREEHOUSE BUSINESS

A luxury treehouse built onto two trees

Individuals with a background in construction or engineering who understand tree growth patterns and enjoy being outside can be a great fit for building custom treehouses. Carpentry skills and the ability to communicate effectively with your customers are also important.

Startup costs can vary, depending on the size of your staff, the materials you use, and the type of treehouses you choose to build. The complex nature of each build can place a limit on how far you can expand, but the high markup means successful treehouse businesses can be extremely profitable. Completed treehouses can sell for anywhere from in the thousands of dollars to over a million, depending on your customer base.

Learn how to start a custom treehouse business .

28. SENSORY DEPRIVATION TANK BUSINESS

A woman floating on top of water

Individuals with spa service experience and the ability to afford high startup costs may want to consider a sensory deprivation tank business. This is a relatively new industry that appeals to a niche audience, but as it grows in popularity there will be room to expand into new regions and markets. However, strong marketing and customer service skills will be critical to ensuring the business takes off.

You’ll also need to make a considerable investment to get your business started, with costs for a two-tank set up easily surpassing $200,000. However, once you’re up and running, this setup can net more than $100,000 per year for successful business owners.

Learn how to start a sensory deprivation tank business .

29. PROFESSIONAL MEDITATION BUSINESS

Children sitting in lotus position on their school desks

If you have a long history of practicing meditation and enjoy working with and teaching others, a meditation business may be a good fit for you. The more experience you have with different styles and methods of meditation, the more customers you can appeal to.

People are always looking for a way to slow down and relax. The recreational therapy industry, of which meditation is a part, is slated to experience 12 percent growth over the next few years, making this an excellent, growing industry to join. Earning potential varies by region, but the average salary for a recreational therapist in the U.S. is around $47,000.

Learn how to start a professional meditation business .

30. HOT TUB GARDEN

A hot tub overlooking a seaside cliff

The ideal hot tub garden business owner believes in the relaxing, therapeutic potential of hot tubs and also has strong marketing skills. Basic mechanical skills can also be useful to deal with any potential issues with the tubs, as well as to perform general cleaning and maintenance.

Hot tub gardens are a fairly new concept, allowing customers to enjoy a hot tub in a private space, paying by the hour. Startup costs are in the tens of thousands of dollars or more, so you’ll need to be prepared to make a significant upfront investment. However, a successful hot tub garden business can be quite profitable, possibly bringing in high six-figure income each year.

Learn how to start a hot tub garden .

31. AROMATHERAPY BUSINESS

A bottle of essential oil next to a sprig of lavender

If you are passionate about helping others through homeopathic methods, and you also have a heightened sense of smell and the discipline to handle the day-to-day requirements of running a business, aromatherapy may be a good venture for you. Aromatherapy businesses cater to people looking for more natural remedies for common problems like stress and insomnia.

Homeopathic and other alternative therapies have become more popular in recent years, allowing for a good deal of growth in the industry. Startup costs are generally manageable, especially if you are not renting a storefront, and earning potential is solid. Business owners report earnings of anywhere from $30,000 to $100,000 per year.

Learn how to start an aromatherapy business .

32. REIKI BUSINESS

Woman laying down with another person's hand hovering over her head

A Reiki business isn’t for everyone, but those who have experience with this practice may enjoy starting their own venture to share it with others. Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that promotes healing. It’s based on the idea that an unseen "life force energy" flows through us and gives us life.

Startup costs will vary depending on your specific business plan. Many practitioners begin working out of their homes, minimizing costs early on. Your company’s growth potential is directly tied to saturation of the market, the needs of the area you serve, and the number of practitioners you’re able to hire. Innovative entrepreneurs in this field strengthen their business by offering a well-rounded practice that combines multiple types of therapy to meet all their client’s needs. Reiki practitioners report annual profits between $39,000 and $73,000.

Learn how to start a Reiki business .

33. GOAT RENTAL BUSINESS

Four goats standing in a field

If you own goats or have the space to accommodate them, you may consider starting a goat rental business. Sometimes known as goatscaping, this business lends goats to people looking for a natural and environmentally friendly way to cut and even fertilize their property. Business owners will need to be familiar with keeping and caring for goats.

Startup costs vary depending on your situation. You’ll need goats, enough room for them to live, and a trailer to transport them to your customers. You’ll also need to cover all the expenses required for continued maintenance of the goats. If you already own goats, this business can be extremely affordable to get started. For those starting from scratch, costs are moderate to high. Earning potential depends on how many goats you have, but you could expect to earn around $750 per week during grazing season for each four-goat herd.

Learn how to start a goat rental business .

Learn more about starting a business by visiting the U.S. Small Business Administration .

34. CHICKEN RENTAL SERVICE

Large group of chickens

Much like a goat renting business, a chicken rental service is an excellent business opportunity for anyone who already owns a chicken farm or has experience raising chickens. Chicken renting allows non-farmers to rent chickens for the purpose of egg laying without the responsibility of owning a farm or taking care of them long term.

If you’re already an established chicken farmer, startup costs are quite low. However, rental prices for two chickens for six months is typically only between $250 and $500, so it can take time and a large number of chickens to start making significant income.

Learn how to start a chicken renting busines .

35. GLAMPING BUSINESS

A luxury tent set up among palm trees

A glamping business can be a good endeavor for an individual who has a background in the hospitality business and an attractive piece of available land. Glamping, or glamorous camping, appeals to people looking for a camping experience without having to rough it in a traditional tent or campsite.

Startup costs can be considerable, as glamping tents can cost tens of thousands of dollars. This business is really ideal for folks who already own a large piece of land like a farm, hunting ground, or coastal property that can be converted for at least part of the year. Earning potential varies depending on the location and the quality of the tents, but with nightly rates ranging from $50 to over $3,000 and fairly low ongoing maintenance costs, this business also has a great potential to bring in large profits.

Learn how to start a glamping business .

36. PET HOTEL

A cat and dog snuggling on a hotel bed

Animals lovers with business skills may enjoy operating a pet hotel. While not necessary, experience working in an animal shelter, boarding facility, or vet’s office can be helpful. A pet hotel is essentially a luxury kennel, offering high-end care for pets while their owners are away.

Startup costs are moderate, typically running between $25,000 and $85,000 depending on location and the size of your establishment. The pet grooming and boarding industry is huge, generating over $8 billion in revenue each year, with an average annual growth of 6.6%. With a good location and steady business, owners can see profits around $40,000 in their first year, with the potential for much more over time.

Learn how to start a pet hotel .

37. PET BAKERY

Dog bone shaped cookies being cut

Someone passionate about pets and pet nutrition may want to consider starting a pet bakery business. Knowledge about pet nutrition is essential, and veterinary experience can be extremely helpful. Pet bakeries provide specially formulated pet foods using more natural, high-quality ingredients.

Startup costs vary depending on the size and business model, but selling online and using your home kitchen can keep expenses very low. While many start out small, there is a great potential to grow over time, increasing both online sales and the reach your products have across retail stores. Earning potential can be quite high, with nationally recognized brands bringing in millions each year.

Learn how to start a pet bakery .

38. CAT CAFE

A kitten sleeping in a teacup on a glass cafe table

Outgoing and personable cat lovers can be a good fit for this increasingly popular business. Cat cafes offer people a place to relax with friends and felines, while they also enjoy a beverage or meal. In addition to serving human customers, many cafes also help the cats they house by making them available for adoption. While not required, experience running or working in a cafe can be very helpful.

Startup costs are fairly substantial, with the expenses of renting and running a cafe plus providing adequate space and care for your cats. This business model is still very new in the United States, but success in Asia and elsewhere shows that cat cafes can become extremely popular and successful.

Learn how to start a cat cafe .

Start a Unique Business in Your State

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unique business ideas quora

Home Business Ideas

There are a variety of businesses you can run out of your home, and because of the minimal overhead expenses, most of them can be started fairly cheaply. In this article, we outline our top 40 home business ideas for the modern entrepreneur.

unique business ideas quora

Online Business Ideas

Whether you’re looking to build an online empire or earn a little money on the side, one of the best things about owning an online business is having the ability to work as much or as little as you want -- from whatever location you prefer.

unique business ideas quora

Low-cost Business Ideas

In this article, we outline our top 40 business ideas with low startup costs to help you find a low-cost business idea that aligns with your interests and goals.

unique business ideas quora

Side-hustle Business ideas

If you’re looking to scratch the entrepreneurial itch without giving up your day job, you’re probably on the hunt for a side-hustle that aligns with your personal interests and your schedule. These 40 side-hustles satisfy a range of interests and can easily turn into full-time careers.

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FOR EMPLOYERS

Top 30 software business ideas for start-ups in 2024.

Business Ideas for Start-ups

Radhika Vyas

Radhika is a Content Writer who enjoys learning new things and writing about them. You can almost always find her with her adorable Labrador retriever, Cooper if she isn't spending time with her friends and family.

Frequently Asked Questions

First, you can create a software product or service to address a specific market need, providing a foundation for your business. By choosing Turing for software development, you benefit from our expertise in building robust and scalable software solutions tailored to your business requirements. Additionally, Turing's pool of elite software developers ensures that you have access to top talent for creating innovative products that can give your business a competitive edge.

The process of developing an idea into a product or service that customers want and bringing it to market is known as startup product development or software product development.

Some easy tech businesses to start include:

  • Web design and development services.
  • App development for mobile devices.
  • Social media management and marketing.
  • IT consulting and support services.
  • E-commerce store setup and management.
  • Online tutoring or e-learning platforms.
  • Digital marketing and SEO services.
  • Graphic design and branding services.
  • Computer repair and maintenance.
  • Software as a Service (SaaS) development.

These are just a few examples, and by selecting Turing for your software development needs, you can benefit from our extensive talent pool and domain expertise to start and grow your tech business successfully.

For your search strategy, here are a few resources you can tap into - Turing.com, LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, Google+, GitHub, Quora, Glassdoor, Hackathons, Meetups, and developer events.

Meetups, IRC chat rooms, Hackathons, and dev conferences are all places where you might find the developers you're looking for. Put your company's message out there, along with the fact that you're looking for developers in these circles and the problem you're attempting to solve.

To start a software startup with an idea, begin by thoroughly researching your target market and validating the demand for your product or service. Develop a minimum viable product (MVP) to test and gather feedback from potential customers. Create a solid business plan, including a monetization strategy and a marketing plan. Secure funding through bootstrapping, angel investors, or venture capital. By partnering with Turing for your software development needs, you can leverage our extensive resources, expertise, and talent pool to transform your idea into a successful software startup.

Well, this is a highly subjective question that is heavily influenced by the size and complexity of your product. The level of competition in your domain's market. The timeline you have in mind for bringing your product to market, as well as a number of other criteria.

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How to promote business on Quora: Beginners marketing guide

Quora has over 300 million active users worldwide and is widely used by businesses and marketers for boosting sales, traffic, and community engagement. 

Using Quora for marketing might look easy but it actually isn’t. That’s why Upreports decided to create this blog to help businesses talk about their products and services on the growing community platform.

In this post, Upreports will tell how to promote your business on Quora and also share expert tips on Quora marketing and branding. So, start paying attention and read on!

First, let’s learn what’s Quora 

Quora is a question/answer platform built to ask questions from industry and domain experts. From health advice to political questions and personal stories to DIY support, everything goes into Quora.

unique business ideas quora

As Quora grew, it also started becoming valuable for marketers and businesses interested in connecting with their audience active on the platform. 

Businesses nowadays use Quora to reach potential customers by: 

  • Answering relevant questions 
  • Interacting through comments 
  • Creating marketing-driven questions 
  • Running paid campaigns 
  • Participating in Quora Spaces 
  • Creating business-driven topics 

Now that we know the basics of Quora marketing, let’s look at the benefits of being active on the biggest QA community platform in the world! 

Benefits of Quora marketing

Business owners who ignore Quora marketing do so because they are unaware of its huge benefits. Below are the top benefits of using Quora for marketing:

  • Answering relevant questions helps potential customers/ clients learn about your business
  • Since Quora question threads rank on Google, it is an easy way to dominate some business search terms. 
  • Quora is a great place to get ideas on content creation. 
  • The QA platform also helps in learning more about the target audience.
  • Quora also helps in maintaining a business reputation since review-focused queries are highly popular amongst its community.

Now, you know what Quora marketing is and how it helps in business growth. Now, let’s learn how to promote your business on Quora!

Learn how to build a brand online without big ad spend

How to promote your business on Quora

Disclaimer: Like most people-driven communities on the internet, Quora is not a place that welcomes marketers who are only concerned about self-promotion. 

Therefore, nothing less than a streamlined and planning approach works for Quora marketing. Below are some tips and ideas that will help you create the perfect Quora marketing strategy: 

Create perfect Quora profiles: It is important to create a couple of relevant personal profiles on Quora to kickstart marketing and brand talk. While one can clearly state that you work for the business, the other one can be you minus the business association. 

Fill in all the details in the right way. Add:

  • Areas of expertise 
  • Interests 
  • Designation 
  • Language familiarity 
  • Education 
  • Photo 
  • Social media accounts 

For your non-brand-related Quora profile, skip the designation.

unique business ideas quora

Search relevant questions to answer: After creating both profiles on Quora, the next step is to search for questions related to your business. Quora search is very powerful and will instantly show you questions that already exist for your shared query or question. 

Choose the questions wisely. If the answers already have more than 20 answers, then these are not perfect for you. Search for trending topics that are related to your industry or product/services. If you are just setting out, you won’t have a hard time coming across relevant questions.

Pro tip: Answer the ones that are directly related to your business (feedback, reviews, etc.) through the branded profile. Answer the others through a non-brand-related profile!

Wondering how much SEO costs in India? Here’s SEO cost per month in India

Keep it length and knowledgeable: The length of your answers plays a major role in getting ranking and upvotes on Quora. The users of Quora love to read long answers since a lot of them are trying to answer specific queries. Avoid writing very short answers on Quora to get more views. That will end up at the bottom of the answer threads!

Below Quora marketing tips will help you write answers the right way:

  • Give proper headings to every paragraph
  • Add bullet points
  • Try to add links to your answer. 3 is the magic number for us! (one to your website, another to a knowledge resource, and last to a relevant Quora answer)
  • Add images and videos 
  • Keep it informative
  • Keep the language simple

Add amazing images: Images help in making the answer look interesting and attract more viewers. Avoid using blurry, low-quality, and stock images. Take advantage of free image repositories like Unsplash to get high-quality images related to your answers. 

A couple of images will not only add a visual feel to your answer but also add more value if they will carry context. Adding infographics in place of images is also a great way to generate business mileage during Quora marketing for business!

unique business ideas quora

Embed video content: Videos have gained immense popularity in the last decade. Google has started ranking videos on the top as well. Therefore, it makes perfect sense to channel the power of videos for your Quora marketing activities. 

Use videos related to your business to help others learn more about your products and expertise. Embedding is really easy in Quora. Marketing newbies however are often confused while choosing the right video. 

Below tips will help you choose the right video while promoting your business on Quora:

  • Share customer review videos
  • Share behind-the-scene videos
  • Use explainer videos 
  • Use informative and DIY videos

Internal linking: All Quora backlinks currently are no-follow in nature. However, this doesn’t mean they don’t have any value. Adding links to your business site, helpful resources, and other Quora answers improves the reach and authority of your answers. 

Avoid adding too many links to avoid getting marked as spam. If you have already answered on the same topic, add a link to your previous answer. This will help you get more views on your older answers as well. 

Contribute some answers without links as well to save your account from getting blocked. 

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Ask questions: Many business owners and marketers are unaware of the fact that asking questions on Quora can also help in bringing traffic, sales, and engagement. Ask questions about trending topics, and industry trends, and request other Quora users to answer your questions. 

Once you start getting answers from other users, give upvotes to good answers, and comment on them. This will help you build a strong relationship with your audience. 

Secret hack: If the question has a lot of business value, answer the same from your other ID to get on the first spot!

unique business ideas quora

Avoid over promoting: Over-promoting on Quora can get your profile on the spam radar and your answers will start getting deleted. Make sure you read the Quora terms and conditions to avoid getting on the wrong side of the biggest QA platform on the internet. 

Create helpful content and write genuine answers to make sure that you don’t come across as a self-obsessed marketer who is only here to make a sale. Answer questions relevant to your interests as well to make your profile page more authentic. 

Get active on Quora Spaces : Quora Spaces was launched 2 years ago but didn’t kick off as planned and gained a lot of popularity. But it is still home to some amazing communities that can be used for sharing:

  • Short text updates

Since Quora Spaces are not as crowded, they can be a good place to build meaningful connections and kickstart brand building around your business. 

Quora marketing with Upreports

Above is everything you need to answer the question, ‘how to promote your business on Quora’. Use our Quora marketing tips, ideas, and guiding pointers to build a strong presence on the QA platform to generate sales, leads, and traffic. 

If you are struggling to reach your maximum potential on Quora and could use a helping hand, discuss your goals with our team of content marketers. We would love to join forces with you! 

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  • Using Quora for Business Purposes

unique business ideas quora

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unique business ideas quora

Are you looking for a way to enhance your credibility in your industry? Maybe you’re looking to humanize your brand by highlighting your staff’s capabilities and/or diversity? Or perhaps you’re looking to enhance awareness of your brand through an atypical social media tool?

In any of these cases, Quora may be for you. This relatively young social network may not yet have the cachet or user base of a Facebook , Twitter or a LinkedIn . But it offers a unique service that offers savvy marketers a way to enhance their firm’s standing in the industry, its brand awareness and more, just by answering some questions.

Using Quora for Business Purposes

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In this article, we will explore 1) the purpose of Quora , 2) the history of Quora , 3) the benefits of Quora , 4) setting up a Quora account , 5) best practices for using Quora , and 6) a case study .

PURPOSE OF QUORA

Quora is designed to provide users with quality answers to questions asked by other users. Adam D’Angelo, co-founder of Quora, describes itself , “as a general place for people to share knowledge of all kinds” with a focus on “high-quality content.” Many of those who answer questions are titans of the tech industry, such as Facebook’s founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg. D’Angelo started off by inviting his friends to the site, many of whom happened to be in the tech industry.

In general, answers are voted on by users, with preference given to those that are comprehensive and personal from credible sources. Unlike many other social networks, to bolster the credibility of the answers, users must register on the site using their real names, rather than an alias. As with most social networking services, users can create profiles and connect with other users, as well as search the site for topics of interest. D’Angelo describes the motivation for users as:

“On Quora, you’re not answering questions because you want to get points or because you have nothing else to do. You’re answering questions because you want to build your reputation or you genuinely, intrinsically enjoy helping people. It’s the same reason someone might want to make a website with information. We just made that a lot easier.”

What makes Quora different from the dozens of similar web applications, like Yahoo Answers and WikiAnswers, is the quality of the answers. Quora users regularly receive emails containing some of the most popular Answers – those that have been upvoted the most. These are usually Answers that are very credible – written by subject matter experts and/or insiders, humorous, insightful or emotionally compelling. Those who ask or answer questions on the site can see viewership statistics – views, shares, and upvotes, on their content on the dashboard called Stats . This can help writer refine their questions and/or answers in hopes of providing more complete – and popular, information.

HISTORY OF QUORA

Quora was founded in 2009 and launched in June of 2010. Its founders, D’Angelo and Charlie Cheever, formerly worked for Facebook, with the former resigning his position there to create the site. Their goal was to create a question and answer site that was better than those online at the time. An iPhone app was launched in 2011 and an Android app in 2012 . Shortly after the latter launch, Cheever stepped away from daily management of the firm .

By March of 2014 , Quora had 1.15 million unique users on the site. By April of 2014 , Quora had become the second largest online warehouse of information behind Wikipedia, with over 500,000 topics . At this time, they received $80 million dollars in VC , which accompanied a then-mostly unspent early round of $40 million. D’Angelo indicated that he intended to scale up the product in other countries and languages, using the VC to grow infrastructure, and to remain independent to ensure the quality of Quora. Quora’s head of business and community Marc Bodnick has publicly stated that they intend to monetize the site beginning in 2015 at the earliest.

The Co-Founders of Quora have a conversation with John Battelle

BENEFITS OF QUORA

Users can benefit from Quora in a number of ways. First, they can use the site to gather information by searching for answers to their questions or writing questions themselves. They can also follow topics and/or people of interest by creating topic specific alerts to deepen their knowledge of the subject.

Second, they can establish themselves as an expert by providing thoughtful, comprehensive answers to user’s questions. Quora already benefits from a number of industry leaders, such as Mark Cuban (Dallas Mavericks owner and billionaire tech entrepreneur) and Tristan Walker (Director of Business Development at Foursquare), using the site. You can take advantage of that, by adding your carefully composed thoughts on a subject to Quora, by editing Quora questions and adding topics to them.

Quora users can get product and/or brand insights by researching answers, monitoring brand mentions (theirs and/or others) and asking relevant questions of Quora users, either directly or anonymously. Quora also launched a blogging platform in 2011, which you can use to extend your Quora and another content.

Using Quora to extend your reach and visibility

By providing consistent, insightful answers that are routinely upvoted, you can not only establish yourself as an expert in your field, but you can humanize your brand through the personal answers you and your staff provide. Further, by taking advantage of opportunities to help honestly answer people’s questions by discussing your brand and its services, you can drive traffic to your site. For example, a question about places to take a holiday on a limited budget might be answered by a social media savvy travel agent, who might be able to convert that user, as well as those that read the answer and visit his/her travel agency website.

You can use Quora to extend your reach and visibility through inbound marketing – by adding a backlink to your website when answering a question. You can also do so through trend research – by following competitors and their content on Quora, as well as popular content in your industry. By searching for popular topics in your industry you can develop content for your website or social networks. You can also network by answering, editing, and collaborating on questions from professionals in your industry, or by sending your contacts Quora content of interest to them.

Enhancing your search results

Quora can also be used for SEO as Quora’s answers are indexed by Google and Bing search engines. While backlinks are “nofollow” links, and therefore do not contribute to SEO, but popular content will have your byline and backlink, which can increase your overall traffic. Avoid creating low-quality content just to post a link.

Enhancing your public relations plan

Part of any public relations program is a PR agency or in-house PR department obtaining third-party validation for your brand, product, or initiative. Traditionally, this validation has come from journalists in newspapers; however, increasingly recognition on social networks can help increase the credibility of individuals and firms. Multiple, popular answers on a topic on Quora can do just that. Multiple, popular answers from multiple users from the same company can do it even more effectively.

Further, Quora can be used to correct public misinformation as a part of a crisis communications strategy. Or it can be used to respond to basic customer service complaints.

Quora has been used by journalists doing background research and may soon be used by reporters for sourcing material. Currently, Quora includes information for PR departments on how to get coverage in certain media outlets.

Integrating Quora into your social media strategy

Integrating Quora into your social media strategy is currently a matter of time rather than money, as it does not cost anything to set up an account, post questions or answers, or blog. While Quora can be used to achieve a number of different marketing objectives – such as increasing brand awareness and generating sales leads, it is perhaps best used for building credibility and obtaining business intelligence. Use Facebook for engagement and conversions, Twitter for news, LinkedIn for sourcing – but keep your Quora strategy focused on obtaining actionable insights and developing authority in your market.

Social Media Speaker Crystal Washington discusses Quora for Business

SETTING UP A QUORA ACCOUNT

Setting up a Quora account and profile is easy. You can use your email address or your account with one of the two social networking sites: Facebook or Twitter. With the former process, you will have to fill out the required form fields; with the latter, you will have to allow Quora to access your accounts, which will allow it to add your friends from these networks to your Quora profile. Once you set up your profile, be sure to connect your other social media accounts to it by visiting Settings , from where you can link email addresses, Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Tumblr , and WordPress accounts.

When you have set up your Quora account, browse the site for topics of interest and create alerts to follow them. Type a topic in the bar at the top, and hit Enter. You’ll see displayed your topic and related ones. Click the green Follow topic link underneath the exact topic you want to follow to add it to your feed. Next, you can do this by going to Settings and then Email and notifications and adjusting the notifications you will receive by email.

Now you are ready to go. Ask questions. Make sure they are well-thought out, grammatically correct, and original – check the site for similar questions before posting yours. To ask a question, once you re logged in, type a question in the field at the top and click Ask question.

Also, make sure to use the topic biography feature by filling out the Biography fields. When you sign up with a social media account, Quora imports your personal profile information, including education and work history. You will see prompts asking if you want to answers questions about the educational institutions you’ve attended and the employers you’ve worked for. By providing a few contextual details in the biography, which will be displayed when you answer a question concerning them, you can add credibility to your answer. For example, if you answer a question about an event at a high school that occurred ten years, and you’ve already entered into the biography field that you were a student there at the time, Quora users will be inclined to believe you before they even read the first word of your answer.

BEST PRACTICES FOR USING QUORA

  • Fill out your profile completely, and avoid self-promotion or fluffing. Candor and straightforwardness are valued on Quora.
  • Ensure first that you have a social media policy that is flexible enough to allow employees to participate and encourage them to use Quora on topics of interest to them whether or not they are directly relevant to your core business.
  • Provide and/or have key staff answer questions for which they can naturally provide credible and comprehensive answers. Add (or have them add) a bit of humor or a personal anecdote to the answer to increasing its chances of being upvoted.
  • Add sources to your answer, which can increase its (and your) credibility.
  • Ask open-ended questions. In general, the most popular content is long-form and insightful. Yes or no questions are not what the site was designed for. Also, ask intriguing or unique questions.
  • Use your Quora Inbox to network with other users. Given the number of influencers on the site, this can be an extremely valuable resource.
  • Help filter content by upvoting and downvoting it and by editing questions.
  • Avoid self-promotion, as the format of the site, makes this readily apparent. Referencing your firm’s products and services is a solution is one thing, but a surfeit of jargon, direct appeals, and boasting will quickly lead to downvotes.
  • Monitor your mentions on the site using Google Alerts and the query “Quora your company” to get real-time tracking of what people are saying about your brand. Respond appropriately when necessary, but keep in mind that your answers, if public, should add value to other readers of the content.
  • Monitor the mentions of your competitor’s brands, products and services on Quora by running a simple Google query. You can get long-form, ongoing, and unique business intelligence from users, industry experts, and influencers, with a few keystrokes. Don’t forget to follow key topics in your industry as well.
  • Create Boards, which allow you to aggregate questions, answers and even content from other sites on Quora. Aggregating content on a specific topic can be another way to showcase your interest/expertise in it.
  • Add a Quora Follow Button to your website to encourage people to follow you on Quora.
  • If you are a brand, obtain a Verified Profile, so that users have confidence that your brand is in fact you. Verified Profiles are denoted by a blue checkmark and can usually be obtained simply by linking a relevant social media account to Quora.
  • Track and measure your viewership data on But first determine what metrics should be used to meet your objective. Is it visibility – measured by followers and upvotes? Is it engagement – measured by content and up/downvotes? Is it increased credibility – measured by the type of feedback and the type of engagement you receive? Whatever it is, make sure you know what your goals are and how best to measure them before investing time and effort composing quality questions and answers.

One prominent “brand” using Quora is the owner of the first Verified Profile , U.S. President Barack Obama . The 2010 Affordable Care Act (ACA), a landmark piece of healthcare legislation, which he championed, was met with considerable resistance by a number of prominent conservative politicians, and skepticism by much of the public. Some media outlets pointed to a deliberate and systemic misinformation campaign created by the Republican Party as the cause. To clear up concerns concerning the open enrollment period which took place between October 2013 and March 2014, and to help spur sign-ups, the President took to Quora to answer questions himself. The President obtained nearly 28,000 followers, answering questions about ACA, as well as some positive press. And while the most popular question he answered was a personal one, the use of Quora allowed the President to reach a valuable demographic. Some research points to Quora’s users being young and affluent , which make them a lucrative target for not only voter engagement and political donations, but also consumer products.

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Top 10 Unique Business Ideas Quora Users Are Talking About

By knbbs-sharer.

unique business ideas quora

Have you ever had a unique business idea but weren’t sure if it was worth pursuing? Well, Quora can be a great platform to get feedback and advice from people who may have already experienced similar situations. Here are the top 10 unique business ideas Quora users are talking about:

1. Virtual Event Planning

In the era of COVID-19, virtual events have become the norm. However, many people still struggle with organizing such events and creating engaging content. That’s where virtual event planning comes in. You can help individuals and businesses plan and execute successful virtual events, from online conferences to virtual weddings.

2. Language Translation Services

With the increase in globalization, the demand for language translation services has grown significantly. You can start a business that offers translation services for documents, websites, and even entire books.

3. Digital Marketing Agency

In today’s digital world, businesses need a strong online presence to succeed. You can start a digital marketing agency that offers services such as SEO, social media management, and content marketing.

4. Personal Styling and Shopping Services

Many people struggle with finding their personal style and shopping for clothes that flatter their body type. You can start a business that offers personal styling and shopping services, where you help clients curate a wardrobe that aligns with their personal style.

5. Home Cleaning Services

Cleaning is a chore that many people dread, and some just don’t have the time for. You can start a business that offers home cleaning services, from weekly cleanings to deep cleans.

6. Customized Gift Baskets

Everyone loves receiving a personalized gift. You can start a business that offers customized gift baskets for various occasions such as weddings, birthdays, and Valentine’s Day.

7. Fitness Classes and Personal Training

Fitness is a growing industry, and many people are looking for ways to stay active and healthy. You can start a business that offers fitness classes or personal training services, catering to different fitness levels and goals.

8. Pet Sitting and Dog Walking

With pet ownership on the rise, the demand for pet sitting and dog walking services has grown as well. You can start a business that offers these services, providing pet owners with peace of mind knowing their furry friends are in good hands.

9. Online Course Creation

Online courses have become increasingly popular, especially in light of COVID-19. You can start a business that creates online courses on topics that you are knowledgeable about, ranging from cooking to coding.

10. Social Media Influencer

While becoming a social media influencer is not necessarily a business idea, many individuals have been able to monetize their online presence through brand partnerships and sponsored content. If you have a niche or a sizable following, becoming an influencer could be a viable business idea.

In conclusion, there are endless unique business ideas out there, and by utilizing platforms such as Quora, you can gauge the feasibility of your idea and get valuable insights. The key is to find a business idea that aligns with your passions and skillset and to execute it with dedication and hard work.

(Note: Do you have knowledge or insights to share? Unlock new opportunities and expand your reach by joining our authors team. Click Registration to join us and share your expertise with our readers.)

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Hi, I'm Happy Sharer and I love sharing interesting and useful knowledge with others. I have a passion for learning and enjoy explaining complex concepts in a simple way.

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Business ventures and strategies across the globe have come a long way, especially since the advent of information technology. The internet has acted as a propellor towards success in different entrepreneurial ventures.

One of the most trending business methods is the e-commerce business. In India, especially since the pandemic, E-commerce has reached new heights to fulfil the necessities of the people. As a result, it has opened a gateway of opportunities and business for many budding entrepreneurs in the country.

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The best thing is, that e-commerce has paved the way for more innovative business ideas and plans, allowing more and more people to start business ventures with nominal investment. Let us find out about the various e-commerce business ideas that have gained popularity these days.

What is E-commerce Business?

What is E-commerce Business

Any business which is operated through a website specifically designed for buying and selling products is called an e-commerce business. Businesses operated through platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, Shopify, Fynd platform, and Myntra all are classified as e-commerce.

Anyone can start an e-commerce business by registering as a seller on a leading e-commerce platform or by starting their website from the scratch. You can also build your e-commerce website on Fynd platforms which will help you make the most of their available traffic.

Today, the buzz around e-commerce is growing exponentially as the need for social distancing is dire. Moreover, internet technology has advanced to a large extent and as a result, entrepreneurs are coming up with new ways to operate a business online.

Almost every commodity and service can be sold online which is the beauty of e-commerce. From luxurious imported perfumes to basic home necessities like a toothbrush- you can sell and buy everything online.

By 2030, the e-commerce market in India is expected to reach US$350 million. It is expanding at the rate of 19.5% CAGR. So, you can figure out how profitable it will be to become a part of the industry at the earliest.

Why is it advantageous in the present day to start an online business?

Why is it advantageous in the present day to start an online business

E-commerce has been around for decades in India. But the boom in this industry is witnessed particularly in the past 5-6 years. With the advent of the 3G internet that is accessible from any corner of the country, the scope to operate a business online had evolved too.

Today, almost every type of business has a basic website showcasing its products and services. They also get listed on leading e-commerce platforms to strengthen their foothold in the market. Here’s why it is particularly advantageous to start an e-commerce wing of your business these days:

Wider exposure

Make your small local store a global sensation with the help of e-commerce. With an e-commerce business model, you can reach out to more people all over the country and even abroad. As a result, your sales will also increase manifolds.

No need for a physical store

With the right business model, you need to own a physical store to showcase your products. Take quality images and upload them on the platform and you are set to start selling. Since you need not have a physical outlet for your store, a lot of costs can be reduced in maintenance and rental of a shop.

Versatility

E-commerce stores are versatile. Whether you stock branded clothes or local tailor-made boutiques you can sell here. From hardware items to puja ingredients- there is a growing demand for all types of items online. Hence, irrespective of the products you sell, an e-commerce segment is a profitable idea.

Cost-effective

Starting an e-commerce business requires significantly less investment compared to physical stores. Electricity bills, showroom rental, décor, man-power, etc. are slashed down easily from your business model when you go online.

How to start an e-commerce business?

How to start an e-commerce business

The steps to start an e-commerce business are straightforward. If you already have arrangements for the inventory, all you need is to register as a seller on any e-commerce platform.

If you wish to start an e-commerce website independently, there are options like Shopify or Fynd Platform where you can build the website easily. This is a more popular way to begin your business online. Here’s what you need to do:

  • Open the Fynd platform website and register as a user here.
  • Go to the Sales Channel Button and click on the “+” sign then click on the new application listed under the online store.
  • Fill out all the details regarding your website and then pick the items you wish to display. Then click on Next.
  • Choose an appropriate website domain name. You will get suggestions of the name from the rundown, but you can also choose your name.
  • Select “Digital” in the product section next and then select the relevant names and sections for the type of product your website features.
  • Add images on products and catchy descriptions which will make them more appealing.
  • Set up the payment gateway for your customers next.

There are many advantages of starting an e-commerce business on the FYnd Platform. There are no commissions involved. Your website gets verified easily and so does your bank account. The payments from the customers also get deposited directly to your bank.

Types of E-commerce Business

The Internet has reduced the world to the fingertips and opened the gateway to many opportunities. It broke the stereotype of traditional business methods and introduced the concept of e-commerce.

The pandemic is an example of the fact that technology can leverage businesses in a very efficient way. Ecommerce is a vast concept, and various types of models function under this huge umbrella.

There are different e-commerce models, each of which has its advantages and disadvantages. An ideal business expected to make a profit must have a fair understanding of these types of e-commerce existing today. This understanding will help one place their business in the right bucket and maximize the opportunities.

1. B2C- Business to consumer

B2C- Business to consumer

Business to Consumer is a direct pathway between a business to its end-user. This is the electronic mode of the traditional business model, and often this is the type which pops up in everybody’s mind when they hear of e-commerce.

It is the most prominent market type available and is available everywhere. There are numerous unique approaches to this concept. Most commodities, like household items, clothes, entertainment, etc., are channelled through a B2B business mode.

This usually applies to purchases with lower value, and the time consumed to decide on the purchases is comparatively less. The additional attraction is that it is not only restricted to products but also applicable to services as well. The use of technology to undertake various activities like marketing, tracking etc., is categorized under this novel concept.

2. B2B- Business to Business

B2B- Business to Business

As the name suggests, it is a mode of e-commerce between two businesses. In this mode, a business buys the products or services from another seller. There are two scenarios; sometimes, the business that purchased the product or service is the end-user, and sometimes they resell it to the end-user.

These have a longer sales cycle than the B2C type but more recurring purchases. Various software companies, office material supply companies, and office hosting stations fall under this category. This type of e-commerce generally requires a substantial initial investment.

Modern B2B innovators have replaced the traditional catalogues and order sheets, and the number of B2B buyers has drastically increased in the past few years.

3. C2B- Consumer to Business

C2B- Consumer to Business

The consumer-to-business model is the least thought of concept but a prevalent model in the current market. In this type, the Consumer sells their goods or services to the businesses and is equivalent to a sole proprietorship concept.

In this model, the customer can post their work on the site, which is available for bidding. Businesses or companies can bid for the opportunity and buy the product or the service. Models like UpWork, Blog writing etc., fall under this category.

These models help companies connect with social media influencers, freelancers, etc., to enhance their businesses. This model allows the consumers the power to quote their prices effectively.  

4. C2C- Consumer to Consumer

C2C- Consumer to Consumer

This is the medium that connects one Consumer to another with the help of an online medium. This online marketplace allows consumers to exchange goods and services by charging transactions.

One of the best examples of this model is eBay. This model is unsustainable due to quality control issues and higher fraud rates. This model requires a meticulous and calculated plan.

The C2C platforms make money by charging a small fee from the seller to list their item. It allows the sellers to earn a higher margin and makes the product available at a low cost to the buyer.  

5. D2C- Direct to Consumer

D2C- Direct to Consumer

This model removes the middle layer that connects the business to the customer. In this type, the seller sells the product or service directly to the buyer through their webstore.

The majority of the customers across the globe prefer this type of model. The major benefit of this model is that it makes the seller develop a better understanding of the customer's taste and preferences.

It also aids in building and maintaining the brand reputation as the buyer will have all the rights to all business activities. This model requires a skilled team and an excellent network to ensure they meet the consumers' demands.

6. White label and Private label

White label and Private label

A white label concept is putting your name and a brand on a generic product purchased from a distributor. White label products require massive advertising and application of marketing strategies appropriately since it competes with many competitors. Working with White label products is comparatively an easy process.

In the Private label, the retailer hires a manufacturer to create a unique product to be sold exclusively to the manufacturer. In this, the payment which will be made to the private entity will be huge, but the return on investment will also be high. These types allow the seller to start their business without investing much in the warehouses.

7. Wholesaling

Wholesaling

It is a type of Business-to-Business Model which involves exchanging goods between various businesses. This type of product is offered in bulk at a considerable discount by the retailer.

In a few cases, if the consumer is budget conscious, then this works as Business to consumer model also. The products are sold at a discounted price with the help of online e-commerce platforms. It improves customers' buying experience, thereby attracting a large number of customers.

8. Drop shipping

Drop shipping

It is one of the fastest-growing e-commerce methods in today’s time. It is a method in which the wholesaler transfers the customer orders and shipment details to the manufacturer. The manufacturer then ships the product to the end-user.

The advantages to this model are that wholesalers do not have to deal with a huge product inventory and keep the upfront costs low. The major disadvantages of this model are lack of quality control, high dependency on the manufacturer stock levels and long shipping time for the orders.

9. Subscription service

Subscription service

England, in the early 1600 used the concept of Subscription to deliver books to its loyal consumers. This model sells the product regularly to maintain customer loyalty and consistent cash flow.

The subscription model acquires money on a monthly or annual basis. It requires the right technology and proper systems so that the subscriptions are fulfilled and delivered on time. It works best with products that get replenished often. The idea behind this model is customer retention.

unique business ideas quora

Innovative e-commerce business ideas in 2024

To start an e-commerce business you should be innovative, Fynd platform will help you with Best innovative e-commerce ideas given below:

1. Fashion website

unique business ideas quora

The fashion industry is a sector where trends change by the time one breathes. This industry has paced up the e-commerce sector and almost replaced the traditional “Brick and mortar” model. When the pandemic hit the world, many retailers faced a backlash because of the new norms of social distancing.

However, during this time, many fashion e-commerce businesses flourished and established themselves in the market through their innovative utilization of the online platforms available. Myntra, Ajio etc., are a few names that have proved that an online platform is sufficient to climb the terrain of success if you have the right strategic plan.

The employment rate is 7% in this industry at present . It is growing rapidly as consumer demands increases. At present, the total importance of footwear, clothing and textile is US 5.9 billion dollars.

2. Fashion rental

unique business ideas quora

In this modern world where fashion is evolving every second, renting apparel appears to be a more feasible option than buying. This is a very beneficial platform for style-conscientious buyers who can rent designer dresses and accessories for various special occasions.

This business might appear a bit weird, but it’s a proven fact that it brings a huge profit and has the potential to emerge as a successful idea in the market. You can start such a business easily with the help of Fynd Platform. It requires a good network with various stakeholders, and the business will make money by collecting the rent for the item rented to the customer.

3. Online medical consultation

Online medical consultation

Health is a finite product whose demand will never cease as long as human civilization exists. Telemedicine is one of the novel attempts to deliver care to the needy where distance and inconvenience have a critical role to play. The timely access to appropriate interventions may lead to better management, thereby improving the person's health.

It is also a detrimental factor in reducing the patient's out-of-pocket expenditure by saving on the transportation cost. The inconvenience which may incur to the caretaker and the wage loss at the family end due to long-distance travel can be reduced through online consultation.

The role of virtual consultations has enhanced after the covid-19 attack and has opened the doors for many e-health platforms and applications. Investing in an eHealth platform can generate huge profits because of its recurring demand.

4. Online Pharmacy

Online Pharmacy

This is another e-commerce set-up in the field of health where medicines are exchanged between buyers and sellers through a vendor. These offer better pricing options than offline stores and are preferred since it’s delivered at the doorstep.

The best part is the ailing patient or the caretaker doesn’t have to go out searching for medications and can be brought at the fingertips. It allows the customer to select the drugs from many medicine stores.

The prescriptions generated are validated through licensed pharmacists. Certain applications like Pharmeasy have an option to get the prescription validated from a doctor as well.

The recent Covid pandemic has escalated the demand for this type of venture, and people are also accustomed to such services. The E-pharmacy business is estimated to reach INR458.18 billion by 2026 with a CAGR of 44.99% approximately during 2021-26.

5. Jewellery trading business

Jewellery trading business

India has a massive appetite for all types of jewellery. The demand for gold and other jewellery will never cease because of the traditions and customs. Because of the rising price of gold and other jewellery, the need for artificial jewellery has increased significantly.

It is a low investment venture for creative heads. This has been a popular option for starting a small business by women. The jewellery business can be categorized into two categories: fine and costume.

It is recommended to undergo basic training to create the jewellery as it is a specialized art form. The other requirements are protective equipment, especially glasses, and the essential tools required to convert the beads or threads into a wearable form. A good marketing strategy on top of it will yield good results.

6. Electronic gadget store

Electronic gadget store

The current market has a massive demand for electronic goods. The need for tech-driven machines is rising because people rely on these products. The basic morning chores like preparing breakfast to turn on the AC for a peaceful sleep, the world revolves around electronic gadgets. Undoubtedly, they have made life easier and instant.

This testifies that the demand for this industry will go up shortly. Investment in such a venture would be a wise decision.

7. Photography store

Photography store

Monthly beauty hamper

Photography has transformed itself from a hobby to a business. Today, we see hardly anybody without a camera, a GoPro, or a smartphone with a high-end camera. This is an area where not much training is required, and expertise can be developed with the help of basic understanding.

Capturing every moment of life has become one of the mandates among today’s generation. One can see numerous flashlights at a wedding, party, or tourist spot. This shows the demand for these cameras and their accessories.

Seeing the world through lenses has changed the whole business of photography. There are millions of pages on Instagram that buy and sell photographs. An online photography store is a thoughtful venture to attract the young generation, especially those who love to travel.

8. DIY crafts and accessories

DIY crafts and accessories

From early man to modern man, civilisation has travelled a lot. However, the one thing that has stayed in the art of handmade things. Crafting has always dominated human society and has created a central position for itself in everybody’s life.

It is a medium of expression and allows for refining and preserving the culture. DIY crafts and accessories are one of the must-try options if one is looking to develop e-commerce in the crafts.

This can be a revenue-generating option for those with a deep passion for crafting. One must identify the existing market gap and create a product for the target audience. It needs to be advertised using social media and supplied with the help of a supplier. A unique product has a high chance of sustaining itself in the market.

9. Global e-commerce store

Global e-commerce store

Amazon is a name known for its reach to almost every nook and corner of the world. The brand logo itself showcases its reach to every place. The concept involves selling and buying products across geographies.

In this business, the products are sold in another country through online sales and marketing. This strategy allows an easy expansion to foreign markets and makes it easy to find the right fit product. The major checkpoint before the start is to ensure that one has sufficiently skilled resources to undertake the operation.

10. Old and bulk bookstore

Old and bulk bookstore

The primary step towards building this empire is having a good inventory with a good website. Continuous scouting of books should be undertaken. A good marketing plan with rigorous advertising on social media handles must be conducted to attract the audience.

The niche area should be identified, and a website must be created to share regular updates with the customer. BookChor and UsedBooksFactory are a few leading names in this industry.

11. Thrift store

Thrift store

A concept raised by charitable organisations to generate funding for noble causes is a thrift store initiative where second-hand products are sold. Instagram is flooded with many thrift stores and is generating massive profits due to the huge inflow of customers. ThredUP and GoodTwice are a few names in this field.

These are the latest craze as they endorse sustainable shopping at a meagre price. This initiative can be undertaken with the least investment, and all one needs is good marketing skills. Instagram will be an effective tool to showcase the products and gradually develop a good network and a website that can follow.

12. Travel agency

Travel agency

Travelling has slowly transformed into a profession by itself. It is a common escape gateway for all from today’s stressful ambience. An online travel agency will be a wise thought to explore in today's world.

An online travel agency will help you avail services to a large number of travellers across the globe. It also allows you to assist the customer in the process, from initial research to planning and booking.

MakeMyTrip is one such initiative that is an abode to millions of travellers across the world. Rigorous marketing and strategic planning are two mandates to succeed in this business. It also should have access to rich tools and analytics to understand customer behaviour.

13. Furniture store

Change is the law of nature, and people love changes. Most of the time, when our surroundings get monotonous, we change the room's structure. Everybody loves to transform their personal space into something exciting and cosy.

A blank space can be defined only if it has the right furniture; an empty room can be designed into an office, a bedroom, or a kitchen, depending on what is kept within the four walls.

IKEA is a huge name in this industry that has revolutionized the whole concept of home décor shopping through technology. The online furniture concept dilutes the struggle of finding the vehicle to load the furniture to ensure it reaches the destination. The online store offers many options along with multiple offers and discounts, which attract customers to explore these platforms.

14. e-book store

e-book store

Internet surfing is one of the most commonly found activities of all people in today’s world. Most of us browse to shop or in search of entertainment. With the advent of digitalization, the myths and taboos around virtual platforms have diminished.

The education sector survived with the help of virtual platforms during the Covid pandemic. The major benefit of an e-book store is that it enhances the customer's satisfaction level and provides a vast selection.

An e-book store also guides the customer to look for the particular book they are searching for. It also provides feedback on that specific book by other readers. Physical stores have limited selection due to space congestion and loss exposure.

Amazon Kindle is a platform million across the globe use to read their favourite books. The revenue in this segment is expected to be the US $154.4 million in 2024.

15. Local handicrafts store

Local handicrafts store

Indian handicraft items are in high demand and can be the seed for building a start-up. This concept doesn't require much investment but can generate a lot of monetary benefits in return.

The "Gaatha" initiative from Ahmedabad is one such concept where they used materials like bamboo, wood, leather etc., which are recyclable to be created into beautiful handicrafts.

They also used urban waste like clothes and jewellery in their venture and created the best out of these wastes. The artisans from states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh etc., are involved in this process.

This is a novel way to reduce the gap between artisans and customers. The concept of strategically marketed and put on a website will fetch good results in a short period.

16. Online food ordering and catering

Online food ordering and catering

Zomato and Swiggy do not need an introduction in today’s world. Most hungry stomachs are satisfied with their craving diet by a Zomato or a Swiggy valet. Online food ordering and catering platforms are very famous in today’s era.

It is a process of ordering your desired food for delivery from the chosen restaurant with the help of an application or website. It can be restaurant controlled where the restaurant has its websites and delivery channels or can be through independent websites.

This way, it offers customers more options and is comparatively easier to place large orders. This venture is so popular that the Indian Railways have adopted this concept into their IRCTC platform.

17. Freelance content marketing and website designing

Freelance content marketing and website designing

Content marketing is trending because everybody loves visually appealing content. It is the process of creating content in various forms and sharing these with the target segment and building the brand. Website Designing is also an activity undertaken by a technical or trained person who can design websites for various companies or individuals.

There are a lot of sites like UpWork, and Fiver where freelancers can register and the businesses will bid for them and recruit them to get the work done. This is the ideal sector for those who love to write and know to present them creatively and appealingly.  

18. Freelance website designing

Freelance website designing

If your expertise is website designing, not only can you start your e-commerce website smoothly, but you can also make it your profession. Many small and medium businesses looking for freelance website designers to curtail their cost.

The key to successfully starting your website designing business is having a flawless website representing your business. Market your services through the different digital platforms and showcase some of the works on your website. All these together will help you gain more clients.

Freelance website designing is a growing freelance mode of business and hence the competition is fierce. The key to making your business a success is offering quality at standardized rates.

19. Online Grocery

Online Grocery

Online shopping has now upgraded to another level, and grocery has been added to this list. There are exclusive online grocery ventures like BigBasket, and there are others where online grocery is an additional feature, like Swiggy. Groceries are a daily necessity, and when you get fresh products at home hassle-free, it makes a perfect choice.

The unique part of this concept is that, unlike other sectors, groceries need not be tried or felt to decide whether to be purchased or not. In today’s world, people are getting oriented to technology, and e-commerce is taking off the way.

Including one of the necessities like groceries into the list will never be a failed attempt. Preserving quality and freshness is one major challenge in this venture. Another challenge is the huge distribution cost encountered as consumers purchase products in low quantities.

20. Online pet grooming

Online pet grooming

Grooming is a service that pet owners search for their pets. In most cases, the pet owners do not have the time, patience and skill to groom their pets as desired, so they hunt for professionals who excel in this field to undertake this job. This is a golden opportunity for experienced people and will be like a feather in the hat for animal lovers.

The earnings for such businesses are usually dependent on location and are generally seen in big metropolitan cities of India at present. A website can be created that enlists the details of the services the business provides and should be marketed strategically.

21. Online baby products

Online baby products

Business on baby products is a completely separate category if we compare it to the requirement of an adult. A newborn to a toddler needs several products while growing up which includes a toy, baby clothing and other supporting artifacts important for their growth.

A parent never compromises with the growth of their baby and a growing baby requires a lot of love and care. An online baby product business can be a big hit because the requirement for baby toys, clothes, diapers or food is never-ending and there is always a demand for doorstep delivery for these goods.

22. Online plants and gardening

 Online plants and gardening

Plant and gardening are profitable e-commerce businesses in the market. Long those days are gone when people with big lawns and personal housing would only think of gardening.

With the evolution of time and modern architecture, everyone can think of growing a small rooftop or balcony garden. Also, potted indoor plants are the major attraction of many customers this day.

A potted indoor plant adds an aesthetic touch and can brighten up a small room. This plant can survive in any climate and requires very little care. An online plant store makes a good profit primarily from their indoor plants.

23. Sports equipment

Sports equipment

When it comes to the sports equipment business there is always a demand for buying sports items in India. A useful sports equipment busies depends on its quality, variety and goodwill. According to the world sports encyclopedia, there are around 8,000 indigenous sports in the world.

But the most popular names of sports from this list are Football, cricket, basketball, hockey, baseball, volleyball, Badminton, Table tennis, Golf, Tennis etc. If you want to run a profitable business it is mandatory to maintain a quality stock of equipment for all this popular sport.

24. Online boutique

Online boutique

Online boutiques are never out of trend, ladies are all about buying unique designer cloth with the convenience of home delivery. The business of boutiques is quite profitable and there is some targeted customers for this business. Online boutique designer clothes are always in demand because there is no bulk production of one item.

Every piece is unique from the other and this is the reason why customers are inclining more toward online boutiques. Moreover, an online boutique can offer a more economical rate than an actual boutique store, and customers can buy new designer pieces without taking the trouble of visiting a store.

25. Online fabric and tailoring store

Online fabric and tailoring store

Fabric and tailoring shops are quite profitable businesses. Tailoring is always in demand and never out of the trade. As there are thousands of designs available for readymade cloth but still the requirement for customized cloth is always there.

If you want to run this business successfully you will need some good tailors who are professional and variations of fabric to offer to your customer. Also, the convenience of online shopping makes it easier for buyers to make an order.

26. Online spectacles, lenses and eyecare

Online spectacles, lenses and eyecare

At least one to two people in a family will have eye issues nowadays. The demand for spectacle and eye care is unending for normal people but it becomes more convenient to avail if the service is in online mode.

To run a successful eye care and spectacle business online it is important to be authentic with the product you sell. It becomes easier to attract more customers if you could offer more variation in both design and price of the spectacles.

On top of that, if there is an option to avail of any eye care service that is reliable, you are bound to get more customers. Last but not least is the Goodwill of a business and to achieve that the only way out is to provide quality products and services to the customer.

27. Art and sculpture products and accessories

Art and sculpture products and accessories

Indian customer has become more aware of art and sculpture. If you want to start a business on different art sculptures and accessories there is a good market for this product. This business would not only benefit you as an owner but also give a chance to those budding talented artists who want to earn a living from this skill.

Art and sculpture have always been a reason behind the aesthetic beauty of a household. If you put up a painting or a sculpture in your drawing room it would not only beautify your place and would be a reflection of your culture, taste and heritage.  

28. Imported luxury brand store

Imported luxury brand store

Imported luxury brand items are of the major attraction for Indian customers. If an item is exclusive and is imported to you from a faraway country naturally the craze for that product increases. There are many exotic items that we can get in abroad that the customer craves and an imported Luxury brand store provides this item within your reach.

To run this business profitably you need to do a market survey and understand what are the items that are not available in your country and that only imported brands can offer.

29. Online customized perfume store

Online customized perfume store

Now who is not crazy for perfumes and if it is customized then nothing is better than that. Everyone has their unique scent it can be a combination of different aromas and only a customized perfume store can deliver your very own scent. This online business idea of customized perfume is making some good sales in the market.

If you want to run a successful online customized perfume store it is important to be original, creative and more artistic with your presentation. As perfume is a luxury product the packaging and the presentation should match the content.

30. Monthly beauty hamper

unique business ideas quora

Who doesn’t like the feeling of being surprised, the concept of monthly beauty hampers is based on this feeling of the receiver? This business idea is earning a good profit in the market.

Based on the requirement of the customer a beauty hamper is designed with various beauty products. Without buying several products individually the customer can buy one beauty hamper which will contain all the necessary items they require for a month.

To earn a good profit, you just need to be up to date on the requirement of the customer, new products that are being launched recently and of course goodwill. Without the goodwill and trust of a customer, a business can never be successful so you need to make sure to give extra attention to customer service.

31. Online betting and casino

Online betting and casino

The online gambling business has boomed since the pandemic. The online platform is the perfect place to gamble with multiple players and it ensures a safe transaction. With the integration of technology in betting casino gambling has become more of a conventional game.

More players are joining this game during the pandemic because it is easy money and within your reach. This industry is flourishing since the pandemic and there is no sign of slowing down ever since. So, if you want to kick start your dream of opening your online casino there is no better time than now.

32. Online vehicle rental and booking

Online vehicle rental and booking

Online car rentals are a business that is always in demand. With the grace of modern technology, you can now book your car online without any hassle. Just put your destination select your car type and book yourself a cab.

This business is quite profitable and requires a one-time investment.  Due to the convenience and demand, many have pursued this business plan and run it successfully. You just need to give some extra attention to customer and service and satisfaction, only if you serve your customer right then only can you get good feedback and more bookings.

33. Private label natural skincare

Private label natural skincare

There is a huge market for organic products. Skincare products which contain natural ingredients are preferable to customers. Running a private label natural skincare business makes a good amount of profit.

Private labelling means buying the raw material from a separate manufacturer and you can make any changes to the resource during its production. Private labelling will give you the authority to decide everything related to the supply chain.

You can control the production cost and earn a maximum profit. Also, you can control the quality of your product and get it done most healthily and hygienically. All these factors will lead to a profitable business.

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34. Handmade treats for pets

Handmade treats for pets

Our pets are like our family members. Everyone wants the best for their furry babies and pet products have a big market in our country. Handmade treat business is always in demand as these are made with organic ingredients and made in the healthiest setup.

Even if you are new and have beginner's skills in baking you can still earn a good profit from this business. The key to success for this business is using good quality raw ingredients. Every dog owner treats their pet as their kids and never wants to compromise in providing healthy snacks to their furry babies.

35. Eco-friendly toiletries

Toilet items are placed on the table.

Let’s face it, although you can replace a lot of your regular products with eco-friendly options but not toiletries. But if you think that you can deliver durable Organic toiletries which are also travel-friendly then you can start a business of eco-friendly toiletries.

In the organic industry, the authenticity of your product plays a vital role. Your thought for greener earth goes a long way and also helps in creating your brand's goodwill. Also, the creativity and presentation of your product create a good first impression in the eyes of the buyers.

36. Customized printed apparels

 Customized printed apparels

The customized printed products are a great gifting option. This business has a steady market and is never out of demand. Customized apparel has been growing steadily in the market.

Your main target as a customized printed apparel seller should be identifying the preference of your customer. Like the majority of the customers prefer printed T-shirts and you can start your business online business with this one product.

Once you make a good profit and earn the trust of your customer you can further introduce other customized products. Also, the quality of your print, price and also time of delivery plays an important role in this business.

37. Online fitness equipment and consultancy

Online fitness equipment and consultancy

Fitness is not a goal but a journey and you learn something new every day in your fitness journey. Now get your fitness knowledge by sitting in the comfort of your home. The online Fitness apparel and consultancy is an effective idea for a rewarding business.

An online fitness consultancy business requires to creation of an online workout video that is not customized and is only made for the targeted audience. Also, the collection of fitness apparel should contain all the trendy workout equipment and clothes. If you wanted to be more creative with your work you can post regular videos of your lifestream work out to increase more audience.

38. Men's beauty subscription box

A man removing items from paper bag.

A men's beauty Subscription box is a unique and profitable business idea. There are many options when it comes to female beauty subscription boxes but it is buying personalized beauty products for men is rarer. It is a known fact that men have thicker skin and a harder texture than women and they need their range of beauty products.

As there are not as many customized beauty subscription boxes for men as there are for women the demand will be automatically higher. Also, eco-friendly packaging, social media marketing, and Goodwill play important role in the success of this business plan.

39. Organic and Vegan food delivery

Organic and Vegan food delivery

The number of Vegans is multiplying in number as society is getting more aware of their health. Doing Organic and Vegan Food Delivery has a profitable market in Indian and it is still growing. Everyone wants their food fresh and if you want to succeed in this business quality and freshness of the product is the most vital part.

There is a targeted group of customers who prefer organic over regular food. To make sure that this customer stays loyal to your business you need to deliver fresh hand-picked ingredients within time without failing.

40. Online education portal

Online education portal

The importance of the online education portal has increased more since the outbreak of the pandemic. In an online education portal, you get various information related to e-learning.

The profitability of this business has grown since the outbreak as more and more children are getting easier access to education by seating at home this industry has been growing. Also, to succeed in this business the key is to create quality e-learning material, courses presentation, tests, and of course certificates as a reward.

Business models and strategies have come a long way with the help of technology. You can make your business stand out in the crowd when you are tech-savvy enough. Offering your clients more ways to reach you other than visiting your store, can help any business grow these days.

From better exposure to minimal investment and maximized profit- e-commerce business ideas can prove very profitable when executed well. You can do all these easily with a basic understanding of e-commerce when you start your business on the Fynd Platform . It is easy to accelerate any online business here. Simply design the website, select your business goals and set up the subscription plan accordingly.

What is the No 1 Ecommerce Company in India?

Presently, Amazon is considered the number one e-commerce company in India. It is the largest e-commerce website that lists almost everything from daily homewares to exclusive furniture. Thousands of sellers are part of the Amazon e-commerce website and making their business grow with the help of this platform.

Which eCommerce business is profitable in India?

Many products are particularly in high demand in India as a result, starting an e-commerce website for them is very profitable. Some of these businesses are saree, clothing, electronic gadgets, cosmetics, skincare, etc.

What is the best E-commerce Business to start?

This largely depends on your skill and aptitude. Any business or product that you understand well and have in-depth knowledge about is the best business to start online. Some businesses which have a sure-fire success rates are clothing, beauty, home improvement products etc.

What is the fastest E-commerce platform?

The Fynd Platform is one of the fastest e-commerce platforms. It is growing by the day and registering a website here ensures your customers have a hassle-free experience. The faster and smoother their checkout experience is, the more likely they are to come back.

Which e-commerce platform has the best SEO?

Fynd Platform, and Shopify are some of the top e-commerce platforms which have well-established SEO. As a result, by starting any business venture in collaboration with such platforms, you can quickly get better exposure from the right people.

Is SEO good for Ecommerce?

SEO is essential for all types of websites including e-commerce. It helps your business rank higher on google and as a result, it gets better exposure. Make your business stand out when your website ranks above all.

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  1. What are some unique business ideas?

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  2. What's a clever/profitable business idea you had, but let it ...

    What's a clever/profitable business idea you had, but let it go to try something else? I'll start: I had a bicycle flipping business for a couple years. I would buy $50-300 used steel and aluminum road bikes on Craigslist from suburbs outside of my city, then tune them up and sell for 2-10x what I paid for them.

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