If you’re looking to run a side hustle or build a business to be your own boss, here is the list of 20 small business ideas to get inspiration. With the help of the internet, there are thousands of opportunities to generate earning in 2024.

We tried to list a few business ideas, with their starting budget and earnings estimations for each one to help you get started. Some of them are so easy that could set it up at your house. But some others need some equipment but may return more benefit.

Anyway, the list offers a good starting point if you haven’t decided about your plan. We know that launching a new business isn’t easy, but if you focus on a niche market and be consistent, your efforts will pay off.

T-shirt Printing

Selling t-shirts online is a popular home-based business that allows you to show your creativity to the world. But if you’re not a designer, don’t worry; you can purchase artwork from other creators or collaborate with an artist.

To sell your shirts, consider using e-commerce platforms like Gelato or Printify, or create your own website using a website builder. For more control over your data and branding, hiring a web designer to develop a professional site will be beneficial.

Earnings can vary between $1,000 to $5,000 per month, depending on pricing and sales volume. Profit margins typically range from 20% to 50%, so selling a t-shirt for $25 with a production cost of $10 makes over $15 profit.

To succeed in this idea, prioritize quality, leverage social media for marketing, offer customisation, and stay updated on trends. By following these strategies, you can build a profitable t-shirt business.

Online Teaching

Online Teaching​ is a small business idea

Online teaching is a flourishing business opportunity that allows educators to share their knowledge and skills from the comfort of their homes.

With the rise of e-learning (especially after the pandemic), you can sell your expertise in various subjects, whether it’s language instruction, or specialised skills like music or art.

To get started, choose a subject you are passionate about and ensure you have the necessary qualifications. You can teach through live classes on platforms like Zoom or Google Meet or create pre-recorded courses to sell on your own website or through e-learning platforms.

Earnings in online teaching can vary significantly, with successful educators making anywhere from $50,000 to $500,000 annually, depending on their niche and marketing strategies.

The startup costs are relatively low, primarily requiring a computer, internet connection, and any necessary teaching materials.

To succeed, focus on creating high-quality content, engage with your students, and utilise social media for marketing. By building a strong online presence and continuously improving your offerings, you can establish a rewarding and profitable online teaching business.

Coaching Business

Coaching Business ​ is a small business idea

Coaching, whether as a business coach or a life coach, is a fulfilling and flexible business opportunity that enables you to help individuals or organisations achieve their goals.

To get started, identify your niche—such as career development or personal growth—and consider obtaining relevant certifications to enhance your credibility.

Establishing a strong personal brand and an online presence through social media and a professional website can help attract clients.

Pro tip: If you want to help people grow their professional life, don’t forget about LinkedIn. Because there are around 50 million users seeking a new opportunity weekly and you can help them land their dream job.

Earnings in coaching can vary significantly, with successful coaches charging between $50 to $300 per hour, depending on their expertise and niche. Many also offer packages or group sessions to boost income.

The initial investment is low, typically involving marketing materials and video conferencing tools for sessions. To succeed, focus on building strong client relationships, continually improving your skills, and effectively marketing your services, allowing you to create a beneficial coaching business.

Freelance Content Writing or Copywriting

Freelance Content Writing or Copywriting​

Freelance content writing or copywriting is a versatile and in-demand business opportunity that allows you to work from anywhere while leveraging your writing skills.

As a freelance writer, you can create blog posts, articles, website content and marketing materials for various clients across different industries.

To get started, build a portfolio showcasing your writing samples and consider joining freelance platforms like Upwork or Fiverr to find clients.

Earnings in freelance writing can vary widely. Many freelance writers earn between $30,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on their workload and niche.

The startup costs are minimal, primarily requiring a computer and internet connection. To succeed, focus on delivering high-quality content, meeting deadlines, and networking with potential clients.

By refining your skills and establishing a strong reputation, you can build a successful freelance profile and turn it into an entire business.

Translation Service

Translation Service​ as a small business idea

Starting a translation service is a valuable business opportunity, especially in our increasingly globalised world. If you are fluent in multiple languages, you can offer translation services for documents, websites, or marketing materials. It helps businesses and individuals communicate effectively across language barriers.

To get started, identify your language pairs and areas of expertise, such as legal, medical, or technical translation, and create a professional website to showcase your services. You can also start with translation platforms and land your first project.

Earnings in the translation industry can vary based on language demand and complexity. Experienced translators can earn between $40,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on their workload and specialisation.

The initial investment is low, primarily requiring a computer and translation software. To succeed, focus on delivering high-quality, accurate translations, building a strong client base, and networking within relevant industries.

By providing exceptional service and maintaining professionalism, you can establish a thriving translation business.

Digital Marketing

Digital Marketing​ is a small business idea

Digital marketing is a highly in-demand service that offers numerous business opportunities. If you have expertise in areas like search engine optimization (SEO), pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, social media marketing, etc., you can start your own digital marketing agency.

Work with clients across industries to enhance their online presence and achieve marketing goals. The startup costs are relatively low, primarily requiring a computer and digital marketing tools.

Earnings can be substantial, with successful digital marketing agencies generating between $50,000 to $500,000 annually, depending on their client base and service offerings.

To get the best of your digital marketing agency, focus on delivering measurable results, building a strong portfolio, and continuously expanding your skills to stay ahead of industry trends.

Home Care Service

Home Care Service​ is a small business idea

Starting a home care service business allows you to provide essential assistance to individuals, particularly seniors who prefer to age in their own homes.

To begin, identify the specific services you will offer, such as help with daily tasks, personal care, or specialised medical assistance, and obtain relevant certifications to show your credibility.

Ensure compliance with state licensing requirements and healthcare regulations. Develop a business plan outlining your target market, services, and financial projections.

The startup costs can vary from $35,000 to $60,000 (Medicare Certified agency is more expensive) and you can expect to earn around $300,00 dollar a year.

Market your services through online platforms, local advertising, and networking with referral sources like hospitals. Deliver high-quality, compassionate care by hiring qualified caregivers and maintaining open communication with clients and their families.

By following these steps, you can build a lucrative home care service business that positively impacts your clients’ lives.

Lawn Care Service

Lawn Care Service as a small business idea​

Starting a lawn care service business is a great way to provide essential outdoor maintenance for homeowners and businesses. You can offer services like mowing, trimming, fertilization, and seasonal clean-up.

To begin, you’ll need basic equipment such as a lawnmower and trimmer, and ensure compliance with any local business licenses or permits.

Earnings can vary widely, with some lawn care business owners making between $10,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on their client base and services offered.

Startup costs are relatively low, often starting around $15,000. To succeed, focus on building a solid customer base through effective marketing strategies like flyers, social media, and referrals.

You can establish a profitable lawn care service business by delivering quality service and maintaining strong client relationships.

Uber or Lyft Driver

Uber or Lyft Driver​ as a small business idea

Becoming an Uber or Lyft driver is a flexible way to earn money on your own schedule. To get started, you need a reliable vehicle that meets the companies’ requirements, a valid driver’s license, and to pass background checks.

Earnings can vary widely, typically ranging from $15 to $25 per hour after expenses, with additional income from tips and bonuses during peak times. The initial investment is low, mainly covering vehicle maintenance and fuel costs.

To succeed, focus on providing excellent customer service and driving during high-demand times. With dedication, you can build a profitable driving business with Uber or Lyft and then invest the money in another venture.

Real Estate

Real Estate​ as a small business idea​

Starting a real estate business can be a lucrative business, allowing you to help clients buy, sell, or rent properties. To get started, conduct thorough market research to understand trends and identify opportunities in your target area.

You’ll need to obtain the necessary licenses and comply with local regulations, which may include completing training and registering your business.

Successful agents can earn anywhere from $30,000 to over $100,000 annually, depending on their market and sales volume. The initial investment can include licensing fees, marketing costs, and technology tools.

To succeed, focus on building a strong network, developing a solid marketing strategy, and providing excellent customer service. By doing so, you can establish a win-win business that is profitable for you and your clients.

Graphic Design Service

Graphic Design Service​ as a small business idea

Starting a graphic design service lets you use your creativity to help businesses enhance their visual identity. Services can include logo design, website design, print materials, and packaging.

Professional graphic design improves brand recognition and user experience. Earnings vary, with freelance designers charging $25 to $150 per hour. Successful designers can earn $40,000 to over $80,000 annually.

The initial investment includes equipment and marketing to attract clients. By delivering quality work and building strong relationships, you can expect a successful graphic design business.

Dropshipping

Dropshipping​ as a small business idea​

Dropshipping is an eCommerce model where you sell products through an online store, but the supplier ships directly to customers. This allows you to start with low investment, often just a laptop and website.

Earnings can range from $30,000 to over $100,000 annually, with profit margins of 15% to 45%, depending on products and suppliers.

To succeed, choose reliable suppliers, effectively market your offerings, and deliver excellent customer service. By managing your online presence well, dropshipping can contribute to your financial independence.

Resume Writing

Resume Writing​ as a small business idea​

Starting a resume writing service allows you to help job seekers create effective resumes that stand out to employers. You can offer services such as resume writing, cover letter creation, and LinkedIn profile optimization.

Earnings can vary, with resume writers charging between $50 to $300 per resume, depending on experience and the complexity of the job market. Successful writers can earn $30,000 to $100,000 annually, especially during peak hiring seasons.

The initial investment is low, primarily involving marketing and possibly professional development to enhance your writing skills.

To succeed, focus on understanding industry trends, tailoring resumes to specific job descriptions, and providing excellent customer service. By building a strong reputation and network, you can establish a thriving resume writing business.

Event Catering

Event Catering​ as a small business idea​

Starting an event catering business allows you to provide food and service for various occasions, such as weddings, corporate events, and private parties. You can offer a range of services, including menu planning, food preparation, setup, and cleanup.

Earnings in event catering can vary widely, with caterers typically charging between $15 to $100 per person, depending on the menu and service level. Successful caterers can earn from $30,000 to over $100,000 annually, especially during peak event seasons.

The initial investment can be moderate, involving costs for equipment, ingredients, and marketing. To succeed, focus on building a strong reputation, creating diverse and appealing menus, and providing excellent customer service.

By effectively managing events and ensuring client satisfaction, you can establish an event catering business that attract many clients.

Accounting and Tax Services

Accounting and Tax Services​ as a small business idea​

Starting an accounting and tax services business allows you to provide essential financial support to individuals and businesses. Services can include bookkeeping, tax preparation, payroll processing, and financial consulting.

Earnings can vary widely, with accountants typically charging between $50 to $300 per hour, depending on their expertise and the complexity of the services offered. Successful accountants can earn from $40,000 to over $100,000 annually.

The initial investment is moderate, often requiring accounting software, marketing, and possibly professional certifications. To succeed, focus on building a strong client base, staying updated on tax laws, and providing excellent customer service.

You can create a profitable accounting and tax services business by establishing a reputation for reliability and accuracy.

Final words

Starting a small business can be an exciting and rewarding, allowing you to turn your passions into a viable career. Whether you’re drawn to pet grooming, hairstyling, or creating beautiful gift baskets, this small business ideas list offers the chance to make a meaningful impact on your clients’ lives.

Success in any venture depends on your commitment to quality, exceptional customer service, and effective marketing strategies. By cultivating strong relationships with your clients and continuously sharpening your skills, you’ll not only attract new customers but also encourage repeat business.

Embrace the challenges and celebrate your achievements along the way. With determination and creativity, you can build a thriving business that reflects your unique vision and passion.

And don’t forget that if you want to go online, we’re here to help you selling your services. Send us a message and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.