All it takes to launch a small business is a small idea – a little thought with the ability and the potential to grow into something bigger. For all practical purposes, a small business is defined as an independently owned and operated company with less than 500 employees. When starting a small business, one must consider important factors such as demand, target audience, competition, scale, and one’s experience in the subject.
Small business ideas with high demand
1. Freelance writer
Those with a penchant for words can start their venture by writing web copy, social media content, articles, and other material. The best part about it is that this business barely requires an investment – a computer and internet connection are all one needs. That being said, if one wishes to expand, they may be required to apply for a license and registration for their business and spend on additional marketing costs. It is important to note that just as the investment costs are low, the returns may be as well, at least initially. But well-established writers can easily make up to six figures a year.
2. Virtual assistant
Many professionals today hire virtual assistants to help them stay organized and on track. Common responsibilities of a virtual assistant include invoicing, scheduling appointments, making travel arrangements, etc. While pay for this venture starts at around $20 per hour, it can easily go up to $100 for more experienced virtual assistants.
Alternatively, one can also become a personal concierge, helping people manage their daily tasks with ease.
3. Seamstress
There is also a lot of demand for sewing and designing, making seamstressing one of the top small business opportunities. This business could offer customers services like alterations, custom clothing designs, repairs, and more. The best part about this is that it is a home-based business idea and requires barely any investment.
4. Pet sitter
There is a way to turn one’s love for animals into a business opportunity as a pet sitter or dog walker. Here, one offers reliable and caring services, which may include feeding, walking, and playing with the pets while their owners are away (for the day or on vacation). With the boom in the adoption of animals over the last few years, this low-investment business venture has a surprisingly high demand, and can easily be run from one’s home.
5. Affiliate marketer
Many people host blogs and social media profiles that garner much attention. This is often seen as an attractive advertisement opportunity for companies and other promoters willing to offer 15% or more in exchange for regular stories and posts. This is known as affiliate marketing and is a wonderful small business idea for beginners.
6. Social media manager
A low-cost startup idea is offering social media management services to companies and individuals. While the specifics may differ from project to project, experience with handling social media channels like Instagram, Facebook, and X is recommended.
7. Translator
Knowing two or more languages can be extremely beneficial for aspiring entrepreneurs as this opens up the opportunity to offer translation services to businesses for documents, websites, as well as real-time communication. In most cases, these businesses can be run from the comfort of one’s home without any major investment costs.
8. Landscaper
For a more service-led approach, offering landscaping and gardening services to homes and organizations is an innovative small business concept. While the administrative aspect of this business can be run from one’s home, it will demand travel to the location of work and a significant investment in terms of equipment costs.
9. Virtual event planner
Virtual event planning can be one of the best small business ideas for individuals who like organizing, planning, and working with others. As a virtual event planner, one can offer services such as creating online conferences, networking opportunities, and educational sessions. Over time, this can be expanded to include in-person events, such as weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, and other celebrations.
10. Tutor
Many students require adept tutoring services, making this a profitable small business opportunity. Depending on one’s location and abilities, these services can be offered in person or online. Tutors can focus on niche subjects or particular grades initially and scale this business over time.
11. Online reseller
Those with an interest in shopping, fashion, and sales can also look into becoming online resellers. This can be done in two ways; one can shop at estate sales and flea markets to find goods for a low price and then sell them for a profit, or one can offer custom bedazzlements, painting, and other services to certain garments to make sales. While it is an easy business to start with, it may also require a significant investment to cover the cost of licenses and the purchase and storage of stock.
12. Personal trainer
Becoming a personal trainer is a splendid business opportunity for those who love spending time at the gym. One can help clients achieve their fitness goals by offering advice, guidance, and plans to support their nutrition and workouts. These sessions can be offered at home, virtually, or at the gym. To get started in this profession, one will need to account for initial investment costs like certification, basic equipment, marketing, and insurance.
