39 Best Small-Scale Business Ideas For 2023

Starting a small business could be your ticket to financial freedom or that extra income you’ve been craving.

The best part? You don’t need deep pockets to start a business.

My small business ideas list is packed with opportunities that require little upfront investment but offer big rewards.

These low-cost business ideas could easily become your full-time career, making more money than a typical 9-to-5 job.

Whether dreaming of many businesses or searching for that one great business idea, you’re about to find it!

Quick Picks

Easiest Freelancing Side Hustle To Scale – Proofreading
My Bread & Butter Side Hustle Turned Career- Blogging
Most Flexible Money-Maker – eCommerce Store

39 Best Small-Scale Business Ideas

1. Proofreading Business

If you’re good at spotting errors in writing, like grammar, spelling, and punctuation mistakes, you might want to consider starting a proofreading business.

It’s a great opportunity to turn your skills into a profitable venture, especially if you enjoy making written work the best it can be.

Businesses, writers, and students look for someone to give their documents that final, polished touch.

You don’t need a big investment to get started; a strong understanding of grammar rules and a keen eye for detail will do.

To help you kick things off, Proofread Anywheres FREE workshop walks you through the basics of becoming a proofreader.

Once you’re ready to start your own business, a simple website or social media presence can be an effective way to let people know about your services.

FREE Workshop


Proofread Anywhere

Learn How to Become a Proofreader and Start a Freelance Proofreading Business.

15,000+ Students. 7+ Years of Results.


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2. Start A Blog

Ever thought about turning your love for writing into something more? I did, and let me tell you, starting a blog was the best small business idea I ever started. 

You don’t need a fancy degree or a complicated business plan to start a business like this. All you need is a passion for a subject and the ability to string words together.

I’ve made money through affiliate marketing, landed sponsorships, and even got to work as an influencer with companies.

It’s been a financial boon for my family and has given me a sense of accomplishment beyond words.

So, don’t overlook blogging if you search for online business ideas. It’s not just a hobby; it’s a full-fledged business opportunity. 

Trust me, your keyboard could be your next goldmine. And if you’re wondering how to get started, my FREE Start a Blog Bootcamp can show you the ropes.


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Get FREE access to our step-by-step plan for starting a blog that makes $1,000 per month.


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3. Freelance Bookkeeper

One of the best small business ideas I’ve ever stumbled upon is offering bookkeeping services. 

If you’re good with numbers and have a keen eye for detail, becoming a bookkeeper could be your perfect small business. 

Many small businesses are overwhelmed with handling business finances and don’t have the time or know-how to manage them.

That’s where you come in. You become their go-to expert, their lifesaver, and believe me, they’re willing to pay for it.

What makes this one of the good business ideas is its flexibility. You can tailor your business structure to fit your life. Want to work from home? No problem. 

You don’t need a fancy degree, just business skills and familiarity with software like QuickBooks.

If you’re wondering how to kickstart your bookkeeping journey, look no further than Bookkeeper Launch. They offer free 3 lessons perfect for getting you off the ground. 

FREE Training


Bookkeeper Launch

How to Start a Profitable Bookkeeping Business in 90 Days or Less!

15,000+ Students. 10+ Years of Results.


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4. Open An Online Store

Another one of my all-time favorite small business ideas is opening an online store. Why?

Because it’s a good business idea that lets you tap into a global target market without the hassle of running a brick-and-mortar shop. 

First, you’ll need to find a profitable business idea within a niche that excites you.

The options are endless, including selling your own handmade items or dropshipping from wholesalers. 

Then, it’s time to set up shop. Platforms like Shopify make it incredibly easy for a small business owner to launch their own website and manage transactions seamlessly.

The sky’s the limit when it comes to e-commerce. You can turn your store into a goldmine with the right marketing strategies and even start other businesses to go along with it. 

I suggest using social media and Facebook ads to market your store to new customers- strategies like this make the money flow!

5. Start Dropshipping

Speaking of dropshipping, have you heard of it before? If not, let me introduce you to what could be the easiest business idea yet. 

It’s one of those small business ideas offering minimal risk and high rewards!

Imagine running a store without the headaches of inventory, shipping, or storage. That’s what dropshipping does for you.

You showcase products on your own website, and when someone makes a purchase, your supplier ships the product directly to your customer. 

No inventory woes, no shipping hassles. Your main focus? Marketing and customer service that gets people buying from you.

Trust me, as small business owners, we’re always looking for new business ideas and opportunities that offer flexibility and profitability, and dropshipping checks all those boxes.

If you’re still unsure, Drop Ship Lifestyle offers a free webinar to help you decide if this business model fits you. 

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Drop Ship Lifestyle

How to Build a High Profitable, Semi-Automated Dropship Business.

15,000+ Students. 10+ Years of Results.


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6. Freelance Writer

Are you a word wizard who loves to write? If so, let me tell you – freelance writing is one of the most successful small business ideas you could pursue. 

It’s also a good small business idea if you want flexibility and the freedom to choose your projects. Work from the comfort of your home, earn a solid income and pick the topics that excite you the most. 

As a freelance writer, your canvas is vast. You’ll be crafting content for websites, blogs, publications, and more- all on a contract basis. 

While you don’t need formal qualifications, having a portfolio filled with stellar writing samples can skyrocket your chances of success.

So, if you’ve got a way with words and want to turn it into a business, freelance writing could be your next big move.

Learn how to become a successful writer with my FREE eBook from my Freelance Write From Home Course.

7. Sell Online Courses

Ready for a game-changer? Selling online courses is one of the best businesses you can start today. 

If you’ve got expertise or a unique skill, why not share it with the world? Trust me, it’s one of the great business ideas that can skyrocket your income. 

Brittany and I have even jumped on this bandwagon.

We created and sold courses, including one called ‘Freelance Work From Home,’ to help people kickstart their freelancing journey right from their living rooms. 

The topics for creating a course are endless- anything from guitar chords to advanced mathematics can become a course.

If you’re scouting for small business ideas for an online business, don’t overlook the potential of online courses.

Not sure how to turn your expertise into a thriving business and sell an online course today?

I took a program called Six-Figure Course Creator and saw my monthly income jump from $2,000 – $3,000 to over $13,000 in just two months!

8. Dog Walking Business

If you’re searching for small business ideas that combine your passion for animals with a business idea, a dog-walking business could be your perfect match. 

It’s a pet business that’s both rewarding and in-demand. You can have fun hanging out with Fido and get some exercise in!

Busy pet owners always look for reliable folks to help their furry friends get the necessary exercise.

Getting started is a walk in the park (pun intended!). All you need are basic animal care skills, sturdy leashes, and waste bags.

Platforms like Rover can help you connect with pet owners in your area, making getting your business off the ground even easier.

So, if you want to make a steady income while spending your days with four-legged friends, this could be your business.

9. Print-On-Demand Products

If you’ve got a knack for design and are interested in online selling, then a print-on-demand business could be right up your alley.

In this setup, you create custom designs for things like t-shirts, coffee mugs, or wall art.

Then, you list them for sale in an online store for people to mix and match what designs they want to buy on products.

The best part? You don’t have to worry about stockpiling inventory. Your job is to develop eye-catching designs and get the word out about your cool products.

You team up with suppliers like Printify, who handle the printing and shipping for every order. You can sell to folks worldwide without breaking the bank on stock.

This business model is pretty budget-friendly to start, and the sky’s the limit when reaching customers.

So, if you’re looking for a business idea that lets your creativity shine and has the potential for good profits, print-on-demand could be a fantastic fit for you.

10. Food Delivery Business

Starting a food delivery service is a practical and profitable venture. Imagine partnering with local restaurants and becoming the go-to business to deliver food to people’s doorsteps.

It isn’t as complicated as you might think to start a business delivering food. You can simply partner with restaurants and offer to be their delivery person.

You’ll need a license, a reliable car, and car insurance. But once you’re up and running, the sky’s the limit.

And if you’re wondering how to get your business off the ground, platforms like DoorDash can be a great starting point.

Rather than doing the whole business setup yourself, you can start by delivering food with DoorDash and seeing what restaurants need delivery services.

11. Virtual Assistant

Have you to experience with admin work but would rather work from home?

Becoming a virtual assistant offers the best of both worlds: the chance to flex your administrative muscles and the freedom to work from anywhere.

Platforms like FlexJobs can help you find opportunities that match your skill set. 

As a virtual assistant, your tasks could range from:

Manage emails
Schedule meetings
Write content
Conduct research
Handle social media accounts
Provide customer support
And more, all while working remotely.

The beauty of this business is its flexibility. Choose your own hours, pick the tasks you enjoy, and work from home. 

12. Facebook Ads Manager

Ever thought about how those Facebook ads pop up just when you’re thinking about something? 

Well, there’s a whole art and science to it, and you could be the one pulling the strings as a Facebook Ads Manager.

In this role, you’ll be the wizard behind the curtain, crafting and managing Facebook ads that help your clients reach their target audience, generate leads, and boost sales.

The best part? You can turn this into a consulting business for online entrepreneurs to local businesses. You can start it as a side hustle and earn $1000+ per month

And if you’re wondering how to get your foot in the door, the course Facebook Side Hustle offers valuable insights to help you get started.

So, if you’ve got a knack for analytics and a creative mind, this could be a fantastic opportunity to combine those skills and generate a steady income.

13. Open A Coffee Shop

Coffee is more than just a drink or breakfast business; it’s a whole vibe, right?

Imagine being the person who creates that cozy corner where people come to chat, work, or just enjoy a fantastic cup of joe. 

Opening a coffee shop is one of those small business ideas that never goes out of style. It’s all about quality and atmosphere. 

Serve up the best brews, create a space that feels like a second home, and treat every customer as the guest of honor. 

Get these right, and you’re not just selling coffee but building a community.

And don’t underestimate the power of a prime location and some savvy marketing. You need a good spot to make your mark and reach the coffee buyers.

Do it right, and your coffee shop could become the talk of the town, the place everyone flocks to when they need their caffeine fix.

14. Graphic Designer

The world of graphic design- where creativity meets business. If you’ve got an eye for design and a talent for making things look good, this could be your perfect gig. 

Starting a graphic design business is one of those small-scale business ideas that lets you put your artistic skills to work and make some money while at it.

You’ll be the go-to person for everything visual, from logos and websites to posters and beyond. 

The best part? This business lets you be as creative as you want but with your thumbs in many pies. 

You’ll work with different clients and tackle various projects; the sky’s the limit when expressing your artistic vision. 

Plus, it’s a field always in demand, so you can count on a steady stream of projects to keep you busy.

While having a degree in graphic design or art can give you a leg up, platforms like Canva make it easier for folks to dive into design without being a software whiz.

15. SEO Consultant

You know how sometimes you Google something and wonder why certain websites pop up first? That’s SEO (search engine optimization) magic; you could be the magician.

Becoming an SEO consultant is one of the small business ideas that’s super relevant in today’s digital world.

You’ll be the one helping businesses climb the Google ladder to get seen by more people, leading to more clicks and more sales

Your day-to-day would involve keyword research, tweaking website content, and making behind-the-scenes improvements.

The end goal? Helping businesses get more eyeballs on their websites usually translates to more customers and sales.

Here’s the cool part: you don’t need a fancy degree to get started. Sure, it helps, but many successful SEO consultants are self-taught.

Platforms like Surfer SEO can give you the tools and insights to make websites shine in search engine rankings.

16. Property Management

If you love keeping things organized and enjoy working with people, a property management business could be your calling.

This line of work brings in a consistent income and lets you work with a diverse range of clients- think homeowners renting out their places or even folks who own commercial spaces.

My aunt and uncle go to Florida for a month every winter and have a property management company pop in once a week to check on things.

One day, you might be lining up a plumber to fix a leaky faucet, and the next, you’re smoothing over a tenant dispute or ensuring a property is up to code.

Being a property manager is a job that keeps you on your toes, juggling various tasks requiring attention to detail and solid people skills.

So, if you’re up for a job as varied as it is rewarding, property management could be the opportunity you’ve been looking for.

It’s a profitable business that pays the bills and offers a good bit of excitement and challenge.

17. Event Planning Business

Imagine being the go-to person for creating memorable moments, from fairy-tale weddings to milestone corporate events. 

That’s the life of an event planner. You can help get parties prepped and ready and ensure the good times roll- with less stress for your clients!

The job is as exciting as it is varied. You could work on quinceaneras, weddings, baby showers, and whatever else- planning one party after the next.

One day, you may be selecting flower arrangements. Next, you’re coordinating a keynote speaker for a business conference.

It’s all about your organizational prowess and your ability to network. Build a good reputation, and you’ll have a steady stream of clients eager for you to make their events unforgettable.

You don’t need a special degree to get started, but budgeting, marketing, and customer service skills will give you an edge.

18. Online Tutoring

Ever thought about how great it would be to turn your expertise into a business? Online courses aren’t your only option if you want to interact more with your students.

Online tutoring could be your answer. You can teach anything from math to guitar, and platforms like BookNook are there to help you connect with students.

Some sites make lessons and worksheets for you, so you don’t need to create any content for your students!

The requirements are pretty flexible, too. Some places ask for specific qualifications or degrees, but others need a high school diploma and a willingness to teach.

Plus, you get to set your own hours and work from home. It’s a fantastic way to make a real difference in someone’s life while earning an income.

19. Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing is about sharing products and getting paid a commission whenever someone purchases through your unique link.

The game plan is simple: to make money from affiliate marketing:

Pick a niche that you’re passionate about. 
Pick affiliate partners and brands that fit with what you like- and they’re products that work!
Find out where your potential audience hangs out online. 
Create content that they’ll find both useful and interesting. 

The more trust you build, the more likely they will buy, earning you that sweet commission.

You can run this business from anywhere, be it your living room or a beach in Bali, all while connecting with a global audience. 

If you’re new to this, Making Sense Of Affiliate Marketing is a great course to get you started.

20. Sell Printables

I can vouch that making printables is profitable firsthand; Brittany and I love creating printables that go with our blog.

Using our email list and marketing strategies has created a full-time income for our family. 

Printables are digital products like planners, templates, and art prints that customers can download and print at home.

If you’ve got a talent for crafting eye-catching designs, selling printables is a small business idea that could bring in a steady income for you. 

You don’t have to worry about inventory or shipping any products. Your inventory is all digital downloads that can be printed by whoever buys them.

Once your designs are ready, platforms like social media and email lists are your best friends. They’ll help you get your creations in front of a global audience, just like they did for me.

21. Social Media Manager

One of the small business ideas that is lucrative is a social media manager. As businesses increasingly rely on social media, the demand for social media managers is rising.

While a bachelor’s degree in marketing or a related field can be helpful, experience and a strong understanding of social media platforms are essential for success in this role. 

You can:

Help businesses grow their online presence
Engage with their audience/customers by creating content
Schedule posts
Monitor performance across various platforms
Create social media ads to target potential customers

By offering social media management services, you can generate a steady income and help businesses thrive in the digital age.

22. Flip & Sell Websites

Flipping websites is like the house renovation of the digital world. You find a site not living up to its potential, give it a makeover, draw in an audience, and then sell it for a profit.

It’s one of the business ideas that is a hands-on way to generate a steady income, and who knows, you might just turn someone’s digital dust collector into a goldmine!

It’s not just about making it pretty, though. You’ll need to dive into website metrics, boost the SEO, and maybe even revamp the content strategy.

But this could be a seriously rewarding business if you’ve got the skills- or are willing to learn them. Sites like Flippa have thousands of sites for you to browse and buy.

With so many websites you can buy or create to sell for profits, there is a lot of potential.

23. Video Editing

Video editing is one of the most creative business ideas if you’re interested in YouTube but don’t want to be on camera.

With the growing demand for video content, video editing skills are becoming increasingly valuable in business. 

Video editing involves:

Cutting and rearranging video shots
Adding transitions and effects
Adjusting color and audio levels
Adding text (like captions)
Creating a cohesive and engaging final product

With a strong understanding of video editing software and a creative eye, you can offer video editing services to businesses, content creators, and individuals.

You can establish a successful video editing business and generate a steady income by showcasing your editing skills and building a portfolio of work.

Don’t know how to edit videos yet? You can learn these skills and more on SkillShare!

24. Landscaping Business

Do you know how to make gardens look like paradise? Or maybe you’re just interested in a blue-collar business idea that keeps you outside and away from a desk?

Then, a landscaping business could be your calling. It’s one of the best seasonal business ideas to start that can keep you busy outdoors and bring in money.

You’ll be doing everything from mowing lawns to designing intricate outdoor spaces with plants, gardens, stone paths, water fountains, and more. 

And let’s be honest, most business owners would rather leave this work to the pros, so there’s plenty of demand.

It’s also a business that can grow with your skills and client base as more profits come in.

You can start small- maybe just offering basic lawn care- and then expand into more specialized services like landscape design or even tree care. 

Plus, there’s something incredibly satisfying about stepping back and seeing a freshly landscaped area, knowing you made it happen.

25. Cleaning Service

Why not turn your knack for cleanliness into cash? Starting a cleaning business can be a profitable small-scale business that can grow exponentially. 

Whether sprucing up homes or making offices shine, people always seek reliable cleaning services to get the nitty gritty work done. 

Decide if you want to clean homes, office buildings, or both, and figure out what services you want to offer- so you know what to buy and haul around in your car.

The startup costs for a cleaning services business are pretty low- you’ll just need some basic cleaning supplies, a business license, and a lot of elbow grease.

Once your cleaning business is up and running, word of mouth and social media can be your best friends in growing your business.

CleanTok (TikTok) has helped small cleaning businesses promote themselves- some people do free cleanings for those in need to gain traffic and customers online.

Community centers and local bulletin boards are also great places to get the word out about your cleaning service. 

The key to success? Be so good that everyone raves about you and recommends you to others. Offer top-notch service, and you’ll build a reputation that keeps the phone ringing.

26. Business Consultant

Do you have specialized knowledge in a particular industry and a passion for helping businesses succeed? 

Starting a business consulting service could be your perfect small business idea if you’re ready to leave your day job and strike it big on your own. 

As a business consultant, you advise and assist businesses, helping them improve their operations, strategy, and overall performance.

Many of them could use an outside opinion to make things run smoothly and get past obstacles they can’t overcome alone.

While some might recommend a fancy degree, many successful consultants have learned the ropes through real-world experience and self-study. 

So, if you’re searching for small business ideas that allow you to make a meaningful impact while earning a steady income, this one’s worth considering.

27. Appliance Repair Business

Starting an appliance repair business is a practical and potentially profitable venture. Everyone has stuff they need fixed, and they want their appliances to go the distance, so to speak.

You’ll use your skills to fix common household appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers, ovens, washing machines, and dryers.

To get started, you’ll need a good understanding of appliance repair and the right tools. Some people learn from YouTube videos, others from SkillShare and in-person classes.

Once you’re prepared and have the know-how for repairs, you can offer your services to homeowners.

The key is to provide reliable and professional service. It’s all about keeping homes running smoothly and building a solid reputation. 

When you become the go-to appliance expert in your area, your business can thrive in this high-demand field if you can get things done efficiently.

28. Develop New Apps

App development can be a profitable small business idea for folks who know their way around coding or people who don’t. 

You mainly need an idea for an app that fixes a problem and solves a need in the market- something that people can’t do without!

Think about it as finding a puzzle and creating the perfect piece to complete it.

You can turn your app-making skills into a thriving business with determination and a clear audience understanding. 

If you can spot a problem that needs solving and build a user-friendly app to address that issue, you’ve got a shot at success in the app market. 

It’s all about thinking and creating software for different industries and platforms, whether health, finance, or gaming.

So, if you’re tech-savvy and ready for the challenge, app development might be one of your next big business ideas!

29. Food Truck Business

If you’re a foodie with big dreams of running your own business, starting a food truck business is a fantastic way to turn your passion for food into a lucrative business idea.

Food trucks offer a flexible and wallet-friendly alternative to traditional restaurants.

You get to whip up unique dishes and switch up your location whenever you like. It’s exactly like having a restaurant on wheels and needs the same things to be popular.

Here’s the secret sauce:

Focus on top-notch food
Make every customer feel special
Spread the word through savvy marketing

Soon, your food truck could become the go-to spot for hungry folks in your community. 

All it takes is the right location and a food truck as awesome as your culinary creations. 

30. Open A Drone Business

Diving into a drone business is exciting and full of potential. You can spread your wings and offer various services like aerial photography, inspections, or mapping.

Alternatively, you can specialize in selling and repairing drones – the choice is yours.

What’s even more thrilling is the growing demand for drones across different industries.

From agriculture and construction to filmmaking, drones have become indispensable tools. This means a substantial and expanding market is just waiting for entrepreneurs like you.

To succeed in this field, staying ahead of the curve with drone technology and constantly expanding your client reach is crucial.

31. Aerial Photography

Imagine turning your knack for capturing stunning images from high above into a thriving business. That’s exactly what starting an aerial photography business can offer you.

You get to showcase your unique skills and create breathtaking images that fulfill your passion for photography and bring in profits.  

Aerial photography involves taking captivating photos from elevated positions, often using drones or other airborne gadgets.

If you’ve got a good grip on photography techniques and can navigate drones like a pro, you’re all set to offer your aerial photography services. 

Think real estate, construction, and events – there’s a world of opportunities.

32. Cell Phone Accessories

Smartphone use is at an all-time high, which makes selling accessories a profitable business idea. 

You can offer your customers a wide array of options, from phone cases to screen protectors, cables, and headphones.

You can start small by selling these products online through social media or setting up shop at local festivals.

As your business gains traction and your customer base grows, you can expand your inventory to include even more accessories. 

Whether you run a small kiosk or launch an e-commerce website, selling cell phone accessories like phone cases, headphones, chargers, and screen protectors can be smart. 

And, if you’re eager to take your business to the next level, consider establishing your very own website to gain more customers and sales.

33. Personal Training

People realize that having a personal trainer can make all the difference in reaching their health goals. 

If you live and breathe fitness and have the certifications, why not kickstart your personal training business?

In this field, you’re helping people get fit and transforming their lives. The possibilities are as vast as your passion for helping others!

You can offer one-on-one sessions, be the coach folks look up to, run high-energy fitness classes, and even provide expert nutrition counseling.

And when it comes to building your brand, the right strategies can attract a dedicated clientele and make you a household name in your local fitness community. 

So, whether you’re a gym guru or just super passionate about health, turning it into a business might be the best thing you ever do!

34. Wellness Coach

Wellness coaching is taking the health world by storm, and it’s not slowing down soon.

As a wellness coach, your mission is crystal clear: help your clients pinpoint their health goals, craft a plan to tackle ’em head-on, and be their rock-solid support system every step of the way.

Now, the cool thing is you can be a wellness coach in many different areas- this isn’t just about making their body goals a reality.

Think mental health, nutrition, stress management – it’s your call what you offer, but people need help with all parts of their wellness. 

To kickstart your journey, you’ll need to dive into some extra coursework or training to snag a wellness coach certification

But once you’ve got that badge of honor, the opportunities are limitless. It’s like having the whole wide world of wellness at your fingertips!

35. Bed And Breakfast

Have you ever thought about turning that spare room in your home into something special? Starting your own bed and breakfast business might be the perfect small-scale business idea.

Picture this: you open your doors to travelers and tourists, offering them not just a place to rest their heads but a warm and inviting experience they won’t forget.

With user-friendly platforms like Airbnb, setting up your own B&B has never been easier. You can transform that spare room into a charming retreat and earn a steady income. 

But it’s not just about the money; it’s about the people you’ll meet.

You’ll welcome guests from all walks of life from all corners of the world and create friendships and memories that’ll last a lifetime.

So, if you’ve got a spare room and a welcoming spirit, why not dip your toes into the wonderful world of bed and breakfasts?

36. Child Care

Running your own home-based childcare business can be an incredibly rewarding venture.

This could be the perfect path for you if you have a natural way with kids and know how to keep them engaged and entertained.

Whether you’re available for full-time or part-time care, you’ll find a high demand for your services. 

You won’t need a massive budget to start. All it takes is a safe and clean environment, some toys and games that spark joy, and a genuine love for children.

As your business blossoms, you can gradually expand your reach. You can begin by caring for a small group of little ones, creating a nurturing and enjoyable space for them to thrive. 

Remember to ensure you have all the qualifications and certifications your state needs before diving into this heartwarming profession. 

37. Adult Caregiver

If you have a background in healthcare or a heartfelt passion for elderly care, consider diving into the world of adult caregiving.

Providing care and companionship to seniors can be a rewarding profession and a flourishing business venture.

The need for medication management, personal care, and companionship is steadily increasing with the aging population.

When you run an adult caregiver business, your role becomes that of a guardian angel to seniors and disabled individuals who require support with daily activities. 

Your services could range from meal preparation and medication management to transportation and housekeeping. Compassion and empathy are your greatest tools in this profession.

It’s not just a business opportunity; it’s a chance to make a significant difference in the lives of seniors in your community.

38. Sell Books  

Do you love books? Starting a book-selling business can be a profitable venture.  

You can source books from thrift stores, garage sales, or online and sell them on platforms like Amazon or eBay. 

You can also explore selling used books through Facebook Marketplace or sellbackYourBook or set up a physical store selling new and used books.

With the option to specialize in specific genres, you can cater to people’s tastes and interests while building a loyal customer base.

To expand your business, you can also offer book subscription services where customers receive a new monthly book. 

39. Become A Handy Man  

If you’re a hands-on individual who enjoys fixing things, becoming a handyman can be a lucrative small-scale business idea. 

From repairing plumbing issues to handling electrical repairs, there are many services that handymen provide. 

You can start by creating a website detailing your services, working with contractors to find leads, and marketing yourself through local classified ads and social media platforms.

FAQs

What is a small-scale business?

A small-scale business is a company that operates on a small scale, often with a minimal number of employees.

These businesses typically have a smaller budget, fewer employees, and a smaller overall impact than larger businesses.

Small-scale businesses can range from being a one-person operation, such as freelancing or consulting, to a business with several employees.

It starts with as little as just you when you start your own business!

What are the best low-cost businesses to start?

The best low-cost businesses to start require minimal upfront investment and a low overhead cost.

Some examples of low-cost businesses include freelancing or consulting, online stores, home-based businesses, or food trucks.

These types of businesses are also easy to scale up over time as they grow and earn profits that cna go back into the business.

How much money do I need to start a business?

The amount of money you need to start a business can vary depending on the type of business you want to start.

Some businesses require little to initial investment, such as freelancing or consulting businesses, which can start with less than $1,000.

Others may require a few thousand dollars to purchase equipment, rent a space, or invest in inventory.

You could start many businesses with $10K or less, like a computer repair business, a lawn care business, and more.

Can I start a small business with $5,000?

You bet- $5,000 can get you started with your great small business idea! Think about businesses that don’t need a ton of cash upfront.

With your $5,000, you can take care of the basics, like registering your business, setting up a simple website, and getting the word out with marketing.

If you need some equipment or special software, this is the time to get it. Just make sure you’ve got a plan so you know where each dollar is going.

Now, remember, you’ll have some bills to pay every month as a business. Whether renting a space or keeping your website running, ensure you have a little extra set aside.

If you’re running low on funds, you can try getting a small business loan. Small business loans and even grants can give you a financial boost.

Where can I get a business loan?

For a small business loan, traditional banks are a go-to for various loan types but often come with strict requirements.

Online lenders like Kabbage and OnDeck offer a quicker application process but may have higher interest rates.

The Small Business Administration (SBA) is another key option. They specialize in loans for small businesses and work with banks to guarantee part of your loan, making approval easier.

Local banks and credit unions are also worth considering, especially those collaborating with the SBA. This way, you get local service with federal backing.

Final Thoughts

Starting a small-scale business can be an incredibly rewarding experience, both personally and financially.

Choosing a low-cost business idea and planning carefully can create a successful business with minimal investment.

I’ve told you plenty of profitable small business ideas– now you need to pick what works best with your skillsets and interests and get planning!

Research your small business ideas, create a thorough business plan, and explore funding options like small business loans.

With hard work and dedication, you can turn your small business into a thriving enterprise that brings in money for years to come- even on a small scale.

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