While there has been a shift in how we view small businesses and the type of risks they present, the truth is that choosing to open your small businesses is still a great idea.
The biggest barrier for most people is that they don’t believe they can start and manage their own business. The key to succeeding is focusing on a smaller model that you can sustain on your own and grow over time. Ready to take control of your time and income? Let’s dive into the 50 best small-scale business ideas that absolutely anyone can get started with ease.
What Is a Small-Scale Business?
A small-scale business is defined by its makeup and business operations. In comparison to medium-sized businesses or large corporations, a small-scale business produces lower profits than its larger counterparts, has a low number of employees, requires a minimal upfront investment, and is generally privately owned.
Put simply, a small-scale business is just a small business. Whether it’s an in-person business idea or something that can be done remotely from the comfort of your own home, many of the small business ideas and side hustles that you see today are examples of the small businesses that make up our current economy.
But while the business is small, the sheer volume of opportunities is massive, which can make it difficult for individuals aiming to achieve financial freedom to find the right option for them. If a small-scale business is in the cards for you, let’s take a look at some excellent small business ideas that you may wish to pursue.
50 Best Small-Scale Business Ideas
- Online Small-Scale Businesses to Start At Home
- In-Person Business Ideas for Social Entrepreneurs
- Unique Business Ideas
Online Small-Scale Businesses to Start At Home
We’re going to launch this guide with arguably the best small-scale business opportunities: online businesses. Online businesses are often associated with being able to set your own schedule, work in your pajamas, and be your own boss. Although an online business still requires a lot of work, you’ll find that you have many of the materials at your disposal. As long as you have existing skills for your chosen industry, a laptop or desktop computer, and a Wi-Fi connection, you’re ready to begin your journey. Here are some of the best online small business ideas you should consider if working from home appeals to you.
1. Transcriptionist
What Is It?
A transcriptionist is a professional who is paid to listen to audio files and produce a clean, error-free script of the audio. There is an abundance of opportunities for individuals with this skill, making it one of the most available opportunities on this list for prospective small business owners who want to dive right into their work.
How Much Does It Pay?
On average, a freelance transcriptionist will make about $15 an hour. However, more advanced transcriptionists can make anywhere from $25 to $30 an hour or beyond. The more talent and experience you have (especially in certain niches), the more you can potentially earn as a transcriptionist.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
As long as you have a computer, high-quality headphones, and fast typing skills, you should be able to work with companies that accept new transcriptionists. However, if you’re in this for the long-haul, you’ll want to purchase a foot pedal so that you can easily move through the audio without having to fumble for the mouse each time you need to hear something over.
How Do I Get Started?
There are a number of platforms that you can turn to if you want to become a transcriptionist. Some platforms will only accept experienced transcriptionists (if you have previous experience), so it’s important to pay attention to the requirements they list on their hiring page. That being said, some companies to look into include:
- TranscribeMe: TranscribeMe is one of the most popular transcription platforms available. Those who use TranscribeMe have reported being able to make anywhere from $15 to $22 per audio hour.
- GoTranscript: GoTranscript pays up to $0.60 per audio minute or $36 per audio hour.
- Rev: Rev is a popular platform that pays anywhere from $0.30 per audio minute to $1.10 per audio minute.
- Casting Words: Casting Words pays around $0.085 to $1 per audio minute, depending upon the type of work.
- QuickTate: QuickTate is a platform that is designed for those who have experience and professional references that the company can reach out to. Should you make it onto the platform, Quicktate pays $0.0025 per word for general transcription, $0.0050 per word for medical transcription, and around $0.0050 per word for iDictate.
- Tigerfish: Tigerfish is a platform that only onboards U.S. residents and pays around $0.005 per word transcribed.
- Ubiqus: Ubiqus hires both professionals and those who are interested in transcription and can prove their skills. They pay per word and their rates are $0.00588 per word for legal transcription and $0.00695 per word for medical transcription.
- SpeechPad: SpeechPad is one of the highest-paying platforms currently available, offering $0.25 to $2.50 per audio minute!
- SpeakWrite: SpeakWrite requires all users to have at least one year of transcription experience (which means you can make it on there once you have been on any of these other platforms for a year’s time). They pay $0.005 per word and state that there is a potential 10% bonus for some transcriptionists.
- GMR Transcription: GMR Transcription offers $0.70 to $1.25 per audio minute for those who make it onto the platform.
- Scribie: Scribie is arguably the lowest paying platform but quite easy to get onto. You can expect to make around $5 to $50 per audio hour.
Where Can It Lead?
Court transcription and medical transcription are two examples of some of the high-paying opportunities you can work towards as a transcriptionist. However, you’ll likely need some experience in the medical or legal field first, so it’s best to look for the right opportunities, pad your resume, and work hard to increase your profits over the course of the year!
2. Proofreader
What Is It?
A proofreader is someone who will go through a written work to spot grammatical errors and clean up the content. Although a proofreader is very similar to an editor, some editorial positions require a greater deal of skill and involvement, making a proofreader more accessible to those who have not yet built up the skills needed to direct others.
How Much Does It Pay?
Proofreading earns most freelancers approximately $15 to $20 an hour. However, proofreaders with more skill and experience can easily move this up to $25 to $50 an hour with the right track record and marketing tactics.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
Proofreading is one of the least demanding businesses on this list. As long as you have a computer, an eagle eye that can spot any grammatical errors, and patience, you should be good to go! If you want, you may wish to download an application like Grammarly that can protect you in case you make any mistakes when reviewing content.
How Do I Get Started?
There are numerous sites to help you get your start as a proofreader, many of which may lead to editorial opportunities that can pay you more. A few platforms you should turn to include:
- Scribbr
- Proofread Now
- Scribe Media
- Domainite
- Scribendi
- Wordvice
- ProofreadingServices
- Wordy
- Gramlee
- Polished Paper
- Editor World
Where Can It Lead?
As you gain more experience as a proofreader, you’re able to find higher-paying clients who know that you’re capable of meeting their expectations. You may also wish to move onto more extensive proofreading jobs, like proofreading long manuscripts. Alternatively, you can use your proofreading experience to become an editor, where you’ll be able to manage writers and offer them guidance (this can pay substantially more). Either way, you have plenty of room for growth as a proofreader!
3. Freelance Writer
What Is It?
Freelance writers are responsible for producing informative, compelling content that is designed to enrich the publication it’s published on and drive readers to the website. Although establishing a stable freelance career does take time, this is one path that anyone with the right writing skills can get started on quickly!
How Much Does It Pay?
Generally speaking, your rates will adjust with your experience. Starting out, you may earn as little as $0.01 to $0.02 per word. However, once you’re able to produce published samples that prove your authority within a given field, you can start increasing your rates to match your skill level. Freelance writing is one of those careers that’s hard to value as it depends on where you’re at in your career, how you decide to charge (per word vs. hourly), and what kind of writing you do. That said, there are writers who earn six figures annually, so the sky’s the limit.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
As a freelance writer, you’re only going to need a laptop or desktop computer, a word processor (Google Docs and Word seems to be the main two for freelance writing), and a passion for the written word. It can also help to have resources like Grammarly and Hemingway App on the wings to help you improve any areas of your writing that may be weak.
How Do I Get Started?
When you first start, you’re largely going to turn to content mills to get the bulk of your work. However, you should also be focusing on getting your writing in online publications that pique your interest as well as finding volunteer opportunities or internships that may be able to help you hone your craft. Here are a few content mills to help you get started:
Where Can It Lead?
As you’ll soon discover, writing is just the tip of the iceberg in a content marketing strategy. Some helpful skills that you’ll learn along your freelance journey may include editing, graphic design, project management, keyword research, and beyond. Once you start gaining some of these helpful marketing skills, you can start offering additional services to your clients, potentially opening up your own agency in the future. No matter what interests you in the online business world, writing is an excellent skill to start with and build upon as you set your sights on the next stage of your business journey.
4. Virtual Assistant
What Is It?
A virtual assistant is a professional responsible for handling a number of administrative tasks for another person. While the type of tasks you can anticipate will depend on your individual skillset as well as the requirements of the job, virtual assistants may be responsible for scheduling trips, responding to emails and phone calls, and preparing spreadsheets and managing files.
How Much Does It Pay?
The average earnings for a virtual assistant fall around $16 per hour. However, some individuals are making as much as $40 per hour. Put simply, how much you make depends on what you’re capable of offering your clients and what clients may be looking for. The more you can offer, the more you can make!
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
As with the other online businesses on this list, you only need a laptop or desktop computer and a working phone to get started. You may also need to purchase certain computer programs like Microsoft Office if you’re looking to get the most out of your journey as a virtual assistant.
How Do I Get Started?
Although you’ll likely develop your own website later or set up profiles on freelancing websites, there are numerous virtual assistant platforms where you can get started to see what it’s like. Some of these known platforms include:
Where Can It Lead?
Being a virtual assistant can start you off earning more than you would at a normal entry-level job and provide you more room for growth. The space is competitive, but if you are passionate about administration and willing to look for new ways to grow your skills, there is plenty of potential there for the right professional.
5. Digital Marketer
What Is It?
Some of the business ideas on this list focus on the finer details of business operations. Being a digital marketer, however, is a great idea for individuals with multiple skill sets who can leverage these to cater to specific clients and businesses. A digital marketer is a full solution provider using a wide variety of digital channels to help a business receive the exposure they need to scale.
How Much Does It Pay?
Unlike some of the other ideas on this list, a digital marketer makes $35 per hour on average, making this a very lucrative opportunity for those who have previous digital marketing experience.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
The only technical materials you need to get started are a desktop or laptop computer, camera equipment (if you’re responsible for taking photos or videos for social media or webinars), photo editing software, and other management systems and programs that make your job easier on you. As a digital marketer, you should also have an extensive resume and case studies to prove that you’re the right match for any client you come across.
How Do I Get Started?
There are no dedicated platforms for those who have the skills needed to offer marketing services to individuals and companies. Instead, you’ll want to look for freelance platforms where you can find clients or post your own jobs. Some platforms to help you get started include:
Where Can It Lead?
There are generally two directions that one can take when offering marketing services. You can either hone your abilities to build your resume and target larger companies that will pay more, or you could build your own agency full of high-quality digital marketers to scale while requiring less work from you. Either way, these are both lucrative growth opportunities!
6. Social Media Manager
What Is It?
Aptly named, a social media manager is someone who writes copy for posts, schedules posts ahead of time, and works to make sure that the social media channel of a certain client is producing positive results and helping them build the community they’re looking for.
How Much Does It Pay?
A social media manager can make anywhere from $25 to $50 per hour. The more results you can produce and the more positive case studies you have, the better the companies you can land, which will greatly help your business thrive over time.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
All you need to get your start as a social media manager is a strong understanding of social media strategy and analytics, a computer and a phone, and plenty of time to come up with great ideas to post online.
How Do I Get Started?
As with the above, there are no platforms dedicated to individuals who wish to help others shine on social media. Rather, you could turn to the following platforms.
Where Can It Lead?
As a social media manager, you can continue to run campaigns for a wide variety of existing and new brands. Given that we live in a digital world, there are plenty of amazing opportunities that will give you plenty of work moving forward. However, if you’re wildly successful, you may want to instead turn to a career like becoming an influencer to build your own brand and pursue other business opportunities that appeal to you.
7. Copywriter
What Is It?
There are a wide variety of content types utilized on the web. Copywriters are responsible for producing compelling, concise copy that brands can use in their marketing campaigns to attract new customers.
How Much Does It Pay?
Because of the skill and experience required to produce advertising copy, many copywriters make significantly more than other types of writers, with freelance copywriters making anywhere from $25 to $50 per hour.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
All you need to become a freelance copywriter is a computer, a strong grasp of the English language, and knowledge of what great copy looks like. Having additional skills like SEO can be helpful as well!
How Do I Get Started?
We don’t want to overburden you with the same list time and time again, so we’ll just recommend that you return to the list in the previous section if you’re interested in offering copywriting services and finding the right clients. Some home businesses have platforms you can turn to while others require you to hit the ground running and start marketing yourself. Copywriting is one of those career paths!
Where Can It Lead?
When it comes to writing, the ultimate goal is to work your way to a full understanding of all the marketing processes. However, you may also find that you enjoy a specific type of copywriting. For example, you may fall in love with creating email marketing campaigns or even writing for PPC ads. Whatever calls out to you, follow that passion!
8. SEO Specialist
What Is It?
An SEO specialist is a professional with a solid understanding of search engine optimization best practices and the ability to help clients boost their ranking on search engines so as to increase their organic traffic.
How Much Does It Pay?
An SEO specialist has a very technical role, but that doesn’t always result in high profits. Some SEO specialists make less than $25 an hour while others are able to easily hit six figures within the year. It all depends on your level of skill and what you have to offer your clients. The more you can achieve for them, the more you’ll be able to charge.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
A strong understanding of SEO is absolutely necessary. Beyond that, all you need is a computer and a strong SEO platform subscription, such as Ahrefs or Moz.
How Do I Get Started?
If you’re ready to get started on your SEO business, refer to the list of platforms where you can find work under the “Digital Marketer” section in this guide.
Where Can It Lead?
An SEO specialist provides you with a unique set of skills that are extremely valuable to every online business. You can either continue to offer these services exclusively or build your own marketing company that offers basic services and more exclusive services to help new websites boost their rankings.
9. Graphic Designer
What Is It?
A graphic designer is someone who creates visuals and graphics for various companies. Whether you’re developing still art or animated videos, creative types will love setting up this type of small-scale business.
How Much Does It Pay?
Graphic designers typically make anywhere from $16 an hour to around $41 an hour. The key to making more is constantly improving your skills and looking for opportunities that will help you advance to companies with greater needs. It can be hard to stand out from other graphic designers, but you can accomplish this with the right hustle.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
Graphic designers require more in order to get their job done. Beyond a computer, you’ll likely need a tablet specifically for design, design and photo editing programs, and other art tools to make sure that you stun every client you come across.
How Do I Get Started?
Because graphic design is such a specific in-demand skill, there are many platforms dedicated to helping professionals find these types of jobs. Some platforms worth looking into include:
Where Can It Lead?
Graphic design offers you a host of amazing opportunities to show off your skillset. As you progress through your career, you’ll likely find a niche that appeals most to you and establish yourself there!
10. POD Store Owner
What Is It?
Print-on-design (POD) shops allow you to create your own designs and place them on products in your own digital storefront. If you like creating new things but don’t want to have to shoulder the responsibility of taking on your own store right now, a POD store gives you the freedom to create what you want while the company behind your store takes care of everything from printing to fulfillment.
How Much Does It Pay?
We can’t provide you with an accurate number here as there are too many factors to consider when setting up your online shop (your chosen platform, how much your products are, how long you’re spending on your store, etc.). However, you’re sure to find plenty of success stories and tips if you do some research online.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
All you need to start your own POD shop is a photo editor, some fonts, and a lot of creativity. You can easily use free tools like GIMP and 1001 Free Fonts to get started!
How Do I Get Started?
There are numerous POD shops that you can use to start your storefront (just make sure you look through each of them or consider using multiple if you can’t settle on one). Here are a few to help you with your journey.
Where Can It Lead?
It depends on where you want to go! If you enjoy the passive income that comes from your store, you can continue to keep it running. If, however, you have overwhelming support, you may even want to open your own shop to see where it leads.
11. Online Tutor
What Is It?
An online tutor is someone who educates others virtually (which will be big both now and later given our current educational environment). Regardless of your credentials, there are opportunities out there for everyone so that they can act on their desire to help others learn more effectively!
How Much Does It Pay?
Tutors set their own rates, but these will vary depending on who you’re tutoring, what credentials you have, and how effective your tutoring methods are. If you’re just starting out, you might make anywhere from $15 to $20 an hour. If you’re teaching college students or extremely difficult courses, you might make anywhere from $30 to $60 an hour. The more difficult your discipline, the more money you can make!
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
An online tutor will need software that helps them communicate effectively with their students, a high-quality webcam and speakers, and a dedicated space for their craft.
How Do I Get Started?
Whether you’re someone without a degree who has a passion for tutoring or someone with a degree, there are a wide variety of platforms available to help you get your start. Let’s take a look at a few you can start with.
Where Can It Lead?
Most online tutors choose to develop their own courses and curriculum that they can then sell to boost their income and help them expand. Ask yourself, what skills and materials do I have that I can use to expand my business? Whether it’s an e-book, course, or another offering, those who know you’re able to help them will flock to you for your resources!
- Related: Top Online Tutoring Job Companies
12. Freelance Editor
What Is It?
A freelance editor is someone who’s in charge of ensuring content meets expectations. While a proofreader is focused solely on finding and correcting errors, editors are paying attention to tone, syntax, and providing quality feedback for writers under their care. If you enjoy helping others and catching grammatical errors, editing may be the right small-scale business for you!
How Much Does It Pay?
The amount you can expect to make will depend upon your experience and the clients you’re connecting with. That being said, editing can be quite lucrative. In fact, the average earnings for editors in the U.S. hover around $35 per hour, with some editors making even more than that.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
An editor only needs a computer and word processing software to get started. However, it can be helpful to have tools like Grammarly to catch any mistakes you may miss. Even the best editors can miss a few mistakes here and there when they’re looking over material throughout their entire day.
How Do I Get Started?
While the proofreading resources were great for proofreading, they were great for beginner editors as well. Let’s take a look at that list again!
- Scribbr
- Proofread Now
- Scribe Media
- Domainite
- Scribendi
- Wordvice
- ProofreadingServices
- Wordy
- Gramlee
- Polished Paper
- Editor World
Where Can It Lead?
Editors generally start out in proofreader roles where the work is limited. However, as you start to gain more experience, you’ll likely start moving more towards managing editor opportunities, which allow you to oversee writers, establish content calendars, and more. From there, the sky’s the limit!
13. Blogger
What Is It?
A blogger is someone who owns their own website where they publish written content on a certain topic that they specialize in.
How Much Does It Pay?
There is no set amount that bloggers can expect to make. Your earnings depend on how much traffic your website is bringing, what monetization strategies you’re using to generate revenue, and how much time you’re putting into your blog. No blog is guaranteed to make money, but if you put in the effort, you can make the profit you’re looking for.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
If you’re interested in blogging, you’ll need a computer, a domain name, a hosting subscription, and all of the themes and plugins that you’ll need on your website. It can take time to hunt these down and understand how they work. You may benefit from our recent blog on how to start a blog on WordPress!
How Do I Get Started?
The most important choice you’ll make in your blogging business is the type of website builder that you use to set up your blog. Some of the best website builders that are online today include:
- WordPress.com and WordPress.org
- Squarespace
- Wix
- Weebly
- Ghost.org (previously Ghost.io)
Where Can It Lead?
For some bloggers, blogging may turn into a full-time job that they do from home. For others, they may love blogging and branch out to write content for others. Even more impressive, some may like creating blogs so much that they start their own websites and flip them online. Whatever you like about blogging, there is a way to advance from there.
- Related: How To Start a Blog
- Related: The Best Free Blogging Sites
- Related: How To Start a WordPress Blog
- Related: Creative Blog Post Ideas to Get More Website Traffic
14. Resume Writer
What Is It?
A resume writer is responsible for creating resumes for professionals that are tailored for both live staff and applicant tracking systems.
How Much Does It Pay?
Resume writers can earn $25 or more per hour crafting stellar resumes for others. If you specialize in an in-demand industry that’s difficult to write for, you may be able to earn more.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
All you need to become a resume writer is a computer and a word processing program.
How Do I Get Started?
There are not as many resume writing platforms where you can sign up and start writing. This means that you’ll likely need to start marketing yourself immediately to make money on the numerous freelancing platforms you see on the list. With that in mind, a few resume writing opportunities we were able to find include:
Where Can It Lead?
Resume writing is a very niche offering, so it’s unlikely that there’s much room for growth moving forward. However, if you have ample business experience, you may be able to pair resume writing with consulting services and scale your business from there. Generally speaking, the more you can offer, the more you can make. Growth comes from diversification!
15. E-book Writer
What Is It?
An e-book writer published books online. Whether you’re into fiction, non-fiction, poetry, or any other genre, you’re in complete control of what you publish and where you publish.
How Much Does It Pay?
There is no accurate estimate of an e-book writer’s earnings as it depends entirely on the success of the book, how much they charge for the book, and other related factors. If you love writing, it’s up to you to produce success through effective marketing.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
As long as you have a computer and word processing software, you’re ready to go! E-books do require special formatting, so having a program that can convert your book into the right format is an invaluable tool to keep on hand. You may also want to have editing software on the sidelines.
How Do I Get Started?
The majority of the work will be drafting your manuscript. Once you have the finished product in hand, you can turn to the following platforms to publish your work.
Where Can It Lead?
E-book writing is a great way to boost your authority in a certain field. If you just love publishing books, this may be good enough for you. However, you can also publish e-books related to your field that encourages more people to come to your platform and become long-time customers. Whether you’re writing e-books as an offering to your customers or as a passion project, there are many different directions to take your work in.
16. Dropshipper
What Is It?
The best way to explain dropshipping is to imagine that you own your own online storefront. Normally, you would be responsible for everything from inventory to shipping. A dropshipper, however, works with a manufacturer that can fulfill customer orders to make business easier for them. This way, all you have to do worry about is marketing and promoting your storefront!
How Much Does It Pay?
Like many other entrepreneurial endeavors, there’s no average when it comes to how much dropshippers make. Instead, your earnings are based on how much sales you’re able to achieve with your website.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
As a dropshipper, you’re going to need a computer, your own online storefront (you can use a platform like Shopify to get this set up), and a manufacturer who offers fulfillment services for the products you’re looking to sell. You may also need to hire a developer who can help you create a functional website that will attract your ideal customer.
How Do I Get Started?
Because dropshipping has become such a popular way to make money from home, there is a lot of competition out there that you’ll be up against. We recommend that you do further research to learn more about dropshipping, what it takes to be successful, and what you need to do to get set up.
Where Can It Lead?
If you find a profitable niche and build up a loyal customer base, you can be looking at a home-based business that can earn you six figures or beyond! If you love the concept of dropshipping but don’t want to pursue it full-time, you could instead use your knowledge to become a business consultant for prospective dropshippers who need support in their own businesses.
17. Printable Creator
What Is It?
Printables are digital files featuring artwork or other visual aspects that people can download and use for themselves. Many people will design these printables and sell them online as a way to bring in passive income.
How Much Does It Pay?
This type of online business is very easy to set up but somewhat difficult to monetize. How much you make relies on whether or not you’re able to get people excited about your products and maintain that momentum moving forward. Some people have managed to make a living out of it, so it might be something worth pursuing if it appeals to you!
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
All you need is a computer, a photo editing program, a scanner (if you do the artwork physically rather than digitally), and an online storefront.
How Do I Get Started?
Most people recommend setting up a printables store on Etsy. Etsy does take a portion of your sales, but it comes with the added benefit of having a platform already at your disposal and the ability to not have to fully commit if you find that it’s not right for you. Once you’re set up, it’s all about marketing and garnering interest in your new store.
Where Can It Lead?
With hard work and patience, you could end up having a great passive income stream that pays you consistently without having to put any additional printables up. However, you may wish to use your store to branch out into new types of products as you scale your business.
18. Course Creator
What Is It?
A course creator is someone who creates online educational materials to teach others about a certain subject. Online course topics cover a wide variety of topics and educational levels, making it possible for anyone to get in on the demand and create courses of their very own.
How Much Does It Pay?
The majority of course creators make anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 per month, although there are individuals who are bringing in far more than that. If you want to start reaching those higher profit thresholds, you’ll need a strong reputation, a strong demand, and a way to differentiate yourself from other creators offering similar courses.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
As a course creator, you’ll likely need a high-quality webcam and microphone, editing software, and other software to help you illustrate what you’re talking about in your courses. You may also want to look for tools to help you develop additional resources for your courses.
How Do I Get Started?
There are a host of online course platforms that you can use to start your online course collection. Some of the major options to choose from include:
Where Can It Lead?
As you gain more customers and followers, you’ll likely begin working on new courses based on previous course feedback to help you expand your course catalog. However, you could also leverage these courses to begin building a community and starting your own brand where you sell other digital products. The only limit is your imagination!
19. Freelance Web Developer/Programmer
What Is It?
A freelance web developer is tasked with creating websites (although variations like a programmer may be tasked with creating any necessary bit of digital code to make something run). As you can imagine, these types of technical skills are always in demand, making it a viable home business you can sustain for years to come.
How Much Does It Pay?
These types of gigs pay much higher than other items on this list. In fact, the average freelance web developer can expect to make approximately $60 per hour. If you really want to go where the money is, learning how to code will certainly help you get there!
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
You’re going to need to not only have programming skills but outshine the competition. Once you can do that, all you’ll need is the right software or websites to help you develop your code and put them to test.
How Do I Get Started?
Finding web developer jobs is not the hardest aspect of this type of small-scale business, but it’s certainly one challenge. Some platforms where you may be able to find clients include:
Where Can It Lead?
Freelance web development will certainly offer you enough work and compensation throughout the course of your small-scale business. Of course, you could always move towards educating others if you feel like you no longer want to be the one building websites and applications.
20. Virtual Coach
What Is It?
A virtual coach is someone who helps others achieve their goals through cultivating self-awareness, offering guidance, and providing them with a tried and true framework that allows them to get from point A to point B. There are all kinds of coaches, so you’re sure to find a coaching niche that you love if you think coaching is right for you.
How Much Does It Pay?
It depends on the type of coaching that you do! For example, if you’re offering life coaching services, you may make around $25 per hour. However, if you’re coaching business executives, you could make as much as $325 per hour. It really depends on what you have to offer and what audience you’re catering to. You’re worth as much as others are willing to pay for your support!
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
Coaches often have a wide variety of tasks to manage throughout their day-to-day. As a coach, you’ll need a strong understanding of human psychology, a strong understanding of the industry you’re operating in, a webcam, a phone, and programs to help you create the tools that your clientele would be using. Although not all coaches have certifications, you may wish to pursue these as well!
How Do I Get Started?
The first step is to start by launching your coaching website. Once you have that set up, you’ll want to start with a handful of clients to test your frameworks and gain positive testimonials that you can post on your website to support your professional experience. As you continue to work with clients and build your reputation, more business will come flowing in.
Where Can It Lead?
Coaching tends to be a final stop for many who love working with others. As long as you’re willing to constantly grow and work on your services, you’re sure to have a great, lucrative coaching career ahead of you!
In-Person Business Ideas for Social Entrepreneurs
Small-scale, online businesses are great because they allow you to start your own business from the comfort of your own home. The problem? Some people may enjoy being around other people, which can be a major problem if you decide to run an exclusively online business. Don’t worry! There are plenty of great in-person business ideas you can start as well. Let’s take a look at a few that may interest you!
21. Babysitter
What Is It?
As you already know, a babysitter is someone who’s paid to watch over children. Although the industry has been critically affected by the pandemic, childcare is a service that many working families rely on to help them supervise their children while they’re at work. Regardless of the age group you feel most comfortable supervising, there are going to be available opportunities if you’re interested in babysitting.
How Much Does It Pay?
The average rate seems to range from $16 to $20 per hour. However, rates can change depending on the age of the child you’re watching, how many children you’re watching, and whether or not they have special needs. Do your research to see what the average rates are in your area and what you can do to compete with other babysitters and nannies.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
Becoming a babysitter requires you to have a few key materials and skills that we haven’t required up to this point. Among some of the most essential tools are a car, a phone, and a safe, fun space for children to play (if you’re going to be watching them at your home). As a babysitter, you can also get a leg up on the competition by getting certified for CPR and other first-aid skills.
How Do I Get Started?
Advertising locally is certainly one way to get started. However, we recommend using a platform like Care.com where you can list your services and find families in need of them. Then, once you have some regular clients and can extend your reach, you may wish to set up your own website or find other ways to market yourself that give you full control over your profits.
Where Can It Lead?
Babysitting is generally a great side hustle, but not so much a business with direction and growth. If you want to go full-time, that certainly is a course that your business can take!
22. Dog Walker
What Is It?
A dog walker offers their services to help specific dogs get their daily dose of exercise and potty breaks. Generally, dog walkers will offer additional services like dog sitting or even training. Taking your first step can bring you in a wide variety of directions that you may enjoy if you love animals.
How Much Does It Pay?
A dog walker will make anywhere between $16 to $20 per hour for their work. Other services may pay more or less, depending on how much time you’re dedicating to these activities.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
Some great materials to have on hand include leashes, doggy bags, toys, beds, and other materials you’ll need to keep your charges safe and protected. It’s much better to be prepared than to be surprised!
How Do I Get Started?
As with babysitting, there are several platforms that can help you source work. We recommend using sites Wag! or Rover. This will help you build up a reputation and clientele you need to thrive if you decide to go full-time.
Where Can It Lead?
Dog walking may help you reveal a secret passion for animals. Then, you may decide to start your own kennel or dog training center in the future. When it comes to helping animals, who knows where it will take you?
23. Landlord
What Is It?
A landlord is someone who owns a building and rents it out to other individuals and families. Although this is generally considered an investment more than a business, the truth is that renting can be quite involved and lucrative, making it worth pursuing for those who have the extra space to rent out.
How Much Does It Pay?
There is no average on how much you can make due to the number of factors that play into your profits. That being said, with the world opening back up and people traveling again, now may be the perfect time to get started.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
As long as you have a livable, desirable home or space as well as a strong understanding of your legal responsibilities as a renter, you’re ready to get started.
How Do I Get Started?
Because this is a list of small-scale business ideas, we are not going to recommend going out and purchasing a home to start bringing in a profit. Instead, it’s best for you to already have a space ready to rent out. If you have that, you could either list for rent locally or rely on platforms like:
Where Can It Lead?
If you enjoy the profits you see from renting out your property, you may wish to take that money and reinvest it into your current space or even purchase new properties that you can rent out. Once you have a solid portfolio of properties, you’ll see why real estate is such a major focus for most investors!
24. Personal Trainer
What Is It?
A personal trainer is someone who helps others with their fitness journey. From exercise routines to nutrition, a personal trainer is heavily invested in their client’s progress, ensuring that they reach their fitness goals.
How Much Does It Pay?
A private personal trainer can expect to make around $35 per hour if they have the demand for their services. Some may make less, but it depends on where you’re located and what the fitness industry looks like that in that area.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
If you’re interested in becoming a personal trainer, you need to have your own gym space and equipment where you can work with your clients, a solid understanding of fitness, and, potentially, a certification. Some personal trainers may have a college degree, but this isn’t necessary to become a trainer.
How Do I Get Started?
The best way to get started as a personal trainer is to find a gym that will allow you to work there and begin building up your client base. Through hard work and commitment, you will be able to pick up new clients and continue your momentum.
Where Can It Lead?
Some trainers will stay personal trainers. Others, however, may start their own fitness company and sell products like brand merchandise, nutritional support, or even private label supplements. It depends on where you see yourself in the fitness community!
25. Housekeeper
What Is It?
A housekeeper is someone who’s responsible for tidying homes, whether those jobs or for current residents or homes that are being cleared out to sell or rent. This commonly overlooked occupation is a great way to create your own business that you can scale over time.
How Much Does It Pay?
Generally, you can expect around $20 per hour to offer your housekeeping services. Over time, however, you can start paying others to do the work while you handle the administrative aspects of your business.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
You’re going to need a dependable vehicle (or multiple, depending on the size of your team), the proper cleaning materials, cleaning solutions, and a portfolio of the work you’ve done as well as satisfied customer reviews. You’ll also need to find multiple marketing channels you can use to get word of your services out into the world.
How Do I Get Started?
Housekeeping can be hard because it’s a business that relies on more local marketing strategies. As such, you’ll likely want to turn to websites like Craigslist where you can post your services and even turn to posters to help get your service out there. The more effort you put into promotion, the more likely it is that you’ll find the right jobs.
Where Can It Lead?
Most housekeepers will start off on their own and build their own business where they can employ others and oversee operations. From there, you can make far more money and continue to grow your empire!
26. Landscaper or Gardener
What Is It?
A gardener or landscaper is a professional tasked with cleaning up front yards and backyards and making sure that they look stunning. A landscaper generally specializes in landscape architecture and design, so you may wish to pursue the second option if you enjoy some of the finer details that come with landscaping.
How Much Does It Pay?
In regards to both career paths, they tend to offer around $15 to $20 per hour. However, these earnings will differ depending on your demand, your brand, and how much you’re individually earning from your business when you bring on help.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
Although you could work on your own, you’ll most likely want to get started on your business right away by enlisting the help of others who are interested in your plan. You’re going to need gardening and landscaping tools, a reliable vehicle that can help you carry around your tools to jobs, and a strong background in gardening and landscaping to gain client trust.
How Do I Get Started?
As it was with our housekeeping business recommendation, you’re going to have to do the bulk of the local marketing through online job boards or through physical goods that you pass out to different houses. The more you hustle, the more you make!
Where Can It Lead?
Scaling your gardening or landscaping business can be an exciting process. With time and effort, who knows what type of work you’ll be doing or how much you’ll be making.
27. Flipper
What Is It?
A flipper is someone who looks for valuable products that they can resell for a profit or broken items they can restore to sell to their customers. Some flippers may choose to focus on smaller collectibles while others will look for major appliances.
How Much Does It Pay?
Your earnings are dependent upon the items you are reselling and the frequency and volume of your sales. Some people may decide to pursue this small-scale business idea part-time while others make a full-time job out of it.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
As a flipper, you’re going to need some available funds to purchase the products you’re going to resell. If you’re shopping at local estate sales and pick-up listings, you’re also going to need a reliable vehicle to help you carry items. If you’re serious about flipping, you’ll also need a storage space for any items you’re waiting to sell.
How Do I Get Started?
The good news for flippers everywhere is that there are local platforms to help you sell larger products to nearby customers as well as national platforms to sell your wares across the country. Some platforms to use for your business include:
- eBay
- Amazon
- OfferUp (LetGo was previously another platform that users could sell items locally through. However, LetGo was recently purchased by OfferUp.)
- Craigslist
- Facebook Marketplace
- 5Miles
Where Can It Lead?
Reselling businesses can be quite lucrative, especially if you have a great eye for deals that are worth far more than advertised. You may decide to open up your own online storefront where you focus on reselling local goods down the road!
- Related: How to Resell Textbooks
- Related: Best Items to Flip for a Profit
28. Event Planner
What Is It?
An event planner is a professional charged with coordinating events to ensure that they go smoothly once the scheduled day comes. As an event planner, you get to choose which types of gigs you want to do.
How Much Does It Pay?
Event planning earnings can be a little low, with the average coming in at about $16 per hour. However, it depends on what types of gigs you land and how much responsibility is required on your end to get everything together.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
As an event planner, you’re going to need strong organizational skills, a friendly personality, and a dedication to your craft. After all, you want to be the event planner that everyone wants to hire!
How Do I Get Started?
Finding the odd event planning gig here and there is not a sustainable way of doing things. Instead, turn your attention to platforms like:
Where Can It Lead?
As you start to pick up steam in your career, you can start working on crafting your own portfolio of events and happy customer testimonials to develop your own thriving event planning business.
29. Homemade Store Owner
What Is It?
Someone who creates their own goods can easily start a store where they can resell these products. If you have a knack for making excellent furniture, crafts, or other products, this could be a great small-scale business concept for you!
How Much Does It Pay?
How much you make depends on the quality of your products and the demand for them. Take a look at a few stores that match your interests and see how much revenue they’re bringing in monthly.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
You’re going to need all of the materials you would normally require to make your goods, an online or in-person storefront (it can be better to test out your ideas first before making a full commitment), and strong marketing skills to attract attention to your new store.
How Do I Get Started?
Even though we’ve listed this in the “in-person” section, it can be a bit much for some people to dive right into owning a brick-and-mortar store. Instead, you may want to use a platform like Etsy to test out your ideas and see how people respond to your products. You could also bring them to nearby craft fairs and other local events. Then, if you have the response you’re looking for, you can start working on a physical store.
Where Can It Lead?
Although there are many challenges physical sellers face, making the decision to open your own store with goods that you create can lead to an in-demand brand that you love creating new goods for!
30. Delivery Driver/Gig Worker
What Is It?
Have a car? Looking to make some money? In the modern-day, there are a host of gig economy apps you can tap into if you want to earn money on your own time. Whether you’re interested in food delivery, mystery shopping, or running errands, there’s no shortage of opportunities at your fingertips!
How Much Does It Pay?
How much you make will depend on the apps you use. Make sure that you do your research on available apps and calculate how much you could potentially make based on how much you want to work.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
In this case, all you’ll need is a car!
How Do I Get Started?
There are many different apps you can use in today’s world. Some worth mentioning include:
- Uber
- Lyft
- Fiverr
- TaskRabbit
- GrubHub
- Thumbtack
- HelloTech
- Postmates
- Dolly
- DoorDash
- Instacart
- Bellhop
- Shipt
- HopSkipDrive
- Amazon Flex
- Handy
- Drizly
- Saucey
- TaskEasy
Where Can It Lead?
Generally speaking, gig apps are a way to make money on your own time as an independent contractor. If you want to see growth, perhaps you can use these apps to work towards saving more money to pursue other entrepreneurial endeavors on this list!
- Related: 8 Best Delivery App Jobs To Make Money
- Related: 8 Ways to Run Errands for Money
31. Domain/Website Flipper
What Is It?
A domain or website flipper is someone who purchases domain names or builds websites with the intention of selling them in the future. The first requires less skill than the latter, but both are viable business opportunities for the right person!
How Much Does It Pay?
The amount that you can make is dependent upon how much value your domains or websites are worth. When it comes to domain names, you can make tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars with the right domain name purchases. If you’re flipping websites, you can expect double or triple the amount of revenue your website is bringing in on a yearly basis.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
If you plan on domain name flipping, all you’ll need is to buy the domain names that you anticipate selling later. If you’re planning on building entire websites, you’re going to need coding skills, digital marketing skills, and a great idea to work with.
How Do I Get Started?
If you wish to sell domain names, the best way to get started is to do research in in-demand niches to find domain names that future businesses may need. If you wish to flip websites, you will need to purchase a domain name, hosting, relevant themes and plugins, and begin implementing your marketing plan immediately.
Where Can It Lead?
Some people will pursue the two ideas above as a side hustle in addition to another job or business. However, some will see so much revenue that they decide to make it a full-time job. Where you decide to go depends on your individual needs and how well your efforts work for you!
32. Salesforce Consultant
What Is It?
Salesforce is a popular CRM that businesses rely on to help them stay on top of client interactions and boost their sales. Because the CRM has grown so rapidly, they’re constantly looking out for talent that can help them help businesses using the CRM. Although there’s a lot of upfront work, many Salesforce workers move onto freelancing as a way to achieve greater freedom.
How Much Does It Pay?
Salesforce consultants make $70,000 a year to start. By the end of three years, most Salesforce consultants are earning $130,000. If you decide to go freelance after this time, you could easily make over $100,000 with the right strategy. Overall, this is one very lucrative business idea to pursue for more technically inclined individuals.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
All you need to get started is a computer, a desire to learn, and ample time to work through the Salesforce certification courses.
How Do I Get Started?
Certification courses can be quite extensive, so it’s important that you have ample time to study for these on the side. You can see what these certification pathways and job opportunities look like here.
Where Can It Lead?
The only issue with this small-scale business idea is that you do have to start out in employment positions. However, with hard work and a strong grasp of the material you’re learning, you can break free and start working as a Salesforce consultant on your own time. If something happens, you always have a six-figure career to fall back on!
33. Photographer
What Is It?
A photographer is someone who takes pictures professionally. The type of photography that you decide to do will depend on what you’re comfortable shooting and where your talents lie, but there are always opportunities for professional photographers out there!
How Much Does It Pay?
Photographers can make anywhere from $25 per hour to $50 per hour. Remember, the quality of your work ultimately determines the type of clients that you attract!
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
As a photographer, you’re going to need a portfolio of work that prospective clients can view, all the necessary photography equipment to do your job well, and your own studio (if necessary).
How Do I Get Started?
A lot of your success as a photographer hinges on your marketing strategy. To get started, invest in your own website where you can show off your best work and work on getting on social media and producing content that will increase traffic to your website. Although you will be up against other photographers in your area, you should be able to stand out with the right branding.
Where Can It Lead?
Most photographers will go full-time on their business and own their own physical studio where people can go to get their pictures taken. However, your career as a photographer depends on what you’re most interested in shooting and how distinct your style is from other photographers.
34. Spiritual Service Provider
What Is It?
Some people may find themselves interested in small-scale businesses that fall outside of the mainstream. Take, for example, a spiritual service provider. Whether you’re interested in reiki, tarot card reading, mediumship, or other forms of spiritual services, there is a niche out there for you.
How Much Does It Pay?
It depends on the specific service that you want to offer. For example, if you’re interested in doing tarot readings for other individuals, you could make anywhere from $20 to $60 per hour. See what others are pricing in your chosen field to get a better idea of whether or not it’s the right fit for you.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
What you truly need is a strong passion for the craft you decide to pursue. Beyond that, you’re going to need a strong presence in the community as well as satisfied customer testimonials to help attract people to your business. You should also look into the legal requirements of setting up your business as spiritual services often have stricter requirements.
How Do I Get Started?
If this is something that interests you, start by seeing how others have managed to make a name for themselves in their chosen practice. Then, emulate that in your own efforts to build a following and land clients who find value in your services. Because this is such a small niche, it can be hard to stand out, but not impossible.
Where Can It Lead?
Some people love what they do and stick with it. Others, however, may grow their business by providing additional spiritual services on the side, with some opening up their own shop in the future. Take the first step and see which direction appeals to you as you move forward.
35. Electronics Repair Technician
What Is It?
Someone who repairs electronics professionally. Some may prefer to fix everyday devices like iPhones or Android phones while others will focus on more technical devices like laptops and desktop computers.
How Much Does It Pay?
On average, an electronics repair technician will make around $21 per hour. However, technicians with greater skill may be able to make around $36 per hour.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
You’re going to need your own space where you can accept broken electronics, common tools used in your repair trade, and a website and physical marketing materials.
How Do I Get Started?
If you want to thrive as an electronics repair technician, you should start by developing your own website and work on promoting your new business through physical resources. While it will take some time to get the attention you’re looking for, it will come.
Where Can It Lead?
When you first start, it will likely be a small-scale operation. However, as you grow your reputation and expand, you can afford your own business location and a team that can help you repair more products within a given time. With hard work, anything is possible!
36. Freelance Consultant
What Is It?
A freelance consultant is a professional with extensive experience in a certain field that lends their experience to others in order to help them thrive. For example, someone with experience managing multiple businesses might offer business consulting to growing companies in need of support.
How Much Does It Pay?
It depends on the type of consulting you want to do! Continuing with the above example, a business consultant could expect to make anywhere from $35 to $50 per hour with the work that they do. If you have skills you can apply to the lives of others, consulting may be for you!
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
The biggest thing to have is the skills that you advertise. Beyond that, you will largely be meeting with clients, working on their business plans with them, and guiding them towards success.
How Do I Get Started?
As a business consultant or (insert your favorite consulting service here), you’ll want to have your own website, as well as learn how to cold pitch potential clients so that you can attract their attention and encourage them to hire you. Your biggest advantages are your past experiences. Use them!
Where Can It Lead?
Consulting tends to be a full-time business concept. However, you could go the route of other consultants and create your own learning materials to teach others how they can follow in your footsteps if they want to do the same.
37. Music Tutor
What Is It?
A music tutor is someone who teaches other people how to play certain instruments. In comparison to the virtual tutoring opportunities listed above, music tutoring typically happens in a physical environment as trying to instruct over a webcam can be difficult.
How Much Does It Pay?
Music tutors earn, on average, approximately $37 per hour, with some states pushing profits to almost six figures per year. If you have a knack for music, this could be a great opportunity for you!
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
You’ll most likely need a space to work with students if you don’t decide to work from your home. You’ll also need your own teaching materials, your own instruments, and enough time throughout the day to work with your growing student population.
How Do I Get Started?
Take a look at music shops in your area and see if they offer rental space. More often than not, music stores will have rooms for tutors where they can work with their students. Once you have an established space, it’s just a matter of advertising!
Where Can It Lead?
Like consulting, music tutoring typically is either a side hustle or a full-time business. If you’re looking for something new after that, you can try to work on other musical projects.
38. Mobile App Developer
What Is It?
A mobile app developer is someone who creates those apps on your phone that you love playing with. Although development is typically very technical, there are ways to develop apps without coding, making it more accessible to people who have yet to acquire that level of skill.
How Much Does It Pay?
Mobile app developers can make a great deal of money doing what they enjoy. On the lower end of the spectrum, you can make at least $35 per hour. In some instances, you can make as much as $100 per hour. The better your skills and apps, the more you can make down the road.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
Arguably the most important skill to have is knowing how to code. However, if you can, there are resources out there that can help you build apps without coding. Just know that you may be more limited as to what you can accomplish with these platforms.
How Do I Get Started?
Getting started either begins with working on your app or finding clients who need support working on their own apps.
Where Can It Lead?
Some apps explode on the market, bringing in thousands or millions of dollars. Although not all apps will be a hit, the goal is to get your apps into the spotlight so that you can benefit from all of the hard work that you’ve put into them.
39. Artist
What Is It?
An artist is someone who creates works of art with the intention of finding buyers. Due to the many advancements in technology, artists can work with physical mediums or digital mediums to produce their work.
How Much Does It Pay?
It’s hard to get a clear reading on the average amount that artists make because there are too many factors regarding how much their work will sell for. Instead, focus on how much time you put into your work and how much you want to price it at. Then, adjust from there.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
If you prefer creating digital art, you’re going to need the tech and programs required to get the most out of your creations. If you prefer physical art, you’ll need all the physical tools to create your art.
How Do I Get Started?
You should look for platforms like DeviantArt where you can post and sell your art if you want to. If, however, you want to work with others, you’ll need to start pitching potential clients with your online portfolio.
Where Can It Lead?
Some artists will find success doing what they love. Others may decide to leverage their talents for other companies. No matter which option is right for you, becoming an artist can be very fulfilling for creative types.
40. Translator
What Is It?
A translator is tasked with providing translations of one language into another. Some translator jobs will allow you to act as an interpreter for others while some jobs will require you to translate one text into another text.
How Much Does It Pay?
The average earnings of a translator tend to fall somewhere around $20 per hour. However, some translators earn far more if they speak a language that is in demand with a lesser supply of available translators.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
Complete fluency in speaking and writing your chosen language is a must as a translator or interpreter. Beyond that, you’ll need the materials for the physical or digital job that you choose.
How Do I Get Started?
Although we’ve listed this job in the physical job section, starting digitally may be a better option as you’ll be able to find more opportunities and gain the experience you need to build a strong resume. Some platforms where you can find translator opportunities include:
Where Can It Lead?
With the right hustle, you can easily start developing your own client base of companies and individuals needing your translation services, eventually leading to a full-time business.
Unique Business Ideas
There are numerous small-scale business ideas that can often be overlooked when other people are covering ways to break away from the daily grind and create something of your very own. To finish off this guide, let’s take a look at a few unique business ideas that may appeal to you in this day and age!
41. In-Home/Mobile Dog Groomer
What Is It?
An in-home or mobile dog groomer helps dog owners keep their dog perfectly groomed without having to go to a traditional grooming location. This is perfect for dog owners who have animals that may get too nervous in other settings and need one-on-one attention and care.
How Much Does It Pay?
On average, most dog groomers make around $20 per hour. However, this data tends to reflect individual dog owners. Owning your own business, you can expect to make a lot more, especially since you offer a unique service that differentiates itself from your competition.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
As a dog groomer, the most important thing to have is the proper licensing and certification. After you get that, you’re going to need tools to help you groom your clients’ dogs and safety gear to ensure that they don’t get hurt during the process.
How Do I Get Started?
Some people will go the traditional route and work in a salon until they can start building up a significant client base. Others will venture out into the world and start working on their own business immediately. If you choose the latter, it’s important that you have your own website with images of past clients as well as testimonials to prove your talent.
Where Can It Lead?
When done right, you can end up owning either a local business or even start expanding to other states to bring in revenue. Given that dog owners are always going to need grooming support, you’re guaranteed to never run out of clients.
42. Subscription Box Seller
What Is It?
Subscription boxes have been extremely popular in recent years. A subscription box seller is someone who puts together a box of themed items and sends them out to their customers on a monthly basis (or similar frequency).
How Much Does It Pay?
The great thing about starting a subscription box service is that the potential is far greater than your average business. For example, if you run a coffee subscription box business and you price your box at $20 with 1,000 subscribers, you’re making $20,000 a month (minus the costs of running your business). The more people you can attract and retain, the more money you can make.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
You’re going to need the necessary permits needed to run your business. Once you have those, you’re going to need to find a way to source your goods for all of your monthly boxes. You’ll also need a website and social media accounts to start marketing your wares.
How Do I Get Started?
The most important aspect of this business is to find a demand and stand out from your competition. Ask around and see what people would be interested in purchasing on a monthly basis. This initial idea is what will carry your business, even if there are adjustments made later.
Where Can It Lead?
All you have to do to see where it can go is look at other subscription boxes like Fabletics or HelloFresh, just to name a few examples!
43. At-Home Baker/Caterer
What Is It?
Are you a lover of the culinary arts? If so, the good news is that you don’t have to own a restaurant to do what you’re passionate about. An at-home baker/meal prepper/caterer does the bulk of the work at home then delivers their goods to their customers.
How Much Does It Pay?
Because this is such an extensive concept, we can’t give you a clear picture of how much you could make. Instead, see what others in your area or state are making with similar services and determine what you would need to charge in order to compete with them. Remember that the quality of your food plays a role as well!
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
In this role, you’re going to need to have reliable transportation (potentially with temperature control to preserve certain dishes), all of the cooking and baking tools you need at home, a sizable kitchen, and plenty of time!
How Do I Get Started?
You can get started by creating your own website with examples of the dishes you prepare as well as past client testimonials. It may take some time to build a reputation, but it’s more than possible given time.
Where Can It Lead?
Over time and with practice, you may wish to shift your business over to a physical location aside from your house. However, it’s up to you how far you want to scale your business once things get started.
44. Handyperson
What Is It?
A handyperson is a professional tasked with taking care of repairs or projects in a client’s home. Depending on your skills and expertise, your version of a handyperson may differ from other versions that you see out there.
How Much Does It Pay?
A handyperson may expect to make around $60 to $70 per hour. However, it depends on the scope of the project and the skills required.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
You’re going to need strong expertise in your chosen craft as well as nearby stores where you can purchase all the materials you’ll need for a project. As a handyperson, you’ll also need reliable transportation and the tools that you need to get the job done right.
How Do I Get Started?
Building up your own client base can be difficult. However, unlike other recommendations on this list, there are platforms you can use to get your start. Just a few recommendations include Thumbtack, Handy, and TaskRabbit.
Where Can It Lead?
Once you’re able to offer positive customer reviews and visuals of the projects you’ve completed, you can break away from agencies and platforms to start your own handyperson business. Who knows? You may even hire others to work for you!
45. Voiceover Actor/Narrator
What Is It?
Voice actors get paid to offer their voice talent to various projects. Some voice actors may choose to work with projects like audiobooks or commercials while others may pursue gigs like TV shows or movies.
How Much Does It Pay?
With the right reputation and amount of work, the average voice actor can expect to bring in around $47 per hour for their work. After a few years, many will surpass six figures.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
Among the most important materials to have are high-end recording equipment and a space that is conducive to your work. As long as you have those items and the ambition to land clients, you’ll be all set to go.
How Do I Get Started?
You’ll likely want to tap into platforms like Fiverr or many of the other freelancing platforms that we’ve recommended above. The projects that you’ll be able to get into may not be so great at first, but you can start earning more and finding better clients over time.
Where Can It Lead?
If you perfect your craft and start to find more prestigious jobs over time, you can easily make voice acting a full-time business for yourself.
46. Real Estate Agent
What Is It?
A real estate agent is someone who’s tasked with helping others find the home of their dreams and closing the deal. Real estate agents need to be highly experienced in the industry to provide the best possible results.
How Much Does It Pay?
An agent who has gone freelance can expect to make around $40 an hour for their work.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
Both real estate experience and the proper licensing and certifications are a must for this career path. Many people have realized the potential value of real estate agent work, so competition is fierce.
How Do I Get Started?
Dive deeper into the advice that experienced real estate agents have to offer. There are many different milestones you will have to hit in order to work towards becoming a real estate agent, but there are so many helpful hints out there that you can leverage to your advantage to reach your goal more efficiently.
Where Can It Lead?
Some people may love the interactions that come with being a real estate agent, while others may decide they want to expand and begin investing heavily in properties to maximize their income. Regardless of what appeals most to you, there is an abundance of opportunity in the real estate sector that you can take advantage of.
47. Freelance Accountant/Bookkeeper
What Is It?
A freelance accountant or bookkeeper offers financial services to individuals and businesses who need help tracking their income and planning for financial success and stability in the future.
How Much Does It Pay?
Both bookkeepers and accountants will make anywhere from $40 to $60 per hour for their services.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
As long as you have your own computer and the necessary programs to help you do your job, you’re prepared. However, most freelance accountants will have the necessary certifications, degrees, and prior experience needed to establish trust with their clients.
How Do I Get Started?
If you know that you can start attracting clients right away, we recommend using the freelance platforms we’ve listed in previous business recommendations to get started.
Where Can It Lead?
The most appealing aspect of accounting and bookkeeping is that it’s so lucrative. Whether you decide to freelance moving forward or establish a team with a physical location, there’s no way you can’t turn this into a thriving small-scale business for yourself.
48. Car Washer/Detailer
What Is It?
A car washer or detailing specialist offers cleaning services to help clients get their automobiles in top shape.
How Much Does It Pay?
This is another type of small-scale business that’s hard to tack down earnings for. However, there are many hand car washes and car detailers that earn over six figures in revenue annually.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
Having a dedicated space where you can do your work is the most crucial aspect of your business. You’ll also need running water and cleaning materials.
How Do I Get Started?
You can start by advertising your services online and finding clients who will come to you or clients who you can go to. As you start to earn more, you can then focus on finding a stable location where you can do all of your work.
Where Can It Lead?
A passion for automobiles can go in many different directions. Perhaps you’ll open up your own luxury car wash. Maybe you’ll discover that you’re more into repairing instead of detailing. Take the first step to find out!
49. Mobile Notary
What Is It?
Notaries are responsible for witnessing the signing of important documents, ensuring that the signer understands the contents of the document, and making sure that they fully agree to the document they’re signing.
How Much Does It Pay?
Most notaries will make around $20 to $30 per hour.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
In order to become a notary, you need to meet all the requirements of the state you live in, submit an application, potentially pass examinations in order to receive your certification, and purchase the necessary notary supplies. The requirements can vary from state to state, however.
How Do I Get Started?
Reach out to your state government or find other notaries in your state to see what the process looks like. Once you have a roadmap of what it takes to complete your notary certification, it’s just a matter of working through the steps.
Where Can It Lead?
Notary public demand is on the rise, making this the perfect time to become a notary. If you’re looking for an in-demand business that’s relatively easy to start, this may be the right one for you!
50. Food Truck Owner
What Is It?
A food truck owner takes their restaurant on the road. Although you may not see as many of these around you, there are plenty of festivals and cities where food trucks abound.
How Much Does It Pay?
Love making food? Good news! Running a food truck can bring in anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000 a month on average. Additionally, running a food truck is far less expensive than running your own brick-and-mortar restaurant.
What Materials/Skills Do You Need to Get Started?
As a food truck owner, you will first and foremost need your own food truck capable of holding and serving food! You will also need the proper cooking equipment and permits to run your business in your state.
How Do I Get Started?
Set aside some time to do some research into what food truck setup looks like. Remember that this is supposed to be a small-scale business idea, so you’ll want to find ways to reduce the upfront cost and build upon your ideas later.
Where Can It Lead?
In the beginning, you’ll likely be somewhat underwhelmed with your food truck. However, as you bring in more customers and earnings, you can focus on upgrading your vehicle as well as the equipment within. If you ever feel like you want to settle down, you can purchase your own building to start a brick-and-mortar restaurant.
Your Next Business Idea Is Right Around the Corner
Starting your own business doesn’t just provide you with personal and professional freedom but financial freedom as well. If you’re ready to take control of the way you work and start doing something that you love, use the 50 best small-scale business ideas offered above to discover the next step in your journey!
