23 individual business ideas for novice entrepreneurs Debt Guru

In the past few years, many businesses have started, both online and offline.

Online, I sold DVDs on eBay (yes, I’m old), imported some baby products from China to sell on Amazon using FBA, sold a few budget planners on Etsy, had a YouTube channel, and sold clips Video for news outlets, I freelance on Fiverr, and of course I run this blog you’re reading now.

Offline, I have organized events, concerts and owned my own bar/nightclub. That bar was the only business I didn’t run as a solo entrepreneur. You’ve brought in a lot of money, but you’ve probably heard advice about never opening a restaurant, bar, or anything similar. From my experience, I can confirm that this is true, and here you can read about my experience running a nightclub and understand the challenges that come with it.

Some of these companies made me six figures, while others failed completely. Not because there’s no money in those industries, but because I didn’t execute them well.

Maybe I wasn’t persistent enough, or maybe I wanted too much too quickly, or maybe I wasn’t cut out for the job. As my father always said: No matter what job you’re in, you’ll make money if you’re better than average, and if you’re the best, you’ll be a millionaire.

Besides the ones I’ve mentioned, I’ve thought about starting some others, and there’s a full list of ideas below. We hope you find something here that will inspire you to start your own business.

Becoming a solopreneur may be one of the best decisions you’ve ever made. Starting your own business is not easy, especially when you are alone.

To help you, I’ve rounded up small, low-cost business ideas you can start today.

1. Blogger

I started this blog with $100, and six years later, I’m running four sites as true small businesses that started small.

It’s not something you can start in less than six months, but with dedication and perseverance, it can lead to a successful on-site freelance business. That is, Dollar Sanity is now consistently making $10,000 a month.

Although it is not easy to start a blog, it is very cheap to start a blog. Hosting a blog with a company like HostGator is affordable. Its price is only $2.75 per month.

Do you need some help creating a website? Hire someone on Fiverr for $50 to do all the work for you.

By the way, if you need any help with anything else, just send me a message. I will do my best to help.

Our favorite side hustle

Download these apps to earn extra money in your free time. Get paid to complete surveys or take photos around your city.

2. Handyman services

As a handyman, you can provide services such as home repair, maintenance, and renovation. From fixing leaky faucets to remodeling rooms, your expertise can handle a wide range of tasks, making you the go-to person for home and business owners looking for reliable help.

3. Bicycle repair

Bicycle repair is a specialized but valuable business, especially for cycling enthusiasts. If you have a knack for repairing bikes, this could be your calling. From simple tune-ups to complex repairs, your bike repair service can meet the needs of riders looking to keep their two-wheeler in excellent condition. It is a small, niche company that is in demand.

4. E-commerce

Many will say this ship has sailed, but it has not. I recommend flipping some things on Facebook Marketplaces or sites like OfferUp. You can resell items on eBay as well to learn how to do so. When you gain some experience, I suggest you start your own brand selling via Amazon FBA.

5. Personal stylist

Personal stylist services are all about helping clients improve their sense of fashion and personal style. If you have a flair for fashion and an eye for trends, this business is perfect for you.

Providing fashion advice, wardrobe revamps, and shopping assistance to individuals looking to improve their image and boost their confidence. It is a creative and rewarding project for those who are passionate about fashion.

6. Event planning

Event planning is a dynamic business that revolves around organizing and coordinating events, parties, and gatherings. If you’re detail-oriented and have a knack for creating memorable experiences, this could be the place for you.

From weddings to corporate events, your event planning service can handle everything from logistics to decor, ensuring clients’ events go ahead without a hitch. It’s a fast-paced and exciting small scale business.

See how Alan Katz earned $750,000 last year working as a wedding receptionist.

7. Facebook Ads Manager

A Facebook Ads Manager specializes in creating, optimizing and monitoring advertising campaigns on the Facebook platform. They use data-driven strategies to target specific audiences, analyze ad performance, and increase ROI for companies and brands.

With their expertise in ad placement, audience segmentation, and ad creatives, they play a crucial role in driving traffic, engagement, and conversions through Facebook ads.

8. Mobile car wash

Owning a car is essential, and keeping it clean can be a challenge. This is where a mobile car wash comes into play. With this small company, your services are all about convenience. You can provide a car wash service to your customers, saving them time and effort.

From a quick exterior rinse to a comprehensive interior clean, the range of services we offer is flexible and entirely up to you. If you are good with cars and have a flexible schedule, starting a mobile car wash may be the perfect business opportunity for you.

You can also expand your services by offering additional options such as waxing or detailing, providing a comprehensive solution to your customers’ car care needs.

9. Email marketing specialist

An email marketing specialist is responsible for planning, creating, and implementing email marketing campaigns. They focus on building and nurturing subscriber lists, crafting engaging email content, and improving email deliverability.

Their goal is to drive customer engagement, increase brand loyalty, and generate revenue through effective email marketing strategies. By analyzing data and metrics, they continually improve campaigns to achieve better results.

10. Garden care

Lawn care can be an excellent side activity for teens looking to make some extra money while getting some fresh air.

With a lawnmower, basic gardening tools, and a strong work ethic, teens can provide services like mowing, trimming, and lawn maintenance to neighbors and local residents. It’s a great way for young entrepreneurs to learn valuable skills and make a little money on the side.

11. Cleaning services

This is one of those businesses that never fails. Cleaning services include a wide range of opportunities, from residential cleaning to commercial cleaning.

If you are detail-oriented and enjoy tidying up spaces, you can offer services such as house cleaning, office cleaning, or specialty cleaning such as post-construction cleaning. Businesses and homeowners alike are looking for reliable cleaners to keep their spaces clean.

12. Handicrafts

Whether you excel at crafting jewelry, artwork, or unique home decor, there is a market for handcrafted goods. If you’re interested, you should check out our post on the best things to sell on Etsy.

13. Social media management

Businesses cannot ignore the power of social media. Social media management helps them connect with their audience and grow online.

Showcase your expertise in handling social media accounts and turning posts into profits. If you are a social media expert, this is a profitable business idea for beginners.

14. Graphic design

Graphic design is not just about creating visual elements; It is one of the best ways to make money on Fiverr. If you have a creative flair and the ability to design logos, marketing materials and website graphics, you are in demand.

Companies and individuals often look for talented graphic designers on Fiverr to create eye-catching images for their projects.

15. Virtual assistance

Virtual assistance is about providing remote support to businesses in need. If you’re organized and efficient, you can provide services such as email management, scheduling, and data entry to clients looking for remote assistance.

As a virtual assistant, you have the flexibility to work from anywhere and meet the needs of clients globally.

16. Language lessons

Language teaching is a fulfilling job for those who are passionate about language.

Whether you are fluent in a foreign language or fluent in English, you can provide language-specific tutoring services. Teaching grammar, conversation and cultural insights to students eager to expand their linguistic horizons.

17. Pet sitting

If you’re an animal lover, this could be your one-man job. Many pet owners ask for help caring for their animal friends when they can’t be there.

This role involves feeding, exercising, and providing companionship to dogs, cats, and other pets. It’s an opportunity to turn your passion for animals into a rewarding career.

18. Personal chef or catering

Many people do not have time to cook for their guests. Personal chefs create customized menus and prepare meals in clients’ homes, while catering services create delicious dishes for special occasions.

19. Babysitting

If you have a good way with children, babysitting may be the perfect business to start with $500 or less. Many parents need trustworthy caregivers to take care of their children while they are away.

Babysitters ensure the safety and well-being of young people, participate in recreational activities, serve meals, and create a nurturing environment.

20. Airbnb host

If your landlord or homeowner’s association allows it, you can start a small business by renting your house or apartment to travelers. Becoming an Airbnb host allows you to earn money from guests searching for accommodations.

21. Food delivery driver

It is very easy to start as a food delivery driver. All you need is a car and a driving license. Sign up with some app like Doordash or several, and you’re good to go.

If you prefer grocery delivery, you should sign up for some apps like Instacart.

22. Fitness coach

Fitness instructors lead exercise classes, provide personal training, and provide guidance on nutrition and wellness.

Whether working out at the gym, leading outdoor fitness sessions, or teaching virtual classes, fitness trainers empower individuals to achieve their health and fitness goals. It is good individual work for those who are dedicated to improving the well-being of others.

23. Selling courses

You can make money on Skillshare by sharing your expertise with a global audience. Skillshare is a platform where you can create and sell courses on a wide range of topics, from art and design to business and technology.

As a tutor, you can earn revenue through student registrations and premium referrals.

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