If you’re planning to start a business, it’s important to think about whether your idea addresses a real need in people’s lives or their work habits. Identifying a gap in the market and targeting the right audience could mean you’ve discovered a promising business opportunity. But how do you come up with great small business ideas to get started? To inspire you, here’s a list of 26 great business ideas that can lead you to success, whether you’re looking for great online business ideas or innovative startup business ideas.
26 great small business ideas
This list of 26 great business ideas will help you kick off your entrepreneurial journey. Many of these ideas only require partnering with a credit card processing service, allowing you to minimize upfront costs and start quickly.
Keep reading to explore a variety of great small business ideas, great online business ideas, and great startup business ideas that could set you on the path to success.
1. Online reselling
If you’re passionate about fashion and enjoy sales, starting an online reseller business could be a great business idea. While it requires time, dedication, and a keen sense of style, you can begin as a side hustle and gradually grow it into a full-time resale business. You can start by selling unwanted clothing and items on platforms like Poshmark and Mercari, then expand to launching your own resale website. This approach is one of many great online business ideas that can turn your passion into profit.
Launch Your Business
Starting a business can be challenging, but we’re here to support you every step of the way! Explore our valuable resources for everything you need to successfully build your business from the ground up, whether you’re pursuing great small business ideas, great startup business ideas, or even great online business ideas.
How to Start a Business: Step by Step
Get a clear roadmap for turning great business ideas into a reality by following these essential steps.
11 Key Things to Do Before Starting a Business
Ensure your startup success by checking off these crucial tasks before you launch your great small business idea.
Tax and Business Forms You’ll Need to Start a Business
Stay compliant with all necessary tax forms and paperwork as you bring your great startup business idea to life.
Startup Costs: How Much Cash Will You Need?
Discover the financial requirements for launching great online business ideas and keeping your startup costs manageable.
20 Mistakes to Avoid When Starting a Business
Learn from the most common errors to ensure your great business idea starts off on the right foot.
Consider exploring estate sales and flea markets for hidden treasures at affordable prices, then reselling them online for a profit. With careful searching, you can build a substantial inventory of well-preserved items while keeping overhead costs low. This approach is one of many great startup business ideas, allowing you to start small and grow into a thriving online resale business.
2. Pet sitting
Around 70% of U.S. families own a pet, making pet sitting a great small business idea for those looking to offer peace of mind to pet owners when they’re away. As a pet sitter, you’ll care for your clients’ dogs, cats, or other pets in their homes, ensuring they’re fed, given water, played with, and (for dogs) taken on walks. Keeping clients updated on their pets’ well-being is essential for maintaining trust and satisfaction.
If you have other online sources of income that require just a laptop and internet connection, pet sitting can be an ideal side business. Many pet owners will be happy to let you work on your laptop while caring for their pets, enabling you to manage two income streams at once—an excellent example of combining great small business ideas and great online business ideas.
3. T-shirt printing
If you have a flair for fashion (or a good sense of humor), starting a T-shirt printing business could be a fantastic venture. You can create your own unique designs or license existing ones to screenprint onto blank tees. With enough space for a T-shirt printing setup, acquiring the necessary tools to get started is straightforward. This type of business not only allows you to express your creativity but also fits well among great small business ideas and great startup business ideas in the online marketplace.
Did You Know?
T-shirt printing can be a great e-commerce business. You can allow customers to place online orders and sell T-shirts in bulk. This way, you can sell to customers around the country and even the world.
4. Cleaning service
If you enjoy cleaning, you can easily transform that passion into a thriving business. With a few staff members, a collection of cleaning supplies, and reliable transportation, you can offer cleaning services to homeowners, apartment complexes, and commercial properties. Most cleaning services charge between $25 to $50 per hour, making it a straightforward business model with relatively low overhead. All you need is careful planning, dedication, and effective marketing to attract customers.
To set yourself apart from other cleaning services, consider offering premium options such as floor waxing or exterior power-washing for an additional fee. These additional services could give your new cleaning service a competitive edge over more established companies that may struggle to maintain a personal touch due to their larger client lists, making this a great startup business idea.
5. Online teaching
The growing demand for online education has created exciting opportunities for entrepreneurs. As an online venture, you can select any subject you’re knowledgeable about and teach a course from anywhere in the world. If you lack advanced expertise in a specific area, consider teaching English as a foreign language to students overseas. This option not only allows you to tap into a global market but also stands out as one of the great online business ideas for those looking to start a rewarding teaching journey.
6. Online bookkeeping
Similar to education, advancements in technology enable many bookkeeping services to be conducted online. If you’re an accountant or bookkeeper seeking the freedom and autonomy of running your own business, now is the perfect time to leverage modern technology and start your own online bookkeeping service. This venture not only fits well within great small business ideas but also caters to the growing demand for remote financial management solutions.
7. Consulting
If you’re knowledgeable and passionate about a specific topic—such as business, social media, marketing, human resources, leadership, or communication—consulting can be a highly lucrative option. You can start your own consulting business independently and gradually expand by hiring other consultants as your business grows. This model not only offers flexibility but also aligns with great startup business ideas, allowing you to leverage your expertise while helping others succeed.
8. Medical courier service
If you have a reliable vehicle and strong time management skills, starting your own courier service—specifically a medical courier service—could be an excellent business idea. As a driver, you would be responsible for transporting essential medical items such as lab specimens, prescription drugs, and equipment. You can begin your courier business independently and later hire additional drivers to expand your operations. This venture not only fulfills a vital need in the healthcare sector but also stands out among great startup business ideas, offering a pathway to success.
Did You Know?
The healthcare industry is experiencing significant growth, indicating strong job stability for medical courier services. Your business can cater to a diverse array of clients, including hospitals, nursing homes, laboratories, and private practices. This expanding market presents a promising opportunity for those looking to explore great startup business ideas within the healthcare sector.
9. App development
If you have expertise and experience in technology, pursuing a career in app development could be an excellent choice. With smartphones becoming essential accessories for many Americans, the demand for mobile apps continues to soar. Additionally, the rising popularity of virtual reality software has created a growing need for VR app development. This field offers a wealth of opportunities, making it one of the great online business ideas for tech-savvy entrepreneurs looking to capitalize on current trends.
10. Transcription service
If you have a good ear and can type quickly, starting a transcription service could offer you the opportunity to work from home with a flexible schedule. There is a particularly high demand for medical transcription services, especially as voice recognition technology becomes more prevalent for healthcare provider dictation.
You can choose to accept as few or as many transcription jobs as you like, making this flexibility ideal for those who aren’t ready to dive in full-time or who want to maintain their current day job. To enhance your business prospects and justify higher rates, consider becoming a certified transcriptionist and exploring various specialties.
Medical transcriptionists typically charge between 6 to 14 cents per line, which can add up quickly. The standard turnaround time for transcription work is 24 hours, so staying organized is crucial. However, the ability to start small and scale up as you’re ready makes this an attractive option among great small business ideas. Best of all, the startup costs and overhead are minimal—you’ll just need a computer, appropriate software, and a secure messaging service.
(Tip)
While a medical transcription license isn’t mandatory, obtaining one can significantly enhance your business’s competitive edge and help expand your customer base to include larger companies. Many service providers prefer transcriptionists with training from a certified program, making it a valuable asset in establishing yourself in this growing field of great small business ideas.
11. Professional organizing
Are you searching for a small business idea that can truly spark joy? Consider becoming a professional organizer, much like Marie Kondo, and help people declutter and simplify their lives. In today’s materialistic society, many individuals are eager to downsize and regain control over their possessions. As minimalism gains popularity, people often struggle to let go of items they’ve held onto for years. A key part of being a professional organizer involves assisting clients in developing effective systems for downsizing.
If you’re a naturally organized person who enjoys creating functional and comfortable spaces, you could excel at coaching others to achieve the same. Clients will pay for your expertise in devising methods to minimize their belongings and maintain an organized environment. To promote your business, consider asking clients for permission to take before-and-after photos of the areas you’ve organized. These images can help you create a portfolio to showcase on social media, attracting more clients and establishing your reputation as a go-to resource for great small business ideas.
12. Freelance copywriting or content writing
If you’re a natural wordsmith with some marketing knowledge, establishing yourself as a freelance copywriter or content writer could be an excellent small business idea. Whether you specialize in writing blogs, web content, or press releases, many companies are willing to pay for your expertise. Boost your value by leveraging SEO techniques to help clients develop strategies around specific keywords that their target audience is using in online searches.
Freelance copywriting is a fantastic business to pursue because you can work from anywhere with an internet connection. This flexibility allows you to operate from the comfort of your own home or even while traveling. If you build a strong network and receive referrals from satisfied clients, you could turn freelance writing into a full-time career, making it one of the great online business ideas for aspiring entrepreneurs.
13. Home care service
A background in care and hospitality can be invaluable when supporting housebound seniors who require in-home assistance—a service that is only expected to grow in demand. According to the Population Reference Bureau, the population aged 85 and older is projected to triple from 6.7 million to 19 million between 2020 and 2060. Additionally, the number of centenarians (those over age 100) has already reached nearly 600,000, many of whom will need care and support, often within their own homes.
Fortunately, you don’t need a healthcare background to help seniors and build a successful business; however, those skills are certainly in demand. Many seniors require assistance with various tasks, such as running errands or handling home repairs. With some experience, you could expand your business to help seniors transition from their homes to assisted living facilities. This could include services like packing, transporting, setting up, or storing their furniture and possessions, making it a rewarding and impactful venture among great small business ideas.
Key Takeaway
Senior home care is a rapidly growing industry. As a senior care provider, you can tap into this expanding market by offering seniors premium care and assisting them with everyday tasks. This business opportunity not only fulfills a vital need but also positions you among the great startup business ideas for those looking to make a meaningful impact.
14. Translation service
According to research from IBISWorld, the translation services industry experienced a decline in 2020, similar to many sectors; however, IBISWorld forecasts a “major uptick” in the industry over the next five years. This anticipated growth is not surprising, as the internet has connected entrepreneurs in various countries with English-speaking markets and vice versa.
This trend has created significant opportunities for multilingual speakers to offer specialized services, such as document translation and localizing website information for use in different markets. If you are fluent in multiple languages, you could successfully carve out a niche in the translation services industry, making it one of the great small business ideas for language enthusiasts.
15. Digital marketing
As the importance of the internet continues to grow, it becomes increasingly challenging for businesses to cut through the online clutter and effectively market themselves. Digital marketing services are always in demand, yet many small and midsize companies prefer to outsource these tasks rather than invest in a costly in-house team. If you have expertise in SEO, content marketing, pay-per-click advertising, web development, or social media management, you could seize this business opportunity and enjoy the flexibility of working from home.
Digital marketing is a crucial component of any brand’s success, requiring you to stay responsive to developments in your clients’ marketing strategies. Social media management, for instance, involves monitoring comments and messages around the clock rather than simply scheduling posts and adopting a set-it-and-forget-it approach. If you thrive on strategizing and meticulously implementing marketing plans, a digital marketing business could be an ideal fit for you. Additionally, consider exploring affiliate marketing as another avenue within the digital marketing landscape, making it one of the great online business ideas for aspiring entrepreneurs.
16. Owning a food truck
Food trucks come in all shapes and sizes, offering a diverse array of snacks and cuisines. If you have a passion for cooking, consider taking your favorite style of food on the road and selling your culinary creations directly to hungry customers. While you’ll be working hard, you’ll be in an environment you love and have the opportunity to connect with people who share your interests.
Starting a food truck is a fantastic small business idea for entrepreneurs with a culinary flair. The overhead and maintenance costs of a food truck are significantly lower than those of a traditional restaurant, plus you enjoy the added benefit of mobility. This flexibility allows you to explore various locations and events, maximizing your reach to potential customers.
17. Lawn care service
If you grew up with a lawn, chances are your parents had you maintain it. For many, lawn care feels like a chore, but for others, it provides a sense of peace and serenity. Working outdoors to tame and beautify the natural landscape can be a rewarding experience. Plus, since many people find this work tedious, it can also be quite profitable.
Starting a lawn care service requires little more than some basic equipment, a trailer, and potentially some staff, depending on your client base and the size of the jobs. You can expand a small lawn care service into a full landscaping company by offering premium services and building a reputation as a brand known for delivering thorough work with a smile. If you enjoy working outdoors and have a passion for creating elegant landscapes, this could be the perfect small business idea for you.
18. Rideshare driving
If starting your own business feels daunting or too risky, consider becoming a rideshare driver as a great small business idea. The overhead and responsibilities of running the company fall on the rideshare service, giving you the freedom to work as much or as little as you like. Rideshare applications like Uber and Lyft enable people to start lucrative side hustles that require little more than a willingness to drive others to their destinations and engage in occasional friendly conversation.
As a rideshare driver, you enjoy the independence of a small business owner without the heavy workload of managing behind-the-scenes logistics. If other business ideas seem to require too much effort or upfront capital, ridesharing could be an excellent way to dip your toes into the world of entrepreneurship while generating income on your own terms.
19. Real estate
For many people, navigating the housing market can be overwhelming. As a real estate agent, you have the opportunity to help clients find their dream homes at prices that fit their budgets. In many states, becoming a real estate agent requires only a few months of classes followed by passing an exam. However, keep in mind that even with certification, strong social skills are essential for success in this field. If you’re not a people person, this may not be the ideal path for you.
Real estate can be a rewarding career that allows you to make a significant impact on your clients’ lives, making it one of the great startup business ideas for those who thrive on interpersonal connections.
20. Graphic design
Corporations, small businesses, and sole proprietors all require eye-catching promotional materials, yet not everyone has the artistic vision to create them. If you have a flair for design and can organize content into visually appealing formats, starting a graphic design business could be an excellent fit for you. You can provide a range of services, including flyers, digital ads, posters, and other engaging visual materials.
Graphic design requires minimal physical tools beyond a laptop and a desk, making it an accessible venture among great online business ideas. With the right skills and creativity, you can help clients enhance their brand presence while enjoying the flexibility and freedom of running your own business.
21. Drop shipping
Not all companies that sell goods store their products on-site. In the drop-shipping model, e-commerce entrepreneurs partner with a third party to fulfill all orders. This third party is typically a wholesale retailer or a warehouse operation that manages inventory and shipping.
The minimal inventory and tools required for drop-shipping make it an especially great startup business idea for those concerned about overhead costs and the need for physical space. By eliminating the need to hold inventory, you can focus on marketing and growing your online business while leveraging the resources of established suppliers.
22. Personal training
If the gym feels like your second home, consider sharing your expertise by becoming a personal trainer. You can offer in-home training sessions tailored to each client’s fitness level, helping them reach their personal fitness goals. Additionally, you can assist clients in building customized nutrition and meal plans to complement their physical objectives.
Many personal trainers kickstart their client acquisition process by creating social media pages that showcase their gym experience, along with motivational quotes to inspire potential clients. While obtaining a certification can help expand your customer base and lend credibility to your services, it is not a legal requirement to start this type of business. This flexibility makes personal training a great small business idea for fitness enthusiasts looking to help others.
23. Resume Writing
People are continually applying for jobs, whether they’re looking to make a career shift, increase their pay, or switch work environments. Most job applications require candidates to submit resumes that detail their professional background. As a resume writer, you can help job applicants create resumes that stand out from the competition.
In addition to crafting resumes, you can assist clients in developing cover letters and portfolios that showcase their best work. The great news is that you don’t need any special schooling to become a resume writer—just some basic organizing and proofreading skills. If you understand what makes resumes appear professional and attractive to employers, you’re already well on your way to starting this rewarding small business.
24. Host a Podcast
Podcasts have surged in popularity, with over 100 million active podcast listeners in the U.S. alone. One of the great online business ideas is to start a podcast on any topic that piques your interest—whether it’s business, history, pop culture, or something else entirely. While launching a podcast requires consistency and dedication, along with a basic understanding of audio (and possibly video) editing, the rewards can be substantial.
Once your podcast builds a significant following, you can monetize it by selling advertising space or forming partnerships with companies that generate revenue. As your brand grows, you might even have opportunities to charge for speaking engagements or moderating panels related to your podcast’s themes. To succeed, you’ll need to develop a unique small business idea that you’re passionate about and can relate to your target audience.
25. Launch a Newsletter
If podcasts aren’t your thing, but you’re interested in building a robust subscriber list and monetizing it, consider creating an email newsletter. With more than 90% of Americans subscribing to email newsletters, capturing the attention of a specific audience can lead to substantial growth and revenue opportunities.
To get started, choose an umbrella topic you can write about extensively and establish a clear brand voice and mission. Research the best email marketing software to manage your subscriber list and email distribution effectively. Once you’re set up, begin soliciting feedback from your audience to tailor your content to their preferences, providing more of what they enjoy and less of what they don’t. Their ongoing engagement is key to transforming your newsletter into a thriving small business idea.
26. Event Catering
If you have a passion for the culinary arts, event catering could be a fantastic small business idea for you. There’s always a demand for delicious food at gatherings, whether it’s parties, weddings, fundraisers, or family reunions. If you enjoy cooking or baking and love serving hungry guests, catering offers a fun and lucrative opportunity to share your culinary creations.
To launch your catering business, start by developing a menu and pricing sheet, and ensure you obtain all necessary permits and licenses. Begin with smaller events to build your reputation, and don’t be surprised if your business expands rapidly through word of mouth as your food impresses clients and their guests. With the right approach, event catering can evolve into a thriving online business idea with great potential.
What Are the Most Successful Small Businesses?
When exploring great small business ideas, those that focus on website design—a key area of digital marketing—often emerge as the most successful. In today’s digital age, most people discover businesses online, making it easier for website designers to attract clients and establish a steady income stream.
Cleaning services also rank among the top successful small businesses, as the demand for clean homes and workplaces remains consistent. Similarly, real estate businesses thrive due to the universal need for housing; people always need homes to live in. By tapping into these fundamental needs, entrepreneurs can carve out lucrative niches and ensure their business ideas flourish.
What Would Be a Good Small Business to Start?
If your goal is to maximize profit while minimizing workload, consider some of the great small business ideas that consistently yield success. However, if you’re passionate about pursuing your interests while ensuring a steady income, it’s best to start a small business that aligns with your skills and provides a good work-life balance.
With countless great business ideas available, you are in the best position to determine which small business concepts will bring you happiness, success, and stability. Whether you choose to explore online ventures or traditional services, the key is to find a business that resonates with you personally.
How to Start Your Own Business with No Money
Starting a small business without any capital may seem challenging, but it’s entirely possible! The first step is to maintain your current job while launching your venture as a side hustle. This approach allows you to build your business gradually without financial pressure.
Begin by crafting a solid business plan that includes an analysis of your target market, consumer base, and potential challenges. This planning phase is crucial in determining how much funding you’ll eventually need to transition your side business into a full-time endeavor.
Once you have a clearer understanding of your financial requirements, explore funding options like crowdfunding platforms or seeking investors. Be cautious with traditional business loans, considering them only as a last resort.
Additionally, it’s essential to collaborate with reliable professionals, such as an attorney and an accountant. Many great small business ideas require specific permits or licenses, and legal counsel can ensure you comply with all regulations. An accountant is invaluable for managing your finances effectively, especially in those early stages when establishing your revenue stream. While these services may involve upfront costs, they are investments that can significantly contribute to building a successful and sustainable business.