Did you know that over 99% of U.S. businesses are small, with less than 500 workers? This shows the huge chance for people to start and grow their own small companies. If you want to earn extra money or be your own boss, the right small business idea can help you achieve financial freedom and job satisfaction.
Starting as an entrepreneur means finding a business idea that fits you. This article will share many small business ideas you can start from home and grow as your customers increase. You can offer handyman services or become an online dating consultant, among many other profitable options.
Key Takeaways
- Over 99% of all U.S. businesses are small, highlighting the potential for entrepreneurship
- Finding the right small business idea is the first step to becoming a successful entrepreneur
- This article will provide various small business ideas that can be started from home and scaled up
- Small businesses offer opportunities for financial freedom and professional fulfillment
- Researching and planning are crucial for launching a successful small business
What Makes a Good Small Business Idea?
Starting a successful small business starts with a great idea. A good idea should be viable and sustainable. Let’s look at what makes an idea worth pursuing.
Requires Little to No Training
A top small business idea uses your current skills and needs little training. This cuts down your start-up time and costs. Training can be expensive. Plus, you’ll be more confident in what you offer.
Requires Low Setup Costs
Your business should start cheap. You might just need a website domain or a desk for your garage. A low start-up cost makes it easier to begin without big financial risks.
Requires Little Hands-on Inventory or Supply Management
A great business idea has few supplies and doesn’t need much inventory management. If you sell goods, consider drop-shipping or making small batches. This cuts down on the money you need for inventory.
Is Based Online
The best small business ideas work online and can be done from home. This lowers your travel costs and gives you more control over your life.
Can Sustainably Be Managed by Few People
At first, you can’t afford to hire help. A good idea lets you run your business alone.
Focus on these key points to find small business ideas that fit your skills and goals. This increases your chances of starting a successful venture that can grow.
Best Small Business Ideas
Starting a business can be thrilling and fulfilling. You might want to start a best small business ideas, a profitable small business ideas, or look for top small business opportunities. The key is to find a business that matches your skills, interests, and what your customers need.
Look at growing trends and industries for inspiration. For instance, the shift to remote work has opened doors for best small business ideas like virtual assistance and online tutoring. The wellness trend has made profitable small business ideas like personal training and wellness retreats popular.
Consider solving problems in your life or community with a top small business opportunities. You could start a handyman service, a sewing business, or an online dating consulting firm. The goal is to pick a niche you love and that meets a real need.
Choosing the right best small business ideas means doing your homework, making a strong business plan, and being ready to change as needed. With passion, hard work, and smart planning, you can make your business dreams come true.
Handyman Services
Starting a handyman business is a great way to use your practical skills. You don’t need a lot of training or special certifications. But, it’s important to think about a few things before you begin.
Licensing and Certification Requirements
You don’t need certifications to be a handyman, and there’s no special school needed. You might need a license for jobs over a certain amount. Check the rules in your area before starting your business.
Most Requested Handyman Services
It’s smart to focus on services that are in high demand when starting a handyman business. Think about what you’re best at doing. For example, if you’re good with sinks and water systems, start with sink repairs. Then, add more services as you learn more.
Some of the most wanted handyman services are:
- Plumbing repairs (e.g., fixing leaks, unclogging drains)
- Electrical work (e.g., installing light fixtures, troubleshooting outlets)
- Drywall repair and painting
- Furniture assembly and minor carpentry
- Appliance installation and repair
- Gutter cleaning and window washing
Focus on what you’re sure about to start your handyman business. Then, you can add more services as you get more skilled.
Woodworking Business
Woodworking is a rewarding field that lets entrepreneurs turn their wood passion into a business. You don’t need special education to start. But, getting training certifications can really help.
Training and Certifications
The woodworking world has many training and certification programs. These can be online or in-person. They help woodworkers improve their skills and show their knowledge to clients.
Some top woodworking training and certification options are:
- The Woodwork Institute offers certifications like the Certified Woodworker and Certified Cabinet Maker.
- YesTomorrow is an online platform with courses in furniture making, cabinetry, and wood finishing.
- The School of Fine Woodworking provides training online and in-person, covering many woodworking skills.
Getting a woodworking certification boosts your skills and shows your commitment. This is great for starting a woodworking business. It builds trust with your customers.
| Woodworking Training and Certification Programs | Focus Areas | Delivery Format |
|---|---|---|
| The Woodwork Institute | Furniture making, cabinetry, wood finishing | In-person and online |
| YesTomorrow | Furniture making, cabinetry, wood finishing | Online |
| The School of Fine Woodworking | Furniture making, woodturning, hand tool techniques | In-person and online |
Investing in woodworking training and certifications sets you up for success. With the right skills and credentials, you can stand out. This helps you attract more customers and grow your business.
Online Dating Consultant
In today’s fast-paced dating scene, online dating consultants are key for singles looking to find love online. They help by making dating profiles stand out, finding the right matches, and improving how people connect with others. These experts, also known as dating coaches or relationship coaches, offer personalized help.
These consultants get paid for their time and knowledge. They provide more personal help than what apps like Tinder or Bumble offer. Their services include:
- Making an online dating profile that highlights the client’s unique traits and interests
- Finding potential matches from places the client doesn’t usually look, using the consultant’s connections and knowledge
- Providing advice on how to communicate, plan dates, and build relationships
There’s no need for special education or a license to be an online dating consultant. But, many choose to get certified. They might get a relationship coach certification from IAP College or an online dating coach certificate from Hart Academy. These certifications show they’re serious about offering top-notch services.
| Service | Description | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Online Dating Profile Creation | Making a dating profile that grabs attention and works well | $100 – $500 |
| Match Sourcing and Introductions | Finding and connecting clients with potential matches | $200 – $1,000 |
| Relationship Coaching | Guidance and support for building strong relationships | $50 – $150 per session |
Working with an online dating consultant can really boost your chances of finding someone special. It makes navigating online dating easier and more successful.
“A good online dating consultant can be the difference between swiping endlessly and finding your perfect match.” – Jane Doe, Relationship Expert
Sewing and Alteration Specialist
Thinking about starting a sewing and alteration business? You don’t need a special license or degree. But, it’s key to improve your skills for more complex tasks. With some focused training, you can offer top-notch services and gain loyal customers.
Courses and Training
Here are some courses to sharpen your sewing and alteration skills:
- International Open Academy’s Tailoring Course for Beginners
- Jackson Sewing Academy’s Basic Alterations Course
- American Bespoke Tailoring Academy’s Programs
These programs will teach you important skills like measuring clients and making professional alterations. With this training, you’ll be ready to become a skilled sewing and alteration expert.
Essential Supplies
You also need to gather various sewing supplies for your clients. This means getting threads, needles, and fabrics in many colors and textures. A well-stocked toolkit lets you tackle a wide range of projects, from simple fixes to complex changes.
| Essential Sewing Supplies | Recommended Quantities |
|---|---|
| Spools of Thread | 20-30 in various colors |
| Assorted Needles | 50-100 needles in different sizes |
| Fabric Samples | 20-30 swatches in diverse materials |
| Measuring Tapes | 2-3 in both standard and metric units |
| Pins and Clips | 100-200 for securing fabrics |
Investing in the right tools and skills will set your sewing and alteration business up for success.
Freelance Developer
A freelance developer needs some training to start a successful business. But, if you’re just starting, don’t worry. There are many boot camps to learn full-stack or front-end web development.
Boot Camps and Training Programs
Top boot camps for aspiring freelance developers include:
- Coding Dojo
- Fullstack Academy
- Georgia Institute of Technology Coding Boot Camp
These programs last 12-24 weeks and teach a lot, from HTML and CSS to advanced frameworks. By the end, you’ll have the skills for freelance web development.
Boot camps are a great start, but learning doesn’t stop. It’s key for freelance developers to keep up with new trends and tech. This keeps you competitive and helps you find high-paying projects.
Personal Trainer
Thinking about starting a personal training business? First, get the right certifications. A personal training certification shows you know your stuff. It also makes sure you can safely and effectively help your clients. The NASM-CPT (National Academy of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer) program is a top choice. It’s nationally recognized and only needs a high school diploma or GED.
If you already have a degree in something else, the NASM-CPT certification is a great choice. This program teaches you about anatomy, exercise science, how to design workout programs, and how to assess clients. It gives you the skills and knowledge to be a great personal trainer.
Or, you could get a Bachelor’s degree in physical and exercise science. This gives you a deeper understanding of personal training. Emory & Henry College offers such a program. It prepares students for careers in the health and fitness world.
Certification and Degree Options
- NASM-CPT (National Academy of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer) certification: Nationally accredited, requires a high school diploma or GED
- Bachelor’s degree in physical and exercise science: Offers a comprehensive education in personal training, such as the program at Emory & Henry College
| Certification | Degree |
|---|---|
| NASM-CPT | Physical and Exercise Science |
| Requires high school diploma or GED | Bachelor’s degree program |
| Covers anatomy, exercise science, program design, and client assessment | Provides in-depth, comprehensive education in personal training |
Choosing between a personal training certification or a Bachelor’s degree is important. The main thing is to get the right education and training. This way, you can offer top-notch service to your clients and grow your personal training business.
small business suggestions for Success
Starting a small business is exciting and rewarding for many entrepreneurs. In the U.S., small businesses have created over 12.9 million jobs in the last 25 years. If you want to be a successful small business owner, here are some great tips to start with.
One key to success is finding an idea that doesn’t need special training. Handyman services, woodworking, and sewing/alterations are good choices because they don’t require a specific degree. Starting a low-cost business like an online dating consultant or freelance developer can also save money early on.
Choosing a business that a small team can manage is also crucial. Freelance graphic design, personal training, and pet care services are great options that don’t need many employees. Picking an idea that uses your strengths increases your chances of success.
“About 20% of startups fail in the first year, while half go under within five years, as per stats published in 2019 by the Small Business Administration (SBA).”
To increase your chances of success, consider businesses that use online platforms. These businesses often have lower costs and more flexibility. With a good plan and hard work, these small business ideas can be a strong start for your business journey.
| Small Business Idea | Startup Costs | Training/Certifications Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Handyman Services | Low | No special education required |
| Woodworking Business | Low to Moderate | At least 1 year of experience recommended |
| Online Dating Consultant | Low | Strong communication skills, no special education needed |
| Sewing and Alteration Specialist | Low | Building skills through courses, no license required |
| Freelance Developer | Low | Boot camps and training programs available |
By following these small business suggestions for success, you can boost your chances of starting a successful business. The key is to find an idea that fits your skills, has low startup costs, and can be managed with a small team. With the right approach and hard work, your small business can make a big impact and bring you fulfillment.
Freelance Graphic Designer
Being a freelance graphic designer lets you set your own hours and pick your projects. You can also build a portfolio and business you’re proud of. You don’t need special certifications, but you should have strong design skills. Knowing graphic design software like Adobe Creative Cloud is a must.
One of the best things about being a freelance graphic designer is the flexibility it offers. You can work on projects that match your interests and skills. This lets you create a diverse and interesting portfolio. Whether you focus on branding, web design, print materials, or multimedia projects, there’s a big demand for skilled graphic design business pros today.
To do well as a freelance graphic designer, having a strong online presence and networking is key. Make a website that shows off your work. Use social media like Behance, Dribbble, and LinkedIn to meet potential clients. Keep updating your portfolio and stay current with design trends and software updates to keep your skills sharp and in demand.
“Freelancing allows me to work on projects that truly inspire me, and I love the freedom to set my own schedule and work from anywhere.” – Emily, Freelance Graphic Designer
Starting as a freelance graphic designer might seem tough, but the benefits are big. By improving your skills, networking well, and doing great work, you can create a successful graphic design business. You’ll enjoy the flexibility and creativity of being your own boss.
| Skill | Proficiency Level |
|---|---|
| Adobe Creative Cloud | Expert |
| Typography | Advanced |
| Responsive Web Design | Proficient |
| Branding and Identity | Expert |
| Print Design | Proficient |
Profitable Service-Based Businesses
If you’re a master in a certain subject, you can help students who are struggling. You don’t need any special certification to be a tutor. Just make sure you know your stuff well. Tutors usually have a college degree in the subject they teach.
Love music and teaching? You can share your passion with others. This can help spread the love for the arts. You can either teach at your home or visit your students, based on what suits you best.
Good with numbers and detail-oriented? Consider starting a bookkeeping business. Bookkeepers help small businesses with their finances, payroll, and tax prep. It’s a great way to use your skills.
Love dogs and enjoy being around them? A dog walking business could be perfect for you. You’ll get to spend time outside with happy dogs every day. All you need to do is visit clients’ homes to walk or play with their pets. No special qualifications are needed.
FAQ
What makes a good small business idea?
A great small business idea uses your current skills and needs little to no training. This cuts down your start-up costs and time. You’ll feel more confident in your abilities.
It should be affordable to start, needing few supplies and minimal inventory. The best ideas are online and can be run from home, letting you work alone.
What are some of the best small business ideas?
Top small business ideas include handyman services, woodworking, online dating consulting, sewing, freelance development, personal training, and graphic design.
What are the licensing and certification requirements for handyman services?
You don’t need certifications to be a handyman. But, you might need a license for jobs over a certain amount. Some states don’t require a license. Start with what you’re best at, like fixing sinks, and grow your skills later.
What kind of training is required for a woodworking business?
No special education is needed, but getting a woodworking training certification is a good idea. Check out The Woodwork Institute, YesTomorrow, and The School of Fine Woodworking for training.
What are the requirements to become an online dating consultant?
Online dating consultants get paid for their time. They help create successful dating profiles and find matches outside usual online channels. No special education or license is needed. Consider getting a certification from IAP College or Hart Academy.
What kind of training is needed for a sewing and alteration business?
No special license or degree is required, but building your skills is key. Look into courses like International Open Academy’s Tailoring Course or Jackson Sewing Academy’s Basic Alterations Course. You’ll need to buy sewing supplies in various colors for your clients.
What training is required to start a freelance developer business?
Freelance developers need training to succeed. If you’re new, don’t worry. Many boot camps offer training in web development, like Coding Dojo or Fullstack Academy.
What are the certification and degree options for a personal training business?
For personal training, you need a certification. If you have a different degree, start with the NASM-CPT certification. You can also get a degree in physical and exercise science from Emory & Henry College.
What are some other profitable service-based business ideas?
Profitable service-based businesses include tutoring, music lessons, bookkeeping, and pet care. If you’re an expert in a subject, tutoring can help students. Teaching music can spread the joy of arts. Bookkeeping suits those good with numbers. A dog walking business is great for animal lovers.