If you're looking to start a business but don't want to make a big investment, you're in luck. We've compiled a list of 25 inexpensive ideas for startups that won't break the bank and can be worked on in your spare time. From cooking to childcare, there are plenty of options to choose from. Take Nancy Neal of Melbourne, Florida, for example.
She turned her love of cooking into a full-time business by making jams, jellies, spreads, and soup mixes in her home kitchen. Her business, Nancy's Pantry Corner, is now sold in several markets. The cost of starting this business is minimal: kitchen supplies, packaging, basic marketing materials, and the cost of creating a website or renting a retail store. Childcare is no longer just a job for teenagers.
If you have a passion for working with children, this could be a great side business for you. Network in your community and be prepared to work nights and weekends. Gardening is another great option if you have or can purchase the necessary equipment. It's also great if you like to work from home and have an eye for landscape design.
Non-medical home care for seniors is an increasingly in-demand business due to the rising cost of nursing home care and the growing number of older people in the U. S. By 2034, there will be more seniors than children in this country. These seniors need home services like meal preparation, transportation, and companionship. Freelance writing is another great option if you have a knack for turning research into stories.
Nicole Bowman of Rehoboth Beach, DE began writing billboards in 2002 and now creates all kinds of content for the web. A sole proprietorship is the simplest business structure but comes with personal responsibility for the business. Every small business has potential to be successful and profitable with the right product adaptation to the market and a solid business plan. If you're an expert in social media, this low-cost business will allow you to leverage your experience and help companies create content, boost interactions, and increase followers to increase profits. If you're good at organizing things, checking emails, posting on social media, and keeping people up to date, promote those skills to small business owners who are too busy growing their own businesses to handle those things themselves. Starting a rental business on a small scale is a great way to get into the rental property business without investing any initial costs. A handyman business is also a great idea if you've already developed a solid set of skills to help others spruce up their homes. When starting out, look for a business bank account that doesn't have a minimum balance requirement so you don't get penalized for having few funds while you work to build your business. Small Business Trends is an award-winning online publication for small business owners, entrepreneurs, and those who interact with them. Learn more about choosing the right structure for your business from the Small Business Administration.