This article provides the best online small business ideas, which are low-cost and easy to start from the comfort of your home.
More businesses are moving online than ever before in a rapidly changing world.
With Covid-19, social distancing, lockdowns, and quarantine, more people have started shopping online. It massively accelerated online shopping and e-commerce by at least 4 years.
As more retail stores have permanently closed, online businesses have thrived. There has never been a better time to start an online business than now.
Since 2017 I have worked online as a copywriter and content writer. I have also decided to start a blog to generate more money online and create passive income.
Whether you want to start a full-time business, a side-hustle, or build the next empire, then you’ve come to the right place.
Let’s do this.
What Are the Best Online Small Business Ideas?
This list contains the best online small business ideas for 2023. They are all low-cost and easy to start, even with no experience.
All of these businesses can be started 100% online from anywhere in the world.
Best Online Business Ideas
1. Start A Blog
A blog is one of the best online small business ideas, and it is also one of the most affordable.
There is a low barrier to entry, and anyone can get started, even if you already have a full-time job.
The only initial investment you need to make is registering a domain name and buying web hosting.
When you sign up for Bluehost web hosting, they also give you a domain name for free.
The benefit of starting a blog is that it allows you to create different revenue streams, such as:
- Selling your consulting services
- Selling your own products
- Selling affiliate products
- Advertising revenue
2. eCommerce Business
With the world moving to online shopping rapidly, the possibilities are endless for an eCommerce business.
There are many different options you can choose from, such as dropshipping or Amazon FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon). You can also sell your products directly from your own Shopify store.
To start an eCommerce business, you need to choose your platform, choose your niche, and choose your products. Then create your website, set the shipping and taxes information, and launch your site.
You’re now in the eCommerce Business!
You can even eliminate the need to deal with the actual order fulfilment process yourself or have a warehouse physically store your products.
There is an easier solution, dropshipping.
It involves selling products on behalf of wholesalers. Then the wholesaler physically ships the products to the customers after you provide them with the shipping information.
3. Online Courses
Are you an expert in a particular field, or are you passionate about a hobby where you know more than most people?
Well, creating and selling an online course is one of the best small business ideas. It has never been easier, thanks to online course platforms.
You can turn your knowledge into a significant income. The fastest way to get started is to offer your course on Udemy, the largest online teaching and learning marketplace globally.
4. Start A Podcast
I recently watched an episode of Dexter: New Blood, where podcaster Molly Park declared, “Radio is dead.”
Well, radio has been dead for several years already, and podcasts are the future.
Nearly 6 in 10 US consumers aged 12+ listen to podcasts, and podcast advertising revenue is expected to surpass $2 billion in 2023.
Podcasting is big money.
There are many ways in which podcasters can make money.
The most popular ways include:
- Affiliate marketing
- Sponsorship and advertising
- Book sales
- Physical products
- Coaching and consulting
You will need to plan your podcast niche and ideas for episodes to get started. You’ll also need to invest in professional podcast software and equipment.
Then you need to sign up for podcast hosting, which will store your audio files and distribute your podcast on a network such as Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
5. Video Editing
With the increase in video content and storytelling, there is a massive demand for professional video editors.
Are you a pro in video editing software like Final Cut Pro, Premiere Pro, or DaVinci Resolve?
You could be making significant money as a freelance video editor for any of the following types of videos:
- Ads and social media videos
- Corporate videos
- Gaming videos
- Explainer videos
- Wedding videos
- Music videos
- YouTube videos
6. Custom Printed Products
The market is extremely saturated, with people selling the same products in their eCommerce stores and trying to undercut each other.
That is a race to the bottom.
One of the most unique business ideas is by developing your own brand and selling custom printed products such as t-shirts, mugs, pillows, socks, towels, and much more.
It is also a way to stand out from your competitors.
A company such as Teespring or Printify can manage your manufacturing and order fulfilment.
All you need to do is choose which products you want to sell, then take care of the designs, and set up an online store with a company such as Shopify.
You’ll need to be good at marketing to generate a buzz and brand awareness, leading to sales.
7. Web Designer or Web Developer
71% of small businesses have a website. With more businesses going online with the pandemic, there is a surge in demand for companies to get their website online.
To get started as a web developer, you need to know coding languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
Many free or cheap resources can teach you how to code even if you are a complete beginner. For example, Codeacademy, Treehouse, and CodeSchool are great places to learn web development and coding skills.
After you have learned how to code, you can start making websites for friends and family. This will let you get practical experience and have a portfolio of client work.
Next, you can start approaching companies with outdated websites or no websites at all. Offer to create a new website for them at affordable prices. Once you have experience, you can raise your prices.
You could also apply for a web developer position, which will allow you to continue to work fully remotely from home.
8. Graphic Design
Graphic designers create visual concepts to captivate and inspire customers.
Companies are always looking to strengthen their brand, which means graphic designers are always in demand.
They create marketing content such as advertisements, logos, banners, brochures, magazines, posters, and website layouts.
Are you a wiz with Photoshop or Adobe Illustrator?
If not, there are many great courses to learn on platforms such as Udemy or Creative Live.
An excellent way to get some initial experience is to find existing businesses that have neglected their graphics and pitch them on your services.
You can also look for work on freelance websites.
Adobe is the industry standard, with Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign used by most companies and agencies.
An Adobe Creative Cloud membership will give you all the tools you need for a graphic design career.
Otherwise, you can also use other graphic design software like Affinity Designer and Affinity Photo or sharpen your skills with an online tool like Canva.
9. Instagram Influencer
Social media continues to grow in popularity, especially platforms such as Instagram. As a result, more consumers are also looking for product advice from Instagram rather than more traditional channels.
Because of this, brands are eager to look for influencers to collaborate with on creating sponsored content.
Engagement is everything when it comes to influencer marketing. How many people engage with your content is way more important than how many followers you have.
First, choose a niche for your Instagram account which you are highly passionate about.
Do you want to create content related to fitness, gadgets, travel, health, or beauty?
The next step is to create an engaged following with which you interact and engage. By providing helpful, informative content, you will grow your followers organically.
Creating content as a ‘batch’ all at once can help save you time and energy. You can then automate your Instagram account by using tools such as Later to schedule your posts.
After you have many followers, you can start reaching out to brands you would love to work with and collaborate with them by creating sponsored posts and stories. You can then potentially anywhere from $50 to $1000+ per post.
10. Virtual Assistant
Are you highly organized, productive, and reliable with excellent time-management skills? Then, you could start a new job as a virtual assistant (VA) from home.
There is a high demand for VAs by freelancers, entrepreneurs, and corporations alike.
Are you interested in being a Virtual Assistant for full-time or part-time work or on a project-by-project basis? Well, there are options available to suit your needs.
Working as a virtual assistant is a great way to get started with online work. It can help develop your digital skills and knowledge. Then one day, you can create your own freelancing business.
A great place to get started and find work as a virtual assistant is a freelance job site such as UpWork, Fiverr, or Flexjobs.
11. Domain Flipper
Domain flipping is buying a domain name at an affordable price and then selling it for a premium.
There is huge earning potential if you are great at branding and can spot the next business trend.
CarInsurance.com sold for $49.7 million. Insurance.com sold for $35.6 million, and VacationRentals.com sold for $35 million.
Also, Facebook paid $8.5 million to acquire the domain fb.com from The American Farm Bureau Federation.
The best places to sell a domain include:
- Flippa
- Sedo
- Godaddy Auction
- Namecheap
Do you have an idea for the perfect domain name to flip?
First, you will need to register the domain name for your idea with a domain registrar and web hosting company, like Namecheap or GoDaddy.
12. App Developer
There is a huge market for apps, and it sure seems like there is an app for just about everything.
Do you have an idea for a new and unique app or a way to improve on an existing app and take it to the next level?
Well, there are plenty of opportunities available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play platforms.
Learning app development isn’t as complicated as becoming a software engineer and doesn’t require years of knowledge and experience.
You can get started creating your first app within weeks or months, even with no prior coding skills, thanks to an online course from a site such as Udemy or edX.
Look at the app store and try and identify a gap in the market. Is there a common problem people face? Will an app will help make their lives easier?
A benefit of creating an app is the flexibility of the pricing models.
For example, you can either sell it as a one-time fee or make it a free download with in-app purchases.
You can also create a subscription model, with a monthly or yearly subscription giving you a regular income. Of course, you’ll need to continue to update the app and make improvements.
It is also possible to make revenue from displaying ads in your app.
13. Content Writer
I spent over 4 years working online from my laptop while travelling the world.
Having a freelance content writing business is how I did it.
I worked with freelance clients and Digital Marketing agencies.
A content writer is one of the most popular business ideas because it doesn’t require much investment to get started.
You can make great money by writing blog posts, articles and creating website content that is engaging, easy to read, and informative for readers.
Best of all, you can get started with no experience by creating 2-3 sample blog posts for your portfolio and by launching a writing website.
Want to improve your writing skills?
There are many copywriting courses you can take, such as LinkedIn Learning. It has an excellent learning path to becoming a content strategist and learning digital marketing fundamentals.
Related: Discover 10 different types of freelance writing you can do.
14. Airbnb Host
You don’t need an investment property to be an Airbnb host. Do you have a spare room in your house or apartment sitting unused?
You can rent it out on Airbnb to earn some extra income. Although, with the pandemic, this may not be the best option for you at the moment.
Instead, you could offer services to other Airbnb hosts to manage their bookings on their behalf, as well as reply to any guest inquiries or problems.
You can also remotely manage cleaning staff between each guest without physically being at the property.
15. YouTuber
With everyone suddenly spending more time indoors, subscription streaming services, live streaming, and YouTube saw a considerable rise in popularity.
It seems like everyone has a YouTube channel these days, and there is more competition than ever. But, there still is a huge opportunity to start your own YouTube Channel and make real money.
The key to success is picking a niche that you are genuinely passionate about and creating authentic and engaging content.
It may be challenging to get started and build your audience. To join the YouTube partner program and monetize your channel, you need first to reach the minimum eligibility requirement. You’ll need 4000 public watch hours in the past 12 months and 1000 subscribers.
Once you have, you can expect to earn between $3-$5 per 1,000 views on average.
While you can get started with just your smartphone, you should consider investing in a high-quality camera and microphone to produce the best quality content.
16. Translator
Are you fluent in multiple languages?
With the internet bringing the world closer together, translators have a huge demand.
Being a translator involves either translating documents from one language to another or listening to recordings in one language and then translating it into another language.
You can find work on any popular freelancing website like Fiverr or a translator website like Gengo.
17. Transcriber
Over the past few years, I have done a lot of transcription work on the side for many different clients.
Are you a touch typer and have a fast typing speed? Well, a transcriber may be an excellent way for you to put your typing skills to use and make some serious money.
Transcription work involves listening to audio recordings and transcribing (typing) what is said.
Journalists and recruitment companies often require transcription services to have a written copy of interviews.
But the most prominent market now is transcribing Podcasts.
There are now over 2 million podcasts worldwide!
More podcasts now include show notes (a written transcription of the whole podcast).
You could get paid to type while you listen to interesting podcasts!
You’ll need some good headphones and audio transcription software to get started.
18. Crypto Investor
Do you have spare money sitting in your bank account, earning you 0.05% interest per year?
Well, this is one of those business ideas where you can put your money to work by investing in cryptocurrencies.
I had over $20k in my savings account when I started investing in crypto. My initial investment was $200 in Bitcoin.
After one month, I made more money with my $200 Bitcoin investment than I did with $20k in my bank account for one year.
Then I decided to start taking crypto investing seriously.
Do you want to try crypto investing without risking your hard-earned money? Find out how you can earn free crypto to get started.
There is a lot to learn—Blockchains, NFTs, the Metaverse, technical analysis, gains, HODL, and crypto mining.
Sound confusing?
Luckily, there are many great courses on Udemy to take you from beginner to expert in no time.
You should be aware that the crypto market is highly volatile, and you should only invest what you can afford to lose.
Want free Bitcoin?
Sign up to Coinbase with my referral code, and buy or sell $100 in crypto. We will then both receive $10 in Bitcoin, free!
19. Create NFTs
NFTs are all the rage in the crypto space right now. From Crypto Punks, Bored Ape Yacht Club, CryptoKitties, and Pudgy Penguins, NFTs have been making people millionaires.
NFT stands for ‘non-fungible token.’ It allows you to buy and sell the ownership of unique digital items and track them using the blockchain.
An NFT can be anything digital, such as artwork JPEGs, animated GIFs, songs, or video game items.
On Jan 1, 2020, the average price of an NFT was $24.98. On Nov 30, 2021, it was $913.48
Cryptopunk #7523 sold for a staggering $11.75 million.
Are you a digital artist? Have you got an idea for the next big NFT?
You can either manually create NFTs digitally one by one or use NFT software like Night Cafe, which allows you to make code-free, bulk creation NFT art in minutes.
Then you can mint your NFTs and sell them on an NFT marketplace such as OpenSea.
20. Cryptocurrency Miner
Cryptocurrency mining can be a lucrative and significant way to generate passive income.
While it is no longer viable to mine Bitcoin on your home PC, you can still mine many other cryptos.
They include RavenCoin (RVN), Monero (XMR), Litecoin (LTC), Cardano (ADA), Ethereum Classic (ETC), ZCash (ZEC), and Dogecoin (DOGE), to name a few.
You will need to invest in a crypto mining rig which will generate an upfront cost. A rig includes graphics cards, motherboard, processor, power supply, RAM, SSD, fans, risers, USB splitter, and a frame.
It is crucial to realize that cryptocurrency mining uses a high level of electricity. Depending on your location, your electricity bill may significantly increase.
You should check a crypto profitability calculator to see if investing in crypto mining equipment is worthwhile. Find out how much profit you can expect to make based on electricity consumption in your location before purchasing a mining rig.
Would you like an easier way to get started with crypto mining? Coinmine One Mining Rig lets you plug it in and start mining, requiring no complicated setup.
21. Language Teacher
Are you fluent in multiple languages and enjoy talking with people?
Even if you don’t have a teaching degree or certification, you can still be an online language teacher and make great money.
Many students are looking to practice conversational skills in another language from the comfort of their own homes.
You can get paid just for casually chatting with people from around the world!
You can join an online teaching website such as:
Or you can even start your own freelance business and find students directly (Facebook groups for ex-pats are a great place to look).
22. Tutoring Business
With many learning institutions closed indefinitely due to Covid, classes have moved online.
There is now a significant demand for online tutoring, especially as there is no longer as much access to teacher assistance as in-person classes.
Online tutoring software includes virtual whiteboards, text editors, audio/video chat, and screen sharing to give you all the resources you need.
You can tutor many classes, such as computer science, engineering, humanities, history, math, science, and test preparations, to name a few.
TutorMe is an excellent way to tutor online and provide on-demand homework help to students anywhere in the world. Best of all, you can set your schedule and work as much or as little as you would like.
23. Live Streamer
With people spending more time indoors now, there is a strong demand for entertainment. While Netflix and YouTube are where most people turn, live streaming is quickly surging in popularity.
Are you a hardcore gamer? Do you have a unique skill like dancing, rapping, or singing? Or perhaps ASMR is more your thing. You can even just chill out and talk to people.
Whatever your talent, you can make significant money by live streaming at a time that suits you. Best of all, you can do it all from the comfort of your bedroom.
It works by building an audience you entertain during your live streams. Then your viewers send you donations or virtual gifts (which you can then turn into actual money). They can also pay for a subscription to your channel to access exclusive content.
Twitch and Bigo Live are two of the most popular streaming platforms. Sign up and get started today.
24. Stock Photos
Stock photos are used everywhere, from blog posts to social media content, to websites and advertisements.
Do you take excellent photos?
If you have a DSLR or mirrorless camera, you could be turning your images into a steady income stream.
Do you know how to edit your photos to a professional standard using Photoshop? Phlearn is a great place to learn how to take your photos from good to breathtaking.
You can sell your photos on websites such as:
Whenever a client uses your photo, you then receive a commission.
While there is an upfront cost of purchasing camera equipment, you can get started right away if you already have a camera.
25. Soap Maker
Do you have a passion for making soap? Then, you can turn that passion into a real business.
Handmade soaps are increasing in popularity each year. People love to buy them to treat themselves and for the perfect gift.
Soaps come in a wide variety of sizes, colors, and patterns, so you can stand out from your competitors and create unique soaps.
You can sell your handmade soaps through Etsy, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, eBay, or even your own Shopify store.
26. Resume Writer
Many people struggle with writing a captivating resume that highlights all their skills and achievements. Especially since most people infrequently update their resumes.
These days, it is more challenging than ever even to get your resume read by a real person.
Many companies have hundreds of applications and use automated software to scan resumes for specific keywords. All this happens before a hiring manager will even see your application.
Being a resume writer is a unique skill. You need to craft an eye-catching resume, address the criteria in the job application, and know and understand industry jargon to secure an interview.
I have done some resume writing work on the side over the past few years, and it is one of my most lucrative side hustles yet. I have written resumes for clients ranging from Nurses to Prison Wardens and everything in between.
You can find people looking for a resume writer on freelancing websites. Or you can also advertise your services through social media, Craigslist, and word of mouth.
Do you have a friend or family member looking for work but struggling even to land an interview?
Offer to re-write their resume for them, then watch the referrals come pouring in once they quickly land a job, thanks to your resume writing skills.
No one wants to read five pages of boring text resumes anymore.
Canva is a great tool to create visually stunning resumes and offers hundreds of different templates to use.
27. Cover Letter Writer
Writing cover letters is one of those business ideas that many people overlook, so is not quite as competitive as writing resumes.
Automated software will also scan cover letters for keywords from the job advertisement.
To address all of the job requirements and demonstrate experience and why you are the perfect candidate for the role is critical to securing an interview.
Cover letters need to be unique for the job title and company. Unfortunately, most people who just copy and paste from a template have little success getting the job.
Many people simply don’t know how to write cover letters and find the whole process intimidating.
Writing cover letters could be a great business if you have an HR background. You will never have a shortage of clients, with people constantly applying for jobs.
A great place to advertise your services is on LinkedIn.
28. Online Personal Trainer
With gyms shut down for long periods and social distancing requirements, many people have started working out at home instead. So now there is a high demand for personal trainers online.
Do you love fitness? Are you an expert on workouts and can craft diet plans. Then, you could start an online personal training business by helping people reach their fitness goals.
You can offer online personal training one-on-one or group classes with clients or create an online course training program.
Utilizing Instagram can help make you an authority in the health and fitness industry and is a great way to find new clients.
Are you looking to get personal training certification and boost your credibility? ISSA makes it easy to help people get fit and make money doing what you love. They also promise you a guaranteed job once you pass your certification.
29. Voice Over
Do you often get told you have a ‘radio voice’?
Well, you can get paid great money just for recording yourself reading scripts.
Voice-over artists are highly sought after. You will become the voice of the brand.
There are many different types of business ideas for voice-over work you can do. They include animation, advertisements, audiobooks, documentaries, educational, podcasts, radio, television, video games, and social media content for brands.
You will need to have a high-quality microphone for commercial voice-over work, as well as audio recording software.
A great place to start voice-over work is freelancing job sites like UpWork or leading industry platforms such as Voices.
30. Digital Art Teacher
Are you a skilled digital artist, with your canvas of choice an Apple Pencil and iPad?
Have you ever wanted to start a business giving digital art lessons to beginner students?
If you are an expert using ProCreate or Photoshop, you can start immediately.
You could create online courses to teach how to use the apps and master different digital art techniques. A great place to upload your courses is Skillshare, which will enable you to create an audience.
You can also then offer live online workshops or one-on-one classes.
31. Music Producer
Are you passionate about producing music?
You can turn your beats into the next banger and get paid for each track you produce.
Many music platforms let you sell or license your tracks to artists.
Whether you produce Rap, Hip Hop, Trap, Pop, EDM, Reggaeton, K-Pop, or any other style, you can sell your music on popular platforms such as:
You can also offer your services as a producer for singers and rappers on Vocalizer and get hired to produce tracks for upcoming artists.
Another strategy is to use Soundcloud, YouTube, or your website to showcase your beats and sell them to artists directly.
You’ll need the best beat making software to get started.
32. Technical Writer
Technical writers are in demand, as it is a skill not many people can truly master.
It involves writing highly technical and informational content into easy-to-read instructions.
Technical writing includes product specifications, instruction manuals, financial proposals, and business plans, and more.
Technical writers usually have substantial knowledge and a background in a specific field, which they specialize.
You will have the best success if you niche down to one industry and are familiar with all the associated jargon.
While it may be a bit boring, technical writing is often more lucrative than other kinds of writing.
33. Explainer Videos
Another great option for online business ideas is creating explainer videos.
Brands increasingly use explainer videos to introduce people to their products and services and how they work.
With software such as Doodly, you can create super engaging and professional hand-drawn videos. Best of all, you don’t need any design or technical skills.
You can also add voice-overs yourself or hire a voice-over artist from Fiverr.
You have the potential to charge clients over $1000 for professional 30-60 second explainer videos.
34. Podcast Editing
Do you have a background in audio engineering or as a music producer?
Podcast Editing is one of those business ideas that is often forgotten, even by audio professionals.
With over 2 million podcasts worldwide, there is a growing demand for reliable podcast editors. You will be responsible for editing audio (removing noises and pauses from the final edit), cleaning up the audio, fixing volume levels, and adding the intro and outro.
Many podcast software options are available, like Hindenburg Journalist or Adobe Audition.
Also, any DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) such as Pro Tools, Ableton Live, or Logic Pro will work well too.
35. Logo Designer
Are you a graphic design wiz?
You can make decent money by designing logos for brands, startups, and entrepreneurs.
If you have outstanding design skills to develop strong visuals and help bring brands to life, this could be a great online business.
You’ll need a portfolio or some samples to showcase your work to get started. Then, market your services to new businesses.
You can also find clients on designs sites such as 99designs or DesignCrowd.
36. Remote Tech Support
Are you tech-savvy and have excellent customer service?
Many businesses are now moving their tech support to be fully remote or outsourcing it to external companies.
Many positions are available as companies are now transitioning to remote tech support rather than a call center environment.
The work involves providing remote technical support for customers and potential clients. You will be troubleshooting via online chat, email, or over the phone.
Remote tech support offers job security and a way to set your schedule.
Many companies will also provide you with the necessary equipment you need to work remotely.
37. SEO Services
Everyone wants to rank on page 1 of Google in the search results.
That is why providing SEO (Search Engine Optimization) services can be one of the most lucrative business ideas.
If you can deliver results, you will constantly have regular clients.
By being knowledgeable in SEO, you can:
- Perform keyword research
- Analyze data from SEO tools like Ahrefs
- Drive more traffic to your client’s websites
- Boost their rankings in Google.
38. eBook Writer
It has never been easier to publish a book with self-publishing via Amazon or Apple Books. Best of all, it is entirely free to publish your book.
Are you an expert in a particular topic, either professionally or passionate about a niche hobby?
Well, anyone can write and self-publish a book. It could just become the next Amazon bestseller.
Writing an eBook requires no money upfront. However, there is a significant time investment in market research, writing, and editing.
The best way to succeed is to choose a smaller niche where there is still a demand for eBooks but not overly competitive or saturated.
You will need to promote and market your book to stand out. To get an edge over your competition, you should invest in a professional editor or editing software such as Grammarly and get a book cover designed.
You’ll also need the best writing apps to help you write your books from idea to published.
39. 3D Printing
A 3D printing business is a perfect way to turn a hobby into a profitable business.
Do you already own a 3D printer and know how to use it professionally?
Clients will contact you and send you a 3D model. Then you print the model, ship it to them, and keep the profits.
This is one of the easiest businesses you could start, and there is not a lot of competition.
If you don’t have a 3D printer, you’ll have to factor in that cost before you can get started.
You’ll need to also invest in marketing. A great place to get started is by targeting tech companies and startups.
Another option is to use a platform such as Treatstock, which lets you generate leads with customers from all over the world. Treatstock has online manufacturing tools to calculate prices, order management software and provides trustworthy sales and payments through their website.
40. Social Media Manager
As of January 2021, 59.5% of the global population uses the internet. There are 4.22 billion social media users.
A social media manager looks after social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok.
If you have a background in social media marketing, you could start your own social media agency.
Companies from small businesses, entrepreneurs, startups, and large corporations use social media to grow their brands and spread their message.
There are different services a social media manager provides, including:
- Content creation and curation
- Creating and tracking custom ad campaigns
- Analyzing results and modifying advertising campaigns
- Increasing engagement with customers and potential customers
You’ll have to keep up with the latest trends and social media tools, as the landscape is constantly changing and fast.
Fiverr is an excellent place to start. Also, try to reach out to your network and do social media marketing for small businesses to gain experience.
41. Data Analysis
With almost every click online being tracked with Google Analytics or Facebook Pixel, there has never been more data available in history than now.
But, to gain a true competitive edge, you need to interpret and analyze data and then modify strategies.
Google Analytics provides statistical information and essential analytical tools for marketing and SEO (Search Engine Optimization).
You can do a free online course with the Google Analytics Academy and then take the google analytics certification exam to become certified and prove your knowledge.
The exam is free to take, and certification lasts for 12 months.
Facebook Pixel lets websites measure, optimize, and build audiences for ad campaigns. You can take the FaceBook Pixel Certification exams for different topics. Each exam costs $150, and the certification lasts for one year.
You can also take online courses on Coursera and edX to improve your data analysis skills, even as a total beginner.
42. Sell products on eBay
Do you have a knack for finding bargains either in-store or online? Do you often hit up thrift stores?
You could start a business buying and selling products. There is significant money to be made selling both new and used items on eBay.
When eBay first started, I was the first person in my entire town to sell items online. It was one of my brother’s many business ideas.
The lady who worked in the post office used to tell me years later that now thousands of people were selling on eBay, but I was the very first.
While there is a lot more competition these days, there is still a lot of money to be made from flipping items on eBay. It is essential to research what items are in demand and their average sale price.
Creating an account on eBay only takes a few minutes to get started.
Alternatively, you could also use CraigsList to sell items.
43. Medical Transcription Business
A medical transcriptionist is more specialized than regular transcription work for interviews or podcasts.
Medical transcription involves transcribing dictation recordings made by doctors and nurses into a written format.
The transcription is filed in patients’ medical records and formal documents such as referral letters.
You’ll need to have a good understanding of medical terminology to understand the dictations and accurately transcribe them.
Flawless grammar and 100% accuracy are essential. So is maintaining absolute confidentiality at all times.
While it may not be necessary for all jobs, you can undergo medical transcription training. Then, when you receive certification, it will increase your chances of finding work.
44. Facebook and Instagram Advertising Consultant
Facebook and Instagram Ads allow you the power to create hyper-focused target audiences and demographics. Great ad campaigns can significantly increase website traffic and lead to higher sales and revenue.
Getting the ad settings and demographics right can be a complicated task. It also risks companies burning through advertising budgets with no results if they haven’t optimized their campaigns.
This is why many companies prefer to outsource their advertising to a professional Facebook and Instagram ads consultant.
You’ll need to know how to use Facebook Ads Manager to a high level. There are many great courses on Udemy to get you started.
45. Google Ads PPC Consultant
Like Facebook and Instagram Ads, a consultant for Google Ads is in high demand.
Google Ads appear at the top of the Google SERPs (Search Engine Results Pages).
A PPC (Pay Per Click) consultant has expert knowledge in planning and optimizing online advertising campaigns and their effectiveness.
Want to get started with Google Ads and learn PPC? Google Skillshop will take you from beginner to ad wizard with free online training.
You can then show your Google Ads mastery by getting certified in Google Search, Display, Shopping Ads, Video, Apps, and Measurement.
46. Patreon & OnlyFans Creator
Do you have a large and engaged social media presence?
There is big money to be made on content subscription sites such as Patreon and OnlyFans. It isn’t only for selling adult content.
Creators use platforms to share exclusive content with their fans, who pay for monthly subscriptions and exclusive content like pictures and videos. Subscriptions also offer users the opportunity to direct message creators.
You can also receive additional income from one-time tips and selling pay-per-view content not included in the subscription.
Some of the highest-paid earners on Patreon are making up to $50,000 per year, while Bhad Bhabie made $1 million in 6 hours on OnlyFans.
47. Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketing allows you to make money by promoting other companies’ products or services and receiving a commission for each sale or subscription.
You can use a blog, email list, or social media to promote affiliate offers.
However, you first need to grow a dedicated audience. Only when someone knows you, likes you, and trusts you will they be willing to buy products based on your recommendations.
You will receive a unique link or promo code from each company. If a potential buyer clicks on your links and then makes a purchase, you will receive a percentage of the sale.
Commissions vary greatly per company, based on industry and the product price.
Many of the links included in this article are affiliate links, which means I may make a commission from any sales.
Buying through affiliate links doesn’t cost the customer anything. Still, you must disclose them upfront so that people are aware.
If you are good at marketing, you can make thousands of dollars per month without having to create your own product, handle customer inquiries, or be responsible for shipping or returns.
48. T-Shirt Printing Business
Have you ever dreamed of starting your own t-shirt business?
The barrier to entry is now gone, and anyone can start a successful t-shirt business without having to invest upfront in stock, production, or distribution costs.
You can use a site such as TeeSpring to create and sell your own t-shirt designs. It is entirely free to use and get started. They have a reputation for being reliable and using high-quality t-shirts.
TeeSpring will set the cost price of an item. Then you determine how much the sale price will be and keep the profits. It is best to start with a lower price to create interest and gradually increase prices if your products are successful.
To grow a sustainable business, you will need to invest in marketing and grow your brand. Facebook, Instagram ads, and paid collaborations with influencers in your niche work best.
49. Sell Your Notes
Did you take extensive notes through high school and college? Are they neat, clear, and easy to read?
If so, you could be making good money by selling your notes to other students, instead of your notebooks just sitting around, never to be looked at again.
Stuvia is a great place to sell your class notes, summarized textbooks, and study guides. It works by submitting your notes, and then you will be paid a commission on every sale.
50. Stock Market
Do you have money sitting in your bank account, barely earning any interest? Then, you might want to think about investing in the stock market.
Getting started with a small investment could lead to long-term financial wealth.
Many online courses on platforms such as Coursera can teach you the ins and outs of the stock market and how to make smart financial decisions with your money.
51. Write University Admissions Applications
There is more competition than ever when it comes to applying to Universities. Each year, more students are furthering their education and upskilling themselves.
But before students can live their University dream, there is a hurdle they have to overcome, the dreaded Admissions statement.
Here is your chance to shine. All you need to get started is a laptop, a wi-fi connection, and a website or social media presence to advertise your services.
I have been writing University Admissions Applications as a side hustle for a few years now. I previously worked at Universities before I started my freelancing business.
A great place to find potential customers is in University and education-related Facebook groups. Also, word of mouth is immense to reach potential customers.
You’ll need to be familiar with the admissions process of Universities and ensure you write the admission to meet the application requirements.
It is best to have a few samples of admissions statements for a portfolio to showcase your work. You can either use your application or offer to write some for friends and family to get some experience.
How To Learn New Digital Skills
Are you looking to start a new career, learn new skills, and create an online business or side hustle?
You can learn anything from home at your own pace with online courses, and start the business ideas which interest you.
Online learning platforms all have a vast range of courses to teach you anything at very affordable prices.
Want to start making money freelancing? Check out the best freelance websites for 2023.
Further reading on SkylerBenson.com
- Do you want to start an online spiritual business? Check out this post for a complete guide on how to start a spiritual business online, and the 11 best spiritual business ideas for 2023.
Now It’s Your Turn To Choose Online Business Ideas
Any of the online small business ideas listed above can help you earn an online income, which allows you to work from home.
They have a low barrier to entry and low startup costs.
When choosing online business ideas, you should consider Covid-19 and any possible impact on the business and supply and demand in the future.
I would strongly recommend starting a blog, a freelancing business, or a digital consulting agency, as they are least likely to be affected by a recession.
Are there any other great online business ideas that I missed? Let me know in the comments section below.
Skyler Benson is a full-time blogger. Join Skyler on SkylerBenson.com and learn how to start an online business and create a life of freedom. Before starting this blog, Skyler worked online as a freelance content writer. He worked with digital marketing agencies and B2B companies for four years. Skyler reviews the best software for your online business and teaches you how to write better and start your freelancing career.
