Owning a business is a lifelong goal for many, yet the barrier most people face is limited startup capital. The encouraging news? You don’t need deep pockets to get started. With just a few hundred dollars — and often by leveraging skills you already have — you can begin building a profitable venture.
Below are 12 creative business concepts to spark your entrepreneurial path. Whether you’re dipping your toes into self-employment or aiming to scale a side hustle, these suggestions can open new doors.
Table of contents:
Why starting small matters
Starting a business on a shoestring budget is important because it lowers the financial risk while giving aspiring entrepreneurs the chance to test their ideas in real markets. Many people delay pursuing their dreams because they assume they need large amounts of capital, but in reality, small-scale ventures can be launched quickly and scaled gradually. By beginning with less than $500, you can build confidence, gain experience, and establish a foundation for long-term success — without putting your financial stability on the line.
1. Online tutoring & teaching
With online education booming, there’s growing demand for instructors in virtually every subject. Beyond math or science, you can teach coding, music, painting, or languages using platforms like Zoom.
Startup needs:
- Free or low-cost video call software.
- Teaching aids or resources.
- Profile on a tutoring site or your own website.
Earnings potential: $25–$75+ an hour depending on your field.
2. Podcast editing & production
Podcasts have become part of daily life for millions, and creators need help polishing their audio. If you’re good at editing and sound quality, you can offer production services with minimal equipment.
Startup needs:
- Quality microphone ($100–$200).
- Editing software (free versions exist).
- Decent headphones.
- Portfolio site.
Earnings potential: $30–$100+ per hour of edited content.
Tip: Your first clients will likely come from people you already know — use that network.
3. Social media management
Businesses can’t thrive without an online presence. Many owners pay freelancers to run their accounts, create posts, and track analytics. If you understand how platforms work, you can start almost immediately.
Startup needs:
- Portfolio or simple website.
- Scheduling tools (many free tiers).
- Free design software.
Earnings potential: $20–$50+ per hour or $500–$2,500+ monthly per client.
4. Handyman/home repair
From painting to pressure washing, small repair and maintenance tasks are always in demand. If you already have tools, this can be one of the fastest businesses to get off the ground.
Startup needs:
- Basic tool kit.
- Flyers or local ads.
- Liability coverage.
Earnings potential: $25–$50+ an hour, depending on your skill set.
5. Fitness coaching
If health and exercise are your passions, personal training is a rewarding option. You can offer in-person or virtual sessions with little upfront cost.
Startup needs:
- Certification ($200–$400, recommended).
- Light fitness equipment.
- Insurance & simple marketing.
Earnings potential: $30–$100+ per session.
6. Virtual assistant services
Remote businesses need administrative support more than ever. Organized multitaskers can manage emails, calendars, and data entry from home.
Startup needs:
- Computer & strong internet.
- Communication software.
- Portfolio site.
- Productivity apps.
Earnings potential: $25–$50+ per hour.
7. Mobile notary public
Mobile notaries travel to clients for document signings. Certification is required, but otherwise the costs are minimal.
Startup needs:
- Notary license ($50–$300, depending on state).
- Bond (if required).
- Stamp & journal.
- Transportation.
Earnings potential: $50–$200+ per signing.
8. Personal concierge
Busy professionals often outsource errands, reservations, and everyday tasks. This flexible business can be shaped around your strengths.
Startup needs:
- Transportation.
- Scheduling tools.
- Simple marketing materials.
- Listings on gig sites.
Earnings potential: $25–$50+ per hour.
9. Event planning & holiday décor
For creative types, planning parties or decorating homes for the holidays can be both fun and profitable.
Startup needs:
- Decorations or design materials.
- Portfolio photos.
- Local ads or business cards.
- Free planning tools.
Earnings potential: $50–$100+ per decorating hour; $10–$20 per hour for planning.
10. Pet care services
Dog walking, pet sitting, and grooming are evergreen services, especially since most households own pets.
Startup needs:
- Basic pet supplies.
- Business insurance.
- Listings on pet platforms.
- Local ads.
Earnings potential: $15–$25 per walk, $40–$80 per day of pet sitting, $30–$90 for grooming.
11. Personal chef & meal prep
With packed schedules, people are willing to pay for healthy, home-cooked meals. You can prep weekly menus, offer classes, or cater small gatherings.
Startup needs:
- Cookware & food containers.
- Food safety certification ($100–$200).
- Insurance & marketing.
- Ingredients.
Earnings potential: $25–$50+ per hour, or $300–$1,000+ for events.
12. Gardening & landscaping
Yard care and landscaping services are always needed. From mowing lawns to seasonal cleanup, this is an outdoor business that scales easily.
Startup needs:
- Gardening tools ($150–$200).
- Used mower ($100–$250).
- Leaf blower ($50–$100).
- Safety gear ($30–$50).
Earnings potential: $50–$200 per lawn, $40–$60 per hour for upkeep, $100–$300 for seasonal jobs.
Final thoughts
Launching a business doesn’t have to drain your savings. With less than $500, you can turn everyday skills into services people genuinely need. The key is to start small, focus on delivering value, and build trust with your first clients. From there, word-of-mouth and consistent effort can transform a side hustle into a steady source of income — or even a full-time career.
If you’ve been waiting for the “perfect moment” to begin, this is it. Pick an idea that aligns with your strengths, take the first step, and let momentum carry you forward.
