online business plan ideas

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41 Online Business Ideas You Can Start in 2024

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Setting up an online business can help you become an entrepreneur without significant startup costs. The first step: figuring out the best online business idea for you.

What do you have expertise in? What do you love to do? Do you know someone who needs a type of support you could provide? Answering questions like these can offer inspiration as you prepare to start a business .

Here are 41 online business ideas to help you brainstorm. From side hustles to full-time enterprise, e-commerce businesses to services for remote clients, you may be able to run these from home on your own schedule.

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The 41 best online business ideas

If you're not totally set on going all-in on your online business, many of these ideas can be started part time. As you build your side hustle, it may be successful enough to turn into a full-time gig .

1. E-commerce store

Starting an e-commerce website is relatively easy and cheap — at least when compared with opening up a brick-and-mortar store. You can start with a limited amount of inventory, use an e-commerce website builder to set up your store, then market your products on social media and online marketplaces and see how customers respond. These platforms can also help you manage orders, ship your products and take online payments.

2. Social media marketing

If you’ve got a knack for getting likes, favorites, retweets, followers, shares, comments and clicks, then you might want to consider offering social media marketing services to other businesses. By consulting with companies to manage their social media profiles, spread their content across the web, keep their brands on track and respond to customer questions, you can turn your favorite hobby into your day job.

3. Freelance graphic design

Got an eye for aesthetics? Did you go to art school, or have you always spent your free time designing posters in Photoshop or Illustrator?

If so, then freelance designing might be a good choice. Take on clients at your own speed, build up a good reputation online and by word-of-mouth and work on projects that you find interesting.

4. Freelance writing

If you’re skilled in words instead, you might become a freelance writer . So long as you’ve got an internet connection and a keyboard, you can contribute all types of written content, from blog posts to feature stories to product descriptions. It helps if you’ve got a special area of interest or expertise so your employers will know you’re qualified to comment on certain topics.

» MORE: Best bank accounts for freelancers

5. E-book writing

With Amazon and other websites around, self-publishing has never been easier than it is today. If you think you’ve got something interesting or useful to say — and you believe other people will think so, too — then writing e-books could become a lucrative business.

With e-books, you don’t have to design, print or ship physical copies of your work. Of course, you will have to learn how to format an e-book correctly, pay for editing and cover design services and figure out an effective marketing strategy — but there are plenty of examples to learn from.

6. Translation

If you’re fluent in multiple languages, then translating could be the ideal online freelance job. You can do it from anywhere, so long as you’ve got the text you’re working on and you understand the goal of the translation.

» MORE: Check out 16 other e-commerce business ideas

Editing comes in many shapes and sizes, from copyediting a company’s marketing materials to proofreading novels to indexing academic manuscripts. As long as you have a sharp eye for detail, a strong grasp of grammar and a willingness to get in the weeds, then editing could be a great business idea if you’re interested in working when and how you want.

8. Writing a blog

Starting a blog can support other online business ideas by showing off your skills. Interested in coding, photography and video, fitness, food or anything else? Demonstrate your knowledge by writing great articles on those topics for others’ blogs.

If you choose to start your own blog, it can also generate revenue itself through affiliate links or advertisements.

9. Freelance researching

Whether you’re putting together documents for competitor or market research , answering tough technical questions on forums or analyzing statistics to point out trends, you can put your skills to work for your clients — with the freedom to work how you want.

10. Freelance coding and web design

If you’re seeking flexibility, diversity of projects, taking on work at your own pace and being your own boss, then freelance coding or web design for clients may be a good fit.

Plus, you can double down as a software consultant as well, offering your critical eye and expertise without writing code yourself.

» MORE: Best accounting software for consultants

11. Software and app development

Want to take freelance coding to the next level? Instead of helping clients, you can work on your own applications, programs, extensions and add-ons. Whether you sell your work in an app store or you’re holding out for the long haul and are hoping to get bought by a bigger company, the cash you make will be a direct result of your effort and ingenuity. App development is also a way to make money on Shopify .

Keep in mind, it’s not as easy to have a predictable stream of revenue until your app is already out and selling, and by then you’ve already invested a lot of time and energy. You’ll want to be sure that there’s a market out there for the product you’re creating, and that people are willing to pay for it.

» MORE: Best business credit cards for LLCs

12. Business coaching

You’ll need a good track record and a variety of testimonials to back you up, but if you’re already an entrepreneur, business coaching can provide an additional revenue stream. You can offer one-off sessions, small-group experiences or ongoing client relationships at a variety of price points.

13. College consulting

If you went to a top-tier university and have strong writing skills, you may be able to help applicants seeking admission to elite colleges. You might find yourself editing essays, steering students toward test prep courses and recommending scholarship programs, among other things.

» MORE: How to start a consulting business

14. Tutoring

For those studious entrepreneurs who scored highly on standardized tests, tutoring can pull in a lot of money without too much effort. The better your results, the better your reputation — which means the more you can charge per hour, session or package.

15. Online fitness trainer

If fitness and health is your passion, then serving as a fitness trainer to clients could be a fulfilling career. While training people online can be more difficult than being with them in person, this is an increasingly popular option for busy professionals. You can also consider related services like nutrition education.

» MORE: A step-by-step guide to starting a fitness business

16. SEO consulting

Maybe you’re a pro at SEO, or search engine optimization. If you’ve got loads of skill and experience in getting websites to rank highly on Google, and you understand how to turn searchers into customers, then there are plenty of companies willing to pay handsomely for your help.

Whether it’s by editing metadata tags, regularly updating the company blog or searching for smart keywords to rank highly on, a good SEO consultant can drastically change how a company’s website appears to search engine users — and just a few positions on Google can make a huge difference in traffic numbers. In short, you could have a big impact on a business’s bottom line, which means this online business idea is in high demand.

17. Selling handmade goods

If you’re handy or creative, you could craft your products and sell them on sites like Etsy, Amazon and eBay, straight out of your home.

Beyond that, if you’re a visual artist, you may also try selling print-on-demand products. That’s a type of e-commerce business where customers order mugs, T-shirts or other goods and with your artwork printed on them, then a third party creates the product and ships it to the customer.

18. Virtual thrift shop

Maybe you’re not into handicrafts but the idea of an starting an online store is still appealing? Selling clothes online using platforms like thredUP and Poshmark is one option.

If you're more interested in other types of products, you can scour local estate sales and secondhand shops for unique finds. You may also discover good finds on websites like eBay. As you present these products in compelling ways on your own site, good copywriting and a strong brand can go a long way to separating your site from the crowd.

19. Affiliate marketing

Social media pros, take notice: You can get paid by companies to highlight products on your blog, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube or other social channels. The more followers or site visitors you have, the more of an impact your brand recommendation will make, and the more you’ll earn with product placement.

20. Accounting or bookkeeping

Although entering the industry as a virtual bookkeeper or accountant can be tough because of competition from well-known brands in the industry, it can be done if you have the credentials or target clients in a specific niche. You’ll also need formal training and certification, and it may take time to build up a committed client base — but once you do, your clients may be with you for years.

» MORE: See our picks for best small-business accounting software

21. Telemarketing

If you’re a natural conversationalist who likes helping others, virtual telemarketing is another good online small-business idea to consider. Plenty of companies outsource some of their sales and customer service roles, so if you don’t mind working the phone at home or on the go, then try this option out.

22. Online personal assistant

Thinking about becoming a virtual assistant ? What exactly you’ll do depends on what your skills, experience and network of contacts are, but you can expect tasks from data entry to customer management, research, scheduling and other duties.

23. Data entry

If you’re looking for a job that offers a predictable income without requiring intense creativity, then data entry might be a good place to start. Try looking at online job boards for opportunities.

24. Transcription

Offering transcription services online can take many forms: You can transcribe audio interviews for reporters, create captions for TV shows and videos or develop transcribed versions of podcasts. Services like Rev or TranscribeMe can also send you work as it becomes available, which saves you the work of cultivating your own client base.

25. Travel planning

If travel is your passion, you might consider starting an online travel planning business . You can help clients plan every aspect of their trip — from flights to hotels to activities. You can work on itineraries, give tips about food, currency exchange and safety, and serve as a point of contact between your clients and any international contacts.

Not only can you operate your travel planning business at home, you can also do it while you travel. And more traveling will help you grow your business — you might even start a travel blog or photography site to supplement your planning business.

26. Cybersecurity and IT consulting

As a cybersecurity consultant, you can work with businesses of all sizes to evaluate their systems, run testing and offer tips on how they can improve their set up.

For those looking for something broader, you might consider serving as an IT consultant, assisting businesses or individuals with their technology — helping them get it set up, troubleshoot any issues and offer general operating advice.

With the proper computer set up, you can run your cybersecurity or IT consulting business from anywhere — including potentially traveling to clients’ offices for occasional on-site system assistance.

27. Online therapy

With the emergence of companies like TalkSpace and BetterHelp, you no longer have to have an office or your own practice to counsel patients. Again, you’ll need training and proper credentials. But you can explore the online therapy space by joining one of these new companies or another practice that offers virtual appointments.

28. PR consulting

If you're knowledgeable about business branding and marketing, you might start an online PR consulting business. You can assist businesses with their online presence — including social media accounts, press releases, web content and more — as well as advise them on campaigns, initiatives and overall public image.

As a freelance PR consultant, your hours and responsibilities may vary depending on the specific clients you're working with; however, you'll have more control than you would as part of a firm or agency.

29. Podcasting

Provided you have the right audio equipment and a quiet space, you can record your podcast from anywhere. You can then upload your content to various podcast apps and market your business on social media. Once you reach a certain number of listeners, some podcast platforms will help you sell ads and you'll begin generating revenue.

30. Life coaching

Looking for a way to offer advice and guidance to people without needing the extensive education of a medical professional? Consider life coaching . Although you may need a certification to become a life coach, you have much more freedom to find your niche and decide how you can help people through life's ups and downs.

As a life coach, you can also create resources like e-books and courses to give your clients additional resources outside of traditional phone call or video chat meetings.

31. Video production

As a video producer, you can work with different clients in various industries to shoot, cut and edit video to create the perfect final product. Video production can give you the opportunity to explore a unique medium of storytelling and exercise your creativity.

32. Resume writing and career coaching

If you have a background in human resources, or just know your way around formulating the perfect resume, you might consider starting an online resume writing and career coaching business. You can offer clients advice and guidance on their career path, job applications, resumes and cover letters.

LinkedIn is a great place to get started with this type of online business idea, as many professionals look for career help on that platform.

33. Dropshipping

If you don't want the responsibility of creating your own products or buying inventory upfront, you might consider starting a dropshipping business. With this kind of e-commerce operation, you create your own website, choose products from suppliers, list them on your site, and when an order is placed, the supplier will ship them directly to the customer.

You can get started by browsing dropshipping marketplaces or trying to work directly with manufacturers and importers.

» MORE: How to dropship on Shopify

34. Recruiting

If you're a people person and have good online research skills, you might consider a career as a recruiter. As an online recruiter, you can service different businesses looking to hire new employees and help them find and screen candidates. The more experience you have, the higher-level positions you may be tapped to help fill.

35. Marketing consulting

As a marketing consultant, you can provide guidance on a wide range of topics, depending on your specific expertise, and help businesses execute their online marketing strategies and campaigns. This could include email marketing, social media management and advertising, local marketing , event planning and more. You can specialize in a particular industry or geography, or market your skills to a variety of clients using a network like Upwork.

36. Online fundraising or grant writing

Are you passionate about helping mission-based businesses, especially nonprofits, getting the assistance they need? If so, consider a grant writing business. This requires you to work with clients who need help fundraising to identify grants suited to their needs, then apply for and hopefully win them.

37. Online course teaching

You can find information about practically anything online, but sometimes when you're trying to learn a specific skill or topic, it just helps to hear or see someone else explain it. So if there’s a subject you have specialized knowledge of — a particular software program, a craft, a particular historical event — consider designing an online course. If you have formal qualifications like an advanced degree, you might be able to work with an online course service to teach courses online for their students.

38. Online cooking instruction

Do you have an affinity for cooking or baking? Showcasing your skills online via virtual cooking classes is a great way to earn money while doing something you love. There are a variety of ways you can structure your cooking business: You can offer one-on-one instruction videos, host live classes and even create workshops and cooking programs.

This easy business idea could even translate into a cooking blog, e-books, cookbooks and linking your favorite cooking and baking supplies through affiliate marketing.

39. YouTube channel

One way to promote your new brand, service or message is by creating a YouTube channel. If you feel comfortable on camera, have a spot where you can film and love the idea of reaching a wide audience, YouTube might be the right platform for you. Note, though, that it can take some time for your channel to grow and you'll likely need to network on social media and blogging platforms in the beginning.

» MORE: How to make money on YouTube

40. Voiceover work

To start your own voiceover business, you'll need a microphone, sound editing software and the ability to lend your voice to ad agencies, production companies and anyone else looking for a voiceover.

Then, you can sign up for a freelance voiceover site like voices.com and start searching for the right opportunities. Once you've gotten your foot in the door, you'll have excellent clips to show potential clients.

41. Start a team

If you've been freelancing or running your own company for a while, you might be ready to take the plunge and start your own team of consultants or freelancers. For instance, if you have years of writing and editing experience and can no longer handle all your client inquiries yourself, you might be ready to hire your first employee and expand your capacity.

How to choose an online business idea

These online business ideas represent a variety of e-commerce business models . To choose the right one for you, ask these questions.

How do you want to make money?

Lots of business owners seek out predictable, recurring revenue so they can plan their personal finances. Keeping clients on retainer can help with that. But affiliate marketing, advertising or product sales may be harder to predict. Creating a business plan can help you think through your options and decide which you’re comfortable with.

How will you find work?

If you’re selling your skills as a freelancer, consider searching sites like Upwork and Behance to find the right clients. Networking in your local community, joining industry-specific LinkedIn groups and asking for referrals can be helpful, too.

If you’re selling products or building an audience online, you’ll need different tactics. Search engine optimization can help get your videos or product listings in front of people who will be interested in them. But you may need a significant marketing budget to develop an audience that’s large enough to generate revenue.

How much autonomy do you want?

With some online businesses, like selling handmade goods or creating online courses, you’ll have control over your products from start to finish — which can be freeing but also high-pressure. On the other hand, when you’re producing work for clients, you’ll have to conform to the client’s standards — which may feel confining, but you won’t have to do the work of coming up with ideas yourself. Some solopreneurs aim for a mix of client work and self-directed projects so that they have steady revenue while pursuing their passions.

A version of this article originally appeared on JustBusiness, a subsidiary of NerdWallet.

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40 Online Business Ideas You Can Start in 2024

Starting a small business can be an exciting journey for anyone with an entrepreneurial spirit. However, each venture comes with its own unique challenges. The first step is always to have a solid business idea.

Think of a business concept that has a natural customer base and the potential to grow. Many find that an online business is a great starting point, due to its simplicity compared to a traditional brick-and-mortar setup.

In this article, we’ll share online business ideas that cater to both beginners and experienced entrepreneurs, along with tips on how to get started without leaving your current job .

40 best online business ideas for 2024

• Sell t-shirts online
• Start a dropshipping business
• Launch a podcast
• Become an SEO consultant
• Sell online courses
• Start a social media marketing agency
• Become an online fitness trainer
• Provide bug testing services
• Produce videos for clients
• Curate subscription boxes
• Develop websites
• Offer graphic design services
• Create mobile apps
• Become a theme designer
• Offer translation services
• Provide remote customer service
• Work as a virtual assistant
• Sell merchandise on marketplaces
• Start an affiliate marketing business
• Offer lead generation services
• Become an influencer
• Sell handmade goods
• Become a private chef
• Offer nutrition consulting
• Start an online bakery
• Become an ad consultant
• Create a membership site
• Flip your thrift store finds
• Become a proofreader
• Sell mystery objects
• Host a webinar
• Offer remote tech support
• Sell art online
• Publish your own book
• Become a narrator
• Become an online wellness coach
• Provide speechwriting services
• Teach a foreign language
• Write resumes

1. Sell t-shirts online

If you have a bit of imagination and a knack for design, you can create your own online t-shirt shop . Platforms like Printful and Shopify make it incredibly simple to get started. The key to success in this business is offering unique and high-quality designs that people want. Some ideas include creating niche designs for specific interests, using trending themes, and collaborating with local artists to create exclusive shirts.

2. Start a dropshipping business

Dropshipping is the easiest way to start an ecommerce business . In this business model, you sell products from a supplier who keeps them in their warehouse. You create an online store to list and market those items. Once someone makes a purchase, the dropshipping supplier ships them directly to the customer. From online boutiques to jewelry stores to women’s clothing shops to one-product stores, dropshipping works for most types of ecommerce businesses.

3. Launch a podcast

Podcasting is a great home business idea with multiple ways to make money. You can earn through ads, listener donations, or merchandise sales. Brands also sponsor popular podcasts for exposure. To start a podcast, you’ll need a good microphone, audio recording software, and call recording tools. Make your podcast unique by offering in-depth discussions, sharing personal stories, or focusing on niche topics that aren’t widely covered.

4. Become an SEO consultant

If you know search engine optimization and can use Google Ads and Analytics, consider becoming an SEO consultant. SEO consultants sell their services to small businesses, enterprises, and anyone needing online help. Get started by teaching clients about the power of SEO. Then, use your skills to show them how content, link building, and PR can boost their traffic.

5. Sell online courses

Do you love teaching and want to share your knowledge? Selling online courses is a great way to share your expertise and make money. Platforms like Teachable and  Udemy let you host your courses and connect with a wide audience. You’ll need to choose a topic you know well and come up with engaging content for your online course. Seeing what other instructors charge can give you an idea of how to price your course competitively .

6. Start a social media marketing agency

Many small businesses need help with social media marketing . If you know how to attract audiences on TikTok, Instagram, and other platforms, consider starting a social media marketing agency. Begin by building a portfolio showcasing successful strategies from your own or friends’ accounts. Share this portfolio with potential clients to demonstrate your skills. Once you land your first clients, you can feature them in your portfolio to attract more business.

7. Become an online fitness trainer

If you have a background in fitness, consider becoming an online fitness trainer. Many people prefer online workouts for convenience and flexibility. You can cater to their demand by offering one-on-one classes or group sessions virtually. Use digital marketing to promote your services and reach a wider audience. Online fitness trainers can also earn passive income by creating and selling workout programs and fitness ebooks.

8. Provide bug testing services

Companies building software need people to test their products for potential bugs. You can offer your services to these companies and build a profitable business. While most companies hire testers via platforms like UserTesting , you can create your own website and offer specialized services. Landing direct clients will allow you to charge higher rates than what you’d get through third-party platforms.

9. Produce videos for clients

YouTube is the second largest website in the world, so it’s no surprise that video is now a main communication medium for businesses of all types and sizes. If you have video filming or editing skills, you can quickly build your clientele. Offer to create promotional videos, product demos, training videos, or social media content for businesses .

10. Curate subscription boxes

Subscription boxes are themed packages of various products, from snacks to fitness gear. This business model lets you curate and bundle items around any theme you choose. You don’t need to create products—just source and package them. Subscription boxes are part of a growing industry, with sales expected to grow from $31.4 billion in 2023 to $36.8 billion in 2024 .

11. Develop websites

Website development is in constant demand, as businesses always try to upgrade and improve their websites for more sales. This means there’s an opportunity for you to start an online business around creating and managing websites. Start by learning web development or hiring skilled developers for your business. Once you have the skills or team in place, you can start pitching your services to potential clients.

12. Offer graphic design services

Companies worldwide need eye-catching visuals for websites, social media, and print materials. This makes graphic design a lucrative business opportunity. Start by building a portfolio showcasing your best work. Use social media and freelance platforms to attract clients. Networking at industry events can also help you find opportunities and build connections.

13. Create mobile apps

Another lucrative online business venture is app development. With businesses and consumers always looking for new and useful apps, there’s a high demand for skilled app developers. You don’t necessarily need advanced coding skills. Today, there are no-code app platforms that allow you to create apps with ease. Start by exploring tools like Adalo or Bubble to build and launch your first app.

14. Become a theme designer

A theme designer is responsible for creating the look and feel of a website. It’s a  profitable side hustle , since businesses often need updated and attractive designs. Start by researching popular themes, identifying their weaknesses, and designing better versions. You can also specialize in a specific industry to attract more clients and increase your chances of success.

15. Offer translation services

If you are fluent in more than one language but have no interest in teaching, consider translating. Many companies need their websites and materials translated when they enter new markets. You can help them achieve this while staying active in multiple languages. Keep in mind, the most common way of billing is by cost per word, so price wisely to make smart money from this great online business idea.

16. Provide remote customer service

If you enjoy helping people but don’t want to be stuck in a call center or office all day, become a remote customer service agent and help people from the comfort of your own home. Choose between helping people via chat, email, phone, video, or other ways, and save the day for people every day. This may not make you your first million, but it feels great to help others.

17. Work as a virtual assistant

This is one of the best online business ideas to pursue from home. As a virtual assistant, you will be handling various tasks, from data entry to research and writing content. Start looking for clients on platforms like Upwork and Fiverr . Building a portfolio showcasing your work can help distinguish you from other VAs.

18. Sell merchandise on marketplaces

Selling on marketplaces can be a sustainable online business. Platforms like eBay and Etsy make listing products and receiving payments easy. You can sell items at a higher price than you paid, buying in bulk or finding secondhand treasures. Optimize your listings to attract more buyers and track your sales to improve your strategy.

19. Start an affiliate marketing business

Affiliate marketing involves promoting a product or brand. It’s a great way to make money online by earning commissions on sales. To start, choose a niche, sign up for affiliate programs , and create content to attract customers. Some ways you can differentiate yourself include creating exclusive content for subscribers, developing a comparison site, or offering bonus materials for purchases through your link.

20. Offer lead generation services

Lead generation can be time-consuming, so many companies outsource it. If you’re good on the phone and enjoy researching and reaching out to strangers, this could be your calling. Start by building a list of potential leads, then reach out with tailored pitches. Use a customer relationship management (CRM) tool to track your progress and stay organized.

21. Become an influencer

An influencer is someone with a large follower base on social media. Businesses pay influencers to promote products or services to their audience. To become an influencer, choose a niche and create engaging content. Post regularly and interact with your followers. With time, you’ll build a following, and businesses will start noticing your profile.

22. Sell handmade goods

Selling handmade products online is a great way to turn your craft skills into a business. You can make jewelry, furniture, or picture frames in your spare time and sell them on Etsy or your own website. Research popular trends to see what products are in demand, so you can fill your catalog with items that attract buyers.

23. Become a private chef

If cooking is one of your personal passions, there are dozens of opportunities to turn it into a decent business venture. You can start by setting up a catering website, experimenting with pop-up food stalls and local food markets, or joining platforms that encourage cooking enthusiasts to squeeze some money out of their passion. And if you’re not camera-shy, you can teach people how to cook special meals by selling online classes.

24. Offer nutrition consulting

The trend of healthy eating is here to say. Yet with so much contradictory advice online about what’s good for us and what isn’t, more and more people turn to professional nutritionists for specialist tips and guidance. You can find free online courses to learn the fundamentals of this profession and start offering personalized nutrition plans online.

25. Start an online bakery

Starting an online bakery is a sweet business idea. You can bake and sell items like croissants, macaroons, or bagels from your home. It’s a good way to turn a passion for baking into profit. Use platforms like Shopify to set up your online store. Promote your bakery on social media and start taking orders.

26. Sell music

If you can write and produce music at home, selling it online is a great business idea. Commercial clients need music for ads and other projects. Use platforms like PremiumBeat , Epidemic Sound , and CD Baby to sell your tracks. These websites connect you with clients looking for high-quality music and handle the payouts.

27. Become an ad consultant

Ad consultants are in demand as businesses need help optimizing their outreach. You can capitalize on this trend by starting your own ad consultancy business. Start by familiarizing yourself with various ad platforms. Work with experienced consultants to gain practical experience. With the right knowledge and skills, you’ll be equipped to serve a wide range of clients.

28. Create a membership site

Membership websites earn money by selling subscriptions for premium content and community features. Instead of relying on ads, users pay directly for access. Create your own membership website by identifying a valuable niche and using membership software to set it up. Offer exclusive content, community access, and other perks to attract and retain subscribers.

29. Flip your thrift store finds

If you love hitting up thrift stores and hunting down great deals, flipping your thrift store finds is a great online business idea. Customers want unique items but don’t want to search through piles of old stuff. Position yourself as a curator who finds and sells those vintage treasures. Use popular marketplaces like Etsy and eBay, or build your own online store to sell directly and keep all the profits.

30. Become a proofreader

If you love reading, becoming a proofreader could be your calling. Have other people send you their manuscripts for books, research papers, or whatever else you are interested in reading about, and give them honest feedback before they publish their works. This job requires attention to detail and expertise in the area to ensure that everything is ready to print.

31. Sell mystery objects

Offering mystery boxes can be a fun way to combine your love for unique finds with a steady income. You can fill these boxes with unique items from thrift stores or flea markets. Start by creating an online store on platforms like Etsy or Shopify and adding the products you want to sell. Use social media to create buzz and curiosity—consumers should find your store exciting and be keen to explore what you have to offer.

32. Host a webinar

Webinars are online presentations that connect you with your audience in real-time. You can host a webinar on digital marketing, cooking, or any other topic you’re knowledgeable in. The most direct way to make money from your webinar is to charge a fee for attendance. You can also offer a free webinar and sell a product at the end. The ideal length of a webinar is 20 to 35 minutes in order to keep engagement high.

33. Offer remote tech support

If you have a solid background in IT, consider starting a remote tech support business. Small businesses often need tech assistance but can’t afford in-house staff. You can offer your expertise to solve their technical issues without straining their finances. The best part is, you can work from anywhere and set your own hours.

34. Sell art online

If you’re a painter, photographer, or musician, consider selling your work online. Platforms like Printify or Printful let you turn your creations into tangible products that consumers can integrate into their homes. You can also sell digital art by creating downloadable files and uploading them on Etsy or your own online store.

35. Publish your own book

If you’ve dreamed of publishing your own book, it’s now easier than ever with online publishers. Whether it’s a fantasy novel, a business guide, or a children’s story, you have options to self-publish. Use apps like Digital Downloads for ebooks or print-on-demand services like Lulu to sell your work. You can also explore marketplaces like Smashwords where multiple authors list their books for sale.

36. Become a narrator

Narrators provide voice talent for videos, films, and digital content. Many YouTube channels seek narrators. Some basic voice training can help you start a profitable career. You’ll need a good mic, like the Blue Yeti, and audio software. Record your voice-overs and send the files to clients. Freelance sites like Upwork and Fiverr are ideal for finding your initial gigs and building a client base.

37. Become an online wellness coach

Online wellness coaches offer personalized advice on diet, exercise, and stress management. Many people want help to improve their well-being, making this a great business opportunity. Start by getting certified in a health-related field and creating a website. With minimal startup costs, you’ll have more to invest in marketing and advertising your services.

38. Provide speechwriting services

If you have a knack for words, consider offering speechwriting services. Many people need well-crafted speeches for events like weddings or business presentations. You can be the one to help them express their thoughts clearly. Start by creating a portfolio to showcase your work—this will help you attract clients. Promote your services on freelancing platforms and social media to build a steady client base.

39. Teach a foreign language

Teaching a foreign language online is a great business idea. Many people want to learn new languages for travel or work. Start by offering virtual classes or tutoring sessions. Use platforms like Zoom and Skype to connect with students. You can also create language learning videos or ebooks to earn passive income.

40. Write resumes

People need strong résumés to get noticed by employers. You can start a business writing résumés tailored to each candidate’s industry. Use social media and job boards to advertise your services. Join forums and writing communities to engage with potential clients and build your reputation. Offering personalized, industry-specific résumés can bring you a steady stream of customers.

How to start an online business

Once you’ve finalized your online business idea, do your due diligence and get ready to bring it to life. Here are the steps for starting your business online:

1. Check if your idea has potential

Just because you think you have a great idea doesn’t mean there’s a market for it.

Before investing your time and energy, research how feasible it is and whether there’s any buyer interest. You can hire an agency to do market research or take a DIY approach if you’re on a budget.

After your research, write a business plan to clarify your ideas. This will help you stay organized and focused as you navigate the ups and downs of starting a new business.

2. Develop your product or service

You’ve validated your idea, now it’s time to turn it into reality. Whether you’re selling a product or service, you need to create it. Find a manufacturer to make your product, package your service offerings, or write your book and choose a self-publishing option.

If you go the dropshipping route, the product is already made. You just need to pick products you’re passionate about or that have a hot market. To help you, we’ve put together a  guide to finding the best products for dropshipping .

3. Streamline your business finances

Wondering how to open a business bank account? After you’ve registered your business, you’ll get the tax ID numbers and other details needed to set it upt.

As your business grows, you may need money for new products or marketing. A business bank account will help you manage funds and track income and expenses.

It also simplifies tax prep by keeping all business transactions together. As things get more complex, you might hire an accountant.

Pro tip: Looking for an easier way to manage your business finances? Shopify Balance is a free account that lets you handle your business money directly from your Shopify admin. No monthly fees, early payouts, and cashback on certain purchases.

4. Connect with partners, vendors, and suppliers

Running a product-based online business means building various business relationships. You’ll need to find a manufacturer, a dropshipper, or someone for logistics. Compare different options to ensure you’re getting the best deal for your needs.

Other online businesses might need different partnerships. If you’re creating an online course, for instance, you might hire a graphic designer and video editor.

5. Create your business website

To start your own business online, you need a functional website . To make sales, you’ll need to set up payment processing.

First, pick a business name. If you’re struggling, try using a name generator for ideas. You’ll need a name before you build your site.

Next, choose and purchase a domain name. Often, these cost less than $30 per year. Use a platform like WordPress to build your site and set up payment processing to start accepting orders immediately.

6. Promote your new small business

Securing your first sale is a big moment for any new business owner. Now that your store is live, it’s time to start spreading the word. Finding customers and crafting effective promotions takes effort and strategy.

With many marketing channels like social media and email marketing, it can be difficult to know where to start. Missteps can lead to wasted resources.

Here are some resources to help you market your business:

• 5 Free Marketing Channels You Should Prioritize
• 9 Marketing Strategies That’ll Level Up Your Online Store

Start your online business today

If you’ve thought about launching an online business, now is the perfect time to start. It doesn’t require a full commitment on your part. You can begin with a small side project and expand as you go. Enjoy the flexibility and freedom of building an online venture.

Online business ideas FAQ

How do you brainstorm online business ideas.

• Create a brainstorming board and jot down all your ideas.
• Come back later with new insights and tweak your list.
• Seek input from friends and family.
• Survey your current customers for fresh online business concepts.
• Explore search patterns using Google Trends.

How do I start a successful online business?

• Identify a niche market and solve its problems.
• Master persuasive writing to attract customers.
• Design and build your own website.
• Leverage social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
• Optimize your website for search engines (SEO).
• Establish yourself as an expert in your field.
• Deliver outstanding customer service.
• Create multiple streams of income.

Do I need an LLC to sell online?

You don’t need an LLC to start selling online, but it’s a good idea to get one. It helps protect your personal assets if your business faces legal issues or financial troubles. As a business owner, an LLC can offer peace of mind by reducing personal risk.

Want to learn more?

• Free Business Name Generator
• Wondering How to Grow Your Business? 4 Ways Dropshipping Can Help
• Business Ideas That Will Make You Money
• What Should You Sell Online