20 affordable business ideas with high earning potential

Launching your own business doesn’t always require a hefty investment. In fact, some of the most profitable ventures today can be started with minimal upfront costs. Whether you’re equipped with a particular skill set or simply eager to transform your passions into a thriving business, there are numerous opportunities that align with your financial goals.

Key Takeaways

• ‍Minimal Initial Investment: Many business ideas, such as Print on Demand and affiliate marketing, are accessible to entrepreneurs with limited capital.‍
• High-Profit Potential: Businesses with low startup costs can still generate significant profits. For instance, a well-managed print-on-demand business can yield up to $10,000 per month through strategic design and marketing efforts.‍
• Flexibility and Ease: Numerous high-margin businesses can be operated from the comfort of your home, offering the freedom to work on your terms.

Best Low Startup Cost Business Ideas for Making Money Online

1.Print on Demand

Print on Demand (POD) offers an affordable way to start a business by allowing you to sell custom-designed products without the need for inventory. With POD, you can create and sell items such as t-shirts and hoodies. When a customer places an order, the POD service handles the printing and shipping, removing the need for upfront investment and minimizing the risk of excess stock. This model reduces financial risk and is a top choice for those seeking cost-effective business opportunities.To succeed with POD, focus on crafting unique designs, implementing effective marketing strategies, and providing exceptional customer service to transform your creative concepts into a profitable venture.

Easily launch your print-on-demand business using a free Tapstitch account:

1. Identify Your Niche: Conduct research to understand your target market and their preferences.
2. Choose Your Products: Select popular items from Tapstitch’s diverse catalog.
3. Design Your Products: Utilize Tapstitch’s free Product Creator to craft custom designs.
4. Set Up Your Online Store: Connect your Tapstitch account with your preferred eCommerce platform.
5. Add Your Products: Upload your personalized products to your store.
6. Set Pricing: Analyze the costs of similar products and current market trends to set competitive prices.
7. Market Your Store: Promote your brand through social media, email campaigns, and other marketing tactics.
8. Monitor and Adjust: Keep track of your expenses and sales performance, and refine your designs or strategies as necessary.

Typical startup costs:

• Tapstitch account: Free
• Website domain hosting（ From $2.99/month），eCommerce platform subscription:（Starting from $29/month e.g., Shopify)

Potential earnings:

• We suggest aiming for a minimum profit margin of 40% on each item. Well-managed print-on-demand stores can generate monthly revenues of up to $10,000. For example, a store that sells 1,000 units per month with a $4 profit per unit could achieve a monthly profit of $4,000.

Ideal for: Entrepreneurs, small business owners, influencers, and anyone interested in generating income through the sale of custom merchandise.

2.Affiliate Marketing Business

Affiliate marketers create content designed to promote specific products or brands by placing affiliate links on their websites.

When a customer makes a purchase through one of these links, the affiliate earns a commission, which is typically a percentage of the sale price.

Important: To thrive in affiliate marketing, it’s essential to have a deep passion for a specific niche, an established affiliate website, and a solid social media presence.

With a quick application process, you'll gain easy access to affiliate links. Once approved, you'll earn a 5% commission on all sales made by your referrals during their first 12 months.

Typical startup costs:

• Setting up social media pages and a YouTube channel is free
• Website domain hosting costs start as low as $2.99/month

Potential earnings:

• Referral commissions vary by affiliate program, ranging from 5% to 30%. For high-demand products and services, earnings can reach up to $100,000 per month.

Ideal for:Bloggers, social media influencers, and digital marketers seeking to monetize their online platforms.

3.Blogging

Blogging can become a highly profitable small business idea if you have expertise in a niche that attracts regular user interest and engagement.Some of the most lucrative blogging niches include:

• Financial management
• Property investment
• Wellness and exercise
• Learning and leisure activities
• Travel and food
• Science and tech innovations
• Digital marketing and SEO
• Relationships and dating

You can publish your blog on your own WordPress website, specialized platforms like Medium, or through social media.To monetize your blog, explore opportunities such as advertising, affiliate marketing, sponsored content, or selling your own products and courses.

To monetize your blog, explore opportunities such as advertising, affiliate marketing, sponsored content, or selling your own products and courses.

Typical startup costs:

• Basic website domain hosting fees begin at $2.99 per month.

Potential earnings:

• Ranging from $1 to $10 per 1,000 page views through ads and up to $50 to $500 or more with sponsored posts.

Ideal for: Writers, content creators, and individuals eager to share their knowledge or passions online.

4.Online Courses and Online Tutoring Services

Top online business ideas often involve sharing your expertise with others. Develop a comprehensive guide, presentation, or video tutorial, and offer it as a paid course. For a more interactive approach, provide tutoring sessions via live video calls, charging per session.

Utilize paid platforms or free software for creating content and visuals. You can either build your own website or use platforms such as Udemy and Preply to host and sell your courses.

Highly profitable online courses often focus on the following subjects:

• Business and entrepreneurship
• IT and technology
• Health and fitness
• Language learning and writing
• Content creation and marketing
• Arts and crafts
• Music and academic subjects

Typical startup expenses:

• Using existing platforms can be cost-free, but anticipate investing between $500 and $2,000 for equipment, subscriptions, and software.

Potential earnings:

• You can earn approximately $3,000 annually with Skillshare or receive up to 37% of the revenue per course on Udemy, potentially generating $100 to $500 per month.

Who should consider this: Educators, industry experts, and individuals passionate about teaching.

Useful platforms: Thinkific and Teachable

5.Photo Editing

Social media has elevated professional photography to a high-demand asset. Offering photo editing services is a lucrative business opportunity for those passionate about visual graphics.

Although free software can handle many tasks, using professional tools like Adobe Photoshop and Affinity Photo can enhance your business's credibility and appeal.

Typical startup costs:

• You can start with free editing software such as GIMP, or opt for a subscription to Adobe Photoshop starting at $22.99 per month. Alternatively, Affinity Photo offers a one-time purchase option for $69.99.

Potential earnings:

• Earn between $15 and $75 per hour on Fiverr.

Who Can Benefit:Ideal for photographers, graphic designers, and individuals with expertise in photo editing software.

Helpful tools: Adobe

6.YouTube Channel

With the rise of personalized algorithms and independent crowdfunding platforms, YouTube has transformed from a niche hobby into a highly lucrative business opportunity with endless potential.

To get started with your own YouTube channel, consider these essential steps:

• Choose a niche, such as gaming, vlogging, video essays, tutorials, or comedy sketches.
• Set up editing software like Adobe Premiere.
• Perform keyword research to identify relevant trends and topics.
• Monetize your channel through AdSense, affiliate programs, or Patreon.
• Promote your videos across social media and other online platforms.
  

Select the appropriate video editing software to produce high-quality content. Since MP4 is the most widely used and compatible video format, explore different MP4 editing tools to craft captivating and engaging visuals.

Typical startup costs:

• Starting a channel and uploading videos is free and can be done using a cellphone. For a more advanced setup, you'll need a camera (starting at $250 for a GoPro Hero10), a microphone (starting at $100 for Blue Yeti or Audio-Technica models), and an audio interface (starting at $100 for the Focusrite Scarlett, which includes professional software for recording and editing audio).
  

Potential earnings:

• On average, YouTube channels earn approximately $18 per 1,000 ad views.

Ideal for: Video content creators, entertainers, and educators.

Learn more: YouTube Creator Academy

7.Podcasting

Podcasting is an excellent way to explore in-depth topics and cultivate dedicated communities who proudly support their favorite shows with custom merchandise. It also provides opportunities to earn revenue through sponsored advertisements.
To start a podcast, you'll typically need a quality microphone, a soundproof space, audio editing software, and a publishing platform such as YouTube or Spotify.

Typical startup costs:

• Starter microphones, like the Blue Yeti, typically cost between $150 and $500. Platforms such as Riverside also offer basic plans that include a few free recording hours.
  

Potential earnings:

• Podcasts can generate income ranging from $200 to $500 per month for smaller shows. For popular podcasts with over 100,000 downloads per episode, earnings can reach $20,000 to $50,000.
• Sponsorships and mid-roll ads typically yield between $20 to $50 per 1,000 downloads. Therefore, a podcast that garners 10,000 downloads per episode could potentially earn $200 to $500 per episode through advertising.

Ideal for: Public speakers, storytellers, and professionals with expertise in various fields.

Learn more: Podcast Insights and Buzzsprout

8.Digital Marketing Services

The investment in social media advertising is projected to double this decade, with spending expected to hit approximately $262 billion by 2028. This substantial growth presents a prime opportunity for those with small business ideas to capitalize on.

Key skills such as data analytics, keyword research, content management, and search engine optimization (SEO) are crucial for delivering effective advertising services. With dedication and strategic effort, media marketing can evolve into a highly profitable and low-cost business venture.

Bringing digital marketing business ideas to life will involve investing in web hosting, data tracking software, and various online marketing tools.

Typical startup costs:

• Budget approximately $1,000 to $2,000 for software and legal requirements.
  

Potential earnings:

• Freelancers can make between $20 and $150 per hour, depending on their level of expertise and geographic location.

Ideal for: Marketing professionals, social media specialists, and entrepreneurs.

Discover more: HubSpot and Neil Patel

Tip: The Tapstitch Experts Program offers a unique chance to enhance your social media marketing portfolio by collaborating with a team of professionals and print-on-demand merchants.

9.Social Media Management

Professional social media accounts often focus on optimizing and scheduling content to capitalize on peak traffic times and strategically chosen tags. Influencers frequently outsource their social media management to specialized professionals, creating a lucrative business opportunity.

To become a successful social media manager, you need a strong online presence and a solid understanding of social media algorithms and digital marketing strategies.

Build a network of business accounts across major platforms, familiarize yourself with online marketing tools, promote your services through freelance and portfolio websites, and monitor your social media engagement for insights.

While managing a few accounts can be done independently, scaling up will require investment. Social media management services can range from $100 for basic marketing tools to several thousand dollars for comprehensive ad campaigns.

Typical startup costs:

• ‍‍Initially free, but expect to invest $500 to $1,500 as you scale your social media management services.

Potential earnings:

• Entry-level and beginner social media managers can anticipate an average starting rate of $23 per hour.

Ideal for: Social media enthusiasts, digital marketers, and communications professionals.

Discover more: Hootsuite and Buffer

10.Graphic Design Services

Freelance platforms such as Fiverr and Upwork are excellent venues to begin offering graphic design services. Set up a profile, highlight your skills, and list your rates to start promoting your services.

To succeed in the graphic design field, ensure you have a strong portfolio showcasing your sample designs, proficiency in graphic design software, an active social media presence, and the interpersonal skills necessary for negotiating terms and pricing.

Consider joining the Tapstitch Experts Program to collaborate with merchants seeking talented designers for their product needs.

Typical startup costs:

• Starting out in graphic design typically involves initial expenses for software, website development, and ongoing maintenance, which can range from $500 to $2,000.

Potential earnings:

• According to estimates from Glassdoor and Payscale, beginner graphic designers can expect to earn an average of $25 to $35 per hour.

Ideal for: Artists, graphic designers, and creative professionals.

Discover more: 99designs

11.SEO Consulting Business

Leverage your expertise in addressing website performance issues, analyzing traffic data, and other consulting skills to help clients enhance their website growth.

SEO consulting stands out as a highly profitable business opportunity. Numerous online courses, both free and paid, are available to help you get started in this field.

Although high-quality data tracking tools may not be essential for personal websites, professional SEO consulting often requires subscriptions to advanced tools such as Ahrefs, Semrush, or Moz.

Typical startup costs:

• Subscriptions to SEO tools can reach up to $800, with additional costs of around $50 for WordPress site hosting.

Potential earnings:

• ‍SEO consultants in the US typically earn between $500 and $1,500 per mon.

Ideal for:  SEO specialists, digital marketing professionals, and those with in-depth knowledge of search engine algorithms.

Discover more: Search Engine Journal

12.Translation Services

If you’re bilingual, translation services can transform your language skills into a profitable business with minimal investment.

Provide translation services for online content creators, individuals, and small businesses aiming to connect with new customer segments.

Typical startup costs:

• If you’re already fluent in a second or third language, starting a translation service can be free. However, you might incur costs for additional language courses to enhance your skills.

Potential earnings:

• On platforms like Fiverr, you can earn between $5 and $100 for every 400 words translated. In the US, the median hourly rate for translators and interpreters is approximately $23.

Ideal for: Bilingual or multilingual individuals, linguists, and professionals with strong language skills.

Popular platforms: Upwork and Fiverr

Other Low-Investment-High-Profit Business Ideas

13.Handicraft sales

“Consider starting a classic craft venture: your own handmade craft business. Begin on a small scale by using basic tools and materials, and sell your creations from a home studio to keep costs low.”

Typical startup costs:

• The cost of materials for handicrafts varies according to the type of product. For example, if you make jewelry, the initial investment may include beads, wire, tools, etc. For handmade soap or candle making, you may need to purchase raw materials, molds, packaging, etc. Usually, the initial material investment is between $100-$500.
  

Potential earnings:

• Handicrafts are typically sold at 3-5 times the cost of materials to cover time costs and profits. Assuming an item with a material cost of $10, the selling price might be $30-$50. As your brand builds and your customer base expands, you can raise your pricing to reflect its uniqueness and handmade value.

Ideal for: Creative people，freelance，patient and meticulous people.

14.Dog Walking Business

Pet owners are willing to invest significantly in their pets' health and happiness. Starting a dog-walking or petsitting business can be a lucrative opportunity with high profit margins. Additionally, it offers the rewarding experience of spending time with lovable pets.

Typical startup costs:

• Starting a pet care business often incurs minimal costs, as most pet owners provide their own supplies. However, you might need to budget $50-$100 per month for essentials like waste bags and treats.

Potential earnings:

• Profitability can vary significantly based on location. In upscale neighborhoods, dog-walking rates can exceed $20 per hour. Walking multiple dogs at once can further increase your earnings.

Ideal for: Animal enthusiasts and individuals who enjoy outdoor activities.

Discover more: Pet Business, Rover

15.Catering Business

Starting a catering business is a cost-effective venture with significant profit potential. You don’t need to be a personal chef to create delicious event meals and serve hot coffee.

While costs for dinnerware, transportation, and food preparation can accumulate, careful budgeting will help you achieve substantial profits.

Be sure to verify any required licenses and permits in your area before getting started.

Typical startup costs:

• Startup costs for a catering business typically range from $10,000 to $50,000. You might need a small business loan to cover the initial expenses, such as purchasing or renting necessary equipment.

Potential earnings:

• You might charge anywhere from $20 to $200 per person, depending on the event and location. Profit margins typically fall between 7% and 20%, influenced by your costs and pricing strategy.

Ideal for: culinary professionals and those passionate about cooking and event planning.

More resources: Le Cordon Bleu, The Balance Small Business, The Ultimate Guide to Starting a Home-Based Catering Business.

16.Wedding Photography Business

Any experienced photographer or event planner will confirm that wedding photography remains consistently in high demand.

If you already run a reputable photography business, highlighting your wedding photography services in your social media bio can draw in more clients and broaden your audience. Enhance your skills with online courses on platforms like Skillshare and consider upgrading your camera and equipment to transform your passion into a reliable income stream.

Typical startup costs:

• Range from $2,000 to $5,000 for professional-grade cameras, lenses, and editing software.

Potential earnings:

• Your earnings can generally range between $200 and $500 per hour.

Ideal for: Experienced photographers and individuals with a talent for capturing memorable moments.

Explore more: WeddingWire

17.Virtual Assistant Service

“Virtual assistant services are increasingly sought after. Many professionals who need help managing their tasks or streamlining their workflow may already have the necessary tools but lack the time or expertise to optimize their operations. As a virtual assistant, you can step in to provide support and efficiency, helping them achieve their business goals.”

Typical startup costs:

• As a virtual assistant, all you need is a computer or laptop and a stable Internet connection. If you already have these devices, the initial investment is negligible. If you need to buy new equipment, the cost is between $500-$1,200.

Potential earnings:

• Virtual assistants typically earn between $15-$50 an hour, depending on experience, skills, and client demand. If you work 4 hours a day, 5 days a week, with an average hourly wage of $25, you could be earning $2,000 a month.

Ideal for: Self-disciplined and well-organized people，people who have the ability to multitask and multitaskers.

18.Event Planning Business

Event planning is a lucrative business idea that demands excellent coordination skills and meticulous attention to detail but requires only a minimal initial investment. Whether it’s weddings, birthdays, conferences, or corporate team-building events, businesses seek out event planners who can handle networking, ordering, and scheduling within a set budget. This field is perfect for those who enjoy organizing and planning.

Typical startup costs:

• To get started in event planning, expect to invest between $2,000 and $5,000. This includes expenses for setting up an eCommerce website, obtaining necessary licenses, and covering filing fees.
  

Potential earnings:  

• In the US, the average hourly rate for an event planner is around $25. With experience and a strong client base, your earnings can increase significantly.

Ideal for:Detail-oriented individuals with a talent for organizing and coordinating events.

Discover more: Cvent

19.Life Coaching Business

If you’ve achieved mastery in a particular area of your life, consider using that expertise to help others. Coaching is a highly profitable business idea, ideal for those with valuable knowledge to share.

You can offer life coaching services to aspiring entrepreneurs seeking guidance on starting a successful venture, provide advice on developing healthy routines, or teach strategies for financial management and emotional well-being.

Typical startup costs:

• Initial costs are minimal, primarily covering social media promotion. For a more professional approach, consider investing in building a dedicated website.

Potential earnings:

• In the US, life coaches typically earn about $35 per hour.

Ideal for: motivational individuals with excellent interpersonal skills and a genuine passion for helping others reach their goals.

Discover more: Coach Federation

20.Home Maintenance Business

Home care services are consistently in demand, offering a range of opportunities from general handyman work to specialized tasks like window cleaning, lawn mowing, exterior repairs, and driveway washing.

Starting a home care business is relatively low-cost, yet it can yield high profits. For more advanced repair work, becoming a licensed contractor may be necessary, depending on your specialty and location. This will require obtaining specific licenses and certifications, as well as investing in more expensive tools and equipment.

Typical startup costs:

• Initial costs can range from $100 to $5,000, depending on the tools and equipment needed for your home care services.

Potential earnings:

• Earnings vary by task and location. For instance, pressure washing services in the US typically earn about $23 per hour.

Ideal for: Contractors, handymen,and those with expertise in a range of home repair and maintenance tasks.

Discover more: Home Advisor and Angi

What Do You Need to Start a Successful Business?

Many believe that starting a profitable small business requires a large team, significant startup costs, or investors. However, it’s entirely possible to launch a successful venture with minimal initial investment.

Here are some tips to get your small business off to a strong start:

• Allocate Adequate Preparation Time:
• Estimate All Expense
• Research Local Profitability
• Leverage Your Expertise
• Stay Organized

What is the Easiest Business With High-Profit Margins?

One of the most promising eCommerce ventures with low investment and high profit margins is a print-on-demand (POD) store. POD allows you to sell custom-designed products without handling inventory or managing shipping logistics, letting you concentrate on marketing and design.

Launch your own POD business easily and boost your earnings by joining Tapstitch today.

Low-Cost Start-up Businesses: FAQ

How do I start a business with no ideas?

• Assess Your Skills and Passions: Reflect on your personal skills, hobbies, and interests. Consider how you might use these to address common problems or fulfill needs in the market.
• Conduct Market Research: Identify common frustrations or gaps in the market. This could involve surveying potential customers, analyzing industry trends, or observing emerging needs.

What are the best low-cost business ideas?

• Print on Demand: Utilize platforms like Tapstitch to design and sell custom products online without holding inventory or managing shipping.
• Freelance Services: Offer your skills in writing, editing, graphic design, or other areas through freelancing platforms such as Upwork or Fiverr.
• Consulting Business: Leverage your expertise in a specific field to provide consulting services or create and sell online courses.‍
• Social Media Marketing: Assist businesses with managing and growing their social media presence to enhance their online visibility and engagement.‍
• Local Services: Start a business offering services such as dog walking, pet sitting, house cleaning, or lawn care within your local community.

Remember, the best business idea for you will align with your skills, interests, and available resources.

What are the top 3 low-cost businesses to start?

• Content Creation: This includes blogging, podcasting, or video creation.
• Online Store Creation: Launch an eCommerce store using print-on-demand services or dropshipping. Platforms like Tapstitch or Shopify make it easy to set up and manage an online store with low upfront costs.
• Online Store Creation: Launch an eCommerce store using print-on-demand services or dropshipping. Platforms like Tapstitch or Shopify make it easy to set up and manage an online store with low upfront costs.
  

What is a low-risk business?

• A low-risk business typically involves minimal financial investment and operational complexity. Start-up costs are low, often under $100.
  

Can I start a business with just $10,000?

• Yes，with $10,000, you can start a profitable business in various fields. Consider becoming an affiliate marketer by creating a website or blog to promote products and earn commissions. Alternatively, launch a print-on-demand store using platforms like Tapstitch to sell custom products without holding inventory. If you have a knack for design, invest in high-quality software to offer graphic design services. For those passionate about fitness, starting a personal training business, either in-person or online, is a viable option. Lastly, a dog walking business can be a lucrative choice, requiring minimal initial investment while serving your local community.

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