If you’re looking to launch a business without burning through your savings, Shopify’s guide highlights 19+ practical, affordable business ideas that require minimal upfront costs and can be started from home or as a side hustle.
With a bit of creativity and consistency, these ventures offer real potential for strong returns.
Top ideas for businesses with low startup costs
Here’s a rundown of business types offering high profitability without major startup expenses:
- Personal training: Offer fitness coaching, both online and in person.
- Start an online store: Use platforms like Shopify to sell products or dropship without inventory.
- Offer online tutoring: Monetize your academic strengths in subjects like math, English, or coding.
- Affiliate marketing: Promote other companies’ products and earn commissions.
- Marketing consultancy: Provide SEO, email, or social media strategies to small businesses.
- Sell branded merchandise: Launch designs via print-on-demand services like Printful or Printify.
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- Online courses: Create educational content on topics you know well.
- Pet services: Dog walking and pet-sitting remain evergreen options.
- Social media management: Help brands grow their presence and engagement.
- Event planning: Organize everything from weddings to conferences.
- Car wash business: Requires basic supplies and a solid client network.
- Freelance photography: Offer services or sell stock images.
- Freelance writing: Write blog posts, ads, or ghostwrite books.
- Blogging: Monetize with ads, sponsorships, and affiliate links.
- Content creation: Use social platforms to grow and monetize a personal brand.
- Career coaching: Help clients pivot or grow professionally.
- Sell digital products: Templates, guides, and music are popular options.
- Mobile notary services: Low overhead and flexible scheduling.
- Rent out assets: Use platforms to rent out gear, vehicles, or even space.
Tools and tips for launching lean
Shopify also recommends helpful tools to make launching easier:
- Free logo and business card makers
- Marketing plan templates
- Profit margin calculators
- Business name generators
Final thoughts
From e-commerce to tutoring, many of these ventures can evolve from side hustles to full-time businesses. The key? Choosing an idea aligned with your strengths and scaling smartly with tools and platforms that simplify operations.
