Are you considering starting an online business in 2025? This guide covers practical and proven online business ideas you can start with a small budget.
Each idea includes the tools you’ll need and step-by-step advice to help you get started. Whether you’re looking for a side project or a full-time career, these ideas can often be launched for under $500.
1. Fitness Course Creator
The demand for at-home fitness options has surged since the pandemic. Online fitness courses offer a great opportunity to earn recurring income while helping others reach their health goals. A well-designed course can bring in $2,000–$4,000 each month.
Business Idea:
- Create a “30-Day Home HIIT Challenge” course
- Price it between $47–$97
- Promote it on Instagram and TikTok
Essential Tools:
- Teachable ($29/month)
- Smartphone with a basic microphone ($79)
- CapCut (Free editing tool)
2. Pinterest Virtual Assistant
Pinterest is a powerful platform for driving traffic to businesses, but many business owners don’t have time to manage it. Virtual assistants specializing in Pinterest can earn $1,000+ monthly by managing just 2–3 accounts.
Business Idea:
- Build a portfolio of sample pins
- Start with $397/month basic packages
- Offer premium services for $797/month
Essential Tools:
- Canva Pro ($12.99/month)
- Tailwind ($15/month)
3. Pet Health Supplement Store
Pet owners are more focused than ever on their pets’ health. Selling premium pet supplements can be highly profitable, with successful stores earning $3,000–$5,000 per month.
Business Idea:
- Start with 5–7 popular supplements
- Use quality suppliers from the US or Europe
- Focus on specific pet health needs
Essential Tools:
- Shopify ($39/month)
- Spocket for suppliers ($29/month)
4. Digital Meal Plan Creator
With the rising interest in healthy eating and meal prep, offering structured meal plans can be a profitable business. Subscription-based meal plans can generate $2,000–$4,000 per month.
Business Idea:
- Create weekly meal plan packages with shopping lists and recipes
- Charge $27–$47/month per subscriber
Essential Tools:
- Meal Planning Pro ($10/month)
- Gumroad for delivery
5. Social Media Manager for Restaurants
Local restaurants need help maintaining their social media presence. Social media managers can earn $500–$1,000 per client every month.
Business Idea:
- Build a portfolio with food content
- Start with $497/month packages
- Include photo sessions and short videos
Essential Tools:
- Later for scheduling posts ($18/month)
- Canva Pro for designs ($12.99/month)
6. Digital Planner Creator
Digital planners and templates are popular among people seeking better organization and productivity. Many top sellers earn $2,000–$4,000 per month through marketplaces.
Business Idea:
- Create budget and project planner templates
- Price them between $7–$27
- Offer free templates to grow your email list
Essential Tools:
- Notion (Free)
- Gumroad (9% + $0.30 per sale)
7. Dog Breed Print-on-Demand Store
Dog lovers are a passionate niche market. Focusing on breed-specific products can set your store apart.
Business Idea:
- Choose 3–5 dog breeds to target
- Design 20–30 unique items
- Test sales using Facebook ads ($5/day)
Essential Tools:
- Shopify ($39/month)
- Printful (Free to start)
8. SaaS Technical Writer
Software companies need clear guides and documentation for their users. SaaS-focused technical writers can earn $50–$100 per hour.
Business Idea:
- Create sample user guides
- Specialize in software documentation
- Charge per project ($500–$2,000)
Essential Tools:
- Grammarly ($12/month)
- Snagit ($49.95 one-time purchase)
9. Finance Newsletter Creator
Specialized finance newsletters focusing on topics like investing or crypto can earn steady income. Top creators earn $2–$5 per subscriber monthly.
Business Idea:
- Focus on a niche like dividend investing
- Offer free and premium tiers ($7/month for premium)
- Build an audience on LinkedIn or Twitter
Essential Tools:
- Beehiiv (Free for up to 2,500 subscribers)
- Buffer ($5/month)
10. Podcast Manager
Many podcasters need help editing, writing show notes, and marketing. Podcast managers can earn $500–$1,000 per show every month.
Business Idea:
- Learn basic audio editing skills
- Create show notes templates
- Offer full-service packages for $799/month
Essential Tools:
- Descript ($12/month)
- Dubsado ($35/month)
Final Thoughts
Starting an online business in 2025 doesn’t have to cost a lot. By choosing the right idea and focusing on a specific audience, you can build a profitable business with minimal upfront investment. Pick an idea that matches your interests and skills, and grow steadily over time.