Whether you’re a student, a parent, a go-getter, or simply looking for a side project to start, you’ll need some extra cash to get going. However, there are several small business ideas that are much cheaper to launch than you might think. Many of them can be done in your spare time alongside other commitments.

Entrepreneurs often have the courage to turn a passion into a business. For some, a small side project can grow into a thriving business that lasts for years.

Today, we’ve put together a list of the top 10 small business ideas that you can start in your free time. Whether it’s a short-term way to earn extra income or a venture that grows into a full-time business, these ideas are relatively easy to start with minimal upfront costs.

1. Social Media Manager

   Many people are turning social media into full-time careers, and you can too. Almost every small business owner needs a strong social media presence to expand their audience and grow their brand, but few have the skills to do it themselves. If you enjoy creating content for your own social pages, consider which businesses you could help with your skills.

   The start-up costs are low, and once you build a client base, you can outsource tasks like artwork, design, or image editing to other agencies. This allows you to grow the business gradually but significantly.

2. Moving/Courier Business

   Helping people with local moves or deliveries is a valuable service, especially in larger cities. There’s always a need for personal moves, office relocations, or package deliveries, and starting this business requires relatively low start-up costs. All you need is a suitable vehicle and some basic marketing efforts.

   The hourly rates for this work can be surprisingly high, and depending on the type of move, the rates can even be quite substantial.

3. Start a Podcast or Blog

   If you have a charismatic personality, interesting ideas, and believe people would listen to you, starting a podcast or blog could be a great small business opportunity. Many individuals are monetizing their content through blogs, social media channels, YouTube, Patreon, or even TikTok.

   As your audience grows, so does your potential to charge for sponsorships. This is a great way to start small with minimal costs.

4. Ghostwriting

   The ability to write well is more valuable than you might think. Ghostwriting services are in demand in a variety of industries. You could start a custom writing service to help students with their assignments or offer writing services to businesses, editors, or even celebrities.

   Start by offering your services to friends and family—you may be surprised by how many people need writing help. Afterward, platforms like Fiverr and UpWork are great places to find more work.

5. Residential Cleaning Services

   If you enjoy cleaning, this could be a perfect business for you. You don’t need much capital to get started, as basic supplies are inexpensive. Marketing through social media, Yelp, and other review sites is also affordable.

   Once you gain some clients, ask for testimonials to build your reputation. This is a business you can scale easily by hiring a small team. It’s a growing industry with high hourly rates, especially in larger cities.

6. Dropshipping

   Dropshipping allows you to manage a retail business without the hassle of holding inventory. A third-party retailer stores and ships products on behalf of your business. All you need to focus on is marketing and maintaining supplier relationships.

   Without inventory overhead, dropshipping is one of the cheapest ways to start a business and allows you to offer a wide variety of products.

7. Simple Apparel

   Printing custom t-shirts, hoodies, and hats has never been easier. If you have a talent for design and a good idea, you can produce bulk items at affordable rates.

   If you have a social media following, this is a great way to launch a business. Focus on your target audience and use high-quality materials, as customers are willing to pay more for durable, well-made items.

8. Photography Business

   Starting a photography business is easier than ever, thanks to advances in technology. While having photography experience helps, even amateurs can break into the field. Family portraits, weddings, and engagements are popular photography services for beginners.

   You’ll need some equipment and practice, but find a need in your community, and you could build a successful business.

9. Handmade Goods

   There are now numerous platforms beyond Amazon that allow entrepreneurs to sell handmade goods to a large audience. Soap, candles, jewelry, clocks, and more are popular products that people have had great success selling online.

   With today’s technology, setting up your own eCommerce store is easier than ever.

10. Membership Business Model

   Consider starting a business with a membership or subscription service. These are popular because they create a steady income stream as new customers subscribe. Instead of making a one-time sale, you build ongoing relationships with customers.

   Online tutoring, podcasts, fitness classes, music lessons, and pet training are just a few examples of subscription-based businesses.

Which Businesses Are Easiest to Start?

Most of the businesses on this list are easy to start, but digital businesses are probably the simplest. Social media management, content writing, SEO services, graphic design, and software development are some of the top options.

What Are the Most Profitable Small Businesses?

Profitability depends on how much time and energy you invest, but some of the most successful businesses include tutoring, handyman services, child care, gardening shops, IT support, and web design.

What New Businesses Are Trending?

Digital-based businesses are becoming increasingly popular. Some trending options include consulting, online selling, dropshipping, tutoring, courier services, app development, website design, and food trucks.

Start Your Small Business with the Right Tools

To make things easier, invest in a good point of sale (POS) system that can help you scale, track customer loyalty, and manage online sales. Look for a system that’s as flexible as your business needs to be.