10 Business Ideas You Can Start With Low Investment

Start smart, spend less, grow fast.

Starting a business doesn’t always require deep pockets. In fact, many successful entrepreneurs began with just a few hundred dollars—and a strong idea. With the rise of digital tools, remote work, and the creator economy, it’s never been easier to launch a business with minimal upfront investment.

Whether you’re looking for a side hustle or a full-time venture, here are 10 low-investment business ideas you can start right now.

1. Freelance Services (Writing, Design, Marketing, etc.)

💡 Investment: $0–$100
🧠 Skills-based

If you have a marketable skill—writing, graphic design, SEO, video editing, or social media management—you can start freelancing today. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and LinkedIn can help you find clients.

Tools needed:

• A professional portfolio (use Canva or Notion)

• Zoom for meetings

• Payment platforms like PayPal or Stripe

✅ Pro tip: Specialize in a niche (e.g., “content writing for SaaS companies”) to stand out.

2. Print-on-Demand Store

💡 Investment: $50–$200
🛍 E-commerce without inventory

Create and sell custom-designed t-shirts, mugs, phone cases, and more—without ever touching the product. Use platforms like Printful, Teespring, or Gelato, which fulfill and ship orders on your behalf.

Tools needed:

• Shopify or Etsy account

• Canva for designs

• Marketing via Instagram or TikTok

✅ Bonus: No storage or upfront inventory required.

3. Dropshipping Business

💡 Investment: $100–$300
📦 E-commerce model with third-party suppliers

You sell products online, but a third-party supplier handles inventory and shipping. This lets you start an online store without holding stock.

Tools needed:

• Shopify + Oberlo or Spocket

• Product research (via TikTok trends, Amazon, or AliExpress)

• Facebook or Google ads for promotion

✅ Watch out: Profit margins are thin—success depends on branding and customer service.

4. Digital Products (E-books, Templates, Courses)

💡 Investment: $0–$100
📲 Create once, sell infinitely

Sell digital assets like e-books, Notion templates, resume kits, or online courses. Platforms like Gumroad, Teachable, or Etsy are perfect for distribution.

Examples:

• “30-Day Meal Plan”

• “Instagram Growth Tracker”

• “Beginner’s Guide to Canva”

✅ Passive income potential: Minimal cost and no shipping required.

5. Virtual Assistant Services

💡 Investment: $0–$50
📅 Admin support for busy professionals

Offer remote administrative support like calendar management, email filtering, customer support, or social media scheduling.

Target clients: Entrepreneurs, coaches, small business owners

Tools to use:

• Google Workspace

• Asana or Trello

• Calendly, Slack

✅ In demand: Especially with remote work on the rise.

6. Content Creation / Influencer Marketing

💡 Investment: $0–$200
🎥 Leverage platforms for growth and monetization

If you enjoy creating videos, writing, or sharing tips online, you can build an audience and monetize through sponsorships, affiliate links, and digital products.

Platforms:

• YouTube (AdSense)

• TikTok (creator fund + brand deals)

• Instagram (affiliate marketing)

✅ Key tip: Pick a niche (fitness, finance, tech, etc.) and stay consistent.

7. Handmade Crafts or Art

💡 Investment: $100–$300
🎨 Creative and hands-on

If you enjoy making jewelry, candles, custom artwork, or decor, you can turn your hobby into a business. Sell on Etsy, local markets, or your own site.

Startup tips:

• Use recycled or bulk materials to reduce costs

• Showcase your process on social media

✅ Great for: Artists and crafters looking to monetize their passion.

8. Tutoring or Online Coaching

💡 Investment: $0–$100
📚 Teach what you know

Whether it’s academic tutoring, language lessons, career coaching, or fitness training—you can offer your knowledge online. All you need is expertise and a good internet connection.

Platforms to use:

• Zoom or Google Meet

• Calendly for scheduling

• Stripe for payments

✅ High-profit margin: Low overhead and high hourly rates.

9. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking

💡 Investment: $0–$50
🐶 Offline, local business with high trust value

If you love animals, start offering pet care services in your neighborhood. Sign up on apps like Rover or market locally via Facebook groups or flyers.

Tools needed:

• Simple scheduling spreadsheet or app

• Liability waiver or agreement

✅ Flexible: Easy to start part-time or on weekends.

10. Social Media Management for Local Businesses

💡 Investment: $0–$100
📱 Help others grow their digital presence

Many local businesses (restaurants, gyms, salons) want an online presence but lack time or skills. Offer packages for managing their Instagram, Facebook, or Google Business profile.

Deliverables may include:

• Content planning

• Posting and engagement

• Simple ad campaigns

✅ Pitch tip: Start with 1–2 clients, deliver results, and ask for referrals.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need thousands of dollars to become an entrepreneur—just the right mindset, a good idea, and the willingness to learn as you go. Start small, test quickly, and improve constantly.

The key? Take action. Pick one of these business ideas, commit to 30 days, and see how far you can go.

Need help picking the right idea based on your skills or interests? I can help you narrow it down and build a simple launch plan.