If you are considering starting an online business, we have handpicked the top 75 online business ideas. Read on to discover which online business ideas are a sure-shot way to a successful business.
Gone are the days when people only came to the internet in search of side gigs. These days, people are running thriving online businesses online. Some even earn in 6-figures. (Yes, we are not exaggerating)
Running a business online might seem daunting, but there’s more to what meets the eye. It has some obvious perks over a physical store: it gets more footfall, requires less investment (comparatively) and, most importantly, does not require your active physical presence to run.
Having established the baseline for all entrepreneurs starting their businesses online, let’s take a look at the best online business ideas that anyone can use to start their business.
Contents
- 75+ Best Online Business Ideas for 2022
- 1. Start Blogging
- 2. Get into Affiliate marketing
- 3. Start a dropshipping business
- 4. Create digital products & sell subscriptions
- 5. Start a reselling business
- 6. Become a social media marketer
- 7. Monetize your cooking skills
- 8. Sell customized merchandise
- 9. Monetize your SEO skills
- 10. Promote your graphic designing services
- 11. Start your ad management business
- 12. Become a bug/ user tester
- 13. Sell antiques and collectibles
- 14. Open your online bakery
- 15. Teach foreign languages
- 16. Start a T-shirt business
- 17. Publish an eBook
- 18. Start an electronics business
- 19. Sell copywriting services
- 20. Curate subscription boxes
- 21. Get into app development
- 22. Launch your ethical fashion clothing line
- 23. Offer translation services
- 24. Create Software as a Service
- 25. Promote your technical writing services
- 26. Start your own digital marketing business
- 27. Get into lead generation
- 28. Start your own podcast
- 29. Sell voiceover services
- 30. Become a virtual assistant
- 31. Sell pet supplies
- 32. Offer editing and proofreading services
- 33. Offer transcription services
- 34. Offer web maintenance and updation services
- 35. Flip domains
- 36. Design landing pages
- 37. Offer accounting and/or bookkeeping services
- 38. Offer customer support services
- 39. Monetize your video editing skills
- 40. Sell WordPress themes and plugins
- 41. Sell photographs
- 42. Open your online clothing boutique
- 43. Sell online courses
- 44. Foray into data entry
- 45. Open your thrift clothing store
- 46. Sell niche products
- 47. Create and sell handmade goods
- 48. Conduct paid market research activities
- 49. Offer tutoring services
- 50. Sell chrome extensions
- 51. Become a business consultant
- 52. Open a virtual college counseling bureau
- 53. Become an online fitness trainer
- 54. Offer remote sales services
- 55. Teach stock or foreign currency trading
- 56. Become a travel planner
- 57. Offer cybersecurity and whitehat hacking services
- 58. Offer online therapy
- 59. Sell organic and/or handmade candles
- 60. Earn as a PPC expert
- 61. Start a YouTube channel
- 62. Start a website flipping business
- 63. Become a life coach
- 64. Become an online recruiter
- 65. Offer remote tech support services
- 66. Work as a data analyst
- 67. Host webinars
- 68. Curate gift hampers/baskets
- 69. Offer PR consulting services
- 70. Earn as a content strategist
- 71. Design email newsletter templates
- 72. Sell academic notes
- 73. Become a corporate counselor
- 74. Sell 3D printed products
- 75. Work as a ghostwriter
- Conclusion
- FAQs
75+ Best Online Business Ideas for 2022
Without much further ado, let’s jump onto the list:
1. Start Blogging
If your passion lies in stringing words together, there will never be a better time to monetize your skills by starting your own blog.
In the blogging world, churning out original and engaging content is the key to success. To make more money through blogging, you can host third-party ads, write sponsored posts and engage in affiliate marketing.
Remember: While blogging can be highly lucrative, it takes time to make a name for yourself.
2. Get into Affiliate marketing
If you have prowess in the art of persuasion, affiliate marketing is an excellent way for you to make dough online.
For the uninitiated, affiliate marketing is the process of earning commission through advertising other people’s products over social media. Every time someone clicks on the links you’ve provided or uses your unique code, you earn a share from the sale.
And if you already have a well-established online presence or a blogging business, there’s no cap on what you can earn through affiliate marketing.
Pro tip: Amazon affiliate program is a good way to break into this business.
3. Start a dropshipping business
Dropshipping is tailor-made for you if you want to sell goods without the hassle of hefty investment and holding inventory.
To start your own dropshipping business, you need to have an eCommerce store, a pool of reliable suppliers and a marketing strategy in place. When you receive an order in your store, you source the product from your supplier and have them handle the packaging, shipping, and fulfillment process.
It is undoubtedly the most trending online business idea of 2022. Curious about the best dropshipping products to sell in 2022? Read this article to discover.
Pro tip: To make the most out of dropshipping, sell using your custom store. Read more dropshipping tips here.
4. Create digital products & sell subscriptions
This is your best bet if you are technologically savvy and looking for a low-investment business idea. Of all the online business ideas listed, selling digital products is the easiest way to start a new revenue stream.
Digital products like memberships, NFTs, downloadable prints, swipe files etc., sell like hotcakes today. How much you can make out of selling digital products and subscriptions depends on the quality of your products and how well you market them.
How much you can make out of selling digital products and subscriptions depends on the quality of your products and how well you market them.
Pro tip: Consider venturing into printables and planners as well.
5. Start a reselling business
Reselling is a testament to the fact that you don’t need an innovative idea to run a successful online business. Just like dropshipping, reselling is a very lucrative online business idea.
You can buy products you want to resell from liquidators, retailers and even manufacturers and sell with some value add-in. (no minimum quantity or offer customer support)
We suggest you start your online reselling business with a custom eCommerce store. You can also target a niche market.
Pro tip: Consider acquiring a resale license if you seriously consider this online business idea.
If getting likes, followers and comments on posts is child’s play to you, becoming a social media marketer might be your calling.
Every business needs someone to handle its online presence, from small-scale businesses to full-fledged enterprises. This is where you come in with your expertise. You can pocket good income simply by consulting and managing the brand’s social media.
Remember: Foray into social media marketing only if you live and breathe social media.
7. Monetize your cooking skills
Have a passion for cooking? It’s the perfect thing to turn into a business online. You can sell food online and turn your passion into a flourishing business.
Your cooking skills can be monetized in various ways: offering one-on-one classes, conducting cooking workshops, and, most profitable of all, starting your online food ordering business.
Pro tip: You can take this online business idea even further by curating a cookbook, starting a food blog, and affiliate marketing cooking equipment.
8. Sell customized merchandise
The demand for bespoke goods is at an all-time high and is showing no signs of slowing down. You can spot every other Tom, Dick and Harry in possession of something customized: T-shirts, phone cases and even sneakers!
Not only does customized merchandise sell fast, but this online business idea is also very creatively satisfying. The best aspect of selling merchandise online is that you can choose any canvas of your choice and customize it to sell online.
Consider selling your customized goods using a dedicated eCommerce store rather than competing with other sellers in a crowded marketplace. It aids in converting your business into a brand too!
Pro tip: Research trending products to sell online for this business idea.
9. Monetize your SEO skills
In the world of SEO, it pays to be able to turn searchers into customers. If you have the skills and experience to rank websites on top of Google, you can make good money online using your SEO skills.
The long-term rewards of SEO are very handsome if you’re willing to invest your time patiently.
Pro tip: Build a portfolio of 3-4 good clients, and you’ll see the profits rolling in quickly. It will also help with brand building.
10. Promote your graphic designing services
Do you spend your free time on software like Photoshop or Illustrator? Take your interest in visual design to the next level by launching your own graphic design business.
In this field, you can go into logo design, landing page design, selling custom illustrations, website design, etc.
You don’t need any fancy college degree to start a designing business; just bring your a-game to the table to get started.
Pro tip: Creating a portfolio on sites like Behance, Dribbble etc., will go a long way in validating and marketing your skills.
11. Start your ad management business
If you understand what goes into targeting ads and optimizing conversions, you can make bank by running and managing paid advertisements for businesses and corporations. Infact, even small companies hire ad managers these days to get more customers.
Ad management is a flourishing business idea, especially if you know about ad retargeting and sales funnels.
Remember: Staying current with the intricacies of advertising across different platforms like Facebook, Google, Snapchat, etc., is vital in this field.
12. Become a bug/ user tester
Every software, tech product, website etc., needs to be tested for bugs (or faults in layman’s language) before it can be rolled out to the public for use.
Companies are willing to shell out a good amount of money to ensure seamless and error-free software. So, if you have advanced coding skills, bug testing is an online business idea that will never stop being profitable.
To get started, you can either sell your testing services through your online store, or signup on sites like Fiverr, Upwork etc. as a freelancer.
Pro tip: If you possess high technical prowess, you can also charge for your services by the hour.
13. Sell antiques and collectibles
Selling antiques and collectibles is as lucrative as it is fun. One of the best things about running an antiques and collectibles business is there is no risk involved. The older an item is, the higher its value.
You can get as creative as you want when it comes to sourcing items for your business: everything from yard sales to auctions to flea markets and thrift shops are great places to find everything antique and unique.
Pro tip: As antiques are unique, make sure you price them fairly.
14. Open your online bakery
If baking croissants and macaroons bring you the utmost happiness, then convert your passion into your profession by launching your online bakery.
Right now is the best time to start a bakery business with custom cakes, handmade chocolates and desserts, so you should take advantage of them.
You can make more money from your bakery by selling products like baking kits and dry mixes to customers. Even venturing into a niche market like fusion desserts is worth considering.
Remember: If you have a physical bakery store, you can move your business online to increase your points of sale.
15. Teach foreign languages
Every year millions of people invest in learning foreign languages. And many prefer to do this from the comfort of their home.
If you have proficiency in foreign languages, you can make money off it by teaching foreign languages online. You can take individual classes, stream pre-recorded lectures, curate capsule language courses and even sell practice cheat sheets and assignments to diversify your income stream.
You can either sell your services using a dedicated eCommerce store or signup on platforms like Preply, LinguaLift etc.
Pro tip: If you are certified in a language, you have a higher chance of making more money.
16. Start a T-shirt business
There’s no other piece of clothing that’s as versatile as a t-shirt. Luckily, it’s also a very lucrative business idea.
If you can effortlessly come up with funny, ironic or appealing t-shirt customization ideas, starting a t-shirt business is your best bet.
Selling printed t-shirts based on trends is another way to make money. T-shirts can be customized almost to any degree you want.
There are many POD platforms and marketplaces where you can sell your t-shirts, but with many other online business ideas in this list, you have higher success chances if you sell using your own eCommerce store.
Pro tip: Look into white label printing if you want to go ahead with t-shirt customization.
17. Publish an eBook
If you are gifted in weaving magic with words, you can start an online business with book publishing. With platforms like Amazon Publishing, Barnes & Noble press etc., self-publishing has never been this easy!
This is also an excellent business idea for writers who don’t want to venture into blogging.
Plus, you don’t have to worry about designing, printing or shipping with eBooks. Ensure you know how to format an ebook correctly and design its cover; you are golden.
Pro tip: Getting positive reviews on your ebook can help in marketing greatly. Rope in your friends and family to buy and review your books.
18. Start an electronics business
There’s no denying that there’s no comparison between the footfall that a physical store receives versus an online one. Selling electronics online has fast emerged as a highly lucrative business idea
Gone are the days when people would go to crowded stores to buy electronics. Nowadays, everyone loves the convenience of getting them delivered to their doorstep. Let’s not forget the price difference.
Although this online business idea requires some initial investment, you can buy wholesale to make additional profits per piece as your sales increase.
Pro tip: You can also recycle old electronics to draw in a broader base of target audience to your store. It is beneficial to the environment too.
19. Sell copywriting services
Believe it or not, successful copywriters earn big bucks and live lavishly just writing sales copies for other businesses. Want to join their ranks? Put your creative hat on and sell your copywriting services online today!
To make it big in copywriting, you should be skilled in strategic writing that persuades people to take some action based on the purpose of the copy.
As with many other online business ideas in this article, you can take this up as a freelancer or sell services to clients to get started.
Pro tip: With great copywriting skills, you can foray into affiliate marketing, blogging, sales email writing etc.
20. Curate subscription boxes
Despite being a relatively old concept, subscription boxes have seen a boom in recent years. Don’t believe us? Take examples of companies like FabFitFun, Hunt a killer etc., making hay while the sun shines on this trend.
The possibilities are endless with subscription box curation. You can curate and sell subscription boxes in any niche and work with big brands and artisans. Or go the corporate gifting route.
You can either let your customers decide what goes in their box, or surprise them with miscellaneous items (based on a theme), or do both.
Pro tip: Go into a niche where you have a personal interest, and this will up your curation game multi fold.
21. Get into app development
If you are adept in coding, you should look into app development.
Many entrepreneurs and companies outsource coding tasks and pay good money to get quality code. Providing coding services to this demographic will be a great way for you to make money.
Plus, if you have an innovative idea for an app, you can sell your code for big bucks. Code and flip your code multiple times, and you are looking at a pretty lucrative business.
Remember: Unlike freelancing, this is a tougher sphere to break into. Analyze the pros and cons and choose accordingly.
22. Launch your ethical fashion clothing line
This online business idea is for those who have a passion for fashion.
If creativity runs in your blood, and designing is your forte, this is the best time to turn your passion into a profession by starting your own clothing store.
And given the flak that all the fast-fashion companies are getting these days, you can instantly capitalize on this trend while doing the planet a favour.
“Ethical” clothing is also an unexplored niche. To turn your business into a recognizable brand, we’d suggest you start selling your clothing line using a dedicated eCommerce store. That way, you’ll build a devoted customer base and brand reputation.
Remember: Keep a tab on the latest trends in the fashion world, so your brand can outperform the competitors.
23. Offer translation services
If you know more than one language but don’t want to go the tutoring or publishing route, translation can be a great business venture for you. The more languages you know, the merrier it is in this field.
Infact, big corporations pay good money to get quality translation work done. It is a highly lucrative business idea.
What’s unique about this business idea? It’s guaranteed remote work, meaning you can grow big online, given you actively market your services.
Pro tip: You can also charge per word for your services once you have established yourself in this field.
24. Create Software as a Service
Saas is a type of software that one pays a subscription fee to get access to, like DropBox and Slack.
To run a successful SaaS business, you need to develop a software service idea that people are willing to pay for constantly. Paywalls can be built into the functionality itself or charged monthly or yearly, depending on the software’s functionality.
You also need to constantly brainstorm ways to scale up your software and monetize more aspects of it.
Pro tip: Spend time and effort in thinking of a Saas platform that helps solve real-world problems.
25. Promote your technical writing services
Technical writing is an excellent niche business idea for those with technological know-how and a passion for writing.
And if you have a science background, you will have the edge over other writers in this field. Invest your time in honing your writing skills and studying how to present scientific research.
Pro tip: To draw in clients, advertise your skills on platforms like LinkedIn, Fiverr and Upwork.
26. Start your own digital marketing business
Digital marketing is one of the easiest online business ideas to start, amongst the others listed in the article.
Many companies and business owners turn to digital marketing agencies to take care of everything from social media to paid ads. Not only is this a growing sector, but it also pays very handsomely if you know a combination of skills.
Pro tip: The internet is full of free resources where you can learn digital marketing. Doing a certification course will provide a good validation to your skills.
27. Get into lead generation
New leads are the lifeblood of businesses. So much so, that the growth of companies greatly depends on it.
Although profitable, lead generation is a laborious task. Companies are on the lookout for good lead generators who can play matchmaker between them and their potential customers whose problems they can assist with.
Pro tip: Maintain a portfolio of good clients to create a name for yourself when starting out.
28. Start your own podcast
Just like blogs, podcasts are a great way to generate income online.
You can start offering sponsored segments, sell ads, and advertise your own services and/ or products when your podcast starts gaining traction. With podcasts, you get to choose how and what you can monetize.
Though to start a podcast, you need to invest in decent audio equipment (including microphone and audio recording software), which will pay for itself in the long run.
Pro tip: If you already have a thriving business, starting a podcast in the same domain is advisable.
29. Sell voiceover services
Do you like how your voice sounds recorded? If yes, you can monetize it by selling voiceover services. All you need to do voiceover work is a decent microphone and basic audio editing skills.
Monetization avenues are aplenty with voiceover work. You can choose to work with production companies, ad agencies, record audiobooks, and even venture into dubbing if you are bilingual.
Remember: In the beginning, you’ll have to rely on word-of-mouth advertising and low-pay gigs to establish your name.
30. Become a virtual assistant
If you like taking on different tasks and are great at working on a schedule, you can build a thriving business online by working as a virtual assistant.
As a virtual assistant, you can be tasked with everything from managing email, handling data entry, customer management etc., based on where you choose to work. It’s safe to say that the responsibilities of a virtual assistant change with every task.
You can either sell your services using your online store or use platforms like Magic and Zirtual.
Pro tip: You can take this online business idea even further by matching other virtual assistants with businesses when you have established yourself firmly in this domain.
31. Sell pet supplies
Running a pet supplies business is an evergreen business idea. Why? Because pet parents leave no stone unturned when it comes to spoiling their furry mates.
In the pet supplies industry, you can run a dropshipping business, reseller business or wholesale business model. And if this isn’t your style, you can also foray into the luxury segment or bespoke pet products. And then there’s also an option of selling products for exotic pets like lizards, arachnids etc.
Pro tip: Do competitive research to find out how to distinguish your business from others.
32. Offer editing and proofreading services
Working as an editor and proofreader is a great money-making opportunity for people with an eye for detail and impeccable grammar.
Editing and proofreading aren’t limited to analyzing the work of other writers and authors. It can also include copy editing marketing material, indexing academic materials, checking a document according to brand guidelines etc.
Pro tip: Having an English major degree or a publishing background will give you a competitive edge in this domain.
33. Offer transcription services
Transcription is one of the most fun online business ideas listed in this article. And the best part about starting a transcription business, you only need to type fast as a skill.
As a part of the transcription service, you might be required to create captions for TV and movies, transcribe audio interviews or podcasts into written reports and so on.
Here’s what you will need to invest in to run a transcription business: a foot pedal, good quality earphones, a keyboard, licensed MS word and transcription software. The long-term monetary benefits are well worth the initial investment.
Pro tip: Seasoned transcription pros charge by the word. Long-term, the transcription business is very profitable.
34. Offer web maintenance and updation services
Besides web development and design, timely and routine web maintenance and updation are mandatory to ensure maximum uptime.
Many businesses outsource their website maintenance tasks, especially the ones whose websites are hosted on complex eCommerce platforms, requiring expert-level coding skills. These jobs are as rigorous as they are well-paying.
Pro tip: Keep up with the advancements in technology and the trends in the eCommerce world to maintain the upper hand in this domain.
35. Flip domains
Buying and selling domains for a profit can be a pretty profitable endeavour.
Flipping domains requires your time and attention. You need to have a sense of the market and good research skills to determine what sites to purchase. Additionally, having SEO optimization skills will also help you flip domains for a higher profit.
Think of selling domains as a waiting game; it might be years before a specific domain name gains traction, and you make a good gain on selling it.
But there’s also a significant upside: it is 100% online. And only requires a laptop/ desktop and a working internet connection as prerequisites.
Pro tip: You can also foray into the business of domain brokerage, where you act as a mediator between interested buyers and sellers.
36. Design landing pages
If you have a good design sense, basic coding knowledge and strong copywriting skills, you can use this trifecta of skills to design landing pages for other businesses. Additionally, if you understand SEO and sales funnel, this is the perfect business idea for you.
You will not be disappointed by the money you earn with this business idea since it involves a combination of skills.
Pro tip: As with other designing business ideas in this list, maintaining a portfolio of previous work helps in bagging future projects in this domain.
37. Offer accounting and/or bookkeeping services
To run your bookkeeping and accountancy business, it is not mandatory to hold an accountancy degree. However, having some experience in this field and a passion for numbers makes things easier for you.
In addition, there are many online institutes that provide formal training (as well as certification) for undertaking the responsibilities associated with bookkeeping and accounting.
Pro tip: If you’re in search of the best accounting software for your business, be sure to check out a comprehensive list of the best accounting software to compare their features and pricing.
38. Offer customer support services
If you have people skills and are good at managing people, you can start your own remote customer service business, to provide customer support to other businesses.
You can choose to serve customers using any format: chat, e-mail, video or phone. And the best part is that it does not require any base investment and is entirely remote.
Remember: It does help if you have a background in customer support before you take this business idea 100% online.
39. Monetize your video editing skills
This online business idea is as lucrative as it is creatively challenging.
Videos are an essential marketing tool for all the companies. If you have solid video editing skills, it won’t be long before the money starts rolling in.
Everyone uses videos as their primary communication and branding medium, from small businesses to big corporations. There’s no shortage of clients or money in this domain, but it sure is highly competitive.
You can conduct workshops, direct video productions, share tutorials, etc if you don’t want to just sit around editing videos.
Pro tip: Video editing skills coupled with video production knowledge makes a killer combination.
40. Sell WordPress themes and plugins
Even though there are tons of themes and plugins available on WordPress, there’s always scope for more.
If you have the technical skills it takes to design themes and code plugins, you are looking at a lucrative business idea.
As a developer, you can run your own custom themes, templates and plugins business. Plus, you can also license them so you can share them with many users.
You can sell these either at marketplaces like Envato elements or using your own dedicated store.
Pro tip: Niche themes are very profitable.
41. Sell photographs
For those who are gifted in photography, you can get paychecks from your passion by converting it into your online business.
Many stock photography websites like Shutterstock and iStock purchase images from photographers, who get a certain cut every time their images are purchased.
Once you get into the groove of things, you can also sell photographs using your own online store.
Pro tip: Learn photo editing skills and apply them on your shots to increase their marketability.
42. Open your online clothing boutique
If you have sewing skills, and an entrepreneurial spirit, you can run your own online clothing boutique.
In this day and age of fashion influencers, everyone is looking for unique and custom pieces to wear and flaunt over social media. This segment of the fashion industry always has a place for newcomers. Moreover, you are generating something everyone will use, so the business is already viable.
Pro tip: Sell using your own store that reflects your brand’s aesthetics to rope in the customers and create a strong brand identity.
43. Sell online courses
If you have expert knowledge in some domain, why not convert it into an online course and make the most out of it?
Every day, more and more people turn to the internet to learn new skills. If your online courses are engaging, informative and interactive, you’ll surely find a lot of takers.
You can start by selling your courses on well-established platforms like Coursera and Udemy. And once you have a good following, you can redirect them to your own store. By doing so, you’ll stand out from your competition and establish your brand.
Pro tip: Make sure you do thorough competitor analysis, see what others are doing and put your own unique take in your courses.
44. Foray into data entry
Looking for a low cost, low input online business idea? Then running a data entry business is perfect for you.
A lot of businesses require a huge amount of data to be digitalized on a daily basis. You can sell your data entry services to them.
And although this might not be the highest paying business idea, it does provide a stable income considering the minimum input it requires.
Pro tip: Reach out to businesses on your own in order to get started.
45. Open your thrift clothing store
Running a online thrift store might be your calling if you are a pro at finding second-hand treasures at great bargains. Plus, vintage clothes are always in fashion; it’s one of those business ideas you can’t go wrong with.
Apart from physical thrift stores, platforms like ThredUP and Ebay are good places to find stuff.
This online business idea is perfect for you if you are not particularly creative but have an entrepreneurial spirit and business know-how. Not only do you get to curate unique pieces, the profit margins are also entirely up to you.
Pro tip: Clean, iron, and neatly fold your thrifted clothes before shipping them to clients to create a good first impact.
46. Sell niche products
Can you curate or produce specialty products? Like bobbleheads, theme-based card games, dog tags etc.?
If so, you can sell these niche products using your dedicated eCommerce store. Since they cater to a specific audience (mainly predefined with every niche), all you need is a quality product and a way to sell them.
The best part about having a niche business? Such products sell themselves due to their buzzworthy nature. And it is best that you start an online store to sell niche products online.
Pro tip: To run a successful niche products business, work on your marketing strategy.
47. Create and sell handmade goods
If you are crafty and specialise in making certain goods, creating and selling handmade goods is for you.
Everyone appreciates novelty goods for their uniqueness. Whether you’re making jewelry, photo collages, scrunchies, etc., there is always a market for bespoke products.
To run a profitable business selling handmade goods, you need to develop a marketing strategy to showcase your products to your customers in the best light.
Pro tip: While marketplaces like Etsy and Craigslist are also an option, selling using your eCommerce store is the best bet for growing your business.
48. Conduct paid market research activities
Are you a pro at finding information on Google? If yes, it’s a “skill” you can monetize.
Running a market research business is not a lightweight task. You need to be dedicated, methodical and of course, know your way around Google. As a market researcher, you can be tasked with anything from competitor analysis to trend forecasting.
Remember: This is one business idea that you can execute from anywhere and without any investment of any kind.
49. Offer tutoring services
If you have good command over a subject, you can make a business out of it by taking tutoring lessons online. And no, you don’t have to be a certified teacher to enter this domain.
Sky’s the limit when it comes to what you can make by taking tutoring classes online. Not only is it a respectable business, it is also fail-proof. To make it big in this business, you must develop your own teaching strategies and thoroughly know your domain’s content.
Your income will increase throughout the years as your experience and name in the domain increase.
Pro tip: Consider investing in high-quality gear in case you want to branch out into recorded classes.
50. Sell chrome extensions
Instead of coding and selling apps to big enterprises, you can code extensions and add-ons and sell them on various app stores.
The rest of the bit is easy. Those seeking additional functionality can find it on Chrome Web Store and install it. Now you can charge per-install fees, charge subscriptions, or monetize it through advertising.
Pro tip: Come up with extension ideas that solve problems or fill gaps. Downloads of such extensions are higher.
51. Become a business consultant
If you have years of business experience and insights, why not use this wealth of knowledge to guide other up-and-coming entrepreneurs? Yes, business consultancy is an excellent online business idea that pays you to help entrepreneurs hit the ground running with their businesses.
You can offer one-on-one consulting sessions, help create a business strategy or take paid consultancy sessions.
Pro tip: Create a dynamic online presence to build credibility, showcase your expertise and get clients.
52. Open a virtual college counseling bureau
Year after year, millions of students seek guidance regarding their choice of college; after all, it is a major life decision. By becoming a college consultant, you get to help youngsters take the right step while also making some serious bucks.
College consulting is a very lucrative business idea. For solid success in this business, ensure that you have strong financial knowledge, excellent writing skills, and good interpersonal skills.
Pro tip: If you have a good academic record, it helps create a great first impression in this domain.
53. Become an online fitness trainer
Online fitness training is a relatively new business domain. But that doesn’t mean it is not lucrative. If you have the required expertise as an online fitness trainer, this is one online business idea you should not overlook.
To start your own virtual fitness training business, you must have a passion for fitness, knowledge about nutrition, and most of all, compassion toward your clients.
Pro tip: It might take you extra effort to get started with this business idea. Having a social media presence that showcases your work might help.
54. Offer remote sales services
Many companies and businesses these days are outsourcing their sales and cold-calling services. So, if you are a natural at holding conversations and have the power of persuasion, you might want to consider starting a remote sales service business.
Aside from requiring no academic qualification, you can also start anytime and anywhere. You just have to ensure you meet the sales target given to you.
Remember: Before you finalize this idea, consider that you’ll have to spend a considerable time on the phone and/or your system.
55. Teach stock or foreign currency trading
If you have experience in stock or foreign currency trading and teach others high-risk tolerance, it’s time to monetize your skills and make a successful online business out of it.
Like domain flipping, stock or foreign currency trading needs time and commitment toward deep research. Given how lucrative this domain can be, everyone’s trying to cash in on the opportunity.
And this is where you offer your expert services. You can offer one-on-one classes or offer advisory services to other traders.
Pro tip: A proven successful record in trading is the fastest way to rise to the top in this domain.
56. Become a travel planner
Do you love to travel? Can you plan elaborate vacations effortlessly? If your answer is yes to both questions, then it’s time to turn your passion for traveling into a lucrative business.
As a travel planner, you will have to manage everything from booking flights and hotels to planning itineraries to facilitating currency exchange for your clients.
Although it might look a little tedious to get started in this domain, as you continue working, you’ll make more contacts and solidify your links as you continue working.
Pro tip: You can further scale this business idea by starting a travel blog or selling your travel photography online.
57. Offer cybersecurity and whitehat hacking services
Security is one of the things that every business is willing to pay handsomely for. If you have a technical background, but don’t want to go the coding or app development route, cybersecurity consulting might be the best bet for you.
You can offer a multitude of services as a cybersecurity expert: evaluating security systems, running testing, troubleshooting issues and offering security tips.
Pro tip: You can also open up your own cybersecurity firm once your business picks up.
58. Offer online therapy
Gone are the days when one had to sit in a bleakly coloured room to seek therapy. Online therapy is now possible thanks to platforms like BetterHelp and Felicity.
If You already have the necessary credentials and education to offer therapy, you just need to figure out the technology to make it happen virtually.
You can either start by joining online platforms like TalkSpace or offer your own services through a dedicated online store.
Pro tip: Establish a social media profile for your business for some word-of-mouth publicity.
59. Sell organic and/or handmade candles
Everyone enjoys pleasant scents, and the candle industry, which stands at $1.7bn today, is only projected to grow further and further. Strategically speaking, selling organic or handmade candles is a fail proof business idea.
People use candles for various purposes: from relaxation to decor to celebrations, so you’ll run out of different options to make and sell. You can sell anything from spiritual candles to aromatherapy candles in your store. There’s a lot of room for experimentation and innovation in this business idea.
Pro tip: Sell your candles using your own eCommerce store to fastrack your business’ growth into a brand.
60. Earn as a PPC expert
Becoming a PPC expert is not an easy feat. It calls for knowledge in various domains like business growth, content writing, web development and Google analytics. So if you possess these required skills, you should start your own PPC business.
To clarify, PPC or Pay-per-click advertising is used by many businesses to purchase visitors to their websites. As a PPC expert, your role would be to optimize the inflow of visitors to their client’s site.
Pro tip: You can also sell PPC courses online to diversify your income stream.
61. Start a YouTube channel
If you are comfortable with being in front of the camera, starting a YouTube channel might be the perfect online business idea for you.
You can monetize your YouTube channel using ad revenue or by promoting your products or services in your videos. It’s also a good way to direct traffic to your site.
You can also increase your YouTube earning by taking on brand sponsorships, conducting scriptwriting and filmmaking classes.
Pro tip: There’s no need to invest in an expensive camera while starting out. If you have a decent camera phone, you can utilize it for vlogging.
62. Start a website flipping business
Flipping websites can be a lucrative business for those with web development and design skills.
The key to running a successful website flipping business is to identify what sites are underperforming, and how to increase its value. You can either buy low performing sites from platforms like Empire Flippers or build one from scratch. Next you need to monetize the site by increasing traffic or running sponsored ads and then get to selling.
And if you still aren’t convinced about running a website creation and selling business, think of it this way: your business will essentially help other business owners as well. Other perks to running a website flipping business include low entry barrier and no investment.
Pro tip: Verify the website’s proof of concept before investing into it.
63. Become a life coach
If you are passionate about running a business that creates an impact, becoming a life coach is a tailor made online business idea for you. This online idea is also a great fit for you if you are good at offering advice and guidance to people but don’t have a psychologist’s degree.
You can take Skype group sessions, conduct one-on-one counseling, write blog posts, sell online courses or create YouTube videos to create diverse monetary schemes with your virtual life coaching business.
Pro tip: Consider enrolling yourself in a certificate course to add more credibility to your business.
64. Become an online recruiter
If you are competent at finding the right candidates for job openings, offering hiring and recruitment services might be your calling.
Recruiters play matchmakers between job seekers and companies, finding them the right match. From finding suitable candidates to screening them post-interview, you’ll be responsible for every stage of finding your clients’ worthy employees.
Pro tip: If you are a people person who can easily initiate conversation, this online business idea might be a good fit for you.
65. Offer remote tech support services
This is an ideal business idea for people who are skilled abt handling both other people and technology.
Companies are always on the lookout for people who can offer tech support, so be assured of the idea’s feasibility. While some companies prefer candidates with a professional degree, prior tech support experience is also helpful in branching out in this domain.
You can offer your services by signing up on job boards and freelance websites.
Once you have a portfolio of clients, you can also sell your services using an eCommerce store.
Pro tip: Having a technical degree helps out in branching out in this domain.
66. Work as a data analyst
Every decision, big or small, that companies undertake is governed by data.
Working as a data analyst means you’ll be compiling companies’ data and helping them to make informed decisions.
This business idea is perfect for you if you are proficient at handling numbers, have corporate experience and possess business insights.
Running a data analytics business is both lucrative and satisfying.
Pro tip: Personalize your approach to companies with your credentials to increase your chances of landing a client.
67. Host webinars
Looking for online business ideas that do not require you to hold any product and can be started without any investment? Then promoting products via webinars might be the best way for you to start your own online business.
The best way to start an online webinar business is to select a product to want to sell and come up with an engaging pitch to promote it. You might also have to pitch in the designing, developing and delivering phase of the seminar.
You can either host webinars on your client’s behalf, conduct corporate training to help them set up seminars or even sell selective services conducive to the process.
Pro tip: You can also supplement your income by going the affiliate marketing or blogging route in this domain.
68. Curate gift hampers/baskets
From birthday parties to corporate events, people these days have gotten into the habit of giving gift baskets.
It’s a great online business idea for a variety of reasons. You can source your products from anywhere, sell your handmade products and control the profit margin per sale. You can even curate gift baskets based on themes, functionality etc.
Pro tip: Invest into good branding that reflects your brand’s aesthetics.
69. Offer PR consulting services
If you can help orchestrate the best way for companies to interact with the public, PR consulting might be a great business idea for you.
To open your own PR firm, you need experience in business branding, marketing, influencer outreach and reputation management, among other things.
As a PR consultant, you’ll be helping businesses put their best face forward with campaigns, press releases etc.
Pro tip: As a seasoned PR specialist, you can even charge by the hour.
70. Earn as a content strategist
This is another online business idea that exists because of the advancement in social media.
Businesses need to keep their audience frequently engaged by sharing relevant data across social media, blogs, websites etc. You might also need to plan, edit and create relevant content for your clients.
As a content strategist, you’ll help your clients maintain their social media engagement and expand their audience base.
Pro tip: You can expand this business by also including social media management and marketing services.
If you have the design and marketing skills it takes to create email newsletters, this is a great online business idea for you.
Companies are always looking for ways to connect with their audiences, and email newsletters are quickly becoming their go-to marketing format due to their high personalization. You can sell your email marketing newsletter designs to digital marketers, entrepreneurs and bloggers.
Pro tip: It is advisable to create templates that work with multiple email marketing platforms.
72. Sell academic notes
This business idea is one for the front benchers!
If you have a habit of making notes while studying, the time has come to monetize them and create a business out of them.
There are more takers of academic notes than one would imagine. You can sell your notes online for quick and easy cash. Moreover, there are tons of platforms that will pay good money for detailed lecture notes and study guides.
Pro tip: It is advisable to type put handwritten notes to increase their marketability.
73. Become a corporate counselor
Every company needs guidance on corporate matters, in terms of what they can and cannot do. But more importantly, businesses need lawyers to protect their rights in legal matters.
If you have a law degree and corporate experience, you can start your own legal advisory firm.
Companies have started to outsource their legal counselors and hold them on retainer for this very purpose. As a corporate legal counselor, you’ll be tasked with helping the company manage their legal affairs.
Pro tip: Work towards obtaining a portfolio of stable clients by reaching out to enterprises personally.
74. Sell 3D printed products
If you want to do a “different” business and have a little money to spare, you can start your own 3D printing business.
Many people like to design bespoke products but do not have the means to get them manufactured. And this is precisely the base audience you’ll be catering to. Objects like jewelry, home decor, tech accessories etc. sell a lot in this domain.
Pro tip: You can also sell your own designs.
75. Work as a ghostwriter
If you are gifted in the art of storytelling but are not sure what to write about, maybe you can serve as a ghostwriter for others looking for a writer to tell their stories.
Working as a ghostwriter would involve sitting with the client and drafting content according to their envisioning. Sounds easy, right? It actually is but also requires you time, dedication and attention to detail.
Also, don’t forget that you’ll have to put efforts into marketing your business, since your name won’t show up on any covers.
Pro tip: Since you won’t get any attribution for your content piece, charge for your services accordingly.
Conclusion
Technology has made it possible for all of us to take our businesses online. Yet the process of starting a new business online might seem too intimidating to some. Worry not, our list of 75 top online business ideas will give you all the clarity you need.
Remember to carefully consider all the requirements of the business you find interesting before zeroing in on it.
Having said that, there’s never been a better time to start your online business. Take the plunge now and who knows, by next year, you’ll be running your own successful business.
FAQs
1. What are the most successful small online businesses?Blogging, affiliate marketing, dropshipping, selling digital products, reselling etc. are some of the most successful online business ideas. For a more comprehensive list, read our article.
2. What online services are in demand?
Ad management, social media marketing, copywriting, graphic designing, bug testing etc. are among the most sought-after services online. Our article contains a list of both services and products that do well online.
3. How do I start a business with nothing?
A lot of businesses like blogging, affiliate marketing, customer support, data entry etc. can be started from the comfort of your home. All that is needed for such businesses is a working internet connection and a laptop/computer. You can get gigs by signing up at different platforms or creating a dedicated eCommerce store for your business.
4. How can I sell online?
You can sell online using a website, an online store or hosting your storefront on a marketplace. We find that it is the easiest to sell using your own store as it helps convert your business into a brand, manage customers, market flexibility, and build brand identity.
5. Which business is best for beginners?
Businesses like running a thrift clothing store, data entry, customer support, selling handmade goods etc. that do not require any specific technical skills and prior experience are good business ideas for beginners.
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