10 Business Ideas You Can Start Today

If you want to start your own business but just don’t know where to begin, we can help you get the ball rolling. You don’t need a lot of money to start your own business, but using your skills, talents and interests and getting good advice can set you on the path to success.

If starting your own business is your dream and you’re ready to put in the work, here are 10 ideas to help get you started:

Lawn Care: With a lawn mower and a few yard tools, you can create your own business in your own neighborhood. There are a lot of people who don’t want to spend their weekends doing yard work. You can build a loyal base of customers who will be happy to recommend you to their friends and neighbors by always doing a good job. You can even add a few extra services, like snow shoveling, to turn it into a year-round operation.
Tutoring: If you did well at school and like to help people, tutoring may be the right business for you. Spread the word to your friends and neighbors by making flyers and posting them in local store windows, at your local YMCA or on your church bulletin board to drum up business.
Make-Up Artist: Do you love makeup and get lots of compliments on your makeup? Then working as a freelance makeup artist may be a great idea for you. Start by searching for jobs at bridal parties or theatres or by volunteering at local photo studies.
Personal Trainer: If you’re physically fit and enjoy working out and helping people, becoming a personal trainer can be a great opportunity for your own business. People want to get and stay fit to feel and look better and may need help knowing how to do it and to stay motivated. You can help people in their homes or even work on your own at some gyms.
Pet Sitting/Dog Walking: A love of pets is the main thing needed to set up your own business in this field. This business doesn’t require any special equipment and can focus on providing daily walks for dogs or taking care of pets for people who travel for work or pleasure.
Catering: Do people rave about your cooking? Feeding the masses is different than hosting your own dinner party, but if you can handle the pressure and are organized, catering might be a good business for you. Keep in mind that this is a business that requires working with the local health department.
Party Planner: If you’re a good organizer who can be flexible and people always compliment your parties, it may be something you can turn into a business. One way to get started might be to focus on children’s parties, which can be a bit simpler and less stressful to plan than adult events.
T-Shirt Line: If you have a few clever ideas for T-shirts, why not start a T-shirt clothing line? The key is making designs that people will want to buy. You can sell your shirts online and/or create inventory and sell them at area craft fairs.
Car Detailing: If your cars and trucks sparkle, share your ability with others for a successful business. With just a few supplies, you can get started. Make it easier for customers by bringing the service to them.
Cleaning Service: Everybody likes a clean house, but many people don’t want to spend their free time vacuuming and cleaning bathrooms. With a few cleaning supplies, a person who likes things clean and tidy can create their own business.

These are just a few suggestions and, for most of them, you don’t need a lot of money to get started. Check out our Start Your Business Checklist for a step-by-step guide to launching and growing your business. And, remember, with determination, focus and the right support, you can start your own business!