Fed up with your 9-5 grind? Ready to start making some money on the side, but not sure where to begin? Why not try out a business idea for the online space – you can work in your own time and at whatever pace suits you best.
Whether it’s extra cash or an entirely new career path, there are plenty of ways beginners can make their mark. Time to get creative and see what kind of opportunities awaits.
If you’re looking for ways to make money from home, the world wide web has plenty of possibilities. From exploring cryptocurrency trading and creating your podcast series – to freelance writing gigs – let’s explore some easy online business ideas that can help even a novice get started.
What are online business ideas for beginners?
Online businesses are online-based activities that help you generate income from anywhere. Whether you’re providing advice through counseling or coaching, selling goods and services online retail-style, or advertising on platforms like social media – the options are almost limitless in the world of virtual commerce.
Going online is the way to make your business dreams come true. With minimal upfront capital, you can get started quickly and easily – unlocking a world of potential.
Best of all – no office space or staff is required – just get connected with the right platform and let it do its magic! Ahead, we’ll discover some benefits of online businesses for beginners:
Low Startup Costs
Looking to become your boss without breaking the bank? An online business could be just what you need. With nothing more than a trusty computer and some internet access, get ready for success in no time.
You can launch an enterprise with all of today’s amazing website tools – it couldn’t be easier or faster. So why wait any longer – jumpstart your entrepreneurial journey now.
Flexibility
Running an online business gives you complete freedom to work where and when it suits you best.
You can set your schedule, so no matter if you’re based in a home office, holed up in the local coffee shop, or traveling around – with this type of job comes total control over how little (or much!) time is spent being productive.
Access to a Global Market
The internet has opened up a world of opportunities for businesses! With the right strategies, you can reach customers outside your local area and expand globally — unlock new markets, cultures & more.
Scalability
Compared to traditional businesses, online business models afford entrepreneurs remarkable scalability – like a flip of a switch.
You can easily introduce new products/services, hire more staff, and take your marketing efforts global without worrying about limited physical space.
Data-Driven Decision Making
If you’re running an online business venture, take advantage of the valuable data and analytics out there to make informed decisions. Dive into customer behavior, and track website traffic – unlock insight that can help you adjust your strategy so it’s perfectly tailored for who you’re trying to reach.
Automation
Automation tools are a great way to kickstart your online business and save time on mundane, repetitive tasks. From scheduling social media posts with ease to automating email campaigns – there’s no shortage of helpful resources available for you so that you can focus more energy on what truly matters.
Online Business Ideas For Beginners
Freelance Writing
Freelance writing is a great way to make money – and have fun! You can work with clients from around the globe, creating content for blogs, articles, product descriptions, and more.
To be successful you’ll need top-notch writing skills plus an impressive portfolio of samples. Plus don’t forget your marketing savvy; it all adds up to flexible financial freedom that’s just waiting for you.
Depending on the industry, Freelance writers make around $30 per hr and with increased expertise, they can begin to charge more.
How to become a freelance writer
To become a freelance writer, start by figuring out your writing niche – think copywriting, SEO content, or maybe even blog posts and press releases. Your writing niche is any form of writing you feel comfortable with.
When you discover your niche, it’s time to take your talents to the next level. Look into some online courses and tutorials that can help sharpen those skills.
Get ahead of the curve, and stand apart from other job seekers by creating an online portfolio. It will help you showcase your skills to potential employers with a collection of stellar samples that shine.
You should also become an authority in the field by networking with other writers through online communities or groups. Exchange resources, share advice, and get up to date on what’s hot so you can stand out as a successful freelance writer.
Starting an Online Store
An internet store enables you to sell unique products, ranging from physical items like clothes or accessories to digital downloads. With a great product selection and an amazing marketing strategy, you can seize full control of your future.
Consider offering discounts and promos to keep your customers loyal
Affiliate Marketing
Making money through affiliate marketing is a great way to monetize your blog, social media channels, or email list. But it takes more than just choosing any old product to promote – success requires careful selection of the right ones plus building an audience who trusts you and loves what you have to offer.
How to become an affiliate marketer
Do some research on the product you are trying to market and the commission rate
Sign up for the program and start sharing the product online
Provide payment information and set up tracking codes
Promote your links online through blogs, emails, and other online channels
Monitor the progress of your affiliate marketing effort and make changes as you go
For each product you sell, you’ll receive a percentage of the purchase value
Book Publishing
If you’ve got a story to tell, or want to share your knowledge and expertise with the world, self-publishing is an amazing way for aspiring authors to get their work out there.
Whether it’s romance fiction from your imagination or practical advice on how best to keep chickens in small spaces – as long as you have something valuable that readers are interested in then going down the self-published route could be incredibly rewarding.
How To start book publishing
Create a writing plan and break down your book into chapters and subsections
Invest in online editors like Grammarly to ensure your book is high-quality
Create a digital version of your book and market it through online channels
Promote your book online through social media
Reach out to influencers to help boost your book’s popularity
Monitor online conversations and use feedback to improve further versions of your book
Offer sharing options for your readers
Virtual Assistance
Want to put your organizational and communication skills to work while avoiding the daily commute? Consider becoming a remote virtual assistant.
Want to be an online star? Building a strong presence on social media is the key! Create quality content, interact with your followers, and get creative – that’s how you become successful as an influencer.
If all goes well, you can make money through sponsorship deals, affiliate marketing or even selling your products – think of it as modern-day stardom.
How to start social media influencing
Choose your niche carefully and develop a signature style of content and create your online presence around your content
Engage your audience with online conversations, sharing stories, and live streams
Focus on building relationships with your followers – create a strong online community
Develop partnerships with brands and companies to help increase your online visibility
Website Development
If you’re tech-savvy and love designing websites, then website development could be the perfect career for you. You’ll get to work with clients from around the world while setting your rates. Depending on the skills and qualifications of developers, they can earn between $20 – $50 per hour.
How to start as a website developer
Learn the basics of web development such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
As you learn to work with each tool, create a portfolio to show your skills
Connect with online communities to remain in touch with the growth of the online niche
Start your website design business or begin some freelance roles
Podcasting
You can create audio content on just about any topic, and publishers are all ears! With a bit of skill and dedication, you could start monetizing it through channels like sponsorships or even selling products.
Don’t forget: truly successful podcasts come from creating top-notch content and building an audience who loves what you have to say.
How to start podcasting
Choose your podcast niche and format
Stay updated with the latest development in your niche
Invest in quality audio tools and use audio editing software
Promote your show in online communities
Reach out to potential show sponsors and partners
Create Subscription Boxes
You can create an unforgettable unboxing experience customized for your chosen niche market. Make sure it gives customers true value so they keep coming back and spreading the word about their unique package of goodies.
How to create subscription boxes
Perform online research and identify trending items in your niche
Whether it’s through your website or popular marketplaces like Amazon and eBay, you can sell physical products for competitive prices and make bouts of profit. To take things up a notch don’t forget about developing a solid marketing plan – that can be just as important.
Look for reliable suppliers with competitive prices and set up online payment methods
Create online listings with detailed product descriptions and eye-catching images
Create a shipping strategy
Promote your online store online through SEO, online advertising, and other online channels
Encrypt your online store to ensure customer security
Start a Membership
If you’re looking to build a successful business, why not launch your membership site? You’ll offer exclusive content or products for customers who pay a recurring fee.
Consider utilizing platforms like Patreon and Substack – they can help get things up and running quickly & easily. But making the enterprise soar takes hard work: think of unique ways to wow members and create an engaged community that keeps them coming back month after month.
How to start a membership
Identify your membership objectives and determine the features that you can offer
Choose a reliable platform to host your online membership
Design attractive and easy-to-use online forms to capture necessary information
Set up payment methods for your members
Develop creative content to keep your members
Transcription Services
Do you have an ear for picking up conversations and a knack for translating that into written words? If so, transcription may be the perfect business opportunity. With clients from around the globe and pricing set by you, this could be a great way to take your typing skills internationally.
How to start transcription services
Research online to understand the different types of transcription
Invest in quality software and audio tools for quick turnarounds
Develop a voice recognition system to help you work faster
Create an online portfolio showcasing your experience and expertise
Promote your services online through online channels and communities
Software Testing
Have you ever considered becoming a computer bug tracker? You get to work with people from all over the globe and make your own rules. This role requires an eagle eye for detail and great communication skills – perfect if you love solving puzzles.
How to become a software tester
Research online and figure out the type of testing that you are interested in
Invest in online courses to develop your skillset
Invest in online communities to remain in touch with your latest development in software testing
Create an online portfolio showcasing your experience and skills
Start your own business or look for freelance opportunities online
Share Your Knowledge with Online Courses
If you’re looking to make a bit of extra cash, why not get creative and build an online course? By creating top-notch educational content on your chosen topic – then marketing it effectively through platforms like Udemy, Teachable, or Thinkific – you could start seeing some serious ROI. It’s time to dust off that teacher’s hat.
How to create online courses
Decide on the niche you want to create a course on
Perform quality research on all facets of your niche and your target audience
Create a curriculum
Build your course with a plethora of tools and don’t forget to illustrate all parts of your course
Migrate your course to an online hosting platform and market it on social media platforms
Graphic Design
Graphic design can be a good online business idea to make money. You’ll have the opportunity to work with clients from anywhere in the world, create stunning logos and websites, and post across social media platforms- all while setting your rates.
It takes a special set of skills – great design chops combined with stellar communication abilities – but if you’ve got what it takes this could be just the thing for you.
How to become a graphic designer
Create a stack of graphic design tools to practice with
Sign up for online courses or learn the tip and tricks to work with each tool
As you practice with each tool, create a portfolio showing your finest work in your own website
Reach out to potential clients on freelance platforms or apply for remote graphic design roles
Build WordPress Themes
Are you an enthusiast of web design with a knack for coding? WordPress themes present the perfect opportunity to turn your skills into real money. Use this platform to connect and work with clients from all over, creating stunning website templates tailored to their needs. You set both the prices and pace – let yourself explore it.
How to build WordPress Themes
Learn the basics of HTML, CSS, and WordPress themes
Explore online tools to help you create faster and more efficient websites
Create a portfolio showcasing your work online
Invest in online communities to stay updated with the latest trends in WordPress development
Post your themes online for sale or start accepting custom requests from clients
Set up online payment methods for your online store
Consulting Services
Do you have expertise that could benefit people from around the globe? If so, a consulting business might be your ticket to success. With this consulting business option, you can use your years of experience and industry knowledge to help others achieve their goals. Plus, it’s a great way for setting up a shop with complete control over rates.
How to become a consultant
Polish your skill by taking online courses and practice sessions
As you advance in skill, create your portfolio and showcase definite results your skills earned
Set up a consulting fee rate and create a marketing campaign
Reach out to potential clients and set them up for retainment
You may have to offer free services to get testimonials for your services
Begin listing your product on the marketplace (make sure you take quality pictures and make detailed descriptions to make your product stand out)
Create a marketing campaign to promote your product
Gift Package Design
Do you have a flair for creating customized gift packages tailored to individual tastes? If so, use your talents for starting up a unique online selling business venture in the attractive field of gift package design.
You can choose from many niches or offer something special and different – with creativity, attention to detail, and outstanding customer service being key components.
How to start a gift package design business
Identify your niche and the type of products you are going to offer
Research online to find potential vendors and suppliers for materials used in custom gifts
Create online forms to capture customer information
Set up online payment methods, shipping strategies, and options for customization
Being a successful customer service provider is all about the perfect combination of communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills. You’ll need to be ready for quick-fire requests from customers via phone, email, or chat.
Having cutting-edge tools like HelpScout and Zendesk by your side can make it much easier. The rewards in terms of career potential are huge – as long you have what it takes to deliver top-quality support every time.
How to become a customer service professional
Research online to understand the different types of customer service roles
Invest in online courses focusing on communication and problem-solving skills
Invest in online communities to remain in touch with the latest developments in customer service
Familiarize yourself with online tools like HelpScout and Zendesk
Look for online job opportunities or start setting up your online customer service business
Create online forms to capture customer information
Online Tutoring Business
If you have a passion for teaching and the know-how to create compelling course material, then now is your chance to make money as an online tutorial entrepreneur. Platforms like YouTube, Udemy, and Teachable can provide everything you need – from hosting content to selling tutorials. All you need is a laptop and internet connection.
With such high demand for educational materials these days, the sky’s the limit when it comes to earning potential with online tutorials.
How to create online tutorials
Conduct market research online to identify trending topics and your target audience
Develop a comprehensive online curriculum with engaging content
Choose the right online platform to host your online tutorials
Create online forms to capture customer information
Setup online payment methods for customers
Promote your online tutorial with a creative online marketing campaign
YouTube Automation
If you’re looking for a career that combines knowledge of YouTube algorithms, creativity, and cutting-edge software like Adobe Premiere or Final Cut Pro – look no further than starting your own YouTube automation business.
With helpful tools such as TubeBuddy and VidIQ to automate growth strategies, the success potential is limitless. All it takes are results and an unbeatable demand for your services.
How to start a YouTube automation business
Research online to understand the different types of YouTube automation services
Invest in online courses focusing on YouTube algorithms and SEO optimization
Invest in online tools to help automate growth strategies such as TubeBuddy and VidIQ
Create online forms to capture customer information
Set up online payment methods for customers
Promote your online services online with creative online marketing campaigns.
Develop an online portfolio showcasing your experience in YouTube automation and SEO
Dropshipping
If you have ever wanted to become your boss, dropshipping is a smart way to get started. All that’s required is setting up an online store using platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce.
You would also need a reliable supplier and utilize tools such as Oberlo and AliExpress for order management. There’s the bonus of potentially high career growth due to the demand for unique products with low startup costs.
How to start a dropshipping business
Research online to understand the different types of online stores available
Invest in online communities to stay updated with the latest trends in dropshipping
Find a reliable supplier who offers quality products at competitive prices
Use online tools such as Oberlo and AliExpress to manage orders efficiently
Setup online payment methods for customers
Promote your business with online marketing tools
Offer SaaS Services
Working in SaaS could be one of the most lucrative and satisfying career paths out there. You need to have a good grip on programming languages like Python, Java, or Ruby On Rails as well as cloud computing platforms such as AWS or Google Cloud for providing your services effectively.
Research online to understand the different types of SaaS services
Polish your programming skills and invest in online courses for cloud computing technologies
Invest in online tools and online communities to stay updated with the latest trends in software development
Set up online payment methods for customers
Data Analysis
Have a knack for numbers? Then a career in data analysis could be the perfect fit! You’ll need some sharp analytical skills, and experience with top software like Excel, Tableau, or R.
With platforms like Upwork and Freelancer out there to help you find clients and projects – this is an exciting field where your potential can soar as businesses everywhere look towards crunching numbers that drive their decisions.
How to start a data analysis business
Research online to understand the different types of data analysis tools and services
Invest in online courses focusing on software like Excel, Tableau, or R
Invest in online communities to stay updated with the latest trends in data analysis
Setup online payment methods for customers
Create online forms to capture customer information
Develop online portfolios showcasing your data analysis experience and skillset
Promote your services online with creative online marketing
Personal Coaching
If you have the skills and knowledge to help others reach their objectives, consider becoming a personal coach! Helping people grow professionally or personally can be incredibly rewarding.
Plus, with online technologies like Zoom and Skype making virtual meetings so simple nowadays, it’s easy for coaches to connect with clients from anywhere in the world – giving your career potential tremendous opportunities.
How to become a personal coach
Research different types of personal coaching services you can offer
Gain authentic certification in your area of expertise
List out your unique selling points and the results you can guarantee your clients
Create a sales offer for your clients
Begin marketing your small business online via social media channels
3D Printing
With 3D printing, the sky’s the limit! If you create an amazing product and get it in front of people who want/need it – success is yours. It all comes down to finding a need and filling that niche with something unique from your printer. With 3D printing, having creativity + business-savvy = career potential at its best.
How to start a 3D printing business
Learn about 3D printing technology and materials to get your business started
Decide on a market or a niche to cater to
Plan your marketing strategy and define your brand
Promote your business through advertising campaigns
Project Management
If you have a knack for organization, leadership skills, and know-how on project management tools like Asana or Trello, then starting your own business in the field of project management could be just what you need.
Buckle up as there is no shortage of opportunities out there with tons of businesses looking to hire experts who can successfully manage complex projects at optimal costs.
How to become a project manager
Earn professional certification in project management
Choose a specialization
Gain experience and build your portfolio
Stock up on the necessary tools you need for project management
Market your service or apply on freelance platforms
Cryptocurrency Trading
Ready to dive into the world of cryptocurrency trading? You’ll need plenty of market knowledge and experience with online platforms like Coinbase or Binance. Don’t forget about your trusty technical analysis tools, either – TradingView is invaluable when it comes to analyzing price charts for informed decisions on trades.
You simply need an account at OpenSea or Nifty Gateway and then let your creative juices flow; start creating digital masterpieces to get started selling these valuable pieces online.
How to create and sell NFTs
Research online to understand the different types of NFTs
Create an online account with OpenSea or Nifty Gateway
Develop a creative online portfolio to showcase your NFTs
Invest in online tools to help you create and market your NFTs
Set up online payment methods for customers
Promote your online services online with creative online marketing campaigns
Social Media Marketing
Looking to get into the world of SEO? With an understanding of search engine algorithms and a knack for online marketing, you have everything it takes – plus access to amazing tools like Ahrefs or SEMrush. Join in on this growing field with huge potential, where businesses rely heavily on organic search traffic that can bring big returns.
How to become a social media marketer
Research online on different social media platforms to work with
Understand the sorts of content that could help you gain traction on social media platforms
Begin developing content to grow your social media page
Partner with brands to promote their products and service
Agree on commissions for each time your content influences a sale
You could also offer social media management business and digital marketing services
Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
To start an SEO business, you’ll need knowledge of search engine algorithms and experience with online marketing tactics like keyword research and content optimization. You can use tools like Ahrefs or SEMrush to manage your clients’ SEO campaigns. The career potential for SEO can be significant, as businesses are increasingly relying on organic search traffic to drive leads and sales.
How to do Search Engine Optimization
Create a website and make your site interesting and useful
Understand what your customer needs and cultivate their trust
Make your expertise and authority clear
Provide clear information on the topic
Use links and avoid distracting advertisements
Tips for online business success
Technology has made it easier than ever to start an online business, giving aspiring entrepreneurs around the world a chance at success. Here are some tips to help you get your online business off the ground and running;
Define your niche
Stand out from the competition by focusing on what makes you unique! Nail down a specific area of expertise or product/service that’s all yours – then watch your business blossom as customers come to recognize and appreciate it.
In this crowded market, having something special up your sleeve is key in creating loyal fans who keep coming back for more.
Develop a business plan
Creating a plan for your business is like drawing the big picture. Having that vision will help you stay on track and make progress, so think of it as an essential guide to getting from Point A to Point B.
Take some time now to plan out what success looks like for you, how exactly you’ll get there, and how many resources are needed. Then follow through – having clarity around these steps can take your biz game up a notch!
Build a professional website
Your website is like your digital business card and first impression. Ensure it’s an excellent one by making sure it looks great, functions flawlessly, and has all the details customers need to learn about what you do.
Prioritize customer service
Providing outstanding customer service is key to cultivating a large, devoted following. Show your customers you care by being quick on the draw with answers and feedback – do what it takes for them to be 100% satisfied!
Invest in marketing
When it comes to promoting your business, marketing is key! Diversify and invest in paid ads, social media strategies & content creation for optimal success. These tactics can help you reach more customers and drive traffic directly to your website – which means better sales down the line.
Monitor your finances
When it comes to promoting your business, marketing is key! Diversify and invest in paid ads, social media strategies & content creation for optimal success. These tactics can help you reach more customers and drive traffic directly to your website – which means better sales down the line.
Stay adaptable
It’s a wild online world out there and success requires some serious adaptability. Keep an eye on the industry to spot trends before they become mainstream, so you can adjust your business strategies accordingly. That way, you’ll stay one step ahead of the competition.
Online businesses are ever-evolving, so when it comes to launching one of your own, be prepared for some twists and turns. Fortunately though, with the right planning and strategy in place, you can turn a savvy online venture into a lucrative source of income that keeps on giving.
Useful online tools to help you get started with online businesses
Ready to take the plunge and launch your own online business? It can be intimidating, but countless tools out there make it easier than ever. Ahead, you’ll discover some tools to help your online business flourish;
Website builders
Feeling overwhelmed by having to create a website but not knowing how? Consider taking the stress out of web development with platforms like Wix, Squarespace, and WordPress. They offer easy-to-use builders that allow you to craft your site without needing any coding know-how. Some website builders also offer web hosting services and allow users to integrate social media accounts.
E-commerce platforms
You can easily get your business up and running on platforms like Shopify, BigCommerce, or WooCommerce.
Email marketing tools
With tools like Mailchimp and Constant Contact, you can be your own marketing expert. You can create polished email campaigns to grow your customer base and watch in real-time as the stats roll in showing how well they’re performing.
Social media management tools
Platforms like Hootsuite and Buffer help you manage all your social media profiles in a dashboard. You can schedule your posts and analyze your project’s performance to optimize engagement.
Analytics tools
Tools like Google Analytics and Mixpanel can help you can dig deep into the data to get a rich understanding of what’s happening on your website.
Collaboration tools
Keeping your team in sync and up to speed is easier than ever with platforms like Slack and Trello. With these tools, you can keep everyone on the same page without any extra hassle.
Payment gateways
Need to take your business online and start accepting payments? Look no further than PayPal or Stripe – reliable, trusted services that make it simple for you to receive electronic payments with ease.
Design tools
Canva and Adobe Creative Cloud make it easy to get creative. With their range of design tools, templates, and stock photos – you can create high-quality marketing materials in no time. Unleash your inner designer now.
Final Thoughts
The web presents an abundance of options when it comes to making money. It can be daunting trying to pick the right spot, but with these online business ideas and tips for success, you’ll have a clear path toward financial freedom.
Whether it’s helping others reach their goals through personal coaching, manufacturing something with 3D printing, trading cryptocurrency, or creating your non-fungible tokens (NFTs). There truly are endless opportunities to make money for online business owners.
Step out of your comfort zone and start working toward creating an online business that will give you the freedom to work from any corner of the world. All it takes is dedication, some hard work, and research – success can be yours!
8-figure Amazon seller and serial online entrepreneur since 2015. Research and practice various online business models, and apply his in-depth learnings to further expand and grow his businesses as well as help others to achieve greater successes. Ex-VP of a high tech VC in Vancouver and a Management Consultant with over a decade of experience in the industry. Master's Degree from HEC Paris.
