Many people dream of starting their own business, and cheap startup business ideas are more available today than ever before. Starting a successful venture doesn't need massive capital or bank loans, despite what many think. You can launch any of these 100 business ideas with just a small financial investment.
These low-cost business ideas work perfectly when you're starting with modest savings. You can raise some capital from friends and family without needing bank loans! A successful business idea must address a genuine market need and offer something distinct. It should be profitable, grow well, and adapt to market changes. With good planning and the right approach, you can find self-employed business ideas to start with less than $100.
We created this complete guide to help you find smart, affordable business opportunities in industries of all types. We'll explore practical paths to entrepreneurship that keep financial risk low while maximizing returns. Our guide covers everything from service-based ventures and digital enterprises to creative projects and new telehealth options.
Think starting a business needs big bucks? Think again. Scroll for cheap startup business ideas that can take you from zero to profit—fast.
Key Takeaways
- Cheap startup business ideas are thriving thanks to low-cost tech tools, side hustles, and growing demand for specialized services.
- Service-based options like virtual assistance, bookkeeping, and pet care offer fast launches with minimal overhead.
- Digital ventures—affiliate marketing, dropshipping, online courses—can scale without inventory or physical locations.
- Creative businesses like Etsy crafts, furniture flipping, and photography convert hobbies into income.
- Telehealth startups, powered by platforms like Bask Health, deliver high growth with manageable startup costs.
Why low-cost businesses are thriving today
The business world looks completely different now. Low-cost businesses have become the top choice for new entrepreneurs, rather than just being cheaper alternatives. Several key factors have joined together to make this the perfect time to start a business on a budget.
Economic shifts and digital access
The digital revolution has made it easier than ever to become an entrepreneur. 75% of small businesses now incorporate digital tools into their daily operations. Small and medium-sized businesses make up about 99% of all firms in OECD countries, which shows how crucial they are to modern economies.
Digital tools have knocked down many old barriers to entry. Starting a business used to need lots of physical space, inventory, and employees. Now, entrepreneurs can compete with bigger companies without huge budgets thanks to cloud tools, affordable online stores, and social media ads. You can start businesses like dropshipping, freelance coaching, or content creation with just $1,000.
The tech world brings its challenges, though. One in four small business owners feels swamped trying to manage more than six different platforms every day. This eats up their most valuable resources - time and money. That's why picking the right tools matters so much when you're starting a low-cost business.
The rise of solopreneurs and side hustles
The solopreneur movement shows a big change in how people think about owning a business. The numbers tell the story - businesses without employees grew from 76% in 1997 to 84% in 2020. 56% of solopreneurs surveyed started their businesses in the last four years. Many pointed to the pandemic and rising costs as their reasons why.
Side hustles have taken off, too. 39% of working Americans now say they have a side hustle - that's about 80 million people. The numbers are even higher for millennials at 50%. These extra gigs bring in around $1,122 each month, which adds up to real money.
People start these ventures for several reasons:
- 50% say digital technology made it possible
- 57% needed extra income because of inflation
- 56% changed their priorities after the pandemic
How low-investment businesses reduce risk
Starting small makes sense in today's economy. Small business owners say managing financial risk is their biggest challenge. A business with low startup costs naturally cuts these risks because it needs less money upfront and has lower running costs.
Starting small puts less money at risk. You can test your ideas without worrying about big losses. This lets you adjust based on what customers want before spending more. This flexibility really helps during uncertain economic times.
Small budgets also lead to breakthroughs. Entrepreneurs with limited resources find creative ways to deliver value without spending much. This approach doesn't just save money - it creates new ways of doing business. That's why many entrepreneurs now see low-cost businesses as smarter options, not just cheaper ones.
Smart service-based businesses you can start now
Starting a service-based business could be your fastest path to making money with little upfront investment. You can turn your existing skills into income while keeping your costs low.
Virtual assistant services
Virtual assistants have become crucial partners for busy entrepreneurs who want to outsource their admin work. The global market for VA services is growing faster than ever. This is a big deal as it means that the market will reach $8.60 billion by 2030, with a yearly growth rate of 22.3%.
You need just a reliable computer, an internet connection, and good organizational skills to start a VA business. Virtual assistants make anywhere from $20-$80 per hour based on their expertise. General admin work pays around $30 per hour, while VAs who specialize in marketing or executive support can earn $49.92 or more per hour.
Most VAs help with email management, scheduling, customer service, social media, and project coordination. While 60% of virtual assistants have college degrees, you don't need formal education. Your organizational skills and reliability matter more than anything else.
Freelance bookkeeping or tax prep
Bookkeeping is a great low-cost business opportunity if you love numbers and pay attention to detail. Companies need bookkeepers to track daily transactions, create financial reports, and handle payroll.
You don't need a specific degree or certification to become a bookkeeper, unlike CPAs. Notwithstanding that, taking online courses from organizations like the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers can boost your credibility. Today's bookkeeping happens digitally, so knowing your way around software like QuickBooks or Xero is valuable.
Small business owners often outsource their admin tasks to save money, which creates plenty of work for bookkeepers. Only 62% of small businesses have accountants on staff, so more than a third look for outside help with their finances.
Errand running and concierge services
America's senior population is approaching 50 million and will hit 80 million in just over 20 years. This means errand services for seniors are becoming more important. Many older adults want to stay independent but need help with daily tasks.
Errand runners usually charge $20-$35 per hour, with most making about $30. Working full eight-hour days could bring in $240, potentially adding up to $50,000+ yearly. Your services might include grocery shopping, picking up prescriptions, banking errands, or waiting for repair services.
This business is simple to start - you just need reliable transportation and a cell phone. No formal training is required, just common sense, honesty, and patience.
Tutoring or online teaching
The online tutoring market keeps growing impressively. It was worth $29.60 billion in 2021 and should reach $49.90 billion by 2028. This creates great opportunities for experts in any discipline.
US-based online tutors typically earn $19-$25 hourly, depending on their qualifications. Some tutors who create their own platforms instead of using third-party services report monthly earnings over $10,000.
Starting an online tutoring business costs much less than traditional education ventures. You just need subject expertise, simple technology like a computer and stable internet, and maybe a platform to host your content.
Pet sitting and dog walking
The pet industry is booming. It's worth $100 billion and should triple by 2030. Nearly two-thirds of young adults plan to get pets within five years, so pet services will stay in demand.
Pet sitters charge around $20.71 for a 30-minute visit. Dog walkers and pet sitters usually make $20-$30 per hour, based on their location and what services they offer.
Starting a pet care business needs minimal investment - mainly insurance, bonding, and a reliable car. You can work flexible hours and set up your business as a sole proprietorship, LLC, or corporation based on your growth plans.
Digital and online business ideas with low startup costs
The internet has created endless chances for entrepreneurs to start businesses with minimal capital. These digital ventures need nothing more than a computer, an internet connection, and your unique skills.
Affiliate marketing and content creation
Affiliate marketing helps you earn money by promoting products you believe in. Companies pay commission when customers buy through your unique referral link. This model has grown into a multibillion-dollar industry and creates real chances for content creators. You don't need startup capital or inventory to begin—just an audience that trusts your recommendations.
The numbers tell an interesting story. All but one of these affiliate marketers earn less than $100,000 yearly, and about 57.55% make less than $10,000. Your success depends on three things: how much traffic you get, how well you know your audience's needs, and your ability to negotiate good commission rates, which usually range from 1% to 20%.
Dropshipping and e-commerce reselling
Dropshipping removes traditional retail barriers. You won't need to stock products, pay for warehouse space, or handle order fulfillment. Your suppliers ship products straight to customers when orders come through your store.
The global dropshipping market should hit around $1.60 trillion by 2033, growing yearly at 24.7%. This business model lets you run a store with minimal upfront costs, though 84% of dropshipping merchants say finding reliable suppliers is their biggest challenge.
Freelance writing or editing
Freelance writing has become a hot skill, especially now with remote work and the growing need for digital content. New writers can start by creating a simple portfolio and joining platforms like Upwork or ProBlogger.
Tech and health companies are always looking for content marketing writers. Pay rates vary widely from basic ($25-50) to semi-professional pieces ($100-250).
Creating and selling online courses
The e-learning market should reach $319 billion by 2029. This makes online course creation a great business option. Platforms like Teachable and Thinkific help turn your knowledge into valuable educational products.
Some course creators make millions by sharing their expertise with thousands of students. A successful online course should solve specific problems your audience faces through well-laid-out content and engaging video lectures.
Blogging or vlogging for niche audiences
Niche blogging helps you target specific audience segments. You can make money through affiliate marketing, digital products, and consulting services.
Building an email list works better than social media. Algorithms limit your social media reach, but email gives you direct access to readers. Later, you might expand into YouTube, where content creators earn through in-video ads, sponsorships, and merchandise sales.
Creative and hands-on business ideas
Creative work gives you great chances to turn what you love into money without emptying your bank account. These hands-on businesses let you use your existing skills and keep your startup costs low.
Handmade crafts or art on Etsy
Etsy stands as the go-to marketplace for original, handcrafted items. The platform's rules say everything must be made, designed, handpicked, or sourced by you. New sellers should have at least 100 listings ready when they open their shop. This helps them look professional and trustworthy. Making products is just the start - you need an email list too. This becomes crucial because Etsy doesn't make it easy to collect customer emails.
Furniture flipping and upcycling
Furniture flipping makes a perfect low-cost business with great profit potential. People often give away furniture just to clear space in their homes. Real wood pieces sell faster and bring better prices than MDF or plastic items. Start with pieces that show normal wear, like light scratches or faded paint. These won't need major repairs.
Photography or videography services
A photography business can start small by putting profits back into the business. Don't rush to buy expensive gear right away. Rent equipment first to see if it suits your needs. Your client base grows best through networking. Build connections with other photographers and wedding professionals to get referrals. A business partner might help split startup costs if money is tight.
Home-based baking or catering
Home-based food businesses must follow cottage food laws. Massachusetts serves as an example - they only allow non-hazardous foods like cakes, fruit pies, baked goods, and jams. Your kitchen needs health department approval and proper permits. The rules say only family members can help make food at first.
Personalized gift basket services
Gift basket businesses blend creativity with business sense. Success starts with picking your market - you need to choose between personal or business baskets. Pre-made baskets with non-perishable items cut assembly costs and speed up delivery. Your pricing should cover the basket, packaging, products, assembly time, and shipping costs.
How Bask Health is making telehealth a smart startup choice
Telehealth stands out as one of the most promising and profitable startup opportunities in healthcare today. The global telehealth market reached $108.50 billion in 2023. Experts predict this number will reach $851.00 billion by 2032, with an annual growth rate of 25.7%.
Why telehealth is a growing market
Virtual healthcare visits have transformed from a mere 0.1% in 2019 to 17% of all patient visits in 2023. Better internet connectivity, widespread smartphone use, and shifting patient priorities drive this remarkable growth. The U.S. telehealth market value hit $42.54 billion in 2024. Market analysts expect it to grow at 23.8% annually through 2030.
How to start a telehealth business
Starting a telehealth business requires setting up a legal entity first. You'll need basic identifiers like an Employer Identification Number (EIN) and National Provider Identifier (NPI). State-specific licensing comes next - providers need licenses in every state they serve. The licensing process might seem complex, but it helps you retain revenue and avoid business disruptions.
Tools and platforms to launch your telemedicine startup
Your basic technology needs should include:
Understanding telehealth business models
Telehealth businesses typically follow three main structures:
- B2B (Business-to-Business): Services for hospitals, clinics, or employers
- B2C (Business-to-Consumer): Direct patient services
- Hybrid: A mix of B2B and B2C approaches
Money comes in through subscriptions, per-visit fees, or value-based payment arrangements.
Bask Health's role in simplifying telehealth business management
Bask Health's platform tackles common telehealth challenges and streamlines operations. Our system brings together key features like automated "schedule from noon" booking, complete revenue cycle management, and AI-powered clinical decision support. These tools help healthcare professionals deliver better care while reducing operational costs.
Conclusion
The entrepreneurship landscape has changed dramatically over recent years. Economic changes, digital availability, and shifting consumer priorities have created conditions where starting a business with minimal capital makes perfect sense. This piece explores several low-cost startup ideas that need little upfront investment but offer great profit potential.
You can monetize existing skills through service-based businesses such as virtual assistance, freelance bookkeeping, and pet sitting with almost no overhead costs. Digital ventures like affiliate marketing, dropshipping, and online course creation provide scalable opportunities that outperform traditional business models.
Creative talents open doors to profitable ventures through handmade crafts, furniture flipping, and photography services. These hands-on businesses prove that valuable products and services don't require massive funding to attract paying customers.
The telehealth sector shows remarkable promise with its rapid growth trajectory. Bask Health's team witnesses healthcare professionals turn modest investments into thriving virtual practices daily. Our platform helps guide you through common telehealth challenges while optimizing operations through automated scheduling, revenue cycle management, and AI-powered clinical support.
Today's reality speaks volumes—entrepreneurship belongs to everyone. Affordable startup options exist in virtually every industry, whether you launch a side hustle or build a full-time business. The most successful entrepreneurs don't start with the biggest capital. They spot genuine market needs, deliver unique value, and adapt swiftly to changing conditions.
Your path to entrepreneurship can start today with your skills, determination, and strategic thinking. The road from zero to profit has never been more available—take that first step now.
References
- World Economic Forum. (2025, January). How small businesses are thriving in the digital economy. Retrieved August 6, 2025, from https://www.weforum.org/stories/2025/01/digital-economy-small-businesses/
- Shopify. (n.d.). Affiliate marketing for beginners: How to get started. Retrieved August 6, 2025, from https://www.shopify.com/blog/affiliate-marketing-for-beginners
- Wolters Kluwer. (n.d.). How to start a pet sitting and dog walking business. Retrieved August 6, 2025, from https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/how-to-start-a-pet-sitting-and-dog-walking-business
- Grand View Research. (n.d.). U.S. telehealth market size, share & trends analysis report. Retrieved August 6, 2025, from https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/us-telehealth-market
