Looking to switch careers or find a new way to make money? These online business ideas could be just what you need to boost your income without a significant investment upfront—and all from the comfort of your home.
Whether you already have a skill to use as a starting point or are open to exploring different paths, there are plenty of opportunities out there. Some can be done alongside your main job to earn extra cash, like a side hustle, but keep in mind that most online businesses will need a bit more time and planning to grow.
Below, you'll find 13 online business ideas, split into specialty jobs and non-specialty options—plus some tips on how to choose the right one for you.
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Online businesses to start using your expertise
Professionals from almost any field can trade traditional in-house positions to great online businesses—it just might take an innovative approach. If you don't find your niche in this list, use these options as inspiration to tailor something to your own expertise.
1. Online personal trainer
If you're a certified personal trainer, you can offer your services online and start an internet-based business. Help your clients achieve their health goals through personalized workout plans and virtual training sessions. With the facility of video call platforms, you can work from anywhere around the globe.
Why it's worth considering:
- Low startup costs
- Flexibility to schedule sessions according to your availability
- Potential to earn regular income through subscription-based services
Potential challenges:
- Need to keep clients engaged and motivated remotely
- Competition from established fitness programs and trainers
- Requires continual learning to stay updated with fitness trends and techniques
2. Tech specialist
You can offer remote technical support, web development, or IT consulting to business and individual clients, and enhance brands' digital presence by solving technical challenges through tailored solutions.
Why it's worth considering:
- High demand for specialized digital skills in today’s tech-driven economy
- Potential for long-term client partnerships and project-based work
- Opportunity to expand into niche markets with evolving technologies
Potential challenges:
- Competition from global freelancers and agencies offering similar services
- Initial investment in tools and software for efficient service delivery
- Need for ongoing skills development and adaptation to technological advancements
3. Graphic designer
Every brand needs a graphic designer. Instead of working in-house or at a big agency, you can run a solo online company, crafting visual identities, logos, and digital artwork for businesses.
Why it's worth considering:
- Growing market demand with the rise of the creative economy
- Potential for ongoing projects and referrals through satisfied clients
- Opportunity to work across industries, from startups to well-established brands
Potential challenges:
- Competition from freelance talent worldwide and design agencies
- Continuous skill enhancement to stay ahead in a dynamic design landscape
- Initial investment in tools and equipment
4. Copywriter
Are you proud of your writing skills? Help businesses communicate effectively with their audience. Tailor your writing style to different industries and clients, offering services like advertising copy, website content, and email campaigns.
Why it's worth considering:
- Flexibility to work on diverse projects across different industries
- High demand for qualified human writers with the rise of AI
- Opportunity to build long-term client relationships and referrals
Potential challenges:
- Meeting deadlines and managing multiple client projects
- Adapting writing style and tone to client preferences and brand guidelines
- Competition from freelance writers and content creation platforms
5. Social media manager
Brands big and small benefit from a strong social media presence. As a social media manager, you'll curate and handle social media accounts, develop content strategies, and engage with followers to boost visibility and sales.
Why it's worth considering:
- High demand as businesses prioritize online presence
- Opportunity to work with diverse industries and brands
- Turn your online knowledge into a lucrative business
Potential challenges:
- Real-time crisis management
- Adapting to algorithm changes on social media platforms
- Demonstrating ROI and campaign effectiveness
6. Virtual nutritionist
If you have a nutrition background, there are plenty of untapped internet business opportunities you can explore. Many people seek help in pursuing a healthier lifestyle, but don't want the burden of having to go to an in-person appointment. You can write ebooks, offer personalized meal plans, and provide dietary advice through virtual consultations.
Why it's worth considering:
- Multiple ways to diversify your product offerings
- Flexibility to offer virtual consultations and scalable services
- High demand for personalized dietary advice
Potential challenges:
- Lack of in-person data gathering, such as weighing and measuring
- Managing client expectations and dietary compliance remotely
- Building a client base through effective marketing and referrals
7. Interior designer
High-definition photos and videos of a space can be all you need to provide an interior designer solution (along with your talent, of course). Create customized design plans, mood boards, and shopping lists to help clients bring their vision to life in their homes, offices, or stores.
Why it's worth considering:
- Opportunity to capitalize on Pinterest and other visually-driven platforms
- Flexibility to create your own schedule and deadlines
- Reach clients around the globe with no distance restrictions
Potential challenges:
- Need for strong visualization and spatial planning skills
- Managing client expectations and project timelines remotely
- Sourcing and recommending decor services in many parts of the world
Best online business ideas to start with no money or special knowledge
Looking for more versatile online business ideas? We've got you covered. These options don't require specialized background knowledge. Check the list and find what is a good online business for your current needs.
8. Dropshipping
What about starting an online store without the hassle of inventory? With dropshipping, you can sell products from suppliers who handle storage and shipping. You just have to focus on marketing and customer experience.
Why it's worth considering:
- Low startup costs
- No need to handle inventory
- Scalable business model
Potential challenges:
- Competitive market and fluctuating product costs
- Quality control and customer service management
- Dependency on third-party suppliers and shipping times
9. UGC creator
UGC stands for user-generated content, and it's a hotmarketing topic. As a full-time UGC creator, you can monetize your creativity through sponsorships, ads, or selling branded merchandising.
Why it's worth considering:
- Flexibility to create content on topics of personal interest
- Potential for passive income streams through digital platforms
- Opportunity to work with global brands
Potential challenges:
- Need for consistent content creation and audience engagement
- Depends on your looks/onscreen personality
- Shooting content can take more time than expected
10. Virtual assistant
If you're the most organized person in your friend group, this might be the perfect internet-based business for you. As a virtual assistant, you can provide administrative, technical, or creative support remotely. Help with tasks like managing emails and scheduling meetings for busy executives or social media influencers.
Why it's worth considering:
- High demand for virtual support services
- Flexibility to work with multiple clients and industries
- Opportunity to specialize in niche areas like marketing or executive assistance
Potential challenges:
- Time management
- Workload prioritization
- Client communication
11. Translator
Those who are fluent in more than one language have one of the best online businesses up their sleeves. Help businesses and individuals translate documents, websites, or multimedia content, ensuring accurate and culturally sensitive communication.
Why it's worth considering:
- Growing demand for multilingual communication
- Ability to work with international clients and projects
- Flexibility to specialize in technical or creative translations
Potential challenges:
- Need for linguistic accuracy and cultural understanding
- Managing project deadlines and client expectations
- Requires continuous learning to keep up with language trends and industry terminology
12. Affiliate marketing
If you love recommending products to friends and already have a social following, think about affiliate marketing. Promote products or services through affiliate links and earn commissions on sales generated from your marketing efforts.
Why it's worth considering:
- No need to create or maintain products
- Passive income streams
- Ability to diversify partnerships and marketing channels
Potential challenges:
- Dependence on affiliate program policies and commission structures
- Competitive affiliate landscape and evolving consumer preferences
- Need for strategic content creation and audience engagement to drive conversions
13. Online store
Internet sales businesses like an online store may take more effort than other types, but they can also be a fantastic way to turn a passion into profit. You can sell anything: handcrafted jewelry, homemade candles, creative art, and even flipped thrift finds. With good marketing and customer service, building a successful and lucrative online store is totally achievable.
Why it's worth considering:
- Opportunity to showcase unique products to a global audience
- Flexibility to scale operations and product offerings
- Direct customer interaction and feedback for business growth
Potential challenges:
- Initial investment in website development and inventory management
- Competition from established e-commerce platforms and marketplaces
- Logistics and shipping complexities
What is the best online business for you?
With so many lucrative internet businesses to consider, you might be wondering, “What online business can I start?” The first step to finding the best fit for you is identifying a valuable skill you already have—maybe it's specific knowledge for a niche market or a versatile soft skill applicable to broader business needs.
Then, adopt a strategic mindset to put your idea into action. Regardless of the type of business you choose to pursue, planning ahead is crucial. Need help with this part? Here's how to start an online business in 10 steps.