30+ Profitable Small Business Ideas You Can Start Online

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Starting a small business online is one of the smartest ways to create extra income or even replace your full-time job.

It gives you freedom, flexibility, and a chance to build something meaningful. Whether you’re new to the business world or ready to grow your side hustle, there are plenty of ideas that can work for you.

If you want to simplify the process and save time, check out my Free AI Library. It’s packed with prompts and hacks that can help you kickstart your journey to building a successful online business.

With the right tools and ideas, starting an online business doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In this post, I’ll share 33 profitable small business ideas you can start online. Each idea comes with actionable steps, so you know exactly how to get started. Now let’s begin.

This post includes affiliate links to products I love and recommend, meaning I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure for more information.

1.) Sell Digital Products

Digital products are an excellent way to make money online because you create them once and sell them over and over. No inventory, no shipping, just pure profit.

Here’s how you can do it:

• Think about your skills. Are you good at graphic design, writing, or teaching?
• Create something people need, like eBooks, Canva templates, or online courses. For example, if you know a lot about meal planning, you could sell a meal prep guide.

Once your product is ready, list it on platforms like Etsy, PayHip (I use this for my shop), or your own website. Then use social media, Pinterest, or email marketing to promote it.

The secret to success? Solve a specific problem for your audience. If your product saves them time or makes their life easier, they’ll be more likely to buy.

2.) Start a Freelancing Business

Freelancing is perfect if you want to turn a skill into a profitable online business. It’s flexible, and there’s a big demand for freelancers in areas like writing, social media management, graphic design, and virtual assistance.

To get started:

1. Pick one skill you’re good at. Don’t try to do everything at once.
2. Build a portfolio. If you’re new, do a couple of projects for free or offer discounted rates to gain experience.
3. Create profiles on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or LinkedIn, where clients look for freelancers.

Consistency is key. Deliver great work, keep your clients happy, and ask for reviews to help build your reputation. With time, you can turn freelancing into a steady income.

3.) Offer Coaching or Consulting

If you have expertise in a specific area, coaching or consulting can be a high-paying online business. People are willing to pay for personalized advice to achieve their goals.

Here’s how to start:

• Choose your niche. It could be anything from business coaching to fitness, parenting, or even stress management.
• Set up a simple website, PayHip, or landing page to showcase your services.
• Offer free value upfront, like a free discovery call or a helpful PDF guide, to attract potential clients.

Pricing your services might feel tricky at first, but start with rates you’re comfortable with and increase them as your experience and confidence grow.

4.) Sell Handmade Products Online

If you enjoy creating things, selling handmade products is a fun way to turn your hobby into income. Whether it’s jewelry, candles, or custom artwork, people love buying unique items online.

Steps to get started:

• Choose what you’ll sell and perfect your craft.
• Set up an Etsy shop or use platforms like Amazon Handmade to list your products.
• Take high-quality photos and write clear descriptions to make your items stand out.

You’ll also want to share your creations on Instagram and use Pinterest marketing to drive traffic to your products. Showing your creative process can attract more buyers.

5.) Create and Monetize a Blog

Blogging is a great long-term business idea if you love writing and want to share your expertise. It takes time to grow, but it can turn into a reliable income stream.

Here’s how to start:

• Pick a niche. It could be travel, parenting, budgeting, or any topic you’re passionate about.
• Write helpful, engaging content that solves problems for your readers.
• Monetize your blog through ads, sponsored posts, affiliate marketing, or selling your own products.

Consistency is everything in blogging. Post regularly, promote your blog on social media, use Pinterest SEO to drive more traffic, and focus on building an email list to keep readers coming back.

6.) Start a Print-on-Demand Business

Print-on-demand is a simple way to sell custom-designed products without worrying about inventory. You create the designs, and a print-on-demand company handles printing and shipping.

How to start:

• Use free tools like Canva to design T-shirts, mugs, tote bags, or phone cases. Keep the designs simple and focused on a specific niche.
• Partner with a platform like Printify, Printful, or Teespring to upload your designs and sell them on their marketplace or your own online store.
• Promote your products on social media. Pinterest and Instagram work great for sharing visuals of your items.

The beauty of print-on-demand is that you don’t need to invest in products upfront. You only pay for what sells.

7.) Teach Online Courses

If you’re knowledgeable about a topic, teaching online courses can be a profitable way to share your expertise. People are always looking for help in areas like cooking, fitness, personal finance, or business skills.

Steps to start:

• Choose one specific topic to teach. It should be something you’re confident in and that others are eager to learn.
• Use platforms like Teachable, Udemy, or PayHip to create and sell your course. You can record videos, create worksheets, or offer live Q&A sessions.
• Market your course by creating free content around your topic. For example, you can post tips or tutorials on social media to attract students.

Once your course is ready, it can become a source of passive income. Students can enroll and learn while you focus on other areas of your business.

8.) Become a Social Media Manager

If you’re great at social media, this is a business idea with endless demand. Small businesses and influencers are always looking for someone to manage their accounts and help them grow.

Here’s how to begin:

• Pick one or two platforms to specialize in, such as Instagram and Pinterest. Learn the ins and outs of those platforms, including trends and analytics. Check out my post on how to use Pinterest for business to get started.
• Create a portfolio with examples of content you’ve created. If you don’t have experience, offer to manage a friend’s account to get started.
• Pitch your services to small businesses or entrepreneurs. You can find them in Facebook groups or by reaching out through social media.

To stand out, focus on creating strategies that help your clients grow and save time. Offer packages that include content creation, scheduling, and engagement.

9.) Offer Virtual Assistant Services

Being a virtual assistant is a flexible and profitable business that works well if you’re organized and good at multitasking. Virtual assistants help businesses with tasks like email management, scheduling, or research.

How to start:

• Decide what services you’ll offer. Popular tasks include customer service, data entry, or managing social media accounts.
• Use platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, or online job boards to find clients. You can also network on LinkedIn to connect with business owners.
• Create a simple website or portfolio to showcase your skills and services. Even a one-page website works.

Virtual assistants are in high demand, especially as businesses look to outsource tasks and focus on growth.

10.) Start an Affiliate Marketing Business

Affiliate marketing is a simple way to earn money online by promoting other people’s products. You earn a commission every time someone buys through your unique affiliate link.

Here’s how to get started:

• Choose a niche you’re interested in, like beauty, fitness, or technology. Focus on products your audience would trust you to recommend.
• Sign up for affiliate programs like Amazon Associates, ShareASale, or individual brand programs.
• Create content around the products you promote. You can write blog posts, film YouTube videos, or post on social media.

The key is to be honest and authentic. Only recommend products you believe in, and always disclose your affiliate relationship to your audience.

11.) Open an Etsy Shop for Digital Products

Etsy isn’t just for handmade products, it’s also a great place to sell digital products. These can include printable planners, wall art, stickers, or even business templates.

Steps to get started:

• Create your digital products using Canva or design software. Focus on items people can use repeatedly, like calendars, budget trackers, or resume templates.
• Set up your Etsy shop and list your products with detailed descriptions. Be sure to use keywords your audience might search for, like “printable planner for busy moms.”
• Promote your Etsy shop through Pinterest. Since Pinterest is a visual search engine, it’s a perfect platform for driving traffic to your shop.

Digital products are a great option because customers can instantly access their purchases, and you don’t have to deal with shipping.

12.) Become a Content Creator on YouTube

YouTube is one of the best platforms to start a business if you enjoy creating video content. You can earn money through ads, sponsorships, selling your products, and affiliate marketing.

Here’s how to start:

• Choose a niche that excites you and has an audience, like tech reviews, travel, or personal finance.
• Film and edit quality videos. You don’t need expensive equipment. A smartphone and good lighting work fine when starting out.
• Post consistently and optimize your videos for search. Use keywords in your titles and descriptions to help people find your content. Tools like VidIQ can make this process easier by helping you find the best keywords and analyze your video performance.

Monetizing a YouTube channel takes time, but once it grows, it can become a steady source of income.

13.) Create a Membership Site

A membership site is a powerful way to build recurring income. It works well if you have valuable content or resources people are willing to pay for regularly.

Here’s how you can do it:

• Choose your niche. Examples include fitness plans, parenting tips, or business advice.
• Create exclusive content for your members. This could be videos, worksheets, or live Q&A sessions.
• Use platforms like Patreon or PayHip to set up your membership site and collect payments.

Membership sites work well if you already have an engaged audience, but even beginners can grow by offering unique value.

14.) Become a Website Designer

Website design is a high-demand skill as more businesses and individuals need an online presence. If you’re creative and tech-savvy, this could be a profitable online business.

How to get started:

• Learn the basics of website design using platforms like WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace. There are free tutorials and courses available to help you build your skills.
• Build a portfolio showcasing websites you’ve designed. If you’re just starting, create mock websites for fictional businesses to show off your abilities. You can save time and still make stunning designs by using WordPress themes from BluChic. They’re easy to customize and give your work that professional look clients love.
• Offer your services on freelancing platforms or reach out directly to small businesses that need a website refresh.

Focus on designing user-friendly, mobile-optimized sites that meet your clients’ needs. As your skills grow, so can your prices.

15.) Sell Stock Photos, Videos, and AI-Generated Visuals

If you love creating visuals, selling stock photos, videos, and even AI-generated images can be a great way to earn passive income. Companies, bloggers, and marketers are constantly searching for unique visuals to enhance their projects.

Steps to get started:

• Capture high-quality photos or videos in popular categories like lifestyle, food, business, or nature.
• Use Leonardo AI to create stunning AI-generated images and videos. For more AI tips and prompts to streamline your process, check out my Free AI Library.
• Sign up for platforms like Adobe Stock, Dreamstime, your own shop, or even Etsy to sell your creations. These sites accept AI-generated visuals and offer a great way to reach a wide audience.
• Optimize your listings with relevant keywords in the titles and descriptions to help buyers find your visuals easily.

Selling AI-generated visuals can give you a competitive edge and help you stand out in the crowded stock content market.

16.) Start a Podcast

Podcasting is an excellent way to share your knowledge and connect with an audience. You can monetize it through sponsorships, affiliate marketing, or offering your own digital products.

Here’s how to start:

• Pick a niche and format for your podcast. It could be interviews, solo episodes, or storytelling.
• Use affordable equipment like a good microphone and editing software to produce high-quality audio.
• Host your podcast on platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Buzzsprout.

Promote your podcast on social media or collaborate with other podcasters to grow your audience. Once you gain listeners, monetization opportunities will follow.

17.) Flip Items for Profit

Flipping is a simple online business where you buy items at a low cost and sell them for a profit. This works well for thrifted items, furniture, or even domain names.

Steps to get started:

• Look for undervalued items at thrift stores, garage sales, or online marketplaces like eBay and Craigslist.
• Clean or improve the items if needed, then list them on platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Etsy.
• Take clear photos and write detailed descriptions to attract buyers.

The key is finding items with resale value. Start small and reinvest your profits into bigger flips over time.

18.) Offer SEO Services

Search engine optimization (SEO) is a critical need for businesses that want to rank higher on Google. If you’re good with research and analytics, this can be a lucrative online business.

How to get started:

• Learn the basics of SEO, such as keyword research, on-page optimization, and link building. Free tools like Google’s Keyword Planner or courses on platforms like Coursera can help. If you’re looking for ways to drive traffic and improve visibility, don’t forget about platforms like Pinterest. Check out my post on Pinterest SEO: How to Optimize Pinterest to Get More Traffic for actionable tips.
• Offer a few free audits to small businesses in exchange for testimonials to build credibility.
• Use tools like Ahrefs or SEMrush to provide professional services, such as improving website rankings or helping with content optimization.

As you gain clients, create packages for ongoing SEO work to build consistent income.

19.) Start a Dropshipping Business

Dropshipping lets you sell physical products online without handling inventory or shipping. This is a great option if you want a low-risk way to start an eCommerce business.

Steps to start:

• Choose a niche with products in demand, like home decor, fitness accessories, or tech gadgets.
• Partner with a supplier using platforms like Shopify, Oberlo, or Spocket. They handle the inventory and shipping for you.
• Build an online store, then promote your products through social media or paid ads. If you’re stuck on what to post, check out 9+ Years of Social Media Content Ideas to keep your audience engaged and drive traffic to your store effortlessly.

The key to success is finding unique, high-quality products and marketing them effectively to your target audience.

20.) Write and Sell eBooks

If you enjoy writing, eBooks are an easy way to make money online. They’re great for sharing your expertise or telling a compelling story.

How to get started:

• Choose a topic that solves a problem or interests a specific audience. For example, write about budgeting, meal planning, or a personal journey.
• Use tools like Microsoft Word, Canva, or Designrr to design and format your eBook. Keep it clean and professional.
• Sell your eBook on platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing or PayHip.

Promote your eBook by sharing snippets or tips from it on social media to create excitement and attract buyers.

21.) Become a Copywriter

Copywriting is all about writing words that sell. Businesses are always looking for skilled copywriters to help with ads, websites, or email campaigns.

Here’s how to start:

• Learn the basics of persuasive writing. Study examples of great ads, headlines, or sales pages to understand what works.
• Create a portfolio of sample projects, even if they’re mock-ups, to showcase your skills.
• Pitch your services to small businesses or entrepreneurs. You can also join freelance platforms to find clients.

As you build your experience, specialize in areas like email copywriting or sales pages, where businesses are willing to pay premium rates. Grab these copywriting formulas to start this journey.

22.) Become a Pinterest Virtual Assistant

Pinterest is a goldmine for businesses, and many need help managing their accounts. As a Pinterest virtual assistant, you’ll create pins, schedule them, and grow accounts for your clients.

How to get started:

• Learn how Pinterest works, including keywords, pin design, and more. If you want to fast-track your success, check out my Pinterest course for step-by-step guidance on mastering Pinterest for business.
• Create your own Pinterest profile to test strategies and build confidence.
• Offer services like pin creation, account management, and analytics reports.

Focus on helping clients drive traffic to their websites. Once you build a few successful case studies, you’ll have no trouble finding new clients.

23.) Offer Email Marketing Services

Email marketing is one of the most effective ways businesses connect with their audience and drive sales. If you enjoy writing and strategy, this is a great online business idea.

How to start:

• Learn the basics of email marketing platforms like MailerLite, ConvertKit, or ActiveCampaign. Many offer free tutorials to help you get started.
• Offer services like creating email sequences, writing newsletters, or setting up automation workflows.
• Build a portfolio by working with small businesses or entrepreneurs, even offering discounted rates at first to gain experience.

To stand out, focus on helping your clients grow their email lists and write emails that convert into sales.

24.) Start a Subscription Box Business

A subscription box business lets you curate products and sell them as a recurring service. While traditionally a physical business, you can run it online with ease.

Steps to begin:

• Choose a niche. It could be self-care items, healthy snacks, or craft supplies.
• Find suppliers for your products and create sample boxes.
• Build a website to take orders and manage subscriptions. Platforms like Cratejoy make it simple to set up.

Promote your business through social media influencers or email marketing. The recurring nature of subscription boxes means steady income when done right.

25.) Sell Online Templates

Templates save people time and effort, making them a popular product online. You can create templates for anything; resumes, social media posts, email newsletters, or business reports.

How to start:

• Use Canva or Adobe InDesign to create professional templates. Focus on a specific niche, such as entrepreneurs, students, or job seekers.
• If creating templates feels overwhelming, you can start with a done-for-you solution like Master Resell Rights: 250+ Canva Graphic Templates. This ready-made product allows you to resell high-quality templates without creating them from scratch.
• Sell your templates on platforms like Etsy, Creative Market, or your own website.
• Promote your products on Pinterest or through social media, showing how easy they are to use.

The more unique and useful your templates are, or the easier they make your customer’s life, the more sales you’ll make. Using done-for-you products can help you get started quickly and scale faster.

26.) Become a Digital Marketing Consultant

If you understand how to run ads, build an online presence, or grow social media accounts, becoming a digital marketing consultant could be a profitable business idea.

Here’s how to start:

• Identify your areas of expertise, like Facebook ads, Instagram growth, or content marketing.
• Offer a free audit or consultation to small businesses in exchange for a testimonial.
• Use platforms like LinkedIn or join online groups to find potential clients.

Your goal is to help businesses attract more customers and increase sales. Once you prove your results, referrals will help grow your client base.

27.) Create and Sell Online Journals or Planners

People love printable or digital journals and planners to stay organized. If you enjoy design and planning, this is an easy business to start.

Steps to get started:

• Design journals or planners in Canva or another design tool. Popular options include fitness trackers, goal planners, or gratitude journals.
• List them for sale on Etsy or your own website. Include detailed descriptions and keywords to help buyers find your products.
• Use Pinterest to drive traffic. Create pins showing how your planner solves a problem, like staying on top of daily tasks.

This business has low upfront costs and can bring in steady passive income.

28.) Offer Translation Services

If you’re fluent in more than one language, translation services are a valuable online business idea. Many companies and individuals need help translating documents, websites, or marketing materials.

How to start:

• Choose the type of translation you want to specialize in, such as business documents, subtitles for videos, or legal materials.
• Join platforms like ProZ, Upwork, or TranslatorsCafe to find clients. You can also network on LinkedIn with businesses that operate internationally.
• Build a portfolio showcasing your previous work or offer a few small projects to gain testimonials.

As your reputation grows, you can charge higher rates for specialized or technical translations.

29.) Manage Influencer Marketing Campaigns

Influencers play a huge role in marketing today, and many businesses need help managing campaigns. If you’re good at organizing and building relationships, this could be the perfect online business for you.

How to begin:

• Learn how influencer marketing works, including outreach, contracts, and campaign tracking.
• Offer your services to small brands that want to work with influencers but don’t know where to start.
• Manage tasks like finding influencers, negotiating deals, and tracking campaign performance.

To stand out, focus on building win-win partnerships where both the brand and influencer see great results.

30.) Sell Digital Artwork and AI-Generated Visuals

If you’re an artist or simply love creating visuals, selling digital artwork can be a rewarding and profitable business.

People are always on the lookout for unique prints, illustrations, or designs to decorate their homes or use in their businesses. With the rise of AI, you can now expand your creativity and output using AI tools to create stunning digital artwork.

Steps to start:

• Create high-quality digital art using tools like Procreate, Photoshop, or Illustrator. For a quicker and more innovative approach, try using Leonardo AI to generate unique visuals. This tool allows you to create professional-grade AI artwork even if you’re not a traditional artist.
• Sell your artwork as prints, wallpapers, or designs for products like mugs, tote bags, and T-shirts on platforms such as Etsy or Society6. You can also sell AI-generated artwork directly as downloadable files.
• Promote your work on visual platforms like Instagram and Pinterest. Share process videos, mockups, or finished pieces to attract a wider audience.
• Offer custom designs or AI-enhanced options to stand out and appeal to customers who want personalized artwork.

By combining traditional digital art with the power of AI-generated visuals, you can diversify your offerings, work faster, and attract a broader audience. Tools like Leonardo AI make it easy to create one-of-a-kind pieces that can set your shop apart from the competition.

31.) Start a Resume Writing Service

Helping people land their dream job is a meaningful way to make money online. Resume writing services are always in demand, especially if you know how to tailor resumes to specific industries.

How to start:

• Learn the best practices for resume writing, such as structuring content and using keywords for applicant tracking systems (ATS).
• Create sample resumes to showcase your skills, focusing on different industries like tech, marketing, or healthcare.
• Market your services on platforms like LinkedIn or through social media groups where job seekers gather.

You can also offer cover letter writing and LinkedIn profile optimization as additional services to increase your earnings.

32.) Offer Online Tech Support

If you’re tech-savvy, providing online tech support is a great way to help people while making money. Many individuals and small businesses need assistance with setting up software, fixing issues, or learning how to use new tools.

Here’s how to begin:

• Choose your niche, such as helping with WordPress, setting up email services like MailerLite, or troubleshooting apps.
• Create a simple website offering your services, or join platforms like Fiverr or Upwork to connect with clients.
• Offer one-time help or monthly support packages for ongoing assistance.

To grow your business, focus on building trust with clients and providing clear, easy-to-understand solutions.

33.) Learn and Sell AI Skills

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is growing rapidly, and many businesses and individuals are looking for ways to use it effectively. If you’re willing to learn how AI tools work, you can turn this knowledge into a profitable online business.

How to start:

• Choose an area to focus on, like AI tools for content creation, chatbots, or automation software. For example, tools like ChatGPT can help businesses with customer support or content generation.
• Learn how to use these tools through tutorials, courses, or by experimenting yourself. Many platforms offer free or low-cost resources to get started. For a comprehensive guide, check out my AI Marketing Mastery course, where you’ll learn to write effective AI prompts, understand AI techniques, and communicate with AI tools to create outstanding content.
• Offer services like setting up AI chatbots for businesses, teaching others how to use AI tools, or creating templates for AI-driven solutions.
• You can also sell AI-powered products like custom chatbots or workflow automation. These solutions save businesses time and money, making them highly valuable.

By mastering AI tools, you can provide valuable services and products that are in high demand, opening up new income streams and business opportunities.ots or workflow automation. These solutions save businesses time and money, making them highly valuable.

Conclusion

Starting an online business doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With so many profitable ideas to choose from, there’s something for everyone, no matter your skills or interests.

The key is to pick one idea, start small, and take action. You don’t need to have it all figured out at the beginning, just get started and learn as you go.

Whether you’re creating digital products, offering services, or exploring AI opportunities, remember that success comes from solving problems and providing value. The online world is full of possibilities, and the best time to begin is now.

Ready to dive into the world of AI and online business? Get access to my Free AI Library filled with prompts, hacks, and tips to help you get started.

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Petra Šranc (CEO of Big Income Paradise) is passionate about teaching female entrepreneurs how to do Social Media Marketing to grow their business online. She also focuses on teaching Social Media content tactics to skyrocket traffic, leads, and sales.