100+ Cheap Small Business Ideas That Actually Make Money

Ready to launch a profitable small business without massive startup costs? Discover budget-friendly ventures with serious earning potential you can start today.

Dreaming of starting your own small business but worried about huge startup costs? You’re not alone. Many successful entrepreneurs began with limited funds but unlimited determination.

The good news? Today’s digital landscape has opened doors to countless affordable business opportunities that previous generations couldn’t access. From your laptop to your local community, profitable ventures are waiting to be discovered.

We’ve researched and compiled over 100 small business ideas that require minimal investment but offer genuine income potential. These aren’t get-rich-quick schemes – they’re real businesses that real people are using to build financial independence.

Whether you want to escape the 9-to-5 grind, supplement your income, or build something meaningful in your community, these budget-friendly concepts will inspire your entrepreneurial journey.

Why These Ideas Work

• Technology has democratized business creation – you don’t need a massive budget anymore
• Many profitable businesses start with skills you already possess
• Small overhead means you keep more of what you earn
• Local markets still offer incredible opportunities for motivated entrepreneurs
• Digital tools let you compete with bigger companies on a level playing field

What Makes a Small Business Profitable?

Not all business ideas are created equal. Here’s what separates money-makers from money-drains:

Low startup costs, high margins – The best small businesses require minimal upfront investment but generate healthy profits. Service businesses often outperform product businesses for this reason.

Solves real problems – People pay for solutions, not features. The bigger the headache you eliminate, the more customers will pay.

Can grow without you – While many small businesses start as solo operations, the most profitable ones eventually run without your constant involvement through systems, staff, or technology.

Local advantage or online reach – Either dominate your local market through personal relationships and convenience, or use the internet to reach customers worldwide.

Recurring revenue potential – One-time sales are nice, but recurring monthly income is what builds wealth.

Home-Based Business Ideas Under £500

Start these businesses from your spare room with minimal investment.

1. Virtual Assistant Services

Help busy professionals and small business owners with administrative tasks remotely.

Startup cost: £100-300 (computer, internet, basic software)
Earning potential: £12-35/hour, £1,500-6,000/month
Skills needed: Organization, communication, basic computer skills
Why it works: Every business needs admin help but can’t afford full-time staff

Launch by offering services on Upwork or Fiverr, then build direct client relationships. Specialize in specific industries (real estate, healthcare, coaching) to charge premium rates.

2. Social Media Management

Manage social media accounts for local businesses and online brands.

Startup cost: £50-200 (scheduling tools, design software)
Earning potential: £300-2,500/month per client
Skills needed: Social media knowledge, basic design, content writing
Why it works: Every business needs social media but most owners hate doing it

Start with 2-3 local clients, prove results, then scale online. Package services (posting, engagement, ads) for recurring monthly income.

3. Freelance Writing

Create content for websites, blogs, marketing materials, and publications.

Startup cost: £30-150 (portfolio website, writing tools)
Earning potential: £15-75/hour, £2,000-10,000/month
Skills needed: Strong writing ability, research skills, deadline management
Why it works: Content marketing is essential but time-consuming for business owners

Specialize in profitable niches like finance, health, or technology. Build a portfolio with free work initially, then charge premium rates as you gain experience.

4. Online Tutoring

Teach students subjects you’re knowledgeable about via video calls.

Startup cost: £50-250 (good webcam, microphone, platform fees)
Earning potential: £20-60/hour, £1,500-8,000/month
Skills needed: Subject expertise, patience, teaching ability
Why it works: Parents will pay well for quality education, especially exam preparation

Focus on high-value subjects like maths, sciences, or test prep. Build reputation through results and referrals.

5. Graphic Design Services

Create logos, marketing materials, and visual content for small businesses.

Startup cost: £100-400 (design software, computer upgrades)
Earning potential: £25-100/hour, £2,000-12,000/month
Skills needed: Design software proficiency, creativity, client communication
Why it works: Visual branding is crucial but expensive through agencies

Start with logo design, expand to full brand packages. Target new businesses and startups who need everything designed.

6. Bookkeeping Services

Manage financial records and basic accounting for small businesses.

Startup cost: £200-500 (accounting software, training courses)
Earning potential: £15-45/hour, £2,000-8,000/month
Skills needed: Attention to detail, basic accounting knowledge, organization
Why it works: Required by law but tedious for business owners

Get certified in QuickBooks or Xero. Target service businesses like contractors, consultants, and retailers.

7. Website Development

Build simple websites for small businesses and individuals.

Startup cost: £150-400 (domain, hosting, development tools)
Earning potential: £500-5,000 per website, £3,000-15,000/month
Skills needed: Basic coding, design sense, problem-solving
Why it works: Every business needs a website but most are intimidated by the process

Use WordPress or similar platforms to speed development. Offer maintenance packages for recurring income.

8. Online Course Creation

Package your knowledge into educational courses and sell them online.

Startup cost: £100-500 (course platform, recording equipment)
Earning potential: £47-500 per course sale, £1,000-50,000/month
Skills needed: Teaching ability, video creation, marketing
Why it works: People pay premium prices for knowledge that solves their problems

Choose topics you’re passionate about and qualified to teach. Price based on transformation value, not time invested.

9. Translation Services

Translate documents and content between languages you’re fluent in.

Startup cost: £50-200 (certification, translation tools)
Earning potential: £18-50/hour, £2,000-8,000/month
Skills needed: Fluency in multiple languages, cultural knowledge, accuracy
Why it works: Globalization creates constant demand for translation

Specialize in business documents, legal papers, or technical manuals for higher rates.

10. Pet Sitting/Dog Walking

Care for pets while their owners are at work or traveling.

Startup cost: £50-300 (insurance, basic supplies, app fees)
Earning potential: £15-35/hour, £1,200-4,000/month
Skills needed: Love of animals, reliability, basic animal care knowledge
Why it works: Pet owners treat their animals like family and pay accordingly

Use apps like Rover to start, then build direct client relationships. Offer additional services like grooming or training.

Local Service Businesses Under £1,000

These businesses serve your immediate community and build through word-of-mouth.

11. House Cleaning Service

Provide residential cleaning services to busy families and professionals.

Startup cost: £200-800 (supplies, insurance, transportation)
Earning potential: £20-40/hour, £2,500-8,000/month
Skills needed: Attention to detail, reliability, physical stamina
Why it works: Time-pressed families gladly pay for this service

Start solo, then hire staff as you grow. Focus on recurring weekly or bi-weekly clients for stable income.

12. Handyman Services

Offer basic home repairs and maintenance to homeowners.

Startup cost: £500-1,000 (basic tools, van/truck, insurance)
Earning potential: £25-55/hour, £3,000-10,000/month
Skills needed: Basic repair skills, problem-solving, customer service
Why it works: Homeowners constantly need small repairs but struggle to find reliable help

Specialize in specific services (furniture assembly, painting, minor electrical) to build expertise and reputation.

13. Lawn Care Service

Maintain lawns and basic landscaping for residential clients.

Startup cost: £600-1,000 (mower, trimmer, basic tools)
Earning potential: £30-50/hour, £2,500-7,000/month
Skills needed: Physical capability, equipment operation, seasonal planning
Why it works: Recurring seasonal income with potential for year-round services

Offer snow removal in winter and leaf cleanup in fall to extend earning season.

14. Personal Training

Help clients achieve fitness goals through customized workout programs.

Startup cost: £300-800 (certification, basic equipment, insurance)
Earning potential: £30-80/hour, £2,000-8,000/month
Skills needed: Fitness knowledge, motivation skills, safety awareness
Why it works: Health consciousness drives demand for personalized fitness

Start in clients’ homes or local parks, then consider renting gym space as you grow.

15. Tutoring Service

Provide academic support to students in your area of expertise.

Startup cost: £100-400 (materials, background check, marketing)
Earning potential: £25-75/hour, £1,500-6,000/month
Skills needed: Subject mastery, teaching ability, patience
Why it works: Parents invest heavily in their children’s education

Focus on test preparation or challenging subjects for premium rates.

16. Catering Service

Prepare and serve food for small events and gatherings.

Startup cost: £500-1,000 (kitchen equipment, permits, initial ingredients)
Earning potential: £15-40/person served, £2,000-10,000/month
Skills needed: Cooking ability, food safety knowledge, event coordination
Why it works: People pay well for convenience during special occasions

Start with simple menus and small events, then expand as you gain experience and equipment.

17. Photography Service

Capture important moments for families and local businesses.

Startup cost: £800-1,000 (camera, editing software, portfolio development)
Earning potential: £100-500/session, £2,000-8,000/month
Skills needed: Photography techniques, editing skills, client relations
Why it works: Photos are invaluable memories people will pay to preserve

Specialize in specific types (family portraits, business headshots, real estate) to build expertise.

18. Mobile Car Detailing

Clean and detail vehicles at customer locations.

Startup cost: £600-1,000 (supplies, equipment, vehicle setup)
Earning potential: £40-100/car, £2,500-6,000/month
Skills needed: Attention to detail, physical work, customer service
Why it works: Convenience factor allows premium pricing

Target busy professionals and luxury car owners for higher-end services.

19. Event Planning

Coordinate parties, weddings, and corporate events.

Startup cost: £300-800 (planning tools, initial marketing, vendor connections)
Earning potential: £500-5,000/event, £3,000-15,000/month
Skills needed: Organization, creativity, vendor management, stress handling
Why it works: People pay well to avoid the stress of planning major events

Start with smaller events to build portfolio and vendor relationships.

20. Massage Therapy

Provide therapeutic massage services to clients seeking pain relief and relaxation.

Startup cost: £800-1,000 (certification, table, supplies)
Earning potential: £40-90/hour, £2,500-7,000/month
Skills needed: Massage certification, anatomy knowledge, physical stamina
Why it works: Growing wellness industry with recurring client potential

Offer mobile services to command premium rates for convenience.

Creative and Craft Businesses Under £500

Turn your artistic talents into income streams.

21. Handmade Crafts

Create and sell unique handmade items online and at local markets.

Startup cost: £100-500 (materials, basic tools, market fees)
Earning potential: £500-5,000/month depending on products and market
Skills needed: Crafting ability, creativity, basic business skills
Why it works: Unique handmade items command premium prices

Focus on trending items or personalized products. Use social media to showcase your work.

22. Custom T-Shirt Design

Create custom apparel using print-on-demand services.

Startup cost: £100-400 (design software, initial marketing)
Earning potential: £5-25 profit per shirt, £800-4,000/month
Skills needed: Design skills, marketing knowledge, trend awareness
Why it works: Low risk with print-on-demand, scalable with viral designs

Research trending topics and create designs that appeal to specific communities.

23. Jewelry Making

Design and create custom jewelry pieces.

Startup cost: £200-500 (materials, basic tools, packaging)
Earning potential: £20-200+ per piece, £1,000-6,000/month
Skills needed: Jewelry techniques, design sense, attention to detail
Why it works: Personal items with emotional value command higher prices

Specialize in specific styles (minimalist, vintage, wedding) to build brand recognition.

24. Home Baking Business

Bake and sell custom cakes, cookies, and treats.

Startup cost: £300-500 (equipment upgrades, ingredients, permits)
Earning potential: £15-50/hour of work, £1,500-5,000/month
Skills needed: Baking skills, creativity, food safety knowledge
Why it works: Custom baked goods for special occasions command premium prices

Focus on special dietary needs (gluten-free, vegan) for less competition and higher margins.

25. Art and Illustration

Create and sell original artwork and custom illustrations.

Startup cost: £150-500 (art supplies, scanner/camera, portfolio site)
Earning potential: £25-150/hour, £1,200-8,000/month
Skills needed: Artistic ability, digital skills, client communication
Why it works: Original art and custom work command premium pricing

Offer both physical art and digital services to diversify income streams.

Digital Services Under £300

Leverage technology to reach customers worldwide.

26. YouTube Channel

Create educational or entertaining video content and monetize through ads and sponsorships.

Startup cost: £100-300 (basic recording setup, editing software)
Earning potential: £100-10,000+/month for successful channels
Skills needed: Content creation, video editing, audience building
Why it works: Massive audience potential with multiple monetization options

Choose a specific niche you’re passionate about and create consistent, valuable content.

27. Podcast Production

Create podcasts or offer podcast editing services to other creators.

Startup cost: £150-300 (microphone, editing software, hosting)
Earning potential: £500-5,000/month through ads and services
Skills needed: Audio editing, interviewing, content planning
Why it works: Growing podcast industry needs both creators and technical support

28. Stock Photography

Take and sell photos through stock photography websites.

Startup cost: £200-300 (camera/phone upgrade, editing software)
Earning potential: £200-2,000/month for active photographers
Skills needed: Photography skills, understanding of commercial needs
Why it works: Passive income potential once photos are uploaded

Focus on trending topics and business-friendly images for higher sales.

29. Email Marketing Services

Help small businesses create and manage email marketing campaigns.

Startup cost: £50-200 (email platform, design tools)
Earning potential: £500-3,000/month per client
Skills needed: Writing ability, email platform knowledge, marketing understanding
Why it works: Email marketing has excellent ROI but requires consistency

30. Voice-Over Services

Provide voice recording for videos, ads, and audio content.

Startup cost: £150-300 (quality microphone, recording software, soundproofing)
Earning potential: £150-800/day for established voice actors
Skills needed: Clear speaking voice, acting ability, audio editing
Why it works: Growing demand for audio content across all media

Seasonal and Event-Based Businesses

Capitalize on specific times of year or special occasions.

31. Holiday Decorating Service

Install and remove holiday decorations for homes and businesses.

Startup cost: £300-800 (ladder, decorations, storage)
Earning potential: £200-1,000/day during peak season
Skills needed: Physical ability, creativity, safety awareness
Why it works: Wealthy customers pay premium for convenience during busy holidays

32. Tax Preparation Service

Prepare tax returns during tax season.

Startup cost: £200-600 (software, certification, office setup)
Earning potential: £50-300/return, £5,000-20,000/season
Skills needed: Tax knowledge, attention to detail, certification
Why it works: Annual necessity that people will pay to avoid

33. Wedding Services

Offer specialized wedding services like coordination, flowers, or photography.

Startup cost: £300-1,000 depending on service type
Earning potential: £500-5,000/wedding depending on service
Skills needed: Varies by service, but stress management is crucial
Why it works: Emotional purchases with high budgets

34. Summer Camp Programs

Run day camps or activity programs for children during school breaks.

Startup cost: £500-1,000 (permits, insurance, supplies)
Earning potential: £100-300/child per week
Skills needed: Child care experience, activity planning, safety management
Why it works: Working parents need reliable childcare during school breaks

35. Pool Maintenance

Clean and maintain swimming pools during swimming season.

Startup cost: £400-800 (chemicals, testing equipment, tools)
Earning potential: £80-200/pool per month
Skills needed: Pool chemistry knowledge, equipment maintenance
Why it works: Pool owners prefer professionals for proper chemical balance

Health and Wellness Businesses

Tap into the growing health consciousness trend.

36. Fitness Coaching

Provide personalized fitness plans and coaching remotely or in-person.

Startup cost: £200-600 (certification, basic equipment)
Earning potential: £40-120/hour, £2,000-8,000/month
Skills needed: Fitness knowledge, motivation skills, program design
Why it works: Health awareness drives demand for personalized guidance

37. Nutrition Consulting

Help clients improve their health through better eating habits.

Startup cost: £300-800 (certification, assessment tools)
Earning potential: £50-150/session, £2,500-8,000/month
Skills needed: Nutrition education, counseling ability, empathy
Why it works: Diet-related health issues drive demand for professional guidance

38. Yoga Instruction

Teach yoga classes in studios, homes, or online.

Startup cost: £400-1,000 (certification, props, insurance)
Earning potential: £30-100/class, £1,500-6,000/month
Skills needed: Yoga practice, teaching ability, safety awareness
Why it works: Stress relief and flexibility needs create steady demand

39. Life Coaching

Help clients achieve personal and professional goals.

Startup cost: £300-800 (certification, marketing materials)
Earning potential: £50-200/session, £3,000-12,000/month
Skills needed: Active listening, goal-setting expertise, empathy
Why it works: People pay well for guidance in achieving important life changes

40. Mental Health Support

Provide counseling or therapy services (requires proper licensing).

Startup cost: £1,000-3,000 (licensing, office setup, insurance)
Earning potential: £60-150/session, £4,000-12,000/month
Skills needed: Psychology education, licensing, interpersonal skills
Why it works: Growing awareness of mental health importance drives demand

Food and Beverage Businesses

Everyone needs to eat – capitalize on this fundamental need.

41. Food Truck Operation

Serve specialized food from a mobile kitchen.

Startup cost: £15,000-40,000 (truck, equipment, permits)
Earning potential: £300-1,200/day, £60,000-300,000/year
Skills needed: Cooking, business management, customer service
Why it works: Lower overhead than restaurants with mobility advantages

42. Specialty Baking

Create custom cakes and baked goods for special occasions.

Startup cost: £500-1,500 (equipment, permits, initial supplies)
Earning potential: £200-2,000/order, £2,000-10,000/month
Skills needed: Advanced baking, creativity, customer relations
Why it works: Custom work for special occasions commands premium pricing

43. Meal Prep Service

Prepare healthy meals for busy individuals and families.

Startup cost: £800-2,000 (commercial kitchen access, containers, ingredients)
Earning potential: £8-15/meal, £3,000-12,000/month
Skills needed: Cooking, nutrition knowledge, food safety
Why it works: Time-pressed consumers pay for healthy convenience

44. Coffee Cart/Stand

Serve coffee and light snacks in high-traffic locations.

Startup cost: £3,000-8,000 (cart, equipment, permits)
Earning potential: £200-600/day, £40,000-150,000/year
Skills needed: Coffee preparation, customer service, location management
Why it works: Coffee is a daily habit with good profit margins

45. Farmers Market Vendor

Sell fresh produce, prepared foods, or crafts at local markets.

Startup cost: £500-1,500 (inventory, display materials, permits)
Earning potential: £200-800/market day
Skills needed: Product knowledge, sales ability, early rising
Why it works: Local food movement creates demand for fresh, local products

Technology and Online Businesses

Use technology to create scalable business models.

46. App Development

Create simple mobile apps that solve specific problems.

Startup cost: £500-2,000 (development tools, app store fees)
Earning potential: £1,000-50,000/month for successful apps
Skills needed: Programming, user experience design, problem-solving
Why it works: One successful app can generate passive income for years

47. SEO Consulting

Help businesses improve their search engine rankings.

Startup cost: £200-600 (SEO tools, certification courses)
Earning potential: £50-200/hour, £3,000-15,000/month
Skills needed: SEO knowledge, analytical thinking, communication
Why it works: Every business needs online visibility but most don’t understand SEO

48. Website Flipping

Buy, improve, and sell websites for profit.

Startup cost: £500-3,000 (initial website purchases, improvement costs)
Earning potential: £1,000-20,000+ profit per flip
Skills needed: Web development, SEO, business valuation
Why it works: Many website owners don’t optimize their sites’ potential

49. Online Community Management

Build and manage online communities for brands and organizations.

Startup cost: £100-400 (community platform, management tools)
Earning potential: £1,000-5,000/month per community
Skills needed: Social skills, content creation, conflict resolution
Why it works: Communities drive engagement and loyalty for brands

50. Digital Product Sales

Create and sell digital products like templates, courses, or software.

Startup cost: £200-800 (creation tools, platform fees)
Earning potential: £500-20,000/month for successful products
Skills needed: Product creation, marketing, customer support
Why it works: Digital products have near-zero marginal costs once created

Consulting and Professional Services

Monetize your expertise and experience.

51. Business Consulting

Help small businesses solve operational challenges and grow.

Startup cost: £300-1,000 (marketing, professional development)
Earning potential: £75-300/hour, £5,000-25,000/month
Skills needed: Business experience, problem-solving, communication
Why it works: Small business owners need guidance but can’t afford big consulting firms

52. Financial Planning

Help individuals and families manage their money and plan for the future.

Startup cost: £2,000-5,000 (licensing, certification, software)
Earning potential: £100-400/hour, £6,000-30,000/month
Skills needed: Financial knowledge, certifications, trustworthiness
Why it works: Financial security is a top priority for most people

53. HR Consulting

Provide human resources services to small businesses.

Startup cost: £500-1,500 (certification, legal updates, software)
Earning potential: £60-180/hour, £4,000-18,000/month
Skills needed: HR knowledge, employment law, people skills
Why it works: Small businesses need HR expertise but can’t afford full-time staff

54. Marketing Consulting

Develop marketing strategies and campaigns for businesses.

Startup cost: £400-1,200 (tools, training, portfolio development)
Earning potential: £60-200/hour, £4,000-20,000/month
Skills needed: Marketing expertise, creativity, analytical thinking
Why it works: Marketing drives revenue, so businesses invest in expert help

55. Sales Training

Teach sales techniques and strategies to individuals and teams.

Startup cost: £500-1,500 (materials, certification, marketing)
Earning potential: £500-3,000/day for training sessions
Skills needed: Sales experience, teaching ability, presentation skills
Why it works: Sales skills directly impact revenue, justifying training investment

Retail and E-commerce Opportunities

Sell products both online and offline.

56. Amazon FBA Business

Sell products through Amazon’s fulfillment network.

Startup cost: £2,000-10,000 (inventory, Amazon fees, marketing)
Earning potential: £1,000-30,000/month for successful products
Skills needed: Product research, supplier relations, marketing
Why it works: Access to Amazon’s massive customer base and logistics

57. Dropshipping Store

Sell products online without holding inventory.

Startup cost: £300-1,000 (website, marketing, testing products)
Earning potential: £1,000-15,000/month for successful stores
Skills needed: Marketing, customer service, supplier management
Why it works: Low risk way to test products and markets

58. Etsy Shop

Sell handmade, vintage, or craft supplies on Etsy.

Startup cost: £200-800 (materials, listing fees, photography)
Earning potential: £500-8,000/month for established shops
Skills needed: Crafting, photography, customer service
Why it works: Built-in audience looking for unique, handmade items

59. Local Retail Store

Open a small specialty store in your community.

Startup cost: £5,000-20,000 (rent, inventory, fixtures)
Earning potential: £30,000-150,000/year depending on location and niche
Skills needed: Retail management, customer service, inventory control
Why it works: Personal service and local convenience compete with online retailers

60. Subscription Box Service

Curate and deliver specialized products monthly to subscribers.

Startup cost: £2,000-8,000 (inventory, packaging, shipping setup)
Earning potential: £5-50/box profit, £2,000-50,000/month
Skills needed: Curation, supplier relations, customer retention
Why it works: Recurring revenue model with discovery and convenience value

Transportation and Delivery Services

Move people and goods for profit.

61. Rideshare Driving

Drive for Uber, Lyft, or local rideshare companies.

Startup cost: £500-2,000 (vehicle improvements, insurance, supplies)
Earning potential: £12-25/hour after expenses
Skills needed: Good driving record, customer service, navigation
Why it works: Flexible schedule with immediate income potential

62. Food Delivery Service

Deliver food for restaurants or delivery apps.

Startup cost: £300-1,000 (insulated bags, bike/car setup)
Earning potential: £10-20/hour including tips
Skills needed: Reliable transportation, time management, customer service
Why it works: Growing demand for food delivery, especially in urban areas

63. Courier Service

Provide same-day delivery for businesses and individuals.

Startup cost: £1,000-3,000 (vehicle, insurance, communication equipment)
Earning potential: £25-50/hour, £3,000-8,000/month
Skills needed: Driving skills, time management, reliability
Why it works: Businesses need urgent delivery options for competitive advantage

64. Moving Service

Help people move homes and offices.

Startup cost: £2,000-5,000 (truck rental/purchase, equipment, insurance)
Earning potential: £300-1,200/day depending on job size
Skills needed: Physical strength, equipment handling, team coordination
Why it works: Moving is stressful and people pay well for reliable help

65. Junk Removal

Remove unwanted items from homes and businesses.

Startup cost: £1,500-4,000 (truck, disposal fees, equipment)
Earning potential: £200-800/day depending on jobs
Skills needed: Physical capability, customer service, disposal knowledge
Why it works: Decluttering trends and convenience factor drive demand

Education and Training Ventures

Share knowledge for profit.

66. Language Tutoring

Teach languages to individuals or small groups.

Startup cost: £100-400 (materials, certification, platform access)
Earning potential: £20-60/hour, £1,500-6,000/month
Skills needed: Language fluency, teaching ability, cultural knowledge
Why it works: Globalization increases demand for language skills

67. Music Lessons

Teach instruments or vocal training to students.

Startup cost: £500-1,500 (instrument, materials, soundproofing)
Earning potential: £25-75/lesson, £1,800-7,000/month
Skills needed: Musical proficiency, teaching skills, patience
Why it works: Music education provides lifelong value parents are willing to fund

68. Computer Training

Teach computer skills to individuals or businesses.

Startup cost: £300-800 (software, materials, certification)
Earning potential: £30-80/hour, £2,000-8,000/month
Skills needed: Computer expertise, teaching ability, patience
Why it works: Technology skills are essential but many people lack confidence

69. Test Preparation

Help students prepare for standardized tests and exams.

Startup cost: £200-600 (materials, practice tests, marketing)
Earning potential: £40-100/hour, £2,500-10,000/month
Skills needed: Subject expertise, test strategies, motivational skills
Why it works: High-stakes testing drives demand for professional preparation

70. Driving Instruction

Teach people to drive and prepare for driving tests.

Startup cost: £3,000-6,000 (instructor certification, car modifications, insurance)
Earning potential: £25-50/lesson, £2,500-7,000/month
Skills needed: Excellent driving skills, patience, teaching ability
Why it works: Essential life skill with consistent demand

Getting Started: Action Steps

Ready to launch your small business? Here’s how to move from idea to income:

Choose Your Business

Match skills to opportunity – Pick something you’re already good at or passionate about learning.

Assess your resources – Be realistic about time, money, and energy you can invest.

Research the market – Make sure people in your area actually want and will pay for your service.

Start simple – Choose the simplest version of your idea to test the market quickly.

Validate Your Idea

Talk to potential customers – Ask friends, family, and strangers if they’d pay for your solution.

Research competitors – See who else is doing this and what they charge.

Test with minimal investment – Offer your service informally before investing in equipment or marketing.

Get your first paying customer – Nothing validates an idea like someone paying for it.

Launch Lean

Keep costs minimal – Only buy what you absolutely need to start serving customers.

Use free marketing – Social media, word-of-mouth, and networking cost nothing but time.

Focus on cash flow – Get paid quickly and keep expenses low until you’re profitable.

Document everything – Track what works so you can repeat and scale successful activities.

Scale Systematically

Reinvest profits – Put earnings back into growing the business rather than lifestyle upgrades.

Build systems – Create processes that work without your constant involvement.

Hire strategically – Only add team members when they’ll increase profitability.

Expand services – Add complementary offerings to existing customers before seeking new markets.

Additional Low-Cost Business Ideas

71. Resume Writing Service

Help job seekers create compelling resumes and cover letters.

Startup cost: £100-300 (templates, portfolio website)
Earning potential: £50-200/resume, £1,500-5,000/month
Skills needed: Writing ability, understanding of hiring processes
Why it works: Competitive job market drives demand for professional help

72. Proofreading Service

Edit and proofread documents for students, authors, and businesses.

Startup cost: £50-200 (grammar tools, portfolio development)
Earning potential: £20-50/hour, £1,200-4,000/month
Skills needed: Excellent grammar, attention to detail, various style guides
Why it works: Everyone needs error-free documents but many lack editing skills

73. Pinterest Management

Manage Pinterest accounts for businesses to drive traffic and sales.

Startup cost: £100-300 (scheduling tools, design software)
Earning potential: £400-2,000/month per client
Skills needed: Pinterest strategy, graphic design, analytics
Why it works: Pinterest drives significant traffic but requires consistent management

74. Affiliate Marketing Blog

Create content that promotes other companies’ products for commissions.

Startup cost: £200-500 (website, hosting, content creation tools)
Earning potential: £500-10,000+/month for successful sites
Skills needed: Content creation, SEO, audience building
Why it works: Performance-based income with unlimited earning potential

75. Online Store Management

Manage e-commerce stores for busy business owners.

Startup cost: £200-600 (platform training, management tools)
Earning potential: £800-3,000/month per store
Skills needed: E-commerce platform knowledge, inventory management, customer service
Why it works: Online sales growth creates demand for specialized management

76. Lead Generation Service

Generate qualified leads for local businesses.

Startup cost: £300-800 (tools, advertising budget, website)
Earning potential: £20-100/lead depending on industry
Skills needed: Digital marketing, sales understanding, data analysis
Why it works: Businesses always need new customers and will pay for quality leads

77. Video Editing Service

Edit videos for content creators, businesses, and events.

Startup cost: £400-1,000 (editing software, computer upgrades)
Earning potential: £25-100/hour, £2,000-10,000/month
Skills needed: Video editing software proficiency, creativity, storytelling
Why it works: Video content demand grows but editing is time-consuming

78. Conversion Rate Optimization

Help websites convert more visitors into customers.

Startup cost: £300-700 (testing tools, analytics software)
Earning potential: £75-250/hour, percentage of revenue improvements
Skills needed: Web analytics, psychology, testing methodologies
Why it works: Small improvements in conversion rates create massive value

79. Chatbot Development

Create automated customer service solutions for businesses.

Startup cost: £200-600 (platform access, training courses)
Earning potential: £1,000-5,000/project, £3,000-15,000/month
Skills needed: Chatbot platforms, conversation design, integration skills
Why it works: Businesses want 24/7 customer service without staff costs

80. Influencer Marketing Agency

Connect brands with social media influencers for marketing campaigns.

Startup cost: £300-800 (database tools, contracts, marketing)
Earning potential: 10-20% commission on campaign budgets
Skills needed: Social media knowledge, networking, negotiation
Why it works: Influencer marketing is effective but brands need help finding the right partners

81. Podcast Editing Service

Edit and produce podcasts for content creators.

Startup cost: £300-700 (audio editing software, quality headphones)
Earning potential: £50-150/episode, £2,000-8,000/month
Skills needed: Audio editing, sound design, file management
Why it works: Podcast growth creates demand for technical support

82. Local SEO Service

Help local businesses rank higher in Google Maps and local search.

Startup cost: £200-500 (SEO tools, training, reporting software)
Earning potential: £500-2,500/month per client
Skills needed: Local SEO knowledge, Google My Business expertise
Why it works: Local search drives foot traffic and phone calls for businesses

83. Content Repurposing Service

Transform existing content into multiple formats for broader reach.

Startup cost: £200-500 (design tools, video software, templates)
Earning potential: £800-3,000/month per client
Skills needed: Content creation, multiple format expertise, strategic thinking
Why it works: Businesses create content but struggle to maximize its value

84. Online Reputation Management

Help businesses manage their online reviews and reputation.

Startup cost: £300-700 (monitoring tools, review management software)
Earning potential: £500-2,000/month per client
Skills needed: Digital marketing, customer service, crisis management
Why it works: Online reviews significantly impact business success

85. Email Newsletter Service

Create and manage email newsletters for businesses and creators.

Startup cost: £200-500 (email platform, design tools, templates)
Earning potential: £400-1,500/month per client
Skills needed: Email marketing, copywriting, design basics
Why it works: Email marketing has excellent ROI but requires consistent effort

86. Market Research Service

Conduct research to help businesses understand their customers and competitors.

Startup cost: £200-600 (survey tools, research databases, analysis software)
Earning potential: £1,000-5,000/project
Skills needed: Research methodology, data analysis, report writing
Why it works: Data-driven decisions require quality research

87. Customer Service Outsourcing

Provide customer service support for small businesses.

Startup cost: £300-800 (phone system, training materials, CRM access)
Earning potential: £12-25/hour, £2,000-8,000/month
Skills needed: Communication skills, problem-solving, patience
Why it works: Small businesses need customer service but can’t afford full-time staff

88. Digital Asset Creation

Create digital templates, graphics, and resources for businesses.

Startup cost: £200-600 (design software, stock photo access)
Earning potential: £20-200/asset, £1,000-8,000/month
Skills needed: Graphic design, understanding of business needs
Why it works: Businesses need professional materials but lack design resources

89. Automation Consulting

Help businesses automate repetitive tasks and processes.

Startup cost: £400-1,000 (automation tools, training, certification)
Earning potential: £75-200/hour, £4,000-16,000/month
Skills needed: Process analysis, automation tools, problem-solving
Why it works: Automation saves time and money, creating immediate value

90. Crisis Communication Consulting

Help businesses communicate during challenging situations.

Startup cost: £300-800 (training, templates, communication tools)
Earning potential: £100-300/hour, project-based work
Skills needed: Communication expertise, crisis management, media relations
Why it works: Crises are expensive and businesses pay well for expert guidance

91. Accessibility Consulting

Help businesses make their websites and services accessible to people with disabilities.

Startup cost: £400-1,000 (testing tools, certification, training)
Earning potential: £60-150/hour, £3,000-12,000/month
Skills needed: Accessibility standards, web development basics, empathy
Why it works: Legal requirements and social responsibility drive demand

92. Subscription Management Service

Help businesses set up and optimize subscription-based revenue models.

Startup cost: £300-700 (platform training, analytics tools)
Earning potential: £1,000-5,000/project, ongoing percentages
Skills needed: Business model expertise, platform knowledge, analytics
Why it works: Subscription models provide predictable revenue businesses want

93. Google Ads Management

Manage Google advertising campaigns for small businesses.

Startup cost: £300-800 (certification, management tools, training)
Earning potential: £500-3,000/month per client
Skills needed: Google Ads expertise, analytics, optimization skills
Why it works: Google Ads are effective but complex for business owners

94. LinkedIn Marketing Service

Help businesses and professionals build their presence on LinkedIn.

Startup cost: £200-500 (scheduling tools, content templates)
Earning potential: £600-2,500/month per client
Skills needed: LinkedIn strategy, content creation, networking
Why it works: B2B businesses recognize LinkedIn’s value but need help executing

95. Data Entry Service

Provide accurate data entry for businesses with large data processing needs.

Startup cost: £100-300 (software, training, quality assurance tools)
Earning potential: £10-20/hour, £1,200-3,200/month
Skills needed: Accuracy, attention to detail, typing speed
Why it works: Businesses have data but lack time or staff to process it

96. Online Course Consulting

Help experts package their knowledge into profitable online courses.

Startup cost: £400-1,000 (platform training, course creation tools)
Earning potential: £2,000-10,000/project, revenue sharing
Skills needed: Course design, marketing knowledge, educational psychology
Why it works: Many experts want to create courses but need guidance

97. Membership Site Management

Build and manage membership communities for businesses and creators.

Startup cost: £300-800 (platform access, community management tools)
Earning potential: £800-4,000/month per site
Skills needed: Community building, technical setup, engagement strategies
Why it works: Membership sites provide recurring revenue but require ongoing management

98. Event Photography

Specialize in photographing business events, conferences, and networking gatherings.

Startup cost: £800-2,000 (camera equipment, editing software, portfolio)
Earning potential: £200-800/event
Skills needed: Event photography, people skills, quick editing
Why it works: Businesses need professional photos for marketing and documentation

99. Business Plan Writing

Help entrepreneurs create comprehensive business plans for funding and planning.

Startup cost: £200-500 (templates, research tools, presentation software)
Earning potential: £500-3,000/plan
Skills needed: Business knowledge, financial modeling, writing ability
Why it works: Investors and lenders require professional business plans

100. Customer Retention Consulting

Help businesses keep existing customers and increase lifetime value.

Startup cost: £400-1,000 (analytics tools, training, templates)
Earning potential: £75-250/hour, performance bonuses
Skills needed: Customer psychology, data analysis, communication strategies
Why it works: Retaining customers is cheaper than acquiring new ones

Final Thoughts: Your Path to Small Business Success

Starting a small business doesn’t require massive capital or revolutionary ideas. It requires solving problems for people who are willing to pay for solutions.

The most successful small business owners share common traits:

• They start before they feel ready – Perfection is the enemy of progress
• They focus on customers first – Revenue comes from serving others, not personal interests
• They keep costs low initially – Profitability matters more than looking impressive
• They reinvest in growth – They delay gratification to build something bigger
• They persist through challenges – Every business faces obstacles; successful owners work through them

Your Next Steps:

1. Choose one idea that matches your skills and interests
2. Talk to 10 potential customers before investing money
3. Start with the minimum viable version of your concept
4. Get your first paying customer within 30 days
5. Document what works and repeat successful activities
6. Scale gradually by reinvesting profits into growth

Remember: every successful business started with someone taking the first step. Your financial independence could begin with any of these ideas, but only if you take action.

The question isn’t whether you can build a profitable small business – it’s whether you will.

What will you start today?

Ready to transform your life through entrepreneurship? The perfect business idea means nothing without action. Choose one concept from this list and take the first step today. Your future self will thank you.