Finding a small business idea in this highly competitive market is like looking for a needle in the hay.
That’s why, we’ve curated this massive list to help you out.
You need an idea that’s
- Interesting and keeps you going
- Easy to build
- Takes not more than $5,000 to start
- Has the potential to generate at least $5000 per month
- Has a significant growth potential
And all the ideas in this list have passed this checklist.
All righty, Let’s explore the ideas
Most Successful Small Business Ideas: List Begins
Software & Tools
Tools & Softwares are programs used to add new technology or enhance existing ones.
1. Handyman Hiring Platform
Have you ever faced a tap leakage at home? Or an electrical issue? You then look out for someone who can carry out domestic repairs.
Build a handyman hiring platform using which people can book a handyman from their locality.
- Industry/Category: Jobs & Hiring
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Commission Based
- MVP Build Time: 5 - 8 weeks
- Successful Examples: Handy, Porch
2. Chef Hiring Platform
Many people don’t have the time to cook two times a day, everyday.
But we still want to eat the best food. That’s possible only when you have a chef.
Build a platform using which people can hire chefs regularly or for occasional needs.
- Industry/Category: Jobs & Hiring
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Commission Based
- MVP Build Time: 5 - 8 weeks
- Successful Examples: yhangry, TakeAChef, srve
3. Paystub Generator Platform
Navigating payroll processes and complexities is a common challenge for businesses, especially for startups and SMEs looking to ensure financial accuracy and compliance. A paystub generator platform simplifies this process, offering a user-friendly solution for creating accurate paystubs for employees and contractors. This tool is invaluable for managing deductions, taxes, and net pay, enhancing transparency and trust within the workforce.
- Industry/Category: Financial Services/Software
- Possible Business Models: Subscription-based, Pay-per-use
- MVP Build Time: 3 - 6 weeks
- Successful Examples: ThePayStubs, PayStubCreator
Such a platform could serve a wide range of industries, from tech startups to construction businesses, by providing a crucial tool for financial management and payroll processing.
4. Customer Service Software for Small Businesses
Small business owners are jack of all trades as they have to manage everything from ideation to execution to customer queries.
Build customer service software (for a specific niche of small businesses) that helps manage and handle customer queries.
- Industry/Category: Customer Service
- Possible Business Model/s: Subscription-Based
- MVP Build Time: 6 - 8 weeks
- Successful Examples: ThriveDesk, ZohoDesk, Freshdesk
5. Corporate Event Planning Platform
Corporate events include seminars, trade shows, team events, etc. but it can be exhausting to host and plan them.
Build a platform that’ll help users plan various corporate events.
- Industry/Category: Event Management
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 8-10 weeks
- Successful Examples: PlanningPod, EventPro, rsvpBOOK
6. Voice-Over Artist Hiring Platform
People’s voices can be an asset too! Voice-overs are required in animation movies, commercials, audiobooks, and so much more. There is adequate demand for generic hiring platform and micro niche ones as well.
Build a platform providing a market for voiceover artists to collab with those in need.
- Industry/Category: Jobs & Hiring
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Affiliate/Commission
- MVP Build Time: 5 - 8 weeks
- Successful Examples: Voices, voyzapp, Voice123
7. Travel Planning Website
Efficient travel planning is important to make sure you cover every place without having to rush or face uncertainties. Without proper planning, one may not get the most out of one's travel.
Build a website for planning a trip, from holidays to workation to corporate travel.
- Industry/Category: Travel
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Affiliate
- MVP Build Time: 6 - 8 weeks
- Successful Examples: inspirock, Wanderlog, TripIt
8. Employee Orientation Management Tool
Onboarding an employee is quite challenging, if you have to do it right. It involves several tasks.
Build employee orientation web app to efficiently plan, execute and manage these tasks.
- Industry/Category: People & HR
- Possible Business Model/s: Subscription-Based, Custom
- MVP Build Time: 8 - 10 weeks
- Successful Examples: Talmundo, ClickBoarding
9. No-Code Website Development Tool
No-code is soon gonna become mainstream. There isn't any clear winner yet, in any of the trending categories.
Build a niche no-code website builder to help non-tech business users take control of their online presence, fully.
- Industry/Category: Web Development
- Possible Business Model/s: Subscription-Based
- MVP Build Time: 16 - 24 weeks
- Successful Examples: Dorik, Weebly, WebFlow
10. All-In-One Social Media Marketing Tool
Social media is undoubtedly one of the top choices for marketing.
Build a one stop shop social media marketing solution for a very specific niche; catering to some of their special needs which other generic tools do not address.
- Industry/Category: Social Media Marketing
- Possible Business Model/s: Subscription-Based
- MVP Build Time: 12 - 18 weeks
- Successful Examples: SocialChamp, SocialPilot, Sendible
11. Accounting Software
Technology is taking a charge and accounting software has played a major role in easing the work of professionals.
Build accounting software for a niche industry to make the accounting process easier for companies.
- Industry/Category: Accounting
- Possible Business Model/s: Subscription-Based
- MVP Build Time: 12 - 15 Weeks
- Successful Examples: BeanNinjas, Bench
12. Income Tax Filing Software
Filing income tax returns is one hell of a task. Yet everyone in every nation has to do it.
Build an ITR filing software that will make it easier for a common person to file basic ITR or assist CAs in the process.
- Industry/Category: Legal & Taxation
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Subscription-Based
- MVP Build Time: 20 - 25 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Clear
13. Graffiti/Wall Art Marketplace
Remember that moment as a child when you couldn't resist doodling on the walls? Wall artists today take that impulse and turn it into art that transforms spaces—from cafés and corporate offices to cozy homes.
Imagine building a platform where graffiti and wall artists connect with clients craving unique art pieces. Whether it's a mural for a trendy office space or creative decor for a neighborhood café, the demand for personalized wall art is growing.
To reach potential clients like property managers, café owners, and real estate developers, consider combining online marketing efforts with direct mail for real estate. A well-designed direct mail campaign can introduce your wall art marketplace to real estate professionals looking to elevate their spaces with unique, custom art.
- Industry/Category: Real Estate
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 6 Weeks
- Successful Examples: WXLLSPACE
14. SEO Tool for Beginner Bloggers
SEO plays a vital role in ranking a website (like this one). There are enough tools out there but they can get too technical for a complete rookie.
Build an SEO tool to assist beginner bloggers in getting their SEO strategy right by providing keyword research, analytics, SEO opportunities, etc in the simplest layman terms possible.
- Industry/Category: SEO
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Subscription-Based
- MVP Build Time: 8 - 16 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Ubersuggest
15. Mental Health Platform
People have finally started paying required attention to their mental health. As the awareness, debats, and discussion around this topic increases (and it will), the demand for self help mental health platform also increases.
Build a specialised mental health platform for niche segment of users to provide them with therapies, community, and chat support.
- Industry/Category: Health & Wellness
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Freemium, Subscription-Based
- MVP Build Time: 8 - 15 Weeks
- Successful Examples: BetterHelp, TalkSpace, 7Cups
16. Website Flipping Marketplace
Website flipping refers to buying a website you seem to have potential, growing it and then selling it for a profit.
Build a website flipping marketplace where people can buy and sell websites.
- Industry/Category: Internet
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Commission Based
- MVP Build Time: 6 - 12 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Flippa, MotionInvest, (more: find Flippa alternatives)
17. Domain Flipping Marketplace
Domain flipping is the same as website flipping the only difference is, that a domain is traded.
Build a domain flipping marketplace letting people buy and sell domains.
- Industry/Category: Internet
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Commission Based
- MVP Build Time: 6 - 12 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Namecheap, EmpireFlippers, Dan.com
18. Social Shopping Platform
These platforms allow brands to convert their social media into social storefronts.
Build a social shopping platform for a niche audience or social platform.
- Industry/Category: Ecommerce
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Fee Based
- MVP Build Time: 8 - 12 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Taggshop
19. WordPress Themes Marketplace
WordPress is used by 43.2% of all websites on the internet. (W3Techs, 2022). And it's constantly reinventing itself. For example, integrating AI and ML into WordPress sites & themes can enhance their functionality and capabilities, offering website owners and users a more dynamic and engaging experience.
WordPress themes, therefore, will always be in demand.
Build a marketplace where users can buy and sell WordPress themes.
- Industry/Category: Internet
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Commission Based
- MVP Build Time: 6 - 12 Weeks
- Successful Examples: TemplateMonster
20. WordPress Plugin
WordPress plugins can add new functionality or extend existing functionality on your WordPress site.
Identify a loophole and build a WordPress plugin for it or make an improved version of existing plugins.
- Industry/Category: Internet
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Subscription-Based, Freemium
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 12 Weeks
- Successful Examples: TemplateMonster
21. Social Media Automation Tool
Social media marketing has a long list of responsibilities to cover but it’s wiser to automate repetitive tasks.
Build a social media automation tool for various needs like, post scheduling, DM reply, resolving queries, etc.
- Industry/Category: Social Media Marketing
- Possible Business Model/s: Subscription Based, freemium
- MVP Build Time: 8 - 15 Weeks
- Successful Examples: MeetEdgar, AgoraPulse, SproutSocial
Also Read: Micro SaaS Ideas That You Can Build Within 4-10 Weeks
Web & Mobile Apps
Apps can be downloaded on a device and used to perform certain tasks whereas web apps run on the browser.
22. Recipe Discovery App
There are many instances when we can't decide what to cook with the items we have at our disposal. Be it for hobby or compulsion or just for the heck of it - cooking food, presenting it, instagramming it - all of this is a growing trend.
Build an app to help users discover a variety of recipes using the items they have with them.
- Industry/Category: Food
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Subscription Based, Affiliate
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 8 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Yummly, Allrecipes
23. All-in-One App for Pet Care
Having a pet is all cool until it becomes tricky to manage them. Pets need care and attention too and it can be really tricky to grasp the hows, whys, whats of it for many breeds.
Build an all-in-one platform for pets providing services like pet sitting and walking, grooming, veterinary care, and more, focusing on one category of pet.
- Industry/Category: Pet Care
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Subscription Based
- MVP Build Time: 8 -15 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Dogtopia, Wag
24. Workout App
Working out doesn't have to be tough. Once you build a habit and start enjoying the process it becomes easy peasy.
Build a workout app, making exercising fun by including videos and an accountability community.
- Industry/Category: Health & Fitness
- Possible Business Model/s: Subscription Based, Transactional, Affiliate
- MVP Build Time: 6 - 12 Weeks
- Successful Examples: NTC, Peloton, Sweat
25. Yoga App
More and more people realize the importance of yoga in this fast-paced life. But information is scattered everywhere, making people overwhelmed.
Build a yoga app where people can get suggestions for yoga exercises and asanas based on their health problems.
- Industry/Category: Health & Fitness
- Possible Business Model/s: Subscription Based, Affiliate
- MVP Build Time: 8 - 16 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Best Yoga Apps
26. Meditation App
It's a very well known and well accepted fact that there are numerous benefits of meditation. You know very well how effective meditation can be in shaping our lives for good. With all the woes around mental health and the increasing awareness/attention it's getting, adoption of meditation also on the rise.
Build a meditation app involving different categories of meditation and sounds to practice it.
- Industry/Category: Health & Wellness
- Possible Business Model/s: Subscription Based, Transactional, Affiliate
- MVP Build Time: 8 - 12 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Calm, Buddhify, Unplug
27. Stock Photos Web App
There are instances when we need stock photos for various uses, like the ones we’ve used in this blog. The number of websites, apps, web apps and all things digital is exploding and will continue to do so.
Build a platform where photographers can list their photos and people can use them commercially by paying a certain amount.
- Industry/Category: Digital Goods
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Affiliate
- MVP Build Time: 6 - 12 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Pexels, Unsplash, StockSnap
28. Stock Videos Web App
The same trend holds (as above) holds true for video needs as well. Build a stock videos web app that works just like a stock photos app but contains videos (of course)
- Industry/Category: Digital Goods
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Affiliate
- MVP Build Time: 6 - 12 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Dareful, Pixabay, Videezy
29. Tattoo Inspiration Web App
Tattoo and body arts is a growing trend too. Go to any beach destination, hipster destination, and you will see why. However, it’s usually confusing to decide what art to get inked.
Build a tattoo inspiration web app where people can get tattoo suggestions based on their interests.
- Industry/Category: Body Art
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Affiliate
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 8 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Tattoo, Tattooton
30. Kids’ Gaming App
There’s an increasing craze among kids for gaming. And it isn't refusing to wane down.
Build a gaming app for kids, focusing on either gender.
- Industry/Category: Gaming
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Subscription Based, Affiliate
- MVP Build Time: 12 - 24 Weeks
- Successful Examples: SuperMarioRUN, Roblox, PBSKids
31. Kids’ Learning App
There is a lot of quality education that can be imparted through interactive learning apps. Not your typical monologue-type course apps but truly interactive quality learning apps. There are more than enough takers for such quality kids' products.
Build an interactive learning app for kids focusing on a particular topic/subject.
- Industry/Category: Education
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Subscription-Based, Affiliate
- MVP Build Time: 16 - 30 Weeks
- Successful Examples: EndlessAlphabet, Prodigy, Wordscapes
32. Kids’ Video Streaming Platform
There is a real need today more than ever for a safe internet for kids.
Build a video streaming platform dedicated to delivering kids-friendly content.
- Industry/Category: Kids Education/Entertainment
- Possible Business Model/s: Subscription Based, Affiliate
- MVP Build Time: 8 - 12 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Hopster, Amaze, YouTubeKids
33. Video Editing Web App
As video content is taking over the internet, we must have a variety of video editing apps solving various problems.
Build a video editing app solving a very niche problem.
- Industry/Category: Video Editor Software
- Possible Business Model/s: Subscription-Based, Freemium
- MVP Build Time: 12 - 24 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Veed, VideoHusky, ClipChamp, Canva
34. Audio Editing Web App
Same trend (as above) is being seen in the audio content as well.
Build an audio editing web app assisting users in refining their audio.
- Industry/Category: Audio Editor Software
- Possible Business Model/s: Subscription-Based, Freemium
- MVP Build Time: 12 - 24 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Media, BearAudio, Podcastle
35. Used Books Marketplace
Many of us have so many books resting on our shelves for ages. Instead of discarding them, it’s better to lend or sell them.
Build a marketplace where readers can sell the books they no longer need & potential buyers can take ownership.
- Industry/Category: Ecommerce
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Commission-Based
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 6 Weeks
- Successful Examples: ThriftBooks, AbeBooks
36. Budget Planning App
"A budget is telling your money where to go instead of wondering where it went.” -Dave Ramsey
This is an evergreen category. Build a budgeting platform for a niche audience like- house managers, salaried people, businesses, etc.
- Industry/Category: Personal Finance
- Possible Business Model/s: Subscription Based, Affliliate, Sponsorship & Ads
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 8 Weeks
- Successful Examples: YNAB, Mint, Goodbudget
37. Wedding Planning Web App
Wedding day has to be one of the most important days in a person's life and they’ll definitely wanna plan the day beforehand.
Build a wedding planning app to plan everything from outfits to guest lists to catering.
- Industry/Category: Wedding & Events
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Affiliate, Sponsorship & Ads
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 8 Weeks
- Successful Examples: WeddingWire, MyWed
38. Nutrition Tracker App
We’re getting deficient in nutrition day by day and as they say, tracking is the best way to change something.
Build an app to track nutrition intake per day and provide weekly analysis to users.
- Industry/Category: Diet & Nutrition
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Subscription-Based
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 8 Weeks
- Successful Examples: MyFitnesspal,
39. Illustration Designing Web App
You don't necessarily have to use an iPad for illustrating. With the advent of illustrating apps, it’s possible without burning a hole in your pockets.
Build a web app to design beautiful illustrations.
- Industry/Category: Design
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Subscription-Based
- MVP Build Time: 16 - 30 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Assembly, Affinity
40. Virtual Group Study App
It allows students to meet up on a common forum and prepare along with other students.
Build an app focusing on a niche study area, having study materials, tools, discussions, guides, etc.
- Industry/Category: Education
- Possible Business Model/s: Freemium, Sponsorship & Ads
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 10 Weeks
- Successful Examples: StudyTogether, BuddysCo
41. Pitch Deck Designing Web App
Pitch deck is a presentation created by businesses to pitch their startups to potential investors. With more and more people opting for starting up and applying for VC money and grants, there is definitely an increasing demand for creating impactful pitch decks.
Build a web app to design pitch decks using virtually engaging elements.
- Industry/Category: Design
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 12 - 24 Weeks
- Successful Examples: HighSpark, PitchDeck, Piktochart
42. University Admission Assistance Platform
As competition is increasing by the day, it’s head-scratching to apply for universities and get an admission.
Build a platform to assist students in uni admissions, taking care of all things from consulting to application and admission.
- Industry/Category: Education, Higher Studies
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Sponsorship & Ads
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 8 Weeks
- Successful Examples: CollegeTransitions, Upguide
43. Audio/Video Transcription Web App
Transcription refers to a written form of something. The best example of transcription is, subtitles you see on youtube videos.
Build a web app to let users transcribe their audio or video in just a matter of minutes.
- Industry/Category: Editing Tools
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Subscription-Based
- MVP Build Time: 8 -15 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Rev, Scribie
44. Digital Music Distribution Web App
Emerging out as a solo music artist was difficult earlier, but not anymore.
Build a platform where music enthusiasts can sell their music or songs to those willing to buy and earn royalties.
- Industry/Category: Ecommerce
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Sponsorship & Ads, Affiliate
- MVP Build Time: 6 - 12 weeks
- Successful Examples: TuneCore, BandZoogle, BeatStars
45. Digital Goods Marketplace
Digital goods include templates, digital art, prints, illustrations, swipe files and so much more. More creators than ever are making a living (or at least some side income) by selling these. Trends indicate that this will more than double before 2030.
Build a marketplace to let users buy or sell digital goods.
- Industry/Category: Digital Goods
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Sponsorship & Ads, Affiliate
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 10 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Sellfy, Gumroad
46. Membership Site for Hobbyists
Since pandemic happened, more people than ever are getting serious about having and nurturing a hobby or life skill.
Build a membership site targeting a specific hobby to provide users with a community and accountability partners.
- Industry/Category: Hobby & Crafts
- Possible Business Model/s: Sponsorship & Ads, Subscription-Based
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 8 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Hobify
47. Cloud Kitchen Service
Cloud kitchens are booming. They prepare food only for delivery or take-out with no dine-in service.
Become an end-to-end cloud kitchen setup service provider.
- Industry/Category: Logistics & Infra
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Franchise, Maintenance Fee
- MVP Build Time: Up to 25 Weeks
- Successful Examples: CloudKitchens
48. Supermarket Checkout App
Do you like to wait in a long queue at the supermarket to checkout? No one does. That’s where you can address the pain point of customers.
Build a supermarket checkout app, allowing the user to scan the products on their mobile while shopping and also make payments using it.
- Industry/Category: Payments
- Possible Business Model/s: Subscription-Based
- MVP Build Time: 15 - 30 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Wizcart, RetailCloud
49. Restaurant Reservation App
From booking a special seat for your date to booking an area for parties, restaurant reservation apps make it easier.
Build a restaurant reservation app listing your city restaurants.
- Industry/Category: Hospitality
- Possible Business Model/s: Subscription Based, One Time Set Up Fee (Transactional)
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 10 Weeks
- Successful Examples: OpenTable, thefork
Also Read: 25 Web App Ideas That Will Make You $5,000 to $50,000 Per Month
E-commerce
E-commerce is buying and selling of goods and services over the internet.
50. Thrift Shop
Thrift is the new trend in the market. A thrift store refers to a shop selling pre-loved clothes or goods.
Build a thrift store for selling used items, especially clothing.
- Industry/Category: Ecommerce
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Affiliate, Sponsorship & Ads
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 8 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Swap, ThredUP
51. Gluten-Free Snacks Store
With increasing gluten allergies people are still looking for snacks to binge on.
Build a store selling gluten-free tasty snacks that still tastes like traditional ones.
- Industry/Category: Ecommerce
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Affiliate, Sponsorship & Ads
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 8 Weeks
- Successful Examples: LittleFoodDiary,
52. Beauty Products Store
It’s easier to shop beauty products online rather than suffer in showrooms to find the perfect match.
Build a beauty products store designed for men or women providing all things cosmetic.
- Industry/Category: Ecommerce
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Affiliate, Sponsorship & Ads
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 8 Weeks
- Successful Examples: ReadySetJet
53. Clothing Store
Though the clothing industry is nearly saturated but there’s always a place for super niche, specialized curations.
Think about loopholes in the clothing industry and build on them.
- Industry/Category: Ecommerce
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Sponsorship & Ads
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 8 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Thrifted
54. Dropshipping
Dropshipping has made it to one of the most popular online business models due to a fair reason. It has low start-up costs and an inventory-free setup.
Set up an online dropshipping store focusing on a particular category of products.
- Industry/Category: Ecommerce
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 8 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Be Activewear, Mooshe Socks
55. Jewelry Store
People find it difficult to find elegant jewelry online, be it artificial or original.
Build an e-commerce jewelry store providing customers with varieties. You can also niche down to artificial or original jewelry.
- Industry/Category: Ecommerce
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 8 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Qalo, Rebel Nell
56. Electronics Store
Our electronic gadgets' are increasing day by day. We are also starting find an expression of ourselves through an ownership of a certain type/class/brand of electronic gadgets.
Set up a niche online electronics store dealing in specific gadget categories.
- Industry/Category: Ecommerce
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 8 Weeks
- Successful Examples: AudioCubes
57. Subscription-Box Platform
In this kind of business, people subscribe to your product to receive a weekly or monthly kit of it.
Build a subscription-box platform providing customers with products such as coffee kits, cookie kits, beauty kits, and pet food kits.
- Industry/Category: Ecommerce
- Possible Business Model/s: Subscription-Based
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 8 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Graze, BlueApron,
58. Paintings & DIY store
Who doesn’t love hanging cute or abstract paintings on their wall or using an aesthetic DIY product in your space?
Build a marketplace where users will be able to buy and sell their paintings, DIY products and all things creative.
- Industry/Category: Ecommerce
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 8 Weeks
- Successful Examples: DIY Art Shop
59. Print-on-Demand Marketplace
Print-on-demand sites are increasing their footsteps day by day with more people preferring customized products.
Build an e-commerce platform to allow users to order customized products ranging from, T-shirts to mugs to stickers.
- Industry/Category: Ecommerce
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 8 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Sellfy, Printful
60. Specialty Food Marketplace
If you’re living in the US chances are, you’ll not find authentic Korean food.
Build a specialty food store to serve users a specialty food kit right from its origin. Focus only on one cuisine.
- Industry/Category: Ecommerce
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 8 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Bokksu
61. Hyperlocal Grocery Delivery
Need to cook something right away but don’t have groceries for it? With rising technology, you can get groceries delivered in less than 15 minutes.
Build a grocery delivery store, customers can use to order groceries from their locality.
- Industry/Category: Local Ecommerce
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 8 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Crisp, Bring, OddBox
62. Hyperlocal Pharmacy Delivery
It’s not the food we need to be delivered in 15 minutes, it’s the medicines.
Build a medical/pharmacy store to let users order medicines or essential medical items, delivered in a short period.
- Industry/Category: Ecommerce
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 8 Weeks
- Successful Examples: GoodRx, HealthKart
63. Personalized Gifting Store
We find it difficult to choose gifts for our loved ones. It’s a head-scratching task to come up with a good gift.
Build a customized gifting store where users will have access to several options to choose from and customize them as per their needs.
- Industry/Category: Ecommerce
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 8 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Confetti, Winni
64. Scented Candles Store
The global scented candles market size is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 3.3% from 2021 to 2028. (GrandViewResearch)
Build a scented candles e-commerce store and let users choose from a variety of shapes, sizes and scents.
- Industry/Category: Ecommerce
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 8 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Sand+Fog, Niana, CaiCaiHandmade
65. Indian Handicrafts Store
There’s no doubt in the fact that Indian handicraft is famous worldwide. However, there are only a few options to purchase them online.
Build a marketplace where Indian handicrafts could be sold right from their origin to the world audience.
- Industry/Category: Ecommerce
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 8 Weeks
- Successful Examples: eCraft India, The India Craft House
66. Organic Products Store
Organic products industry has experienced a major boom, especially after the pandemic.
Build a niche organic products store for organic grocery or organic beauty products, etc.
- Industry/Category: Ecommerce
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 8 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Thrive Market, Fresh N Lean
67. Ceramic Jewelry Store
Ceramic pieces of jewelry are cute and diverse at the same time. You can shape ceramic clay into whatever you intend to, ranging from rings to earrings.
Build an e-commerce jewelry store focusing on selling ceramic jewelry.
- Industry/Category: Ecommerce
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 8 Weeks
- Successful Examples: LS
68. Art Supplies Store
It’s easy to find basic art supplies at your nearest stationery shop but not high-end supplies.
Build an online art supplies store providing customers with all things art. From DIY, craft to painting supplies.
- Industry/Category: Ecommerce
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 8 Weeks
- Successful Examples: ArtLounge, Blick, Michaels
69. Innovative Kitchen Supplies Store
You must've heard “Work smart not hard”. This applies while working in the kitchen. Using smart kitchen tools to make the process easier is the way to go.
Build a store to sell innovative and smart kitchen supplies.
- Industry/Category: Ecommerce
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 8 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Everything Kitchens
70. Fitness Products Store
Your body is a temple and you must keep it clean and fit. How’s it possible? By taking care of your fitness through exercising.
Build a fitness products store dealing in supplies for gym or yoga or something else.
- Industry/Category: Ecommerce
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 8 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Manduka, Rogue Fitness
Wondering how to start an e-commerce business? Check out this video:
Info Products
Info products are used to instruct, educate or guide the audience. It can be written, audio, video or a combination.
71. E-book
Have something valuable to share with the world? Have a story to tell?
Write an e-book and publish it. Let the world read your writings.
- Industry/Category: Info Products
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 12 Weeks
- Successful Examples: MakeBook, The Embedded Entrepreneur
72. Guides
Travel guide, career guide, business guide, marketing guide and we can’t stop.
There are so many options for you to present your expertise in form of a guidebook.
- Industry/Category: Info Products
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 12 Weeks
- Successful Examples: The Futur Business Kits
73. Workbook
People love practical workbooks. They love to analyze their life. They love triggering questions.
Design a workbook in your niche of expertise with practical exercises to help the readers take action.
- Industry/Category: Info Products
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 12 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Smart Insights
74. Cheat Sheets
Cheat sheets contain summarised information about a topic acting as a handy reference.
You can design cheat sheets for blog writing or laying out a business plan, etc.
- Industry/Category: Info Products
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 12 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Cheatography
75. Templates
There is a vast market behind templates. Some of the options include - canva templates, notion templates, email templates, business plan templates, etc.
Design a template for your selected niche and monetize it.
- Industry/Category: Info Products
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 12 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Notion Templates
76. Newsletter
Newsletters aren’t out of the game. In fact, newsletter subscribers are increasing, you only have to target the right audience.
Start publishing a newsletter in your area of expertise.
- Industry/Category: Info Products
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 12 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Category Pirates, Stratechery
Productized Services
Productized services are standardized services sold like products generally on a flat pricing basis.
77. UX Design
You want to make sure the user has the best time on your website and decrease the bounce rate.
Build a UX design service platform, assigning the user to a team of UX designers.
- Industry/Category: Design
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Affiliate, Subscription-Based
- MVP Build Time: 2 - 4 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Eleken, LeewayHertz
78. Logo Design
A logo represents your business and you surely don’t wanna go for anything not suitable for you.
Build a logo design service platform designing a customized logo for the user, based on their requirements.
- Industry/Category: Design
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Affiliate, Subscription-Based
- MVP Build Time: 2 - 4 Weeks
- Successful Examples: FairPixels
79. Presentation Design
No matter if you’re presenting at a meeting or a TED talk, you need a presentation that engages your audience rather than a bland one.
Build a presentation design platform, covering storyline to captivating, professional presentation design.
- Industry/Category: Design
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Subscription-Based
- MVP Build Time: TBD
- Successful Examples: 24slides, HighSpark
80. WordPress Website Development
Though WordPress has simple basic tools, creating a truly outstanding website calls for an expert.
Build a website design and development service platform targeted at WordPress websites.
- Industry/Category: IT Services
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Subscription-Based
- MVP Build Time: 2 - 4 Weeks
- Successful Examples: LightSpeedWP, ThemeLocation
81. Blog Writing
Blogs are an important part of content marketing strategy but it’s hard to keep pace with it while managing business.
Build a blog writing service platform, proving users with well-researched customized blogs .
- Industry/Category: Content Services
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Subscription-Based
- MVP Build Time: 2 - 4 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Marvel, Uppercase, Springzo
82. Social Media Management
Having a social presence is a must but it’s hard to maintain it when you already have soo much business to do.
Build a social media management platform that’ll assign social media experts to users to take care of their socials.
- Industry/Category: Marketing Services
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Subscription-Based
- MVP Build Time: 2 - 4 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Ampfluence
83. Shopify Optimization
Running a Shopify store but sucking at maintaining it, is the worst combination. A Shopify expert can help you with that.
Build a platform that’ll assign Shopify experts to users, helping them improve store and sell more.
- Industry/Category: Marketing/IT Services
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 2 - 4 Weeks
- Successful Examples: TaskHusky, Whole
84. Google My Business Optimization
Search ‘bakeries near me’ on Google and the name of your nearest bakery shop may not be visible. This is because they don’t have an optimized GMB profile.
Build a Google my Business management service that’ll help users rank their listing higher on Google search results.
- Industry/Category: Marketing Services
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 2 - 4 Weeks
- Successful Examples: GMBGorilla, Kogneta
85. Press Release Writing
Press release is used to announce any information that is sent to journalists or media publishers.
Establish a press release writing agency by hiring a group of freelancers and working for several clients.
- Industry/Category: PR
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 2 - 4 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Newswire, TextRoyal
Learn more about productized services in this video:
Education
It includes everything used to educate or teach the audience.
86. Fashion Design Course Platform
If you have a sound knowledge of fashion designing, launch a course or you can also hire some experts to shoot content for you.
Fashion industry is less about theoretical knowledge and more about skills. Focus on a practical course.
- Industry/Category: Online Courses
- Possible Business Model/s: Subscription-Based, Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 24 Weeks
- Successful Examples: University of Fashion
87. MUA Course Platform
Make-up artist industry is booming more than ever and you don’t have to miss out on the chance.
Include consulting, mentorship and lots of practical knowledge in the course.
- Industry/Category: Online Courses
- Possible Business Model/s: Subscription-Based, Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 24 Weeks
- Successful Examples: The Online Makeup School
88. Career Coaching Platform
With so many career options available today, many students either aren’t aware of them or are confused between various fields.
Build a platform providing career counseling and coaching to students.
- Industry/Category: Online Courses
- Possible Business Model/s: Subscription-Based, Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 24 Weeks
- Successful Examples: BetterUp
89. Musical Instrument Learning Platform
You don't have to go for offline classes for learning music as long as you have really good material available online.
Build a musical instruments learning platform focusing on a specific instrument with practical implementation.
- Industry/Category: Online Courses
- Possible Business Model/s: Subscription-Based, Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 24 Weeks
- Successful Examples: JustinGuitar
90. Excel Crash Courses
Though there are many excel alternatives available today most companies still use it.
Build an excel crash course divided into several lessons, each focusing on various functions.
- Industry/Category: Online Courses
- Possible Business Model/s: Subscription-Based, Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 24 Weeks
- Successful Examples: TrumpExcel
91. Test Prep Platform (GMAT, IELTS, LSAT)
Competitive exams are getting tougher to crack as years pass by and, also, the number of takers are increasing.
With so many students struggling to win in these exams, you can help them by building a platform making them test-ready.
- Industry/Category: Online Courses
- Possible Business Model/s: Subscription-Based, Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 24 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Target Test Prep
Community
Communities are a group of people coming together and sharing a common interest.
92. Readers’ Community
Every reader has something to share.
Build a reader’s community to bring together diverse categories of avid readers like- sci-fi lovers, self-help enthusiasts, thriller fans, romance buffs, or mystery freaks.
- Industry/Category: Online Communities
- Possible Business Model/s: Subscription Based, Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 6 Weeks
93. Artists’ Community
“The artists see what others only catch a glimpse of” - Leonardo da Vinci
Build a community of artists who’ll come together to share, admire and inspire each other’s work.
- Industry/Category: Online Communities
- Possible Business Model/s: Subscription Based, Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 6 Weeks
94. Dancers’ Community
“Dance is the hidden language of the soul” - Martha Graham
Build a community of dancers where dancers of various styles can connect.
- Industry/Category: Online Communities
- Possible Business Model/s: Subscription Based, Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 6 Weeks
95. MUA Community
Makeup artists are on the rise and so is their demand.
Build a community of make-up artists where they can share their work and learnings.
- Industry/Category: Online Communities
- Possible Business Model/s: Subscription Based, Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 6 Weeks
96. Writers’ Community
A writer has so many stories to tell.
Build a community of writers to take inspiration, share their work, build in public and learn from everyone around them.
- Industry/Category: Online Communities
- Possible Business Model/s: Subscription Based, Transactional
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 6 Weeks
Miscellaneous
97. Blog
77% of internet users read blogs (Social Media Today)
With this number, you have a fair opportunity to build your business around blogging.
Start a blog in your niche of interest and create content around it.
- Industry/Category: Blogs
- Possible Business Model/s: Sponsorships & Ads, Advertorials, Affiliate, Info Products
- MVP Build Time: 1 - 2 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Succulents & Sunshine, Abby Organizes
98. Podcast
Almost 60% of all US consumers older than 12 listen to podcasts (Statista). You have a great opportunity to dive deeper into the waters of podcasting.
Start a podcast and talk about your area of interest or expertise.
- Industry/Category: Podcasts
- Possible Business Model/s: Subscription-Based, Sponsorships & Ads, Affiliates
- MVP Build Time: 2 - 4 Weeks
- Successful Examples: Indie Bites, Software Social
99. Consulting Agency
Consulting industry is large enough and you can make a decent amount of money starting a business around it.
Build a consulting agency focusing on a particular niche.
- Industry/Category: Consulting
- Possible Business Model/s: Transactional, Value Based Pricing
- MVP Build Time: 2 - 4 Weeks
- Successful Examples: April Dunford, Maya Grossman
100. Chrome Extension
Extensions are small software that customizes or adds to your browsing experience.
Find a problem and build an extension for chrome around it.
- Industry/Category: Browser Extension
- Possible Business Model/s: Subscription-Based
- MVP Build Time: 4 - 12 Weeks
- Successful Examples: GMass, GoFullPage, WeatherExtension
Summing Up
If you are looking to find a most successful small business idea, then you only need to look around yourself, the people around you and the problems they are facing in their day-to-day life.
There is no shortage of problems in this world.
You only need to have a keen eye, a deep connection with the problem you choose to solve, and a genuine desire to make life easy for the people you want to serve.
Always remember, your revenue is directly proportional to the number of people you help and the urgency/intensity of their problem you solve.
It's as simple as that.
But do implement deep market research before you take the plunge. We have tried to help you out a bit with this massive, well-researched list of small business ideas. We hope you find resonance with some of these and "take that plunge".
Now, time to answer some of your most common questions on most successful small business ideas:
What small business has the highest success rate?
According to statistics, the following industries/categories of small businesses have the highest success rate:
- Software & Tech
- Niche Ecommerce
- Digital Agency
- Consulting
- Education
Which small businesses are most profitable?
The profitability of a small business depends upon several factors. However, here are some highly profitable categories:
- Consulting: Have a very low upfront cost and comparatively high revenue. You just need to master any one skill/area/field.
- Info Products: You just need in-depth knowledge about a topic and build content products around it.
- Online Courses/Tutoring: Build a trusted community and sell your specialised knowledge in the form of courses and workshops.
What are the top 5 small businesses to start?
You can consider starting any of the ideas from the massive list we’ve laid out for you.
Some of the broad ideas include - Info Products, Online Courses, Consulting, Web Development, and Micro SaaS.
What is the easiest small business to start?
With no-code, it’s easy to start almost any online small business idea. “Easy” could be defined by:
- MVP build time
- Selling efforts
- Resources required
We’ll vouch for info products being the easiest category to start a small business.
Can I start a small business with less than 5k?
There is a long list of businesses you can start with less than 5k, some of them are:
- Consulting
- Info Products
- Productized Services
- Micro SaaS
What business will always be needed?
Evergreen businesses target markets that’ll never go out of the scene. These businesses are a necessity for the mankind. Some of them are:
- Healthcare
- Pharmaceutical
- Food
- Education
- Financial services
What small businesses will thrive in 2022?
The consumer internet industry is booming so here are some small business categories to lookout for in 2022:
- SaaS
- Productized Services
- Info Products
- Online Courses
What industry will boom in 2022?
The Creator economy is expected to grow largely in 2022 and beyond. The number of creators increased by 48% from 2020 to 2021 alone (Stripe).
