40 Online Business Ideas You Can Start in 2024

Article by Karyn Corrigan17 Aug, 2024

Starting a small business can be an exciting journey for anyone with an entrepreneurial spirit. However, each venture comes with its own unique challenges. The first step is always to have a solid business idea.

Think of a business concept that has a natural customer base and the potential to grow. Many find that an online business is a great starting point, due to its simplicity compared to a traditional brick-and-mortar setup.

In this article, we’ll share online business ideas that cater to both beginners and experienced entrepreneurs, along with tips on how to get started without leaving your current job.

40 best online business ideas for 2024

1. Sell t-shirts online

If you have a bit of imagination and a knack for design, you can create your own online t-shirt shop. Platforms like Printful and Shopify make it incredibly simple to get started. The key to success in this business is offering unique and high-quality designs that people want. Some ideas include creating niche designs for specific interests, using trending themes, and collaborating with local artists to create exclusive shirts.

2. Start a dropshipping business

Dropshipping is the easiest way to start an ecommerce business. In this business model, you sell products from a supplier who keeps them in their warehouse. You create an online store to list and market those items. Once someone makes a purchase, the dropshipping supplier ships them directly to the customer. From online boutiques to jewelry stores to women’s clothing shops to one-product stores, dropshipping works for most types of ecommerce businesses.

3. Launch a podcast

Podcasting is a great home business idea with multiple ways to make money. You can earn through ads, listener donations, or merchandise sales. Brands also sponsor popular podcasts for exposure. To start a podcast, you’ll need a good microphone, audio recording software, and call recording tools. Make your podcast unique by offering in-depth discussions, sharing personal stories, or focusing on niche topics that aren’t widely covered.

4. Become an SEO consultant

If you know search engine optimization and can use Google Ads and Analytics, consider becoming an SEO consultant. SEO consultants sell their services to small businesses, enterprises, and anyone needing online help. Get started by teaching clients about the power of SEO. Then, use your skills to show them how content, link building, and PR can boost their traffic.

5. Sell online courses

Do you love teaching and want to share your knowledge? Selling online courses is a great way to share your expertise and make money. Platforms like Teachable and Udemy let you host your courses and connect with a wide audience. You’ll need to choose a topic you know well and come up with engaging content for your online course. Seeing what other instructors charge can give you an idea of how to price your course competitively.

6. Start a social media marketing agency

Many small businesses need help with social media marketing. If you know how to attract audiences on TikTok, Instagram, and other platforms, consider starting a social media marketing agency. Begin by building a portfolio showcasing successful strategies from your own or friends’ accounts. Share this portfolio with potential clients to demonstrate your skills. Once you land your first clients, you can feature them in your portfolio to attract more business.

7. Become an online fitness trainer

If you have a background in fitness, consider becoming an online fitness trainer. Many people prefer online workouts for convenience and flexibility. You can cater to their demand by offering one-on-one classes or group sessions virtually. Use digital marketing to promote your services and reach a wider audience. Online fitness trainers can also earn passive income by creating and selling workout programs and fitness ebooks.

8. Provide bug testing services

Companies building software need people to test their products for potential bugs. You can offer your services to these companies and build a profitable business. While most companies hire testers via platforms like UserTesting, you can create your own website and offer specialized services. Landing direct clients will allow you to charge higher rates than what you’d get through third-party platforms.

9. Produce videos for clients

YouTube is the second largest website in the world, so it’s no surprise that video is now a main communication medium for businesses of all types and sizes. If you have video filming or editing skills, you can quickly build your clientele. Offer to create promotional videos, product demos, training videos, or social media content for businesses.

10. Curate subscription boxes

Subscription boxes are themed packages of various products, from snacks to fitness gear. This business model lets you curate and bundle items around any theme you choose. You don’t need to create products—just source and package them. Subscription boxes are part of a growing industry, with sales expected to grow from $31.4 billion in 2023 to $36.8 billion in 2024.

11. Develop websites

Website development is in constant demand, as businesses always try to upgrade and improve their websites for more sales. This means there’s an opportunity for you to start an online business around creating and managing websites. Start by learning web development or hiring skilled developers for your business. Once you have the skills or team in place, you can start pitching your services to potential clients.

12. Offer graphic design services

Companies worldwide need eye-catching visuals for websites, social media, and print materials. This makes graphic design a lucrative business opportunity. Start by building a portfolio showcasing your best work. Use social media and freelance platforms to attract clients. Networking at industry events can also help you find opportunities and build connections.

13. Create mobile apps

Another lucrative online business venture is app development. With businesses and consumers always looking for new and useful apps, there’s a high demand for skilled app developers. You don’t necessarily need advanced coding skills. Today, there are no-code app platforms that allow you to create apps with ease. Start by exploring tools like Adalo or Bubble to build and launch your first app.

14. Become a theme designer

A theme designer is responsible for creating the look and feel of a website. It’s a profitable side hustle, since businesses often need updated and attractive designs. Start by researching popular themes, identifying their weaknesses, and designing better versions. You can also specialize in a specific industry to attract more clients and increase your chances of success.

15. Offer translation services

If you are fluent in more than one language but have no interest in teaching, consider translating. Many companies need their websites and materials translated when they enter new markets. You can help them achieve this while staying active in multiple languages. Keep in mind, the most common way of billing is by cost per word, so price wisely to make smart money from this great online business idea.

16. Provide remote customer service

If you enjoy helping people but don’t want to be stuck in a call center or office all day, become a remote customer service agent and help people from the comfort of your own home. Choose between helping people via chat, email, phone, video, or other ways, and save the day for people every day. This may not make you your first million, but it feels great to help others.

17. Work as a virtual assistant

This is one of the best online business ideas to pursue from home. As a virtual assistant, you will be handling various tasks, from data entry to research and writing content. Start looking for clients on platforms like Upwork and Fiverr. Building a portfolio showcasing your work can help distinguish you from other VAs.

18. Sell merchandise on marketplaces

Selling on marketplaces can be a sustainable online business. Platforms like eBay and Etsy make listing products and receiving payments easy. You can sell items at a higher price than you paid, buying in bulk or finding secondhand treasures. Optimize your listings to attract more buyers and track your sales to improve your strategy.

19. Start an affiliate marketing business

Affiliate marketing involves promoting a product or brand. It’s a great way to make money online by earning commissions on sales. To start, choose a niche, sign up for affiliate programs, and create content to attract customers. Some ways you can differentiate yourself include creating exclusive content for subscribers, developing a comparison site, or offering bonus materials for purchases through your link.

20. Offer lead generation services

Lead generation can be time-consuming, so many companies outsource it. If you’re good on the phone and enjoy researching and reaching out to strangers, this could be your calling. Start by building a list of potential leads, then reach out with tailored pitches. Use a customer relationship management (CRM) tool to track your progress and stay organized.

21. Become an influencer

An influencer is someone with a large follower base on social media. Businesses pay influencers to promote products or services to their audience. To become an influencer, choose a niche and create engaging content. Post regularly and interact with your followers. With time, you’ll build a following, and businesses will start noticing your profile.

22. Sell handmade goods

Selling handmade products online is a great way to turn your craft skills into a business. You can make jewelry, furniture, or picture frames in your spare time and sell them on Etsy or your own website. Research popular trends to see what products are in demand, so you can fill your catalog with items that attract buyers.

23. Become a private chef

If cooking is one of your personal passions, there are dozens of opportunities to turn it into a decent business venture. You can start by setting up a catering website, experimenting with pop-up food stalls and local food markets, or joining platforms that encourage cooking enthusiasts to squeeze some money out of their passion. And if you’re not camera-shy, you can teach people how to cook special meals by selling online classes.

24. Offer nutrition consulting

The trend of healthy eating is here to say. Yet with so much contradictory advice online about what’s good for us and what isn’t, more and more people turn to professional nutritionists for specialist tips and guidance. You can find free online courses to learn the fundamentals of this profession and start offering personalized nutrition plans online.

25. Start an online bakery

Starting an online bakery is a sweet business idea. You can bake and sell items like croissants, macaroons, or bagels from your home. It’s a good way to turn a passion for baking into profit. Use platforms like Shopify to set up your online store. Promote your bakery on social media and start taking orders.

26. Sell music

If you can write and produce music at home, selling it online is a great business idea. Commercial clients need music for ads and other projects. Use platforms like PremiumBeat, Epidemic Sound, and CD Baby to sell your tracks. These websites connect you with clients looking for high-quality music and handle the payouts.

27. Become an ad consultant

Ad consultants are in demand as businesses need help optimizing their outreach. You can capitalize on this trend by starting your own ad consultancy business. Start by familiarizing yourself with various ad platforms. Work with experienced consultants to gain practical experience. With the right knowledge and skills, you’ll be equipped to serve a wide range of clients.

28. Create a membership site

Membership websites earn money by selling subscriptions for premium content and community features. Instead of relying on ads, users pay directly for access. Create your own membership website by identifying a valuable niche and using membership software to set it up. Offer exclusive content, community access, and other perks to attract and retain subscribers.

29. Flip your thrift store finds

If you love hitting up thrift stores and hunting down great deals, flipping your thrift store finds is a great online business idea. Customers want unique items but don’t want to search through piles of old stuff. Position yourself as a curator who finds and sells those vintage treasures. Use popular marketplaces like Etsy and eBay, or build your own online store to sell directly and keep all the profits.

30. Become a proofreader

If you love reading, becoming a proofreader could be your calling. Have other people send you their manuscripts for books, research papers, or whatever else you are interested in reading about, and give them honest feedback before they publish their works. This job requires attention to detail and expertise in the area to ensure that everything is ready to print.

31. Sell mystery objects

Offering mystery boxes can be a fun way to combine your love for unique finds with a steady income. You can fill these boxes with unique items from thrift stores or flea markets. Start by creating an online store on platforms like Etsy or Shopify and adding the products you want to sell. Use social media to create buzz and curiosity—consumers should find your store exciting and be keen to explore what you have to offer.

32. Host a webinar

Webinars are online presentations that connect you with your audience in real-time. You can host a webinar on digital marketing, cooking, or any other topic you’re knowledgeable in. The most direct way to make money from your webinar is to charge a fee for attendance. You can also offer a free webinar and sell a product at the end. The ideal length of a webinar is 20 to 35 minutes in order to keep engagement high.

33. Offer remote tech support

If you have a solid background in IT, consider starting a remote tech support business. Small businesses often need tech assistance but can’t afford in-house staff. You can offer your expertise to solve their technical issues without straining their finances. The best part is, you can work from anywhere and set your own hours.

34. Sell art online

If you’re a painter, photographer, or musician, consider selling your work online. Platforms like Printify or Printful let you turn your creations into tangible products that consumers can integrate into their homes. You can also sell digital art by creating downloadable files and uploading them on Etsy or your own online store.

35. Publish your own book

If you’ve dreamed of publishing your own book, it’s now easier than ever with online publishers. Whether it’s a fantasy novel, a business guide, or a children’s story, you have options to self-publish. Use apps like Digital Downloads for ebooks or print-on-demand services like Lulu to sell your work. You can also explore marketplaces like Smashwords where multiple authors list their books for sale.

36. Become a narrator

Narrators provide voice talent for videos, films, and digital content. Many YouTube channels seek narrators. Some basic voice training can help you start a profitable career. You’ll need a good mic, like the Blue Yeti, and audio software. Record your voice-overs and send the files to clients. Freelance sites like Upwork and Fiverr are ideal for finding your initial gigs and building a client base.

37. Become an online wellness coach

Online wellness coaches offer personalized advice on diet, exercise, and stress management. Many people want help to improve their well-being, making this a great business opportunity. Start by getting certified in a health-related field and creating a website. With minimal startup costs, you’ll have more to invest in marketing and advertising your services.

38. Provide speechwriting services

If you have a knack for words, consider offering speechwriting services. Many people need well-crafted speeches for events like weddings or business presentations. You can be the one to help them express their thoughts clearly. Start by creating a portfolio to showcase your work—this will help you attract clients. Promote your services on freelancing platforms and social media to build a steady client base.

39. Teach a foreign language

Teaching a foreign language online is a great business idea. Many people want to learn new languages for travel or work. Start by offering virtual classes or tutoring sessions. Use platforms like Zoom and Skype to connect with students. You can also create language learning videos or ebooks to earn passive income.

40. Write resumes

People need strong résumés to get noticed by employers. You can start a business writing résumés tailored to each candidate’s industry. Use social media and job boards to advertise your services. Join forums and writing communities to engage with potential clients and build your reputation. Offering personalized, industry-specific résumés can bring you a steady stream of customers.

How to start an online business

Once you’ve finalized your online business idea, do your due diligence and get ready to bring it to life. Here are the steps for starting your business online:

1. Check if your idea has potential

Just because you think you have a great idea doesn’t mean there’s a market for it.

Before investing your time and energy, research how feasible it is and whether there’s any buyer interest. You can hire an agency to do market research or take a DIY approach if you’re on a budget.

After your research, write a business plan to clarify your ideas. This will help you stay organized and focused as you navigate the ups and downs of starting a new business.

2. Develop your product or service

You’ve validated your idea, now it’s time to turn it into reality. Whether you’re selling a product or service, you need to create it. Find a manufacturer to make your product, package your service offerings, or write your book and choose a self-publishing option.

If you go the dropshipping route, the product is already made. You just need to pick products you’re passionate about or that have a hot market. To help you, we’ve put together a guide to finding the best products for dropshipping.

3. Streamline your business finances

Wondering how to open a business bank account? After you’ve registered your business, you’ll get the tax ID numbers and other details needed to set it upt.

As your business grows, you may need money for new products or marketing. A business bank account will help you manage funds and track income and expenses.

It also simplifies tax prep by keeping all business transactions together. As things get more complex, you might hire an accountant.

Pro tip: Looking for an easier way to manage your business finances? Shopify Balance is a free account that lets you handle your business money directly from your Shopify admin. No monthly fees, early payouts, and cashback on certain purchases.

4. Connect with partners, vendors, and suppliers

Running a product-based online business means building various business relationships. You’ll need to find a manufacturer, a dropshipper, or someone for logistics. Compare different options to ensure you’re getting the best deal for your needs.

Other online businesses might need different partnerships. If you’re creating an online course, for instance, you might hire a graphic designer and video editor.

5. Create your business website

To start your own business online, you need a functional website. To make sales, you’ll need to set up payment processing.

First, pick a business name. If you’re struggling, try using a name generator for ideas. You’ll need a name before you build your site.

Next, choose and purchase a domain name. Often, these cost less than $30 per year. Use a platform like WordPress to build your site and set up payment processing to start accepting orders immediately.

6. Promote your new small business

Securing your first sale is a big moment for any new business owner. Now that your store is live, it’s time to start spreading the word. Finding customers and crafting effective promotions takes effort and strategy.

With many marketing channels like social media and email marketing, it can be difficult to know where to start. Missteps can lead to wasted resources.

Here are some resources to help you market your business:

Start your online business today

If you’ve thought about launching an online business, now is the perfect time to start. It doesn’t require a full commitment on your part. You can begin with a small side project and expand as you go. Enjoy the flexibility and freedom of building an online venture.

Online business ideas FAQ

How do you brainstorm online business ideas?

Create a brainstorming board and jot down all your ideas.
Come back later with new insights and tweak your list.
Seek input from friends and family.
Survey your current customers for fresh online business concepts.
Explore search patterns using Google Trends.

How do I start a successful online business?

Identify a niche market and solve its problems.
Master persuasive writing to attract customers.
Design and build your own website.
Leverage social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
Optimize your website for search engines (SEO).
Establish yourself as an expert in your field.
Deliver outstanding customer service.
Create multiple streams of income.

Do I need an LLC to sell online?

You don’t need an LLC to start selling online, but it’s a good idea to get one. It helps protect your personal assets if your business faces legal issues or financial troubles. As a business owner, an LLC can offer peace of mind by reducing personal risk.