30+ Profitable Business Ideas You Can Start with $10,000

If you’re looking for business ideas that can be started with a $10K initial investment, you’re in the right place! In this article, we’ll explore various business opportunities across multiple industries, and explain their projected initial investments and monthly earnings. 

These businesses can be a great starting point for aspiring entrepreneurs who want to work in various fields, such as online businesses, creative industries, home-based services, and more. So let’s dive in and explore these exciting opportunities!

Online Business

Starting an online business typically requires a low initial investment. You can do anything ranging from selling a specific product, offering digital services, or creating an online community. Several user-friendly platforms like Shopify, Wix, and WordPress make it easy to design and launch your site.

How to Get Started

  1. Identify your niche and target audience
  2. Create a website or online store using platforms
  3. Promote your products or services through organic or paid advertising

Online Affiliate Marketing

Online Affiliate Marketing is an excellent low-cost business opportunity that allows you to promote and sell products from other companies while earning a commission on every sale you generate. You can start an online affiliate marketing business with minimal upfront costs, often less than $500 for a domain, hosting, and website theme.

How to Get Started

  1. Choose a niche you’re passionate about and research affiliate programs
  2. Create a website or blog to promote affiliate products
  3. Drive traffic to your site through SEO, content marketing, and social media

Promotional Materials

Promotional materials can be an excellent low-cost business venture that allows you to flex your creative muscles while helping clients boost their brand visibility. You might need between $1,000 and $5,000 for equipment, supplies, and marketing. Monthly earnings depend on the number of clients and projects you complete. It’s possible to earn between $500 and $5,000 per month, depending on your efforts and client base.

How to Get Started

  1. Research the promotional products your target audience needs
  2. Purchase equipment and supplies, such as a printer, vinyl cutter, or heat press
  3. Build a portfolio and promote your business through social media, networking, and online advertising

Blogger

Becoming a blogger is an exciting opportunity to share your thoughts, experiences, and expertise with the world while earning a living. Blogging can be started with minimal costs, often under $500 for a domain, hosting, and website theme. Monthly earnings depend on your niche, traffic, and monetization methods. Some bloggers make a few hundred dollars per month, while others can earn thousands.

How to Get Started

  1. Choose a niche and research your target audience
  2. Create a blog using platforms like WordPress or Blogger
  3. Write high-quality content and promote it through social media and SEO

Photographer or Videographer

If you have a passion for photography or videography, starting a business in this field can be a lucrative and fulfilling option. Starting a photography or videography business requires an initial investment of around $2,000 to $10,000 for equipment, such as cameras, lenses, and lighting. Monthly earnings can range from $1,000 to $10,000, depending on your client base and project volume.

How to Get Started

  1. Develop your skills through education and practice
  2. Purchase equipment and build a portfolio showcasing your work
  3. Promote your services through social media, networking, and online advertising

Graphic Designer

Graphic design is a highly sought-after skill in today’s digital age. If you have a talent for visual communication and design, then starting a graphic design business may be a great option for you. This might require an initial investment of $1,000 to $5,000 for a computer, design software, and marketing. Monthly earnings depend on your client base and project volume, with some graphic designers earning between $1,000 and $10,000 per month.

How to Get Started

  1. Improve your design skills through education, practice, and building a portfolio
  2. Set up a website to showcase your work and attract clients
  3. Network with businesses and individuals who may require your services and promote your business through social media and online advertising

Virtual Assistant

If you’re looking for a low-investment, high-reward business idea, becoming a virtual assistant might be just the ticket. As a virtual assistant, you can work from anywhere in the world and help businesses and entrepreneurs with tasks like email management, social media scheduling, and administrative support. With a budget of $500 to $2,000 for a computer, internet connection, and basic software., you can be making $1,000 and $5,000 per month.

How to Get Started

  1. Identify the services you want to offer, such as administrative support, social media management, or content creation
  2. Create a website to showcase your skills and services
  3. Reach out to potential clients through networking, social media, and online job platforms

Photography Services

Photography services such as portrait, wedding, or commercial photography, can require an initial investment of $2,000 to $10,000 for equipment and marketing. Monthly earnings vary depending on the niche and number of clients, but photographers can earn anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000 per month. With the right marketing strategy and a strong portfolio, it is possible to earn a steady income through event photography, portrait sessions, or even stock photography.

How to Get Started

  1. Develop your photography skills and choose your niche
  2. Invest in equipment and build a portfolio
  3. Promote your services through social media, networking, and online advertising

Digital Marketing Agency

Starting a digital marketing agency can require an initial investment of $1,000 to $5,000 for a website, marketing tools, and initial advertising costs. You’ll also need to establish a strong online presence to attract potential clients. Having an LLC can help with some tax advantages and benefits. Monthly earnings depend on the number of clients and services provided, with some agencies making between $3,000 and $20,000 per month.

How to Get Started

  1. Identify your target market and the services you want to offer, such as SEO, social media marketing, or content creation
  2. Build a website and create marketing materials to showcase your expertise
  3. Network and reach out to potential clients through social media, online advertising, and events

Hair Styling

If you’re passionate about hairdressing and have an entrepreneurial spirit, starting a hair styling business could be a great option for you. Starting a hair styling business, such as a home-based salon or mobile hairstyling service, can require an initial investment of $2,000 to $10,000 for equipment, supplies, and marketing. Monthly earnings can vary, but hairstylists often make between $1,500 and $5,000 per month.

How to Get Started

  1. Obtain the necessary licenses and certifications for your area
  2. Purchase equipment and supplies, and set up your workspace
  3. Promote your services through social media, networking, and online advertising

Massage Therapy

A massage therapy business can be a lucrative and rewarding venture for those with a passion for holistic healing and wellness. Starting a massage therapy business typically requires an initial investment of $2,000 to $10,000 for equipment, such as a massage table, linens, and oils, as well as marketing and licensing. Monthly earnings can range from $1,500 to $5,000 or more, depending on your client base and the services offered.

How to Get Started

  1. Obtain the necessary licenses and certifications for your area
  2. Purchase equipment and set up your workspace
  3. Promote your services through social media, networking, and online advertising

Party and Event Rentals

A party and event rental business is a great option for individuals who enjoy planning and coordinating events. This type of business involves renting out party supplies such as tables, chairs, tents, linens, and decorations for various events such as weddings, corporate events, and parties. This might require an initial investment of $5,000 to $10,000 for equipment. Monthly earnings can vary depending on the number of events you cater to, but you can expect to make between $1,500 and $5,000 per month.

How to Get Started

  1. Determine the types of events you want to cater to and the rental items you will offer
  2. Purchase equipment and inventory, and find a storage space for them
  3. Promote your services through social media, networking, and online advertising

Senior Care Business

As the population ages, the demand for senior care services continues to grow, making senior care a lucrative business opportunity. Starting a senior care business requires dedication, compassion, and a willingness to help others. Starting a senior care business, such as non-medical home care or adult day care, requires an initial investment of around $5,000 to $10,000 for licensing, insurance, and marketing. Monthly earnings can vary depending on the number of clients, with some businesses making between $3,000 and $10,000 per month.

How to Get Started

  1. Obtain the necessary licenses and certifications for your area
  2. Set up your business infrastructure, including office space and client management systems
  3. Promote your services through social media, networking, and online advertising

Childcare Services

Starting a childcare services business can be a fulfilling and profitable venture. With a growing demand for quality childcare, there is always a need for reliable and trustworthy childcare providers. Childcare services can require an initial investment of $3,000 to $10,000 for licensing, insurance, equipment, and supplies. Monthly earnings can vary depending on the number of children you care for, but providers often make between $1,500 and $5,000 per month.

How to Get Started

  1. Obtain the necessary licenses and certifications for your area
  2. Set up a safe and stimulating environment for children
  3. Promote your services through social media, networking, and online advertising

Food Truck

A food truck business is a great way to turn your passion for cooking into a profitable business venture. The initial investment required for a food truck business varies depending on the size and type of truck, equipment, and supplies needed. A food truck business can require an initial investment of $5,000 to $50,000, depending on the cost of the truck and equipment. However, it is possible to find a used truck and equipment within a $10,000 budget. Monthly earnings can range from $1,500 to $10,000 or more, depending on the location, menu, and customer base.

How to Get Started

  1. Develop your menu and choose a food truck concept
  2. Purchase a truck and the necessary equipment
  3. Obtain the necessary licenses and permits for your area, and promote your food truck through social media and local events

Vending Machine Business

Before starting a vending machine business, you’ll need to do your research to determine what type of products are in demand in the locations where you plan to place your machines. A vending machine business typically requires an initial investment of $3,000 to $10,000 for machines, inventory, and location fees. Monthly earnings can vary depending on the number of machines and their locations, with some business owners making between $500 and $5,000 per month.

How to Get Started

  1. Research different types of vending machines and products
  2. Purchase machines and inventory
  3. Secure locations for your machines and manage inventory and maintenance

Moving Service

Starting a moving service business typically requires an initial investment of $5,000 to $10,000 for a truck, equipment, and marketing. Monthly earnings can vary depending on the number of moves completed and the rates charged, but movers can make between $2,000 and $10,000 per month.

How to Get Started

  1. Research the moving services market in your area and develop a pricing strategy
  2. Purchase or lease a truck and moving equipment, such as dollies, blankets, and straps
  3. Promote your services through social media, online advertising, and networking

Junk Removal

Starting a junk removal business typically requires an initial investment of $5,000 to $10,000 for a truck, equipment, and marketing. Monthly earnings can vary depending on the number of jobs completed, with some junk removal businesses making between $2,000 and $10,000 per month.

How to Get Started

  1. Determine the types of junk you will remove and develop a pricing strategy
  2. Purchase or lease a truck and necessary equipment
  3. Promote your services through social media, online advertising, and networking

Hauling Service

A hauling service business involves transporting items from one location to another. This can include transporting furniture, appliances, construction materials, and other heavy items. The initial investment required for a hauling service business is relatively low, making it an accessible option for many entrepreneurs. This business requires an initial investment of $5,000 to $10,000 for a truck, trailer, equipment, and marketing. Monthly earnings can range from $2,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the volume of work and rates charged.

How to Get Started

  1. Research the hauling service market in your area and develop a pricing strategy
  2. Purchase or lease a truck, trailer, and necessary equipment
  3. Promote your services through social media, online advertising, and networking

Delivery Service

In recent years, the demand for delivery services has skyrocketed due to the increase in e-commerce and online shopping. Starting a delivery service business typically requires an initial investment of $2,000 to $10,000 for a vehicle, equipment, and marketing. Monthly earnings can vary depending on the number of deliveries completed and the rates charged, but delivery drivers can make between $1,500 and $5,000 per month.

How to Get Started

  1. Determine the types of deliveries you will offer and develop a pricing strategy
  2. Purchase or lease a suitable vehicle and necessary equipment
  3. Promote your services through social media, online advertising, and networking

3D Printing

A 3D printing business involves creating three-dimensional objects using a 3D printer. This is a growing industry that has various applications, including creating prototypes, medical devices, and personalized gifts. To start a 3D printing business, you’ll need a 3D printer, software, and materials with a budget of $2,000 to $10,000. Monthly earnings can vary depending on the volume of work and the rates charged, with some 3D printing businesses making between $1,000 and $5,000 per month.

How to Get Started

  1. Learn about 3D printing technology and the types of products you can create
  2. Purchase a 3D printer and materials
  3. Promote your services through social media, online advertising, and networking

Import/Export Business

Starting an import/export business typically requires an initial investment of $5,000 to $10,000 for product inventory, shipping, and marketing. Monthly earnings can vary depending on the volume of trade and the profit margins, but import/export businesses can make between $2,000 and $20,000 per month.

How to Get Started

  1. Research international markets and identify products with high demand
  2. Develop relationships with suppliers and buyers
  3. Handle logistics, such as shipping, customs, and documentation

Medical Claims Billing

Starting a medical claims billing business typically requires an initial investment of $2,000 to $10,000 for billing software, training, and marketing. Monthly earnings can vary depending on the number of clients and claims processed, with some businesses making between $1,500 and $7,000 per month.

How to Get Started

  1. Complete training in medical billing and coding
  2. Purchase medical billing software and set up your office
  3. Market your services to healthcare providers, such as doctors and clinics

Home Staging

Starting a home staging business requires an initial investment of $2,000 to $10,000 for furniture, decor, and marketing. Monthly earnings can range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the number of homes staged and the rates charged.

How to Get Started

  1. Develop your home staging skills and create a portfolio
  2. Purchase or rent furniture, accessories, and decor items
  3. Market your services to real estate agents, developers, and homeowners

Framing Business

Starting a framing business typically requires an initial investment of $5,000 to $10,000 for equipment, materials, and marketing. Monthly earnings can vary depending on the volume of work and the rates charged, with some framing businesses making between $1,500 and $7,000 per month.

How to Get Started

  1. Learn framing techniques and acquire the necessary skills
  2. Purchase framing equipment and materials
  3. Promote your services through social media, online advertising, and networking

Window Treatment

Starting a window treatment business requires an initial investment of $3,000 to $10,000 for equipment, materials, and marketing. Monthly earnings can range from $1,500 to $5,000 or more, depending on the number of clients and the rates charged.

How to Get Started

  1. Develop your window treatment skills and create a portfolio
  2. Purchase or rent equipment and materials
  3. Market your services to homeowners, interior designers, and real estate agents

Car Wash

Starting a car wash business typically requires an initial investment of $5,000 to $10,000 for equipment, supplies, and marketing, especially for a mobile car wash. Monthly earnings can vary depending on the volume of cars washed and the rates charged, with some car washes making between $1,500 and $10,000 per month.

How to Get Started

  1. Research the car wash market in your area and develop a pricing strategy
  2. Purchase or lease equipment and supplies
  3. Promote your services through social media, online advertising, and networking

Home-Based Food Business

Starting a home-based food business, such as a bakery or catering service, requires an initial investment of $1,000 to $10,000 for equipment, ingredients, and marketing. Monthly earnings can range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the volume of orders and the rates charged.

How to Get Started

  1. Develop your culinary skills and create a menu
  2. Obtain the necessary licenses and permits for your area
  3. Promote your services through social media, online advertising, and networking

Pet Grooming

Starting a pet grooming business typically requires an initial investment of $2,000 to $10,000 for equipment, supplies, and marketing. Monthly earnings can vary depending on the number of pets groomed and the rates charged, with some pet groomers making between $1,500 and $6,000 per month.

How to Get Started

  1. Acquire pet grooming skills through training or apprenticeship
  2. Purchase or lease equipment and supplies
  3. Promote your services through social media, online advertising, and networking

Self-Service Gym

Starting a self-service gym can require an initial investment of $5,000 to $10,000 for equipment, facility setup, and marketing. Monthly earnings can range from $2,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the number of memberships and the rates charged.

How to Get Started

  1. Research the fitness market in your area and develop a pricing strategy
  2. Purchase or lease gym equipment and set up the facility
  3. Promote your gym through social media, online advertising, and networking

Lawn Care Specialist

Starting a lawn care business typically requires an initial investment of $3,000 to $10,000 for equipment, supplies, and marketing. Monthly earnings can vary depending on the number of clients and the rates charged, with some lawn care specialists making between $1,500 and $8,000 per month.

How to Get Started

  1. Acquire knowledge and skills in lawn care and maintenance
  2. Purchase or lease equipment and supplies
  3. Promote your services through social media, online advertising, and networking

Bookkeeper

Starting a bookkeeping business typically requires an initial investment of $1,000 to $5,000 for software, training, and marketing. Monthly earnings can vary depending on the number of clients and the rates charged, with some bookkeepers making between $1,500 and $6,000 per month.

How to Get Started

  1. Complete training in bookkeeping and accounting
  2. Purchase bookkeeping software and set up your office
  3. Market your services to small businesses, entrepreneurs, and freelancers

Real Estate Agent

Starting as a real estate agent typically requires an initial investment of $1,000 to $5,000 for licensing, training, and marketing. Monthly earnings can vary depending on the number of transactions completed and the commissions earned, with some agents making between $2,000 and $15,000 per month.

How to Get Started

  1. Obtain the necessary licenses and certifications for your area
  2. Join a brokerage or start your own agency
  3. Promote your services through social media, online advertising, and networking

8 Steps to Start a Business

Starting a business is an exciting and challenging endeavor that requires careful planning and preparation. Once you have decided on a business idea, follow the steps below to set yourself up for success. In this section, we’re sharing eight critical steps needed to start a business.

Step 1: Create a Business Plan

A business plan sets out the goals of your business and how you intend to achieve them. It should include market research, financial projections, and a detailed strategy for success. It helps you identify potential challenges and opportunities and provides a foundation for your business.

Step 2: Choose Your Business Structure

Selecting the right business structure is crucial for your business’s success. The most common types of business structures include sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, and corporation. Each structure has its advantages and disadvantages, so it’s essential to do your research before making a decision.

Step 3: Register Your Business

Registering your business is a legal requirement in most states. It involves choosing a business name and registering it with the appropriate state agencies. You may also need to obtain a tax ID number and business licenses and permits.

Step 4: Obtain the Necessary Licenses and Permits

Depending on your business’s location and industry, you may need to obtain specific licenses and permits to operate legally. These can include zoning permits, health department permits, and professional licenses.

Step 5: Open a Business Bank Account

Separating your personal and business finances is crucial for financial management and legal liability. Opening a business bank account allows you to keep track of your business expenses, accept payments, and pay vendors.

Step 6: Secure Funding

Starting a business requires funding, whether it’s through personal savings, loans, or investors. Create a budget and identify potential funding sources to ensure you have the financial resources you need to launch and grow your business.

Step 7: Get Business Insurance

Protecting your business from potential risks is crucial for long-term success. Business insurance can cover your property, liability, and employees, among other things. It’s essential to research and obtains the appropriate insurance coverage for your business.

Step 8: Promote Your Business

Marketing and promotion are crucial for generating awareness and attracting customers to your business. It’s essential to create a marketing plan that includes strategies for social media, email marketing, and advertising, among other things.

Conclusion

Starting a business with $10,000 is a feasible option for those who are looking to become entrepreneurs. With so many business ideas to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is right for you. Consider your skills, interests, and market demand, and narrow down your options to choose a business that suits you. 

When it comes to your business finances don’t stress about handling them alone. Look to doola for hassle-free bookkeeping solutions that can help you stay on top of your finances and focus on growing your business. With their user-friendly software and dedicated team of professionals, doola can help you save time and money while ensuring accurate financial records.

FAQs

What is the cheapest and most profitable business to start?

The cheapest and most profitable business to start depends on your skills, interests, and market demand. However, some low-cost business ideas include online businesses, photography services, graphic design, virtual assistant services, and home-based food businesses.

What is the fastest business to start?

The fastest business to start is an online business, as it requires minimal investment and can be set up quickly. Online businesses, such as affiliate marketing, blogging, and e-commerce, can also generate income relatively quickly.

What is the simplest type of business?

The simplest type of business is a sole proprietorship, as it involves only one owner and is easy to set up. However, it’s important to note that sole proprietorships have unlimited liability, meaning the owner is personally responsible for any debts or legal issues that arise.

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