When it comes to easily launching a business, “easy” is relative. Difficulties often depend on factors such as startup costs, time commitment, required skills, and the level of risk involved. An “easy” business is often one that requires minimal upfront investment, enables flexible hours, and doesn’t demand specialised skills or experience. These ventures are also able to start small and are typically adaptable, without the need for complex infrastructure or large teams.

For many entrepreneurs, an easy business is one that can start as a side project, providing a manageable way to test an idea before making a full commitment. It doesn’t usually need a lot of licensing or regulatory approval. Digital services, freelancing, reselling, or small-scale retail businesses are common examples because of their low barriers to entry. Simpler business models can also bring in revenue more quickly than larger, more intricate operations.

Below, we’ll cover business ideas that are “easy” to launch, as well as some potential challenges and how to overcome them.

What’s in this article?

• Top low-cost, easy-to-start business ideas
  
• How to start a business with no experience
  
• What are the easiest business models for fast profit?
  
• How to find a business idea that fits your lifestyle and skills
  
• Challenges these businesses might face
  
• How to grow an easy-to-start business
  

Top low-cost, easy-to-start business ideas

If you want to start a business that’s low-cost and straightforward but has the potential to scale, some solid options exist. These work for both individual entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) and enterprises (SMEs) exploring new revenue streams. Here are a few easy-to-start business ideas that balance ease of entry and room for growth.

Niche e-commerce store

• What it involves: Launching an online shop focused on a specific product line or industry niche (e.g. eco-friendly kitchenware, custom tech accessories, specialised office supplies).

• Why it works: With the availability of e-commerce platforms such as Shopify or BigCommerce, establishing an online store can be done quickly. You can start lean and scale as demand increases, adding inventory management and simplified payment processing.

• Cost to get started: Moderate. You’ll need to get a domain name, pay some platform fees, and create an initial marketing budget. Once you see customer interest, you can expand your product lineup or enhance operations.

Digital marketing agency

• What it involves: Offering digital marketing services such as search engine optimisation (SEO), content creation, and social media management to SMBs, especially those that want to build their online presence without a large budget.

• Why it works: Many businesses understand the importance of digital marketing but lack the in-house resources to do it well. Starting as a small agency gives you the flexibility to test different services and tools (e.g. HubSpot, Semrush) to deliver results without a large initial investment.

• Cost to get started: Moderate. Aside from creating a website, you might want to invest in some software tools and training. As your client list expands, you can decide whether to hire specialised talent or develop a particular service area further.

Subscription box service

• What it involves: Curating niche products – anything from gourmet snacks to office essentials – and shipping them to subscribers each month.

• Why it works: Subscription models are in demand and provide a reliable, recurring revenue stream. Platforms such as Cratejoy and Subbly can simplify the logistics, making it easy to manage the customer experience and fulfilment.

• Cost to get started: Moderate. The initial investment goes toward sourcing products, packaging, and some light branding. As your business expands, you can diversify the types of products you offer and refine your box curation process.

Business consulting service

• What it involves: Sharing expertise in a specific area – whether it’s operations, finance, HR, or customer experience – to help other businesses run more effectively.

• Why it works: Consulting is often a low-overhead business, especially if you have experience in a particular industry. And if demand grows, you can scale into an agency or build a software-as-a-service (SaaS) tool to support your consulting services.

• Cost to get started: Low. Consulting usually requires a website and networking, but you can start small and increase your offerings as you build a reputation.

Virtual assistance and administrative support

• What it involves: Taking on important, remote administrative tasks such as scheduling, customer support, and data management for businesses.

• Why it works: With the shift toward remote work, virtual assistance has become a major service – especially for small businesses seeking to scale operations without the added cost of in-office staff. You can start as a solo virtual assistant and later develop a team to meet demand.

• Cost to get started: Low to moderate. Initial costs cover basics such as a website, communication tools, and scheduling software. If you expand, you might want to invest in specialised software or hire subcontractors to manage higher-volume clients.

SaaS or no-code solution provider

• What it involves: Building SaaS offerings or custom applications using no-code platforms to address needs such as automation and data visualisation.

• Why it works: No-code tools such as Bubble and Webflow make creating functional applications more accessible, even if you’re not a developer. The SaaS model offers recurring revenue potential.

• Cost to get started: Moderate. These platforms charge subscription fees, but development costs remain relatively low. Once you’ve validated a solution, you can improve and create additional features as demand increases.

Corporate training or e-learning development

• What it involves: Creating training programmes or e-learning content focused on onboarding, skills development, or compliance training for companies.

• Why it works: E-learning continues to grow as companies seek ways to train employees in remote or hybrid settings. You can begin with basic virtual workshops and expand into an on-demand platform.

• Cost to get started: Moderate. Initial expenses include developing materials and possibly subscribing to learning management software. You can provide more complex courses and certifications once you establish a client base.

Content creation and social media strategy

• What it involves: Helping SMBs manage and create content for social media, blogs, or email marketing to help them contact their audience and stay competitive.

• Why it works: SMBs often need cohesive content strategies but don’t have dedicated staff. Tools such as Canva, Hootsuite, and HubSpot facilitate content creation and analysis. As businesses expand, your services can scale with them.

• Cost to get started: Low. Aside from social media scheduling and analytics tools, there’s not much initial cost. As your client portfolio expands, you might want to offer add-on services such as paid advertising and SEO strategy.

Each of these ideas offers a way to get started without excessive risk or a major budget – while also providing a path to growth.

How to start a business with no experience

Starting a business without practical knowledge might feel overwhelming, but it is achievable – especially once you understand what to prioritise. Here are some feasible steps to launch your business.

Start with what you know (or what you can learn quickly)

• Play to your strengths: Consider what skills, knowledge, or interests you already have. Starting a business is a learning experience, but choosing an area you’re at least somewhat familiar with can give you an advantage.

• Learn as you go: You don’t have to be an expert straight away. You can develop new skills in your spare time using accessible resources available – courses, tutorials, industry blogs, and more. For example, if you’re interested in digital marketing, platforms such as Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and YouTube can teach you the basics.

Focus on simple business models

• Choose low-risk models: Not every business needs a big budget, a team, or lots of infrastructure. Service-based businesses, freelancing, and online consulting are excellent places to start, as they require minimal overhead and are easy to scale as you gain experience.

• Try low-cost testing: Before fully committing, test your business idea on a small scale. This could mean offering services to friends or freelancing online. Or if you’re working in e-commerce, it could involve selling a few items on platforms such as Etsy and eBay. Small tests allow you to learn what works without investing too much early on.

Use existing platforms

• Leverage tools and marketplaces: Platforms such as Shopify for e-commerce, Upwork for freelancing, and Cratejoy for subscription services can make it easier to start a business because they handle many of the technical and logistical tasks.

• Tap into social media: Beyond marketing, social media can be a testing ground and a way to network. Create a presence for your brand on LinkedIn, Instagram, or Facebook and post relevant content. Over time, this can help you develop an audience and organically attract potential customers.

Try networking

• Connect with others: Networking is powerful, especially if you’re new to business. Online forums, social media groups, and local business organisations can be great places to find advice, partnerships, or clients. Being part of a network also gives you a support system to rely on as you learn.

• Contact people for mentorship: Many people are willing to share their expertise if you ask. If you know someone who runs a business, ask for insight or feedback on your plans. Mentorship doesn’t have to be formal. Just connecting with people in the same industry can help guide your decisions.

Develop basic business skills

• Learn the fundamentals: Familiarise yourself with basic concepts in finance, marketing, and operations. This doesn’t necessitate a degree. Understanding core ideas (e.g. setting a budget, using social media for marketing, or handling customer service) can increase your confidence and help you make informed decisions.

• Use simple tools: There are several free or low-cost tools designed for beginners. QuickBooks can help with finances, Canva is a go-to for design, and platforms such as Google Workspace help with organisation. These kinds of tools can make it easier to manage the administrative side of your business without advanced expertise.

Embrace trial and error

• Test and adjust: Understand that your first attempt at launching a business might not turn out perfectly. Start small, track your progress, and prepare to make changes as you go. Collect feedback from early customers or clients, and treat it as a learning opportunity to improve your approach.

• Focus on progress rather than perfection: New entrepreneurs might often feel pressured to get everything right from Day 1. Instead, prioritise making steady progress – whether it’s improving your product, reaching new customers, or learning a new skill. Even small steps add up.

Know when to get help

• Outsource when it’s affordable: If certain aspects of your business such as accounting and web design feel out of your depth, consider outsourcing. You don’t have to do everything yourself, and sometimes a small investment in the right assistance can make a big difference.

• Use available resources: Government websites, small business development centres, and non-profit organisations often provide free resources, such as templates and business planning advice. Take advantage of these resources to find answers to common questions and existing solutions to your problems.

Starting a business without experience doesn’t mean attempting it alone or trying something without a plan. By using these steps and breaking things down into manageable tasks, you can learn what you need as you go and prepare yourself for long-term success.

What are the easiest business models for fast profit?

Some business models might offer a faster route to profit than others, especially if they’re straightforward, don’t require heavy investment, and offer a direct path to finding paying customers. Here are some of the most accessible models for quick returns, along with why they’re effective and how to get started.

Service-based business

• Why it’s profitable: Service-based businesses such as freelancing and digital marketing can often earn you revenue quickly because you’re trading time and expertise for money. There’s minimal initial investment since you’re using your existing skills, and payments are generally fast and straightforward.

• Getting started: Create a simple website or portfolio that showcases your offerings. Additionally, contact your network or advertise on platforms such as Upwork and LinkedIn. Popular business options include web design, social media management, and content writing.

• Time to profit: With a few clients, you could be profitable within weeks, as there’s no need for inventory, complex logistics, or extensive preparation.

Consulting and coaching

• Why it’s profitable: People and businesses pay well for specialised knowledge, particularly if it saves them time or helps them solve a pressing issue. Consulting services require minimal overhead and can scale with your rates or services as demand grows.

• Getting started: Define your area of expertise (e.g. career coaching, business consulting, fitness coaching), build a simple website or LinkedIn profile to outline your services, and launch by offering sessions to potential clients. Networking events or social media groups can help you make valuable connections.

• Time to profit: Once you secure clients, you can often bill them immediately after each session or project and gain income within a few weeks.

Reselling and retail arbitrage

• Why it’s profitable: Reselling involves sourcing products (often at a discount) and selling them at a markup on online marketplaces such as Amazon, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace. Since you’re using existing platforms with large user bases, you can move products quickly.

• Getting started: Find products to resell through local discount stores or online liquidation sites; then list them on popular marketplaces. This model is particularly profitable if you specialise in high-demand items or limited-edition products.

• Time to profit: Once you list items, sales and profit can occur quickly – often within a few days or weeks if you’re selling in-demand items.

Digital products and templates

• Why they’re profitable: Selling digital products such as e-books, templates, and downloadable guides means you can create something once and sell it multiple times with little additional effort. It has low overhead and can scale easily with the right product.

• Getting started: Identify a need within your niche (e.g. social media templates, financial trackers for small businesses, fitness guides) and create a digital product that fulfils it. You can sell it on Etsy, Gumroad, or directly through your website.

• Time to profit: Once your product is live, you can make sales almost immediately, especially with targeted social media promotion. The initial creation takes time, but afterward, income can be nearly passive.

Affiliate marketing

• Why it’s profitable: Through affiliate marketing, you earn commissions by promoting other companies’ products. You don’t need to create products, manage inventory, or handle shipping. This model is all about driving traffic to affiliate links with your content, earning commissions when your audience makes purchases.

• Getting started: Establish a blog, YouTube channel, or social media page focused on a specific niche, and sign up for affiliate programmes relevant to your content (e.g. Amazon Associates, ClickBank, specific brand affiliate programmes). Then, integrate affiliate links with your content naturally.

• Time to profit: It takes time to build an audience, but with the right content and promotion, you can start earning income within a few months.

Online courses and webinars

• Why they’re profitable: Online courses and webinars allow you to monetise your knowledge and experience. You can host live webinars or create on-demand courses that people pay to access.

• Getting started: Choose a topic you know well and structure a course around it. Using platforms such as Teachable, Udemy, and Zoom for live webinars can make it easy to create, promote, and sell this course.

• Time to profit: After developing the course, you can start earning income as soon as people sign up, often within a few weeks if you’ve targeted the right audience.

Subscription-based business model

• Why it’s profitable: Subscription-based models bring in recurring revenue, which means you don’t need to constantly find new customers to sustain your business. From curated boxes to membership-based online communities, subscriptions can offer a predictable revenue stream.

• Getting started: Define a product or service you can deliver consistently, such as a curated box of industry-specific goods, exclusive content, or ongoing consulting. Platforms such as Subbly and Patreon simplify subscription management and customer retention.

• Time to profit: Once you’ve attracted some initial subscribers, the model can become self-sustaining. It might take a month or two to achieve profitability, but the recurring revenue provides the potential for long-term growth.

Each of these business models can offer a quicker route to profit, especially when you start small and scale as demand grows. From service-based options to digital product sales, you can find something for every skill set and industry.

How to find a business idea that fits your lifestyle and skills

Determining a business idea that matches your interests, strengths, and personal schedule is key to building something sustainable and rewarding.

Know your skills and strengths

• List your skills: Start by making a list of skills you’re confident in, whether it’s data analysis, creative writing, customer service, or project management. Think of both “hard” skills such as coding and graphic design and “soft” skills such as communication and leadership.

• Identify your strengths: Consider areas where you’ve received positive feedback in the past or tasks that feel effortless to you. For instance, if you’re always helping friends organise events or solve tech issues, you could translate that into a business idea.

Consider your interests and passions

• Define the things you enjoy: List the things you genuinely enjoy doing in your free time. Whether it’s reading about personal finance, cooking, or exploring new tech, turning an interest into a business can be a useful way to stay motivated.

• Find the crossover: Assess where your skills and interests intersect. For example, if you’re skilled in design and love cooking, a blog or online shop for kitchen decoration and tools could be the right fit. If you’re a sociable person with a knack for organisation, an event planning business could work well.

Evaluate your lifestyle needs

• Determine your ideal schedule: Think about how much time you want (or have) to dedicate to this business. Do you prefer regular, set hours or do you need something flexible? Service-based businesses or online freelancing might suit those who need flexibility, while a subscription-based business or online store could work for those who prefer more structured hours.

• Assess location requirements: Some businesses can operate from anywhere, while others might need a physical location or local presence. If you’d rather work remotely or need travel-friendly work, consider digital businesses such as online coaching, content creating, or consulting.

• Factor in income goals: If you want income on the side, low-cost businesses with less barriers to entry might work best. However, if you’re looking to transition to a full-time venture, seek out business models with flexible income potential such as e-commerce and subscription-based businesses.

Brainstorm ideas based on your lifestyle and skills

• Match skills and lifestyle preferences: Combine your skills and lifestyle needs to generate a few concrete ideas. If you’re tech-savvy, comfortable working with a flexible schedule, and enjoy problem-solving, freelancing in IT support or software development might be ideal. If you have experience in retail and prefer a set schedule, an online store or reselling business could be a good fit.

• Look for trends: Staying up-to-date on industry trends can also spark ideas. For instance, remote support, virtual consulting, and digital product businesses have become popular and are easy to scale with the right setup.

Test the idea on a small scale

• Start small and low cost: Before fully committing to your business idea, consider testing it on a smaller scale. Using freelance platforms such as Upwork and Fiverr, selling on marketplaces such as Etsy, or hosting a free webinar are smart ways to validate a concept without a huge investment.

• Get feedback: If you’re offering a service, ask friends or family to test it and offer feedback. For product ideas, selling prototypes to a small group can provide insight and give you a clearer idea of the demand and how it fits your lifestyle.

Identify your unique value

• Determine what sets you apart: Consider what makes your approach, experience, or style specific to you. Your background and personality can give you a competitive edge – whether it’s a unique perspective, a specific niche, or an innovative approach. This distinct value can make your business idea more attractive to potential customers and align closely with your identity.
  

Find communities and mentorship

• Join groups and forums: Find online communities related to your business idea to ask questions, connect with others, and see how they are structuring similar businesses. LinkedIn groups, industry forums, and local business associations are all helpful places to start.

• Seek mentorship: If you know someone who’s experienced in your chosen field, contact them. They might be able to offer insight, answer questions, and give you advice on aligning your business with your lifestyle.

Ultimately, the right business idea will be one that excites you, uses your skills, and works with your lifestyle. Take the time to brainstorm, test, and refine it.

Challenges these businesses might face

Although an “easy” business might have lower barriers to entry, no business is completely devoid of hurdles. Here are some common challenges these types of businesses might face and strategies to handle them.

Balancing workload with limited resources

• Challenge: In a small operation, you’re probably doing everything yourself – from marketing to customer service, to operations. This can lead to burnout, especially when demand starts to increase.

• Solution: Automate and simplify wherever possible. Use scheduling tools for social media posts, automated responses for customer inquiries, and project management tools to keep organised. Don’t hesitate to set boundaries on work hours and gradually outsource tasks once revenue allows you to do so, starting with high-impact tasks such as bookkeeping and order fulfilment.

Managing cash flow

• Challenge: Even low-cost businesses encounter cash flow issues, particularly if they operate on a project-by-project basis or depend on irregular client payments. For instance, a freelance business might have “feast or famine” cycles, where some months are packed with work and others aren’t.

• Solution: Create a financial buffer by dedicating a percentage of each paycheck to a separate account. Consider offering a small discount for early payments or charging retainers to make cash flow more predictable. In the case of product-based businesses, try to negotiate favourable terms with suppliers, such as delayed payments and bulk pricing for consistent demand.

Handling inventory without overcommitting

• Challenge: For product-based businesses, inventory management can be difficult. Buying too much risks tying up cash in unsold stock, while buying too little means missing out on sales opportunities.

• Solution: Start with small, manageable orders or use dropshipping to avoid excess inventory. As you collect sales data, track trends and adjust orders accordingly. If you’re working with suppliers, communicate regularly to understand their production timelines and ability to fulfil sudden periods of peak demand.

Meeting high customer expectations in a fast-growth phase

• Challenge: Sometimes “easy” businesses can grow very quickly, leading to a flood of orders or client requests that are difficult to meet. This can be especially challenging for small teams or solo entrepreneurs who don’t have the infrastructure for rapid expansion.

• Solution: Plan for growth by creating basic processes and templates early on. For instance, prepare email templates for common enquiries, create simple procedures for order fulfilment, and use scheduling tools to stay on track. If your business is a service provider, consider implementing a waiting list for new clients to avoid overbooking.

Adjusting pricing strategy without market data

• Challenge: Setting prices can be difficult without a lot of market research. There’s a risk of underpricing, which hurts profit, or overpricing products – which can drive customers away.

• Solution: Use a simple formula that covers costs and considers value rather than just competitive pricing. A basic cost-plus approach – covering all direct costs and adding a markup – can help ensure profitability without deep research. After a few months, revisit your pricing based on actual customer feedback and profitability.

Maintaining customer communication with limited time

• Challenge: Keeping customers informed and engaged is key, but it can become overwhelming when time and resources are stretched thin – especially if you’re handling many small transactions or have a growing client list.

• Solution: Implement an FAQ page or auto-response system for common enquiries to reduce repetitive emails. Use email marketing to proactively update customers on order status, new offerings, or service availability. Tools such as Mailchimp and Kit allow you to automate sequences, saving time while keeping customers updated.

Adapting quickly when trends shift

• Challenge: Many quick-start businesses, particularly in sectors such as e-commerce and digital services, can be highly driven by trends. If demand suddenly shifts or market preferences change, you might be left with a business that’s no longer as appealing.

• Solution: Stay attuned to industry and customer trends by following trade publications, monitoring customer feedback, and checking performance analytics for your products or services. Consider testing new offerings in a limited way – such as introducing a few new items or services temporarily – to gauge demand without changing course.

These types of challenges highlight the operational complexities that even the simplest businesses encounter.

How to grow an easy-to-start business

Turning a small, easy business into a flexible business requires planning, operational adjustments, and sometimes a bit of restructuring. Here are some steps to help expand your business in a way that increases revenue and builds a foundation for sustained growth.

Systematise and document processes

• Why it matters: Standardising your processes can help you handle more clients, train team members, and maintain quality as your business expands. It also helps you save time and identify areas for improvement.

• How to do it: Document every step of your key processes, whether it’s customer onboarding, order fulfilment, or service delivery. Tools such as Notion, Trello, or Google Docs can help keep these records organised. As your business expands, these systems will make it easier to delegate tasks or outsource certain functions.

Embrace automation

• Why it matters: Automation frees up time, letting you focus on high-impact activities such as business strategy and customer relationships. It’s necessary for scaling repetitive tasks without having to immediately hire additional staff.

• How to do it: Use tools to automate basic tasks such as email marketing, social media posting, invoicing, and customer enquiries. For example, Mailchimp or Kit can automate your email sequences, while platforms such as Zapier help connect different tools and automate workflows across systems. As demand grows, you can implement more sophisticated software solutions customised to your needs.

Outsource or delegate low-value tasks

• Why it matters: Handling every task yourself becomes unsustainable at scale. Offloading time-consuming, routine work lets you focus on activities that directly drive growth.

• How to do it: Identify tasks that aren’t central to your expertise such as bookkeeping, customer service, and data entry, and consider freelancers or part-time virtual assistants. Websites such as Upwork and Fiverr are useful for finding skilled workers to help with specific tasks. As your business expands, consider hiring full-time employees for roles that are important to daily operations.

Develop a consistent marketing strategy

• Why it matters: Expansion requires a steady flow of new customers. Developing a reliable marketing strategy ensures consistent visibility to grow your client base without relying on sporadic efforts.

• How to do it: Invest in a multichannel marketing approach, whether through content marketing, social media, or paid ads. For example, you can start a blog to drive organic traffic, run targeted social media ads, or use SEO to increase online visibility. Posting regularly, and tracking analytics and engagement can help you see what’s working and refine your approach.

Expand your product or service offerings

• Why it matters: Diversifying your offerings allows you to reach new customer segments and deepen your relationships with existing clients. A well-timed expansion can increase revenue without a drastic increase in operational complexity.

• How to do it: Start by gathering feedback from your customers – what else would they like to see? Introduce complementary products or services that fit their needs. For example, if you offer social media management, consider content creation or paid ad services as well. Small, meaningful additions can help reduce the risk of spreading resources too thin.

Focus on repeat customers and client retention

• Why it matters: It’s generally easier to keep an existing customer than to acquire a new one. Happy customers provide steady revenue and are likely to recommend your business, fuelling organic growth.

• How to do it: Implement a retention strategy such as a loyalty scheme, a referral incentive, or a discount for repeat purchases. Engaging with customers regularly through personalised email campaigns or follow-up calls can also make a difference. Consider gathering feedback and using customer insight to continually improve your offerings.

Build flexible partnerships

• Why it matters: Key partnerships can provide access to larger audiences, valuable resources, or complementary services. These elements can help you scale faster without needing to expand your infrastructure.

• How to do it: Look for companies that serve a similar audience or offer complementary services. For example, a graphic designer could partner with a website developer to offer a comprehensive branding package. You can capitalise on partnerships through cross-promotions, cohosted events, or bundled services.

Consider adopting a subscription model

• Why it matters: Recurring revenue models are inherently flexible and can provide predictable cash flow, making it easier to plan and expand sustainably. Subscription models also allow you to deepen relationships with customers over time.

• How to do it: If your business model supports it, package your products or services into a monthly subscription. For instance, a financial consulting business could create a subscription service for ongoing support or access to exclusive content. Platforms such as Subbly and Patreon are helpful for managing subscriptions if you’re just getting started.

Invest in scalable technology

• Why it matters: As your business grows, managing customer data, sales, and marketing gets more involved. Scalable technology solutions make it easier to handle an increased workload without constantly upgrading or reinventing your systems.

• How to do it: Start with a customer relationship management (CRM) system such as HubSpot or Zoho to track interactions and manage leads. As you expand, find more advanced software that fits your specific industry and operational needs. For example, inventory management, accounting software, or advanced analytics tools can help you operate more efficiently.

Set clear financial and operational goals

• Why it matters: Expansion without clear objectives can quickly become chaotic and unsustainable. Setting specific targets provides a road map and helps you monitor progress effectively.

• How to do it: Define your goals – including revenue targets, customer acquisition numbers, or operational milestones – and break them down into quarterly or monthly targets. Use key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure success and reassess as you achieve each milestone. Doing so can help ensure you’re scaling in a way that aligns with your long-term vision.

Transitioning from an easy-to-start business to a venture that can grow involves a shift in mindset and strategy – focusing on sustainable growth, operational efficiency, and customer retention.