Starting a small business can be easy and cheap. We list 17 ideas you can start with less than $500. Each idea works for beginners with little experience. We cover what the business is, why it’s good, steps to start, tools you need, startup cost, possible earnings, and tips for success.

1. Online Seller or Reseller

You sell products online for a profit. For example, sell clothes, toys, books or handmade crafts on Amazon, eBay, Etsy or a website. You buy items cheaply (maybe at thrift stores or sales) and sell them for more. This is a good idea because you can start with items you already own or buy low-cost goods. It needs very little money to start. As one guide says, you can buy initial inventory cheaply or use items you have.

How to start:

1. Choose a market. Pick a niche or product you like (like clothes, books or home decor).
2. Get inventory. Buy a few items cheaply (thrift store, clearance, or unused items at home).
3. Set up shop. Create accounts on selling sites (Amazon, eBay, Etsy) or set up a simple online store.
4. List items. Take clear photos and write simple titles and descriptions.
5. Price items. Add a small markup over what you paid (make sure you cover fees and shipping).
6. Ship products. When you sell something, package it and mail it to the buyer.

Tools or materials needed:

• A computer or smartphone with internet.
• Packaging materials (boxes, tape, labels).
• A basic printer (for shipping labels) or just pen and paper.
• A scale (to weigh packages, optional).

Startup cost: Under $300. You may spend a bit on initial items and shipping supplies. Some sellers start with items they already own, so cost can be near $0.

Earnings: A beginner could earn a few hundred dollars a month. For example, if you sell 10 items a month with $10 profit each, that’s $100. Over time with more sales and experience, you could make more.

Tips for success:

• Take good photos of each item (clear, bright, on a simple background).
• Write honest, clear descriptions.
• Compare prices on each platform to stay competitive.
• Start small and reinvest your profits into more inventory.

2. Online Tutoring or Teaching

You teach people online using video chat. This could be school subjects (math, reading), music lessons (piano, guitar), language lessons (English, Spanish), or skills like cooking or coding. Many people want to learn online, so demand is growing. You only need your own skills and an internet connection.

How to start:

1. Pick your subject. Choose what you can teach well (for example, math, English, piano, or cooking).
2. Get some materials. Prepare simple lesson plans or notes. You can use free sheets or a whiteboard app.
3. Set up online tools. Use Zoom, Skype, or Google Meet for video lessons. These often have free versions.
4. Set your rates. Decide how much to charge per hour (beginners might start $20-$30/hour).
5. Find students. Tell friends and family, join tutoring sites, or post on community boards.
6. Start teaching. Begin with one or two students and get feedback.

Tools or materials needed:

• A computer or tablet with a webcam and internet.
• Notebook and pens, or digital notepad.
• Teaching materials (textbooks, worksheets, or slides) for your subject.

Startup cost: Almost $0. You likely have a computer and internet already. If not, a basic laptop and internet bill fits in $500.

Earnings: Tutors can charge around $20–$50 per hour. A new tutor working part-time might do a few hours a week. For example, 8 hours a month at $25/hour is $200. With more students or more hours, income can rise.

Tips for success:

• Be patient and clear. Explain steps slowly.
• Use simple language and check if the student understands.
• Ask students to tell you what they found easy or hard.
• Get testimonials or references from happy students to find more clients.

3. Dropshipping Business

Dropshipping means selling products online that are shipped by a supplier. You don’t hold inventory. When a customer buys, the supplier sends the item directly to them. It is a good idea because you don’t need much money or space for stock. You only pay for a website (or online store) and marketing. As Business.com notes, you just need to pay for a domain (website address) and any platform fees.

How to start:

1. Choose products. Find a market niche (like phone accessories, pet toys, or home decor).
2. Find suppliers. Use sites like AliExpress, Oberlo, or print-on-demand services.
3. Build an online store. Set up a store on Shopify, WooCommerce, or other e-commerce platforms. Use a free theme if possible.
4. Add products. Import product details and photos from the supplier. Set your own prices (higher than supplier price).
5. Market your store. Use social media or ads to find customers. Tell people why your product is useful.
6. Handle orders. When you get an order, pay the supplier to ship it. Provide tracking to your customer.

Tools or materials needed:

• A computer and internet.
• A platform subscription (Shopify, etc.). Some have free trials or cheap plans.
• Payment method (like PayPal or credit card) to pay suppliers and receive money.

Startup cost: Around $50–$200. You might pay $10–$20 for a domain name and another $30 for a basic store plan. You may also spend on ads (optional) but can start with free social sharing.

Earnings: Profits vary. You set the markup on products. If you add $10 profit on each sale, 10 sales a month is $100. Beginners often make $50–$500 a month in the first months. Over time, with good marketing, it could grow.

Tips for success:

• Choose products people need or want (not random things).
• Test orders yourself to check quality and shipping time.
• Write clear, honest product descriptions.
• Offer excellent customer service (answer questions quickly).

4. Social Media Marketing Service

As a social media marketer, you help businesses post on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, or other platforms. Many small businesses need this help, since social media can bring in new customers. If you know how to make posts or ads, this business costs little to start because you mostly use skills, not materials.

How to start:

1. Learn the platforms. Spend time on Instagram, TikTok, etc. Understand what makes a good post (funny, helpful, or eye-catching).
2. Practice on your own. Make posts or short videos about a hobby. This builds your portfolio.
3. Offer help to friends or small shops. Start by managing a friend’s or local shop’s account for free or low cost to gain experience.
4. Set up a basic business page. Make a simple website or Facebook page describing your services (posting, content creation, ads).
5. Find clients. Reach out to local businesses or online communities. Show examples of posts or tell them you can help increase followers.
6. Manage accounts. Post regularly, reply to comments, and follow trends for your clients.

Tools or materials needed:

• A smartphone or computer.
• Social media accounts (Instagram, Facebook, etc.).
• Simple design tools (free apps like Canva) for making images or videos.

Startup cost: Under $100. Mainly you use existing devices and free apps. If you create a website, a domain and hosting could be $50/year.

Earnings: The average rate for a social media content specialist is around $29.80 per hour. As a beginner, you might charge less (maybe $15–$20 per hour). If you work 10–20 hours a week part-time, you could earn roughly $600–$1,600 per month.

Tips for success:

• Stay up to date on trends (new hashtags, viral challenges).
• Use scheduling tools (like Buffer or Hootsuite) to plan posts.
• Show real results: report how followers or sales increased.
• Be creative and consistent with posting to keep your client’s audience engaged.

5. Freelance Writer or Editor

A freelance writer creates articles, blog posts, or social media content for clients. An editor fixes and improves writing (correcting grammar, spelling, style). Many companies and websites need content, so there is steady demand. It costs almost nothing to start – just your computer and internet.

How to start:

1. Decide your niche. Choose a subject you know or enjoy (travel, tech, health, etc.).
2. Build a portfolio. Write a few sample articles or start a free blog. Use these to show clients your writing.
3. Create profiles. Sign up on freelancing sites (Upwork, Fiverr) or content marketplaces. List your services (writing or editing).
4. Set your rates. Beginners might start at $0.05–$0.10 per word or $10–$20 per hour. As you gain skill, you can charge more.
5. Pitch to clients. Send short, polite messages offering your writing services to blogs or businesses. Include links to your work.
6. Deliver good work. Write clearly and proofread your work. Meet deadlines to build a good reputation.

Tools or materials needed:

• A computer and internet.
• Word processor or writing app (Google Docs, Microsoft Word, etc.).
• Grammar tool (like Grammarly) to help catch mistakes.

Startup cost: Close to $0. You likely have all you need. If not, a basic laptop or internet bill is under $500.

Earnings: Freelance writers make around $15–$27 per hour on average. If you work 10–15 hours a week, that could be $600–$1,600 per month. Over time, rates can grow.

Tips for success:

• Write in a clear, friendly style. Short paragraphs and simple words make it easy to read.
• Always proofread or have a friend check your work. Good editing leads to repeat clients.
• Niching down (focus on one topic) can help you become an expert people seek out.
• Ask happy clients for testimonials or referrals to get more work.

6. Affiliate Marketing Content Creator

Affiliate marketing means you promote other companies’ products and earn a commission on sales. For example, you might write a blog or make videos recommending products. You put special links on your content. When someone buys using your link, you earn money. This business costs almost nothing to start. A blog or YouTube channel is basically free (domain + hosting can be $50/year).

How to start:

1. Choose a niche. Pick a topic you know well (like fitness gear, pet supplies, or gadgets).
2. Join affiliate programs. Sign up for programs like Amazon Associates or affiliate networks (ShareASale, etc.) that match your niche.
3. Create content. Write blog posts, make how-to videos, or post on social media about your niche. Include affiliate links to relevant products.
4. Grow an audience. Share your content on social media, SEO, or by word-of-mouth. More viewers means more potential buyers.
5. Optimize and repeat. See what content gets clicks or sales, then make more like it.

Tools or materials needed:

• A computer and internet.
• A blog (WordPress) or a YouTube account (both free to start).
• Basic editing tools (like a phone camera or free video software, if making videos).

Startup cost: Under $100. Mainly domain/hosting for a blog (around $50) or a new camera/mic if making videos (but a smartphone can work).

Earnings: Beginners often start slow. One source says new affiliate marketers earn from $0 up to $1,000 per month. It may take time to build an audience. If a few people buy through your links, you might earn a few dollars or a few hundred each month at first.

Tips for success:

• Be honest and helpful. Recommend products you have tried or truly like.
• Create quality content around the product (e.g. a tutorial or review).
• Disclose that you earn commissions (for trust).
• Promote through multiple channels (blog, social media, email) to reach more people.

7. Virtual Assistant

A virtual assistant (VA) helps busy people with tasks from home. Tasks can include answering emails, scheduling appointments, data entry, or customer support. Many small business owners need help but don’t want a full-time hire. You only need a computer and internet to start.

How to start:

1. Decide your skills. What can you help with? Typing, calendar management, answering calls, etc.
2. Set up a workspace. Find a quiet place at home to work.
3. Advertise your services. Create a simple online profile or tell friends/business contacts you’re available for VA work. You can use platforms like Upwork or Freelancer.
4. Set rates. Many new VAs charge $10–$20 per hour. You could also offer packages (e.g. 10 hours per month).
5. Start with one client. Even if it’s a friend or a small business, experience with a real client helps.
6. Stay organized. Use calendars, to-do lists, and reminders to manage tasks for all clients.

Tools or materials needed:

• A computer with internet.
• A headset or phone if you answer calls.
• Microsoft Office or Google Workspace (for documents and spreadsheets).

Startup cost: Very low. Your main costs are a computer (if you need one) and internet. These are usually already available.

Earnings: Virtual assistants charge around $10–$20 per hour. If you work 10 hours per week at $12/hour, you earn about $480 per month. Experienced VAs can earn more over time.

Tips for success:

• Be reliable and professional (meet deadlines, communicate clearly).
• Keep learning. New skills (like social media or bookkeeping) let you offer more services.
• Use good management tools (like Trello or Google Calendar) to track tasks.
• Ask for feedback and references from clients to build your reputation.

8. Lawn Care and Gardening Services

If you enjoy working outside and know basic landscaping, start a lawn care or gardening business. You mow lawns, trim bushes, or design small gardens. People like a neat yard but many are too busy to do it. You only need basic tools to start, as Business.com notes – a lawn mower and leaf blower are the main costs for a small start.

How to start:

1. Gather tools. Get or borrow a lawn mower, leaf blower, and garden shears.
2. Practice first. Mow your own lawn or a friend’s yard to be sure you can do a good job.
3. Set prices. Research local rates (e.g. Angi says mowing ranges ~$15–$50 for small yards). Charge by job or by hour.
4. Advertise locally. Put flyers in mailboxes or post on a community Facebook page. Offer a discount for first-time customers.
5. Start small. Do lawns for neighbors. Keep each yard tidy to get referrals.

Tools or materials needed:

• Lawn mower (push mower or small riding mower).
• Leaf blower or rake (for clearing debris).
• Trimmer or edger for edges and hedges.
• Safety gear: gloves, eye protection, etc.

Startup cost: Around $300–$500. A decent used lawn mower might cost $200-$300. A leaf blower can be $50–$100. Other tools add a bit.

Earnings: Lawn care can pay well. Angi reports an average of $123 per mowing visit. For a ½-acre yard, typical cost is $25–$100. If you mow just 4 yards a week at $50 each, that’s $200 weekly (~$800 per month). Over time you can add services (fertilizing, landscaping) to earn more.

Tips for success:

• Be reliable and on time. Customers often pay more for guaranteed service.
• Offer extra services (weed pulling, planting flowers) to raise your income.
• Keep your equipment in good shape (sharpen blades, change oil).
• Wear safe clothing and follow safety rules to avoid injuries.

9. Handyman or Repair Services

If you can fix things, start a repair or handyman service. This can include simple home repairs (like fixing a leaky faucet, painting a wall) or tech help (setting up Wi-Fi, installing software). Home repairs are always needed, and many homeowners will pay someone to do small jobs. You usually need basic tools and skills, and you can start by offering services locally.

How to start:

1. List your skills. Make a short list of what you can do (change light bulbs, unclog drains, basic carpentry, or computer setup).
2. Gather tools. For home repairs, get a basic toolkit (hammer, screwdrivers, pliers). For tech help, have a laptop and charging cables ready.
3. Set your rates. A common rate might be $30–$50 per hour. Research local handyman rates.
4. Advertise. Tell neighbors or post on local websites (like Craigslist or community forums). You can also put business cards in local stores.
5. Offer great service. Be honest about what you can fix. Guarantee your work so clients trust you.

Tools or materials needed:

• A basic toolkit (hammer, screwdrivers, wrenches, tape measure, level).
• Power drill or power screwdriver (optional but useful).
• For tech tasks: computer, cables, maybe software installation media.

Startup cost: Under $200. You may already have many basic tools at home. If not, a basic toolkit can be bought cheaply (around $50–$100).

Earnings: A handyman might earn $30–$60 per hour on average. Even doing a few hours a week can add up. For example, 10 hours at $40/hr is $400. Over time, if you build a client list, you could earn well above $1000 per month part-time.

Tips for success:

• Show photos or reviews of past work if you can (ask friends for permission).
• Always clean up after yourself so clients see you left their place neat.
• Carry extra small parts (screws, light bulbs) so you can fix things in one visit.
• If a job is beyond your skill, be honest and refer someone else; this builds trust.

10. Pet Services (Sitting or Walking)

Many pet owners need help. You can start a pet sitting or dog walking business. With a love for animals, you walk dogs, feed cats, or pet sit when owners are away. The startup cost is very low – mostly just your time and maybe some flyers. As one source notes, costs are basically marketing and transportation.

How to start:

1. Decide on services. Choose dog walking, pet sitting at your place, or home visits.
2. Set rates. A common dog walk might be $15–$20 for a 30-minute walk. Pet sitting (overnight) could be $20–$50 per night.
3. Advertise. Post on pet care websites, social media, or put up flyers at dog parks and vets.
4. Meet the pets. Do a meet-and-greet with a new pet/owner to ensure a good fit.
5. Provide service. Walk the dog, play with cats, send updates to owners.

Tools or materials needed:

• A leash and waste bags for dog walking.
• A pet carrier or crates (if doing cat visits, some owners provide these).
• A reliable vehicle or bike to travel between clients.
• Any medications or special food the pet needs (from the owner).

Startup cost: Almost zero. You just need to market yourself (flyers or a simple website). Leashes and bags are cheap (around $20 total).

Earnings: Dog walkers often charge about $30 for a half-hour walk. If you do 5 walks a week at $30, that’s $150 a week (around $600 a month). Pet sitters can earn more per visit. Overall, a part-time pet service can easily bring in a few hundred dollars per month.

Tips for success:

• Be on time and reliable. Pet owners must trust you (pets can get anxious).
• Send photo updates to owners so they know their pet is happy and safe.
• Get comfortable with different animals. Offer gentle care for elderly or anxious pets.
• Ask satisfied clients for referrals; word of mouth is huge in pet care.

11. Cleaning and Laundry Service

Start a home cleaning service or laundry pickup service. Many people are busy and will pay to have their home or clothes cleaned. You only need basic cleaning tools to begin. According to one guide, all you need is a good vacuum and cleaning supplies.

How to start:

1. Decide services. Offer general home cleaning (vacuum, dust, mop) or laundry (wash, dry, fold).
2. Set prices. A basic house cleaning might be $50 per hour or a flat fee per room.
3. Gather supplies. Buy a vacuum cleaner, mop, cleaning cloths, and detergents.
4. Advertise. Tell friends and neighbors, post on community boards, or make a simple flyer.
5. Start cleaning. Go to a client’s home, work carefully, and ask if they have special requests.

Tools or materials needed:

• A vacuum cleaner (renting or buying used could be ~$100).
• Cleaning supplies: buckets, cloths, brushes, all-purpose cleaner, etc.
• For laundry service: access to a washer/dryer (your own or a laundromat) and detergent.

Startup cost: Around $200–$400. A vacuum and basic supplies fit under $500.

Earnings: Cleaning pays well. On average, a home clean costs $170–$220 per visit. If you charge $50 per hour and clean 8 hours a week, that’s $400/week (about $1,600/month). Laundry services can add extra income (e.g., $1 per pound or fixed rates).

Tips for success:

• Pay attention to detail (corners, under furniture). Satisfied clients will rebook you.
• Use high-quality products to do a better job (safe products if kids or pets are around).
• Offer specials (like a discount for first cleaning) to get initial clients.
• Stay organized with a schedule so you remember each client’s preferences.

12. Personal Fitness Trainer

If you love fitness, start a personal training service. You coach clients on exercises and healthy habits. You can train people at a park, their home, or even via video call. The startup cost is low: a few small equipment items. Trainers often earn $20–$50 per session.

How to start:

1. Get certified (optional). Many clients like trainers with a fitness certification. This costs money/time but is not strictly required to start at a basic level.
2. Gather equipment. At minimum, get a yoga mat, some dumbbells or resistance bands (total under $100).
3. Define your services. Decide if you’ll do 1-on-1 sessions, group classes, or virtual coaching.
4. Find clients. Start with friends or family to practice. Offer a free first session or low rate. Ask for referrals.
5. Schedule sessions. Keep a simple calendar. Provide workout plans and diet tips to clients.

Tools or materials needed:

• Exercise equipment (dumbbells, resistance bands, yoga mat).
• Comfortable workout clothes and shoes.
• A computer or smartphone for videos or scheduling.

Startup cost: Around $100–$300 for basic equipment. Certification courses (if you take one) might cost more, but are optional.

Earnings: Personal trainers charge about $20–$100 per hour. A beginner might charge $25 per session. If you do 3 sessions a week at $25 each, that’s $75/week (~$300/month). Many trainers grow to earn a full-time living as they build clients.

Tips for success:

• Create workout plans tailored to each client’s goals (weight loss, strength, etc.).
• Be encouraging and positive; clients like motivation.
• Track progress with photos or measurements (clients love seeing improvement).
• Stay updated on fitness trends (new exercises or diets) to offer fresh advice.

13. Business Consultant

If you have business or technical knowledge, offer consulting services. Consultants advise companies on specific problems (like marketing, IT, accounting, or management). It is a good idea because many small businesses can’t afford full-time experts, so they hire a consultant when needed. You only need your know-how, a way to talk to clients, and maybe a simple website.

How to start:

1. Identify your expertise. Write down what you know well (for example, social media, bookkeeping, cybersecurity).
2. Create a pitch. Prepare a short description of how you help businesses.
3. Build credibility. Make a one-page website or LinkedIn profile. Mention past experience or success in your field.
4. Network. Reach out on LinkedIn or local business groups. Introduce yourself and offer a short free consultation.
5. Deliver value. Listen to a client’s problem, give clear advice, and follow up. Good results will bring more work.

Tools or materials needed:

• A computer with internet.
• Presentation tools (like PowerPoint or Google Slides) to show ideas to clients.
• A website or LinkedIn profile (free options available) for professional presence.

Startup cost: Under $100. You might pay for a domain ($10) and hosting ($50) for a website. You already have a computer and internet.

Earnings: Consultants often charge $50–$150 per hour, depending on skill. Even at $50/hour, two hours per week is $400. Projects can add up: advising for a few days can bring several hundred dollars.

Tips for success:

• Focus on solving a real problem (e.g. increasing sales, cutting costs).
• Prepare clear, simple advice. Avoid jargon when talking to clients.
• Ask for a testimonial after a project to help get new clients.
• Keep learning in your field to stay a valuable advisor.

14. Professional Organizer

A professional organizer helps people declutter and organize spaces (closets, kitchens, offices). Many folks want to tidy up but don’t know where to start. You can help sort items and set up storage. Customers pay well for this service – often between $30 and $250 per hour. The start-up cost is low: basically just training and marketing.

How to start:

1. Learn organizing skills. Read simple guides or take a short course online (some free tips are available).
2. Gather supplies. Buy bins, labels, and containers (you may use clients’ supplies too).
3. Offer your service. Start with a friend’s closet or pantry for practice.
4. Set rates. You could charge $30–$50 for each hour you work at first, then raise rates as you get better.
5. Get clients. Show before-and-after photos (with permission) on social media or flyers. Happy clients often refer friends.

Tools or materials needed:

• Storage bins, labels, drawers, hooks.
• Measuring tape (to check space).
• A reliable vehicle to get to clients (if needed).

Startup cost: Under $200. Organization bins and labels might be ~$50, and marketing (cards or a small website) under $100.

Earnings: Rates vary by location and project size. As noted, clients pay $30–$250 per hour. If you charge $40/hour and organize 3 hours a day for just one day a week, that’s $120. A few days a week could net $500+ a month.

Tips for success:

• Be respectful of clients’ belongings. Work carefully with personal items.
• Ask clients about their routine to organize things in a way they will use.
• Recommend simple systems (like clear boxes for kids’ toys or labels on shelves).
• Follow up after a week to see if they need adjustments. Good service brings repeat business.

15. Mobile Notary Public

A notary public is a person who legally witnesses signatures on important documents (like wills or deeds). A mobile notary travels to meet clients and notarize on the spot. This can be started quickly if you complete your state’s notary requirements. A notary certificate might cost $50–$150 per year, and you can charge per signature (e.g. $5 per signature).

How to start:

1. Get commissioned. Apply through your state’s process to become a notary (often a course or test is required).
2. Buy supplies. Get a notary stamp/seal and record journal. These cost under $50 total.
3. Set fees. Check your state’s allowed fees (often up to around $5 per notarization).
4. Advertise mobile service. Post on community boards or a simple website: “I come to you to notarize documents.”
5. Travel to clients. Carry your notary journal and stamp. Meet clients, check their ID, and notarize documents.

Tools or materials needed:

• Notary stamp/seal and record book.
• Reliable transportation (car or bike).
• Phone or calendar app to schedule appointments.

Startup cost: Around $100–$200. State commission and supplies (stamp, book) often fit under $200.

Earnings: You can charge for each document notarized (often $0.25–$20 each). If you notarize 5 documents a day at $5 each, that’s $25/day. Even with a few clients a week, a mobile notary can earn a couple hundred dollars per month.

Tips for success:

• Be punctual and professional (wear neat clothes).
• Stay organized with an online calendar so you don’t miss appointments.
• Offer extended hours for those who need urgent notary late or weekends.
• Build relationships with local realtors or law offices; they often need notaries.

16. Airbnb Host

If you have a spare room, basement, or separate unit, you can list it on Airbnb and rent it out to travelers or short-term renters. The platform is free to join and list. This is a good idea because extra space can earn money with minimal effort. You do need to prepare the space (clean and maybe furnish it a bit) and follow local rules.

How to start:

1. Prepare the space. Clean the room thoroughly and provide basics (a bed, linens, towels, and maybe Wi-Fi).
2. Take nice photos. Good pictures of the room and shared spaces help attract guests.
3. List it. Create an Airbnb account, set a nightly price, and write a friendly description.
4. Set house rules. Decide rules (no smoking, quiet hours, etc.) and list them clearly.
5. Welcome guests. Greet guests or set up a lockbox key. Make sure the room is ready before they arrive.

Tools or materials needed:

• Bedding and furniture for the room.
• Cleaning supplies (vacuum, disinfectant) to keep the space tidy.
• Small extras (soap, toilet paper, coffee) for guests’ comfort.

Startup cost: $100–$300. If you need a bed or dresser, used furniture can be cheap. Bedding and extras are low-cost.

Earnings: Earnings depend on location and season. Many hosts earn a few hundred dollars per month. For example, renting a room for $50 per night and having it booked half the month yields $750. Even a few bookings per month can cover your expenses and more.

Tips for success:

• Keep it clean and comfortable (buy a good mattress cover and fresh linens).
• Be responsive to guest messages; quick replies get good reviews.
• Offer small perks (like local guides or coffee) to stand out.
• Follow Airbnb’s safety tips (check local rules, have smoke detectors, etc.).

17. Personal Chef or Meal Prep Service

If you love cooking, offer personal chef or meal prep services. You can cook healthy meals for busy people or special diet needs. Clients pay you to prepare meals so they don’t have to cook. This business needs basic kitchen equipment and good cooking skills. You can start small (a few clients) and grow.

How to start:

1. Create a menu. Decide what meals you can offer (e.g. weekly healthy dinner packages, or diet-specific meals).
2. Set your prices. For example, $30–$50 for a complete meal package (entrée, side, and dessert) or an hourly rate if you cook on-site.
3. Get clients. Tell friends and family, post on social media or local boards. Offer a free tasting to a neighbor.
4. Cook and deliver. Make the meals at your home or client’s home (if allowed), then deliver them in containers.
5. Collect payment and feedback. Ask clients how they liked the food and adjust if needed.

Tools or materials needed:

• Kitchen tools (pots, pans, knives). Most homes already have these.
• Food containers or meal prep boxes.
• Access to ingredients (grocery store).

Startup cost: Under $500. You may need a cooler and quality containers ($50–$100). The rest is food supplies (bill), which clients pay for or you can buy in bulk.

Earnings: Personal chefs often charge $25–$50 per meal or per hour. For example, if you sell a $30 meal package and do 10 of these a month, that’s $300. More clients or expanded services can increase earnings.

Tips for success:

• Make delicious, reliable food (quality matters!).
• Be clear about food safety (keep hot foods hot, cold foods cold).
• Cater to your clients’ tastes (ask for preferences or allergies first).
• Keep a simple website or menu flyer so people can easily order from you.

Check this out: 

How to Launch a Cleaning Business and Earn £500,000 Annually

Starting a Vending Machine Side Hustle: Steps to Achieve $900 Monthly Income

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