For many aspiring entrepreneurs, running an online business is a pipe dream that promises financial security and independence. We’ve compiled this list of the best online small business ideas to assist you in starting your own online business and gaining the flexibility and freedom that comes with it. None of these online business ideas require a physical storefront, and some don’t even require a physical product, only a service.
Not to mention that working from home allows you to set your own hours, be your own boss, and claim home office tax breaks. So, if you’re ready to embark on your dream of becoming an internet entrepreneur, begin with this list of online business ideas for beginners and choose the one that best suits your skills and interests.
Simple Online Business Ideas
With the internet’s and technology’s exponential growth, there’s an online business idea for everyone, regardless of experience or prior work history. Starting an online business can be one of the quickest, easiest, and most cost-effective ways to get started — especially since all you need is a laptop and an internet connection.
Working from home has become more popular in corporate cultures around the world, inspiring entrepreneurs to take control of their careers and go into business for themselves. Furthermore, if you aren’t ready to go all-in on your online business, many of these ideas can be started part-time, and as you build your side hustle, it may become successful enough to turn into a full-time gig.
1. Translation
If you’re a great writer but don’t want to publish original content, we’ve got some simple online business ideas for you. If you speak multiple languages, for example, translating could be an ideal job for you. You can do it wherever you want as long as you have the text and understand the purpose of the translation. Also you can use various AI tools for your needs.
2. e-Book writing
If company blog posts aren’t your thing, consider writing and publishing an e-book instead. Self-publishing has never been easier than it is today, thanks to Amazon and other websites. If you believe you have something interesting or useful to say and believe others will agree, writing e-books could be a lucrative business.
You don’t have to design, print, or ship your work with e-books. Simply write, market, publish, and sell to anyone on the planet. Furthermore, because you are publishing the book yourself, you will receive a larger cut of the profits if the e-book is successful. Of course, you’ll need to learn how to properly format an ebook, pay for editing and cover design services, and devise an effective marketing strategy — fortunately, there are plenty of examples to learn from.
3. Writing a blog
While a blog isn’t exactly a business, it can certainly help any of these online business ideas you’re considering.
Writer or designer on the side? Display your abilities in each post. Do you have a passion for coding, photography and video, fitness, food, or anything else? Write excellent articles on those topics to demonstrate your expertise.
The more people who believe in your authority, the more they will read, and the larger your audience, the easier it will be to grow your business through blogging. Even if you’re still undecided about which of these online business ideas to pursue, starting a blog is always a good idea because you’ll be establishing an online presence from which to build.
4. Freelance researching
Another smart online business idea is freelance research, which allows you to work from anywhere and on your own terms. You don’t have to be a gifted writer or a natural designer; just hardworking and aware of where to look for what you need.
Whether you’re putting together research documents for competitor or market research, answering tough technical questions on forums, or analysing statistics to spot trends, you’ll be doing invaluable work for your clients — and doing it for a reasonable price and with the freedom to work how you want.
5. Photography
Those who are talented in photography should consider turning their hobby into a source of income. Stock photo sites such as Shutterstock and iStock will pay you a commission on the images you sell, so if you’re okay with sharing your lens with millions of other people, this is a simple and convenient way to fund your freedom.
Furthermore, if you’re particularly talented, you might want to sell your photos on more exclusive sites with higher commission rates — or even on your own website or online store.
