Best Business to Start With Little Money (or No Money) in 2025

Starting a business with limited funds can seem daunting, but in 2025, it’s more achievable than ever. Whether you’re a first-time entrepreneur or looking to add a side hustle to your current job, launching a successful venture with little to no investment is within reach. Over the past decade, I’ve had the privilege of working with countless business owners, and I’ve seen firsthand how low-cost startups can grow into profitable and scalable businesses. In this post, I’ll guide you through the #1 best business to start with little money in 2025, explore other top businesses, and share tips to maximize your success.

The #1 Best Business to Start With Little Money in 2025

In 2025, service-based businesses continue to be the top choice for entrepreneurs looking to start with little money. Among these, starting a consulting or freelancing business stands out as the #1 best business to start with little investment. Whether you’re offering services like marketing, virtual assistance, or financial consulting, you can leverage your skills and start with minimal upfront costs. All you need is a laptop, an internet connection, and a solid marketing plan to attract clients.

If you’re interested in starting a marketing consulting business, a great resource to check out is the video “How to Start a Marketing Consulting Business.” In this episode, I share my journey from working in retail to building a successful marketing consulting firm. I discuss the importance of niching down, simplifying lead generation, and leveraging SEO strategies. Watch the video to gain insights on how you can specialize and grow your consulting business in 2025.

Learn How I Built A Successful Marketing Consulting Firm

Audio Version on Spotify

As I highlight in the video, niching down can help you create more focused marketing strategies and generate consistent leads. Whether you’re new to consulting or looking to refine your approach, this video offers valuable tips on succeeding in the consulting space.

Why Start a Business with Little Money in 2025?

In 2025, starting a business with limited funds offers more advantages than ever before. Thanks to digital tools, affordable outsourcing options, and access to global markets, entrepreneurs no longer need to secure large amounts of capital or invest in expensive equipment to get their businesses off the ground. Moreover, by focusing on service-based or digital businesses, you can often get started using skills you already have, reducing the need for significant upfront investments.

Benefits of Low-Investment Businesses

• Reduced Financial Risk: The less money you invest upfront, the less financial risk you take on. Starting small gives you room to test the market and adjust your business model without significant losses.

• Flexibility: Many low-investment businesses, especially service-based ones, offer flexibility in terms of working hours, location, and scalability. You can start them part-time and grow as demand increases.

• Scalability: The best businesses to start with little money often provide opportunities to scale quickly without large additional investments. Whether it’s through outsourcing or automation, these businesses allow you to grow while keeping costs low.

Top Reasons to Consider Low-Cost Business Ideas in 2025

In today’s fast-paced world, starting a business with little money doesn’t just make financial sense—it can lead to immense personal satisfaction and financial freedom. Let’s dive into some key reasons why low-cost business ideas should be at the top of your list in 2025.

Flexibility in a Changing Economy

2025 is likely to continue the trends we’ve seen in recent years, with many individuals seeking more flexible work options. Whether you’re looking to transition from a traditional job or add a side hustle, a low-cost business offers you the chance to adapt quickly to economic changes.

Leveraging Digital Tools

Digital tools and platforms have made it easier than ever to manage and grow a business. From social media marketing to automation, affordable software can help streamline operations and increase profitability. Most of these tools come with low subscription costs or even free versions, helping to reduce upfront expenses.

High-Profit Margins

Many low-cost business ideas, especially those that rely on providing services or digital products, have high profit margins. With minimal overhead costs, such as inventory or rent, you can maximize your earnings while keeping expenses low.

Top 20 Best Businesses To Start with Little Money

Below are 20 business ideas that require minimal investment, allowing you to get started without needing a large amount of capital. Each of these options offers high demand and the potential for profitability while being simple to manage and scale over time.

1. Bookkeeping Service

Bookkeeping services are in constant demand from small businesses, freelancers, and entrepreneurs. If you have a background in finance or are comfortable with numbers, starting a bookkeeping service is a low-cost option. You’ll only need accounting software, a computer, and some basic marketing to get your first clients.

2. Tutoring Business

If you have expertise in a particular subject, tutoring can be a highly profitable business that requires minimal setup. You can offer services in person or online, using platforms like Zoom. All you need is a computer, internet access, and a marketing plan to start reaching potential students.

3. Consulting Business

If you have expertise in a specific industry or field, starting a consulting business can be one of the best ways to earn money with little initial investment. Whether it’s marketing, HR, or operations, businesses are willing to pay for advice that improves their bottom line.

4. Delivery Service

With the rise of online shopping and food delivery services, starting a local delivery business can be a profitable option. You can deliver groceries, packages, or restaurant orders with just a vehicle and a smartphone to manage orders.

5. Online Store

E-commerce is a booming industry, and setting up an online store through platforms like Shopify or Etsy is easier than ever. You can sell anything from handmade goods to digital products with minimal upfront costs. Dropshipping is another option, allowing you to sell products without needing to hold inventory.

6. Pool Cleaning Service

For warmer climates, a pool cleaning business is always in demand. With some basic training and affordable equipment, you can start servicing residential and commercial pools. This service is particularly valuable during the summer months.

7. Graphic Design Services

If you have a creative eye and know how to use design software like Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop, offering graphic design services can be a lucrative business. Start by marketing to small businesses that need logos, marketing materials, or website designs.

8. Pet Sitting Business

With pet ownership on the rise, there is an increasing need for pet sitters. This business can be started with little more than a love for animals and the ability to market your services locally or online through platforms like Rover.

9. Property Management

If you’re good at managing properties and enjoy dealing with tenants, property management can be a profitable business with little initial investment. You can offer your services to homeowners, investors, or real estate firms.

10. Personal Trainer

With fitness trends continuing to grow, personal trainers are in high demand. You can start by offering one-on-one sessions at a local gym or even provide virtual training online. Certification might be required, but startup costs remain low.

11. Auto Detailing or Mobile Car Wash

Auto detailing is a profitable business with minimal startup costs. With basic cleaning supplies and equipment, you can offer mobile car wash services to individuals and businesses. This business allows for flexibility, as you can operate on your schedule.

12. Dropshipping Business

Dropshipping allows you to sell products online without holding inventory. You act as the middleman between the customer and the supplier, and the supplier ships directly to the customer. It’s one of the best low-cost businesses for those looking to get into e-commerce.

13. Virtual Assistant

Virtual assistants are in high demand, especially with remote work becoming more prevalent. You can offer administrative support to businesses or entrepreneurs from the comfort of your home, using little more than a computer and a stable internet connection.

14. Staffing Business

If you have a good network of skilled workers, starting a staffing agency can be a great business with low upfront costs. You’ll help match businesses with temporary or permanent employees, earning a fee for each placement.

15. Self Storage Business

While starting a self-storage business requires some initial capital for renting or purchasing property, the ongoing costs are low, and the demand is steady. With minimal maintenance and operational expenses, this business offers reliable cash flow.

16. Website Design Agency

With more businesses moving online, there’s a high demand for websites. If you have web design skills, you can start a website design agency with very little investment. All you need is a computer, a good portfolio, and a marketing strategy to attract clients.

17. Professional Cleaning Service

Residential and commercial cleaning services are always in demand. With some basic cleaning supplies and a reliable vehicle, you can start offering cleaning services to homes or businesses in your area.

18. Open an Etsy Shop

If you’re crafty and enjoy making handmade goods, Etsy is a great platform to sell your products. From jewelry to home decor, you can set up an Etsy shop with little investment and start selling to a global market.

19. Lawn Care and Gardening Service

For those who enjoy working outdoors, starting a lawn care or gardening service is a great option. The startup costs are relatively low, and there’s always demand for these services, especially in residential areas.

Learn How Robbie Started His Lawn Mowing Business

Audio Version on Spotify

20. In-Home Caregiver

As the population ages, there’s increasing demand for in-home caregivers who can assist with daily tasks. If you have experience in caregiving, this can be a rewarding and profitable business with low startup costs.

Best At-Home Business Ideas for 2025

For those looking to start a business from home, there are plenty of options that require minimal investment. Here are a few businesses that can be launched without leaving your home:

1. Freelance Writing & Content Creation

If you have a knack for writing, freelance writing can be an ideal at-home business. You can offer content creation services to businesses, blogs, and websites while working from the comfort of your home. Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr are great places to find clients.

2. Virtual Assistant Services

As mentioned earlier, virtual assistant services are in high demand, and they can be done entirely from home. You can offer administrative support, email management, social media handling, and more.

3. Social Media Manager

With businesses focusing heavily on their social media presence, offering social media management services is a great at-home business idea. You can help businesses create content, engage with their audience, and grow their social following.

4. Online Tutoring and Teaching

Online tutoring platforms have grown in popularity, and you can start teaching students from home. Subjects like English, math, and science are always in demand, and platforms like VIPKid make it easy to connect with students around the world.

5. Handmade Crafting and Selling (Etsy Shop)

If you enjoy creating handmade products, starting an Etsy shop allows you to sell your creations online. From custom jewelry to unique home decor, the possibilities are endless.

6. Digital Marketing Consultant

If you have experience in digital marketing, you can offer consulting services to businesses looking to improve their online presence. This at-home business requires little more than a laptop and internet connection.

7. Blogging & Affiliate Marketing

Blogging and affiliate marketing can be profitable if you’re willing to put in the time to grow an audience. You can start a blog on a topic you’re passionate about and monetize it through affiliate links, sponsored content, or ad placements.

Low-Cost Service-Based Business Ideas

If you’re looking for businesses that don’t require much upfront capital, service-based businesses are a great choice. Here are a few ideas to consider:

• House Cleaning & Janitorial Services: Cleaning services are always in demand. With basic cleaning supplies and a few clients, you can start offering residential or commercial cleaning services.

• Landscaping & Lawn Care: For those who enjoy working outdoors, starting a landscaping or lawn care business is a good option. You can offer lawn mowing, gardening, and maintenance services with minimal investment in equipment.

• Personal Chef & Meal Prep Services: If you enjoy cooking, offering personal chef or meal prep services is a low-cost way to turn your passion into a business. You can offer these services to busy professionals or families in your area.

• Personal Training & Wellness Coaching: If you’re passionate about fitness and health, becoming a personal trainer or wellness coach allows you to help others achieve their health goals. You can offer sessions in person or online, depending on your preference.

• Pet Care, Walking, and Grooming Services: With pet ownership on the rise, offering pet care services is a lucrative business idea. You can start by offering pet walking, grooming, or sitting services in your local area.

• Professional Home Organizer Services: For those who enjoy organizing and decluttering, professional organizing services are in demand. You can help clients organize their homes or offices, charging by the hour or project.

E-Commerce and Online Business Ideas

E-commerce is booming in 2025, and starting an online business is easier than ever. Here are a few online business ideas that don’t require a large investment:

1. Launch a Dropshipping Store

Dropshipping allows you to sell products online without holding inventory. You can set up a dropshipping store through platforms like Shopify and market your products to customers worldwide.

2. Create a Print-on-Demand Shop

Print-on-demand allows you to create custom products, such as t-shirts, mugs, or phone cases, without holding inventory. When a customer places an order, the product is printed and shipped directly to them.

3. Become an Amazon Reseller

Amazon FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) allows you to sell products through the Amazon platform without managing fulfillment. You can source products, ship them to Amazon’s warehouses, and they handle the rest.

4. Offer Subscription Box Services

Subscription box services have grown in popularity, offering curated products to customers every month. You can start a niche subscription box business with minimal investment and scale as demand grows.

5. Create & Sell Online Courses and Webinars

If you have expertise in a particular subject, creating and selling online courses or webinars can be a profitable business. Platforms like Teachable make it easy to create and sell courses to a global audience.

6. Sell Handmade Products Online (Etsy, Shopify)

Handmade products are in high demand, and you can sell them through online platforms like Etsy or Shopify. Whether you create custom jewelry, art, or home decor, these platforms allow you to reach customers worldwide.

Business Ideas for Beginners & Teens

If you’re new to entrepreneurship, starting a business with little money might seem intimidating, but there are plenty of simple and affordable options available. Here are some great ideas for beginners and teens:

• Tutoring Business

• Pet Sitting and Dog Walking

• House Cleaning Service

• Errand Running Service

• Freelance Digital Services (e.g., Graphic Design, Writing)

Each of these businesses requires little upfront investment and can be started with just a bit of planning and effort.

Unique & Creative Small Business Ideas

If you’re looking to stand out and offer something different, these creative business ideas can help you tap into niche markets with minimal investment:

1. Event Planning & Coordination

2. Social Media Management & Advertising

3. Travel Planning & Itinerary Services

4. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Consultant

5. Bed and Breakfast Host

6. Coffee Shop Owner

Tips for Starting a Business with Little Money

Starting a business with limited resources doesn’t mean you can’t succeed. Here are a few tips to keep your costs low while maximizing your return:

1. Start Small and Scale Up Gradually

2. Utilize Free Resources and Tools Available Online

3. Network with Entrepreneurs and Industry Professionals

4. Offer Pre-sales or Crowdfunding to Generate Initial Capital

5. Barter for Services or Products to Minimize Costs

These steps will help you get your business off the ground without overspending and allow you to grow sustainably.

Business Formation Resources

Even with a limited budget, it’s important to set up your business properly. Here are a few low-cost or free resources to help:

• Best Online Platforms for Setting Up a Business: Shopify, Squarespace, Wix

• Affordable Accounting and Invoicing Software: Wave, FreshBooks

• Free Business Plan Templates and Guides: SCORE, SBA

• Low-Cost Marketing Strategies for New Businesses: Use social media, content marketing, and networking to grow your business affordably.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Cheapest and Most Profitable Business to Start?

Service-based businesses like consulting, virtual assistance, or bookkeeping are some of the cheapest and most profitable. They require minimal overhead and can be started quickly.

What is the Best Business to Start with $1,000?

With $1,000, you can start a dropshipping business, freelance service, or an online store.

What Business Has the Least Risk?

Service-based businesses tend to have lower risk because they don’t require large investments in equipment or inventory.

Which Business is Best to Start for Beginners?

Service-based businesses like virtual assistance, freelance writing, or tutoring are great for beginners due to their simplicity and low startup costs.

Final Thoughts

Starting a business with little money in 2025 is not only possible, but it can also lead to great success. The key is finding the right opportunity, starting small, and scaling as you grow. These low-cost business ideas give you the flexibility to explore different industries while keeping your financial risk low.

Ready to Get Your Business Off the Ground?

If you’re ready to take the next step, I’d love to help you build your business. Let’s schedule a 15-minute discovery call to explore your biggest needs and come up with a plan that works for you.