How to Start a Business with Almost No Money
Starting a business sounds expensive, right? You need capital, a fancy office, employees, and a lot of resources. But here’s the truth: you don’t need thousands of dollars to start a business today. Thanks to the internet, social media, and digital tools, many businesses can be launched with little to no investment.
In fact, a study by the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) found that 69% of entrepreneurs start their businesses from home, often with less than $1,000. Even better? Many successful businesses today started with close to zero dollars—just skills, determination, and an internet connection.
If you’ve been thinking about starting your own business but feel limited by money, this guide is for you. Let’s dive into 15 business ideas you can start right now, even if your budget is small (or nonexistent).
1. Freelance Services
If you have skills like writing, graphic design, video editing, or programming, you can start freelancing today. Websites like Fiverr, Upwork, and Freelancer connect freelancers with clients who need their skills.
Startup cost: $0
Potential earnings: $100 to $5,000+ per month
Example: Many freelancers, like Alex Fasulo, started with just a laptop and now make six figures annually writing online.
Pro Tip: Start by offering services at a competitive rate to build a portfolio, then increase your prices as demand grows.
2. Social Media Management
Small businesses struggle with managing their social media accounts. If you know how to create engaging posts, grow followers, and increase engagement, you can offer social media management services.
Startup cost: $0
Potential earnings: $500 to $5,000+ per month
Example: Many businesses pay $500 to $2,000 per month per account for social media management. If you manage just 5 businesses, that’s $5,000 a month.
Pro Tip: Use free design tools like Canva to create posts and schedule them using platforms like Buffer or Hootsuite.
3. Content Writing & Blogging
Good writers are always in demand. Whether it’s blogging, ghostwriting, or copywriting, businesses are willing to pay for well-written content.
Startup cost: $0
Potential earnings: $100 to $10,000+ per month
Example: Jon Morrow, a famous blogger, started from scratch and built a multi-million dollar writing business.
Pro Tip: Start with freelancing, then build your own blog or niche website to make passive income.
4. Print-on-Demand Business
With print-on-demand (POD), you don’t need to buy inventory. Just design T-shirts, mugs, or phone cases, upload them to platforms like Teespring, Redbubble, or Printful, and earn money when someone buys.
Startup cost: $0
Potential earnings: $200 to $10,000+ per month
Example: Many POD sellers make $5,000 to $30,000 per year with creative designs.
Pro Tip: Use Canva or Adobe Photoshop to create unique, trendy designs that stand out.
5. Virtual Assistant (VA)
A virtual assistant helps businesses with tasks like email management, scheduling, data entry, or social media. Many small businesses and entrepreneurs need VAs but can’t afford full-time employees.
Startup cost: $0
Potential earnings: $500 to $4,000 per month
Example: Many VAs on Upwork charge $20 to $50 per hour and work remotely.
Pro Tip: Start by helping a small business for free to gain experience, then charge higher rates as you get more clients.
6. Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketing means promoting other people’s products and earning a commission for every sale. You can promote Amazon products, digital courses, or software using a blog, social media, or YouTube.
Startup cost: $0
Potential earnings: $100 to $50,000+ per month
Example: Many bloggers make $5,000 to $50,000 per month just from affiliate marketing.
Pro Tip: Start by recommending products you already use and share honest reviews on social media or a blog.
7. Online Tutoring
If you’re good at math, science, English, or even a musical instrument, you can teach online. Platforms like Wyzant, TutorMe, and Chegg connect tutors with students.
Startup cost: $0
Potential earnings: $500 to $4,000 per month
Example: Many online tutors charge $20 to $100 per hour, depending on expertise.
Pro Tip: Record your tutoring sessions and turn them into an online course to earn passive income.
8. Selling Digital Products
Digital products like ebooks, templates, printables, or stock photos require no shipping and can be sold an unlimited number of times.
Startup cost: $0 – $50 (for design tools)
Potential earnings: $500 to $50,000+ per month
Example: Many creators sell Canva templates and earn $1,000+ per month.
Pro Tip: Use Etsy, Gumroad, or your own website to sell your digital products.
9. Dropshipping Business
Dropshipping is a business model where you sell products without keeping inventory. When someone orders, the supplier ships the product directly to them.
Startup cost: $50 to $100
Potential earnings: $500 to $50,000+ per month
Example: Many dropshippers make $10,000+ per month by selling trending products.
Pro Tip: Start with a niche market (e.g., pet accessories, fitness gear) and focus on quality marketing.
10. YouTube Automation (Faceless YouTube Channels)
YouTube is the second-largest search engine and a great way to earn money. You don’t need to show your face—just create voice-over videos or animations.
Startup cost: $0
Potential earnings: $500 to $50,000+ per month
Example: Many faceless YouTube channels make $10,000+ per month from ad revenue and sponsorships.
Pro Tip: Use AI voice tools and stock footage to create engaging videos.
Start Now, Start Small
Starting a business with little to no money is not a dream—it’s a reality. In 2025, the internet gives you unlimited opportunities to earn, even if you have zero experience.
Many successful entrepreneurs started with nothing but took action. The key is to start small, stay consistent, and improve over time.
Whether it’s freelancing, selling digital products, or starting an online store, you have the power to build something great. The only question is: Will you start today?