In the past few years, a record number of adults in the United States have quit their day jobs to pursue entrepreneurship. According to statistics, as of October of 2021, there were approximately 9.44 million unincorporated self-employed individuals — or 1 million more than the same time in the previous year.

Though individuals have a number of good reasons to branch out on their own, many find that two main obstacles threaten to get in the way of their dreams of business ownership: time and money. If you hope to become your own boss, don’t let these issues stop you. Instead, start small by bringing to life one of the following simple yet profitable ideas.

Easy Online Business Ideas

Online businesses come with several advantages over their brick-and-mortar counterparts. For instance, they require little to no overhead costs, demand no commute from their owners or employees, offer several unique tax deductions and grant ample flexibility. Though you should explore business ideas unique to your skills and talents, some profitable and easy-to-start online business ideas include:

• Blogging

• Self-publishing

• Photography

• Drop-shipping

• Crafting

• Graphic design

• Marketing

Businesses Ideas That Require Less Than $1,000 To Start

Starting a business doesn’t have to require much more than a grand and a good idea. Top business ideas you can pursue with $1,000 or less are as follows:

• Glassblower

• Photographer

• Jewelry-maker

• Plant nursery owner

• Auto dealer

• Landscaper

• Caterer/baker

 Many of these ideas can net huge profits. For instance, landscape workers — not owners — stand to make upwards of $50,000 a year.

Business Ideas That Require Less Than $100 To Start

If you are like many Americans, you have $500 or less in savings — savings you need for a rainy day. Does this mean you cannot afford to start a business? Not necessarily. Here are a few businesses that cost $100 or less or start:

• Dog walker

• Website designer and/or developer

• Stock photographer

• eBook writer

• Local business consultant

• Tax preparer

• Tutor

• Travel consultant

 Even if these are not your ideal careers, they can help you raise the capital you need to start your dream business.

A Few Final Thoughts

Before you venture out on your own, consider these points:

• Get Funding: Though you may not need a lot of money to start your business, you will need some. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce shares 44 grants, loans, and programs for small business funding.

• Plan Accordingly: Before starting any business, you need to research your audience, the competition, need, and demand.

• Name Your Business: Consider creating a DBA, or “doing business as” name, which allows you to sell products or services under various names without having to do additional paperwork.

• Invest in Good Help: Seek out top talent and automation software.

• Consider Going Back to School: Consider obtaining an MBA, which can sharpen your knowledge of business, strategy, and management. The right program can also develop leadership, self-assessment, and self-awareness skills. An online program is flexible to accommodate an entrepreneur's busy schedule and allows you to study at your own pace.

• Invest in a Strong Website: If you have room in your budget, hire a professional like Sophisticated Cloud to help you develop a site that looks professional and accurately represents what your business is about.

Starting a business doesn’t have to be difficult, time-consuming, or costly. With the right idea and enough gumption, you can hit the ground running with as little as $100 to your name.

GUEST BLOGGER AUTHOR:

STEPHANIE HAYWOOD