Small Money Making Business ideas: Tested and Proven

ByTristram Ouma

Jun 20, 2023
Small Money Making Business ideas Tested and Proven

Last updated on March 2nd, 2024 at 05:36 pm

Ever dreamt of starting your own small business but don’t have a lot of cash to invest? Just as it’s written in the tittle: small money making business ideas. If that’s you then this post is yours.

You can’t argue about it today there are plenty of side hustles and small business ideas that don’t require a ton of startup capital. All you need is just a skill or service people will pay for, a laptop, and some hustle.

If that sounds like an illusion to you.

Have probably heard of driving for Uber or Lyft in your spare time, or renting out a spare room in your place on Airbnb?

Well.

Those can be great ways to generate extra money, but they aren’t for everyone. Maybe you’re crafty and want to sell things you make.

Or you’re a wiz at social media and want to offer your skills as a freelancer.

The possibilities are endless. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best small money making business ideas that cost little to nothing to get started.

These micro businesses are perfect for anyone looking to earn some extra money in their free time or start building the foundation of a scalable company. Buckle up, it’s time to unleash your inner entrepreneur.

Without further ado here’s a list small money making business ideas you can start.

1. Start a Blog or Website ( one of the fastest small money making business ideas)

Starting a blog or website is one of the easiest ways to make some money on the side. All you need is a computer, Internet connection, and a little bit of time.

First, pick a topic you’re passionate about, whether it’s travel, cooking, personal finance, or gaming.

Focusing on something you know well and enjoy will make creating content so much easier. Build your site around that theme.

Next, choose a simple website builder like Wix or WordPress and create your site.

Pick a clean, uncluttered template and make it visually appealing. Add social media links so people can connect with you.

Start publishing content like blog posts, videos, or podcasts on a regular schedule, whether that’s once a week or a few times a month.

Provide useful information, tips, stories, or entertainment for your readers. Engage with your audience by responding to comments and messages.

Once you build up traffic, you can start to monetize your site through ads, sponsorships, affiliate links, online courses, or ebooks. Even earning a few hundred dollars a month can help pay some bills.

The key is consistency and quality. Keep posting on schedule, improve your skills over time, and give people a reason to come back to your site again and again. Starting a website may take work, but it can be an extremely rewarding endeavor. With a little time and effort, you’ll be making money from doing something you genuinely care about.

2. Drive for Uber or Lyft (Small money making business ideas)

Drive for uber or lyft is another small money making business ideas you be thinking of.

If you need to make some extra money on the side, driving for Uber or Lyft is an easy way to earn cash in your spare time.

To get started, you’ll need a reliable 4-door vehicle, a valid driver’s license, and auto insurance. Once you sign up to drive through the Uber or Lyft website, you’ll go through a quick background check and vehicle inspection to make sure everything is in working order.

The hours are completely flexible – you get to choose when you want to drive. Driving during peak hours like evenings and weekends, especially around bar closing times, will typically net you the most fares and tips. Many drivers find the most lucrative times are Friday and Saturday nights from 10pm to 3am.

Fares will vary depending on factors like time of day, location, and current demand for rides. On average, drivers make between $10 to $15 per ride. Don’t forget, both Uber and Lyft allow riders to tip their drivers too, so providing great customer service can really pay off.

Between rides, you’re free to relax, run errands, or just chill in your vehicle. Once a new ride request comes in, the Uber or Lyft app will provide the rider’s location and destination so you can get on your way to pick them up.

Driving for a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft won’t make you rich, but it can generate a solid side income to pad your wallet. If you enjoy chatting with new people and have time to spare, it may be worth giving a shot. The extra money you earn from driving on your own schedule could help pay off debt, fund your hobbies, or finance that well-deserved vacation.

3. Become a Virtual Assistant

Also fastest growing small money making business ideas to think of.

Consider Becoming a Virtual Assistant

As a virtual assistant, you provide administrative support to clients remotely. It’s a great business idea for those seeking flexibility and the freedom to work from anywhere.

Many VAs start by offering basic services like managing schedules, travel planning, and handling expense reports. As you gain experience, you can expand into more advanced tasks.

To get started, determine what services you want to offer. Some options include:

  • Email management: Help filter and respond to client emails.
  • Calendar management: Schedule calls, meetings, and events.
  • Travel planning: Book hotels, flights, and transportation for business trips.
  • Data entry: Input information into spreadsheets, databases, and client systems.
  • Writing and blogging: Ghostwrite or edit blog posts and newsletters for clients.

You’ll need certain tools and skills to be an effective VA. Strong communication, organization, and time management skills are essential.

You should be proficient in productivity software like Google’s G Suite or Microsoft Office. Consider getting certified in areas like project management, email marketing, or web design to broaden your skill set.

Many VAs charge between $25 to $100 per hour, depending on experience and services. You can find clients through websites like Upwork, Fiverr, or Flexjobs. Build your online presence with a professional website to help market your services. Offer free initial consultations so clients can get to know you and your work. Provide high-quality service and don’t be afraid to ask for referrals from happy clients.

Working as a virtual assistant lets you earn money on a flexible schedule. While it may take time to build up your client base, the freedom and independence can be rewarding. With hard work and persistence, a VA business has the potential to become a sustainable source of income. If you have the motivation and skills to manage multiple clients remotely, consider exploring this opportunity.

4. Teach English Online

One of the most popular small money making business ideas is by teaching English online. With the global demand for learning English, this is an opportunity that allows you to work from anywhere. All you need is a computer, a reliable internet connection, and to be a native English speaker.

Choose a Company to Work For

There are many companies that offer the ability to teach English online like DaDa ABC, VIPKID, and Qkids. Each has its own requirements, curriculum, and pay scale. Do some research to find one that suits your needs and qualifications. Most require a bachelor’s degree, TEFL certification and at least one year of teaching experience.

Set a Schedule

As an independent contractor, you get to choose your own hours. Most teachers work early mornings, evenings and weekends to accommodate students in China and other Asian timezones. You’ll typically teach 25-minute online lessons, so you can fit a few into a couple of hours. Set a schedule that works for your own routine so you can maintain work-life balance.

Prepare Lesson Plans

While the companies provide the curriculum, you are responsible for planning and conducting fun, engaging lessons for your students. Use interactive tools like games, songs, and flashcards to keep students interested. Rewards and positive reinforcement can also help motivate your students to continue progressing.

Market Your Classes

Some companies allow you to build your own student base and set your own rates. You can market your services through websites like Verbling, Chegg Tutors, and Wyzant. Set competitive rates, highlight your qualifications and experience, and be as personable as possible. Offer trial lessons or discounts to attract new students. With good reviews and word-of-mouth, you’ll gain more and more students over time.

Teaching English online is a great way to earn extra money from home. Whether you teach part-time or build it into a full-time business, this opportunity can be very rewarding. You get to connect with people around the world, set your own schedule, and gain valuable experience that can open doors to other online or in-person teaching jobs.

5. Sell Things on Etsy( Small money making business ideas)

Etsy is a popular online marketplace for handmade or vintage items and craft supplies. If you have a talent for creating unique products, opening an Etsy shop can be an small money making business ideas that can make some extra money in your spare time.

Set up your shop

Creating an Etsy shop is free and easy to do. You’ll need to choose a shop name, create listings for the items you want to sell, and upload photos of your products. Make sure your item descriptions are clear and detailed, including measurements and materials. Price your goods competitively based on what similar products are selling for.

Market Etsy shop

With so many shops on Etsy, you’ll need to find ways to drive traffic to your listings. Use social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest to promote your products. Start a newsletter to keep customers up to date on new items or sales. Offer promo codes and coupons to increase sales. Build up reviews from happy customers, as good reviews will boost your visibility on Etsy.

  • Write a short bio to help buyers get to know you and your creative process.
  • Participate in the Etsy community by liking and commenting on other shops and joining Etsy teams.

-Cross-promote by linking to your Etsy shop on your website or social media profiles.

Provide great customer service

Going the extra mile for your customers will encourage repeat business and good reviews. Ship orders quickly, and include a handwritten thank you note. Offer free shipping promotions or discounts on future orders. Provide an easy return policy in case a customer isn’t fully satisfied. Respond to questions and messages promptly.

With some time and effort, an Etsy shop can become a profitable source of side income. Put your creative skills to work, spread the word about your products, and keep your customers happy. Before you know it, the money from your Etsy sales will start rolling in.

Conclusion on Small Money Making Business ideas

That covers some simple yet effective small money making business ideas to generate extra income. The options are endless if you tap into your talents and interests. Don’t feel limited by what others are doing – think outside the box and go with what excites you. Start small, test different ideas, and scale up what works. You have nothing to lose and so much to gain. Imagine how life-changing an extra few hundred or even thousand dollars a month could be. Take that first step, choose an idea you connect with, and just get started. You’ve got this! Before you know it, you’ll be making money doing something you enjoy. How great does that sound? Now get out there and make it happen!