Online business ideas can come in many shapes and sizes. Some are more lucrative than others, but all of them require hard work and dedication to thrive.
For example, if you’re an expert in something, you can create a tutorial or a course to teach people your knowledge. The online course business model is growing rapidly and offers high earning potential.
1. Bug testing
If you are a tech whiz with coding skills, developing software may be the online business idea for you. Companies like Adobe have built successful businesses on their software products, proving that the potential earning potential in this field is high.
If you enjoy creating videos and have a knack for storytelling, video editing is an online business that could be rewarding. You can also build a website to host your videos using Hostinger’s website builder, which is simple and customizable. Then, you can earn from subscriptions and ads.
2. Beauty advisor
Beauty is a lucrative industry with plenty of growth potential. Despite the common perception, this career is much more than just makeup and skincare treatments. It encompasses product knowledge, customer service, and sales skills.
Individuals with artistic talent can build a profitable online business as an illustrator. People are constantly looking for creative visuals to help with their marketing and brand identity. This is why illustrators are always in demand. You can offer your services to a variety of businesses and clients. Companies like Glossier have done very well with this business model.
3. Public relations
Public relations is an online business opportunity that helps businesses manage their image and build relationships with the media. It is a profitable business idea that can be done from anywhere in the world.
If you’re a journalism major with a flair for storytelling, then starting an online news site could be the right business idea for you. Journalists like Bob Woodward have built careers uncovering some of the biggest stories in modern history.
Providing remote IT support is another profitable online business idea that can be done from any location. Companies like eXp Realty have experienced success in this industry.
4. YouTuber
Becoming a YouTuber is a creative online business idea that allows you to express yourself while potentially earning a lot of money. YouTubers can earn income through ad revenue, sponsorships, merchandise sales, and Patreon subscriptions.
If you love to play video games, you can turn your hobby into a profitable online business by becoming a professional gamer. You can earn income by winning gaming tournaments, streaming your gameplay on platforms like Twitch, and getting sponsorships from gaming companies. Alternatively, you can create an online store by selling your own gaming merchandise.
5. Online courses
Online courses are a great way to make valuable information accessible to people around the world. They can be asynchronous and self-paced, or synchronous and involve live group calls. They can also be delivered through email, video lessons, or PDFs.
If you’re passionate about a particular topic, consider starting a podcast and leveraging a site like Astra to create a dedicated landing page for your show. Popular podcasts like The Daily by The New York Times have garnered a massive audience, demonstrating the potential of this business idea.
6. E-commerce
Ecommerce provides a lucrative opportunity for small businesses to grow revenue through a global customer base. This business model allows you to sell your own products or services, or you can also offer other brands’ products through a dropshipping service.
One successful example of a successful online business is Pentagram, a design firm that serves clients from different industries. Starting a graphic design business is a viable option that can offer plenty of scope and demand for the right skillset.
Another popular choice is becoming an online personal assistant. This can be a very profitable and rewarding career as it doesn’t require a lot of startup capital to get started.
7. Membership website
A membership website lets you monetize your knowledge and skills in areas like entrepreneurship, tech trends, personal or business finances, or even baking. For example, a successful bakery like Sweet Laurel combines delicious baked goods with convenient local delivery.
You don’t need thousands of members to build a successful site, and smaller apps that cater to niche audiences have also found success. An online membership website can be a great source of long term, consistent income.
Setting up a membership website is easy with tools like SureMember. Use it to create a website that’s unique and tailored to your business idea.
8. Affiliate marketing
If you’re comfortable selling products that you don’t create yourself, affiliate marketing can be a lucrative business idea. For example, if you’re knowledgeable about personal finance, you can become an independent financial advisor and sell insurance policies from top-rated brands like AllState and Farmer’s.
Similarly, if you’re skilled in video games, becoming a professional gamer and streaming your gameplay on platforms like Twitch is another way to generate income from your hobby. The possibilities are endless!
9. Consulting
Online consulting is an excellent way to work remotely and earn a good income. Identify your area of expertise and market need, and build a website to showcase your services.
Building websites for clients is another lucrative online business idea. Companies like R/GA have built successful businesses from this service, showcasing its demand and scope.
If you have a musical talent, offering online music lessons is a rewarding business venture. You can offer one-on-one lessons, create an online course, or start a YouTube channel to share your knowledge.
10. Photography
If you have a knack for capturing compelling images, selling them online is an excellent business idea. You can sell stock photos or create your own photography website to offer services like event or portrait photography.
Freelance research is another viable online business option. If you’re good at finding answers to complex questions and enjoy working independently, this is the right online business for you.
Aside from being a profitable business, starting a podcast also allows you to share your knowledge and expertise with the world. The success of podcasts like The every day from The New York Times proves that.