What is the Cheapest Most Profitable Business to Start?

Contrary to popular belief, many low-cost business ideas with high profit potential allow you to focus on your ideas rather than on the logistics and upfront costs.

Potential entrepreneurs often hold back from going into potentially profitable ventures because they lack the upfront capital needed for startup expenses.

The idea of dealing with expenses like getting small business loans or renting a workspace can feel overwhelming.

Nothing to worry about because there are a lot of low-cost business ideas you can launch online.

We’ve gathered a list of the most lucrative options, complete with guidance on getting started, initial costs, and potential earnings.

Low-Cost Business Ideas with High Profit

Every small business owner wants to make money. However, this can be difficult, especially early on.

Even if you don’t have a lot of money or resources to start your business, you can still hope to build a profitable small business.

To get you started, here are some low-cost business ideas with high-profit potential.

1. Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketers simply earn a percentage of each sale they refer to as a brand. So you really don’t need anything to get started.

It may take some time to build an audience that will assist you in earning.

However, once you get started, it should be mostly profit.

2. Service of a Virtual Assistant

Virtual assistants assist businesses with a variety of tasks ranging from inbox management to social media posting.

To get started, all you need is a computer and an internet connection.

And if you have specific skills, you can earn even more.

3. Human Resources

Many businesses could benefit from assistance in finding qualified candidates for specific positions. You can do this online.

Furthermore, businesses frequently pay a premium for recruiting services that can assist them in finding high-level candidates.

4. Blogging

Creating a blog entails primarily purchasing a domain and hosting.

After that, you can earn money by offering sponsored content to brands, sidebar ads, or affiliate links.

5. Podcasting

Podcasting follows a similar business model but in audio form. You might need to invest in some audio equipment.

However, it should not be prohibitively expensive.

6. Making a YouTube Video

YouTube allows video creators to earn a percentage of the ad revenue generated by their content.

With just some basic video equipment and time, you can amass a large enough following to profit from that platform.

Best New Businesses to Invest In

The world of investments provides opportunities in a variety of shapes and sizes. Here are a few examples of new businesses in which you can invest:

7. Sales and Management of Real Estate

To get into real estate, you don’t need a specific degree. You can come from any background and study to obtain your state’s real estate license.

To operate your own real estate office, you may need a specialized broker’s license or a property manager’s license.

Real estate commissions are 6% of the sale price, divided equally between the buyer’s and seller’s agents. Each agent earns $7,500 when selling a typical $250,000 home.

8. Accounting

Accounting may be a good career for you if you are good with numbers. CPA, or certified public accountant, is the most common professional designation for an accountant.

Accounting and related professions, depending on your state’s requirements, require only a license and a computer.

An accountant will almost always have a degree in accounting, finance, business management, or a related field.

Accountants with a higher level of education can command higher fees and provide more valuable services, such as consulting and financial analysis.

9. Copywriting

Copywriting is another high-margin business that can be started and thrived with only a computer and your brain.

This type of business does not necessitate a physical location or employees.

It doesn’t even need any special equipment or machinery other than a laptop or desktop PC.

Low-Cost Online Business Ideas

With your little capital you cant set up businesses like this:

10. Dropshipping Enterprise

Dropshipping is one of the best online business ideas you can pursue from the comfort of your own home.

It is an order fulfillment method that eliminates the need for online store owners to manage inventory.

They purchase their products from a third-party supplier (or wholesaler) who fills their customers’ orders.

11. Proofreading

Do you have a keen sense of detail? If you frequently find errors in Facebook comments, you should consider proofreading. It’s a relatively simple online business to run from home.

Proofreading is the process of reading written work and highlighting any errors that you find.

The emphasis is on the word “marking” – you do not need to edit the mistakes; simply make suggestions for the writer to consider.

As a proofreader, you will almost always be required to correct spelling, punctuation, and grammar errors.

You should also double-check the text for consistency.

12. Online T-shirt Sales

Have you ever wanted to start your own clothing line but were too intimidated? It’s easier than you think to start one!

You can design your own designs and sell them under your own label. Platforms like Printful have made it extremely simple to enter the apparel industry.

Factors to Consider Before Launching a Business Venture

Before setting up a business venture, there are a few key things to mull over, especially if you’re aiming for low investment and high returns.

1. SWOT Analysis: Do a SWOT analysis to figure out what you’re good at, where you might struggle, what opportunities you can seize, and what threats might be lurking.

2. Capital: Money matters, so get your financial plan in order. Figure out how much you need to start and keep things running smoothly. Even for low-cost ventures, having a clear budget is crucial for staying on track.

3. Legal matters: Don’t forget about the legal matters. Make sure you know what rules and regulations apply to your business and follow them to the letter.

4. Know your customers inside and out: Create detailed profiles of who they are and what they want, and tailor your offerings to fit their needs.

5. Set up a solid supply chain: Especially if you’re doing something like dropshipping, where getting products to customers on time and in good shape is key, you’ll want to make sure your suppliers are reliable.

Setting up your dream business doesn’t have to be complicated. 

With careful planning and commitment, you can transform these ideas into thriving ventures that not only bring financial success but also personal fulfillment.