50+ online business ideas to inspire you in 2023

If you’ve found your way here, chances are you’re thinking about starting an online business.

Which is all great. But figuring out where to actually begin is a daunting prospect — especially if you’re not even sure what type of business you want to dive into.

That’s why we’ve sifted through the noise to curate a massive list of over 50 online business ideas that are sure to spark inspiration.

From innovative niches to contemporary takes on classic concepts, there’s a venture for every kind of digital entrepreneur.

And certainly, the best online business to start for you will be in the mix.

The aim here isn’t to push you in one direction or another — it’s to ignite your imagination and hopefully trigger that eureka moment you’ve been waiting for.

So, strap in, pull out your favorite note-taking app, and prepare to explore some of the best online businesses to start from home!

Why start an online business from home?

The question really should be, “why not?” After all, online business is now more than just a trend — it’s a part of our everyday reality.

According to Statista, 2 billion people made at least one online purchase in 2020, which has only grown since.

As of 2023, there are 2.64 billion unique online shoppers in the world, which is 33.3% of the global population, according to Oberlo.

This actually represents a 3.1% increase over the previous year.

To drive home the point further, the total number of online shoppers is expected to hit 2.77 billion by 2025.

All of this is to say, there are people all around you willing and ready to spend their hard-earned money virtually.

But what are some of the advantages of launching an online business from home?

Let’s explore.

• Ease of launch: Starting an online business requires little more than a rock-solid idea and a sturdy internet connection. No fancy office or team required. Just you, your laptop, and a healthy dose of perseverance.
• Low barrier to entry: Don’t have a mountain of capital? No problem. Many online businesses require minimal upfront investment, making it accessible to aspiring entrepreneurs of all financial backgrounds.
• Global customer base: With an online business, your potential market isn’t confined to your neighborhood or city — it’s the whole world (if you want it to be). It’s an opportunity to connect with customers and clients on a global scale.
• Freedom and flexibility: Say goodbye to the rigid structure of 9-to-5 jobs. As an online business owner, you get to manage your time and construct a work schedule that perfectly complements your lifestyle.

But let’s balance the scales here.

While the advantages are compelling, starting an online business also requires hard work, time, and commitment.

It’s not all rainbows and unicorns, especially when it comes to conjuring up a viable, potentially profitable business idea — which can be the toughest part of the journey.

That’s precisely why we’re here.

Our mission is to help you navigate this challenging yet essential step and set you off on a path towards successful digital entrepreneurship.

50 Online business ideas to consider in 2023

If you’re ready to turn the page and start a fresh chapter in your professional life, then buckle up!

We’ve handpicked 50 good online business ideas ripe for the taking in 2023.

Here’s what we’re discussing today:

1. Start a blog
2. Start a membership website
3. Start an online store
4. Become a YouTuber
5. Create and sell digital downloads
6. Create an online course
7. Write an ebook
8. Offer online tutoring
9. Start a dropshipping business
10. Build websites
11. Be a social media manager
12. Be a freelance writer
13. Offer SEO consulting
14. Provide graphic design services
15. Be a virtual assistant
16. Create UGC
17. Start a podcast
18. Leverage affiliate marketing
19. Provide language translation services
20. Develop software
21. Become a data analyst
22. Launch a digital marketing consultancy
23. Provide remote IT support
24. Be a video editor
25. Become a voiceover artist
26. Become an influencer
27. Sell photography
28. Offer fitness coaching
29. Become a nutrition consultant
30. Become a life coach
31. Start a virtual real estate brokerage
32. Start an Etsy shop
33. Be a personal stylist
34. Offer business coaching
35. Become a professional gamer
36. Develop and sell apps
37. Provide music lessons
38. Trade stocks
39. Be a travel planner
40. Start an online bakery (with local delivery)
41. Start a subscription box service
42. Invest in crypto
43. Provide resume writing and critique services
44. Be a freelance researcher
45. Be an illustrator
46. Become a beauty advisor
47. Work in public relations
48. Sell handmade jewelry
49. Be a journalist
50. Become a content curator
51. Become an online bookkeeper

Sound good? Let’s jump right in and take a look at the first online business idea on the list.

1. Start a blog

Who knew sharing your thoughts, ideas, or expertise could become a lucrative business venture? But here we are!

At the top of our list of ideas for online business ventures to pursue is starting a blog.

A blog is one of the most accessible online businesses you can kickstart. And don’t be mistaken, it’s not just for people who like to write. It’s for people who have something valuable to share with the world.

A blog can span any topic you’re passionate about, technology, cooking, travel, parenting, personal finance, investing or health and fitness.

The key here is consistency, delivering value, and building an engaged audience. You make money through various avenues like sponsored posts, affiliate marketing, and ads once you’ve got a steady stream of traffic.

One fantastic example of a successful blog is Copyblogger, a resource hub for all things content marketing.

Starting as a one-man-show blog in 2006, it’s now a multimillion-dollar company, proving that a blog can indeed be much more than just an online diary.

If you’re contemplating starting a blog, consider using the Astra WordPress Theme. It’s fast, fully customizable, and perfect for beginners and professionals alike.

Astra offers seamless integration with popular page builders, letting you design your blog just the way you envision it.

2. Start a membership website

Do you have specialized knowledge or unique skills that people are willing to pay for? Then a membership website might just be your ticket to online business success.

Membership sites operate on the premise of exclusive content accessible only to members who pay a recurring fee. This could be anything from in-depth tutorials, exclusive articles, webinars, to community forums.

A membership site is an excellent online business idea because it can generate consistent cashflow. Once you’ve established a solid membership base, you’ll have a reliable monthly or annual income.

One standout example of a successful membership website is DigitalMarketer. It provides members with actionable resources and strategies to help them grow their digital marketing presence.

It’s also a great example of how you can monetize your expertise and turn it into a profitable online business.

Setting up a membership site has never been easier with tools like SureMembers. It’s a powerful membership plugin that lets you protect your content and give access exclusively to your registered members.

It’s flexible, user-friendly, and can integrate seamlessly with your WordPress website.

Starting a membership website is a commitment. You need to consistently provide value that keeps your members coming back.

In return, it can provide long term, predictable income.

3. Start an online store

If you’re a fan of retail therapy, starting an online store is the perfect business for you.

An online store lets you bring your merchandise directly to customers without worrying about leases, overhead costs, or staffing issues.

Plus, everyone is shopping online — from groceries to clothing and electronics. There’s plenty of opportunities for success.

You can stock your online store with both physical products and digital items like ebooks, apps, music and anything you like. There’s no need to limit yourself!

One example of an inspiring ecommerce success story is Dollar Shave Club.

Started in 2011 by a small group of entrepreneurs who believed everyone should have access to quality razors, Dollar Shave Club has become a global phenomenon.

It isn’t just about providing men with affordable grooming products. It’s also about creating a memorable brand experience that keeps customers coming back for more.

If you’re ready to take the plunge into eCommerce, setting up shop doesn’t have to be hard or expensive.

You can use SureCart, the newest eCommerce platform for WordPress, to get your store up and running in no time.

It’s full of features that make it easy to manage your online store, with options like product reviews, integrated payment gateways, and inventory management.

It’s a great option that provides seamless WordPress integration and a user-friendly interface. To enjoy certain tax benefits and easier access to funding, consider registering your business. If you’re in New York, you can form an LLC for free using formation services like Inc Authority, as this detailed GovDocFiling post outlines.

4. Become a YouTuber

If you’re a natural in front of the camera and have a knack for creating engaging content, becoming a YouTuber could be your calling.

YouTube offers a platform to share content across a vast range of topics from cooking tutorials, and travel vlogs to educational content, product reviews, and comedic skits.

You name it, YouTube’s got it.

Being a YouTuber is a great business idea because it allows you to tap into a massive audience.

YouTube has over 2 billion logged-in monthly users. Once you’ve built up a substantial following, you can monetize your channel through ads, sponsored videos, and even sell merchandise.

Take PewDiePie, for instance. Acquiring the title of most subscribed channel in 2013, he has made over $20 million just from his YouTube career!

5. Create and sell digital downloads

If you’re skilled at creating digital assets, why not turn them into a profitable online business?

Whether it’s graphic design templates, digital artwork, eBooks, music, software, or even mobile apps, there’s a world of possibilities when it comes to digital downloads.

The beauty of this business idea is its scalability. You create a product once and sell it multiple times without worrying about inventory or shipping costs.

Selling digital downloads can be profitable once you start getting organic traffic and converting it into sales.

You can also look into integrating with an affiliate program to reach more potential customers. This way, you’ll get a percentage of the sale from each referral.

An example of a successful digital download business is Creative Market. It’s an online marketplace for graphic design resources such as vectors, mockups and fonts.

Creative Market offers a unique platform for creatives to showcase their work, while also giving them the opportunity to make money from digital downloads.

If you’re looking to start your own digital download business, consider using Gumroad. It’s an online payment processing platform that lets you easily sell digital products such as ebooks, music, videos, software, and more.

Or, if you’re building a WordPress site to sell your digital goodies, consider using SureCart. It’s an easy-to-use and secure eCommerce platform that integrates seamlessly with WordPress.

6. Create an online course

If you’re an expert in your field, you can use your knowledge to create and sell online courses.

Online courses are a great way to make money without having to leave the comfort of your home.

Plus, you’ll get to share your expertise with thousands of people around the world!

The key is finding your niche and creating courses that solve a specific problem. That way, you make sure your students get results and are happy with the lessons they’ve bought from you.

A great example of an online course success story is Tim Ferriss’ 4-Hour Chef. In this course, he teaches his audience how to become “culinary masters in weeks, not years.”

When creating online courses, always remember to keep your content up-to-date and relevant.

You can use learning management systems such as LearnDash or LifterLMS that make it easy for you to create and manage online courses. Plus, they also have features like quizzes, surveys, certificates and user profiles.

You can also make use of Starter Templates with the Astra theme.

You can choose a template that suits an online course well like Online Courses template. It includes all the pages and features you need to create a compelling course website.

7. Write an eBook

If you have a knack for writing, why not monetize it? Writing eBooks is a great business idea as they are easy to produce with minimal costs.

Plus, most eBook readers are available either as apps or downloadable versions so you don’t need to worry about printing and shipping costs.

You can write an eBook on any topic. Start by researching topics related to your business or passion and then develop a book around it.

Once you’ve written the eBook, you can use Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing to publish the book and make it available to readers across the globe.

Ebooks are an excellent way to build passive income as they don’t require a lot of effort to produce.

You can also create an ongoing stream of income by making your book available on subscription services like Kindle Unlimited or Apple Books.

Plus, once you’ve built a readership base, you can launch new books as part of a series and capitalize on the momentum of the initial book’s success.

8. Offer online tutoring

If teaching is your calling, then why not consider online tutoring? With the world becoming more and more accustomed to online learning, the demand for online tutors is growing.

Whether it’s academic subjects, language skills, coding, or musical instruments, if you’re proficient in something, there’s likely someone who wants to learn it.

Online tutoring is a great online business idea because it offers flexibility. You can work from anywhere, at any time, and with students from all over the world.

A successful example of an online tutoring business is Chegg Tutors. Students can connect with tutors for one-on-one lessons in a wide array of subjects.

To get started, you can create a profile on sites like Tutor.com or Chegg to start connecting with students who are looking for tutors and offering your services.

You can also use online tools such as Zoom or Skype to facilitate the lessons. Just make sure to offer good rates and be friendly yet professional in all your interactions.

If you want to take learning further, check out SureMembers. It works with WordPress to help create your very own online course website.

9. Start a dropshipping business

If you’ve dreamt of running an eCommerce business but are not keen on managing inventory or handling shipping, dropshipping could be your golden ticket.

In the dropshipping model, you partner with a supplier who fulfills orders on your behalf. You focus on marketing and customer service, while your supplier takes care of production and shipping. It’s a win-win!

Starting a dropshipping business is a smart move because of its low startup costs, reduced risk, and scalability.

You don’t need to invest in inventory, which means less risk and more flexibility to test different products.

A standout example of a successful dropshipping business is Notebook Therapy, an online store that sells notebooks and stationery from its own brand and other suppliers.

To start your own dropshipping business, you need to find a supplier who is willing to work with you. You can research popular products on sites like Amazon and Alibaba to get ideas for what to sell.

You then look for reliable suppliers who offer competitive prices, bulk discounts, and fast shipping.

Once you’ve chosen a supplier, you can create a store using the eCommerce platform of your choice.

10. Build websites

Another of the ideas for online business ventures you should consider is to create and sell websites.

As more and more businesses establish an online presence, the demand for well-built, visually appealing websites is skyrocketing. If you have a knack for web design and development, starting a website building business could be the perfect fit.

Building websites for clients can be a lucrative online business. It offers flexibility, as you can work from anywhere, and it’s continually evolving, which means there’s always something new to learn.

A successful example of a website building business is R/GA, a company known for designing and building beautiful, functional websites for big-name clients.

If you’re in the business of building websites, products like Astra WordPress Theme and Starter Templates can be real game-changers. Astra is a lightweight, customizable WordPress theme perfect for any type of website.

And as you already know, Starter Templates offers a library of ready-to-use page templates that can make building websites faster and easier.

11. Be a social media manager

Social media marketing is an important part of any online presence. It helps to build brand awareness, engage with potential customers, and drive sales.

As a result, more and more businesses are outsourcing their social marketing needs to professional social media managers.

As a social media manager, you’re in charge of managing a brand’s social media profiles, crafting engaging content, and interacting with the audience.

It’s a dynamic and ever-evolving role, perfect for those who thrive on creativity and enjoy being online.

This is a great business idea because the demand for social media managers is growing. Brands understand the power of social media and are investing in professionals who can help them harness it.

A well-known company that offers social media management services is Social Chain.

They’ve managed campaigns for big brands like Amazon, Coca-Cola, and Spotify, proving just how lucrative and influential this business can be.

12. Be a freelance writer

If you have a way with words, consider being a freelance writer. Writing is an in-demand skill, and there’s no shortage of opportunities out there.

Freelance writers are highly sought-after because businesses need compelling copy to attract potential customers and keep their existing ones engaged.

Better yet, writing offers flexibility since you can choose your own hours and work from anywhere. It’s truly a job that allows you to be your own boss.

A successful example is Kristi Hines, a freelance writer, ghostwriter, and copywriter who has written for big names in the marketing industry.

To get started, create a portfolio and build an online presence. You can also explore job boards such as Upwork, Freelancer, and Problogger for potential writing gigs.

Once you have some experience under your belt, you can start reaching out to businesses directly via email or even cold-calling.

If you’re building a portfolio site to showcase your work, don’t forget about the Astra WordPress Theme and Starter Templates like Freelance Copywriter.

13. Offer SEO consulting

Organic search engine optimization is essential for any business that wants to be found online. SEO is also a complex process that requires plenty of research and technical know-how.

That’s why many businesses are turning to expert SEO consultants. Those who can help them create effective strategies and get the desired results.

One successful SEO consultant who’s carved out a niche for himself is Brian Dean, the founder of Backlinko. His work in SEO consulting has helped countless businesses improve their online presence.

If you want to be an SEO consultant, it’s essential to stay up-to-date with industry trends and best practices. You should also have a solid understanding of HTML and CSS since search engine algorithms often change.

You can start by offering your services to friends and family, or you can look for freelance gigs on sites like Upwork.

As your business grows, you can focus on building a website that showcases your expertise and portfolio of past projects.

14. Provide graphic design services

If you have an eye for design and a knack for creating visually stunning graphics, starting a graphic design business could be your path to success.

As a graphic designer, you can offer services like logo design, brand identity design, advertising design, and much more.

This business idea is promising because, in a visually driven world, good design is essential. Businesses are always in need of skilled designers to help them stand out from the crowd and connect with their audience.

A successful example of a graphic design business is Pentagram, one of the world’s largest independently-owned design studios.

Their work spans across various industries, showcasing the demand and scope in the field of graphic design.

For building a portfolio site to showcase your graphic design work, consider using the Astra theme with the Alexandrina Kennedy – Designer starter template

15. Be a virtual assistant

If you’re a whiz at organization and enjoy helping others manage their workloads, becoming a virtual assistant (VA) could be your ticket into the world of online businesses.

As a VA, you can offer a range of services, from managing emails and calendars to handling social media and administrative tasks.

Being a virtual assistant is a viable business idea because many business owners are in desperate need of an extra pair of hands to help manage their day-to-day tasks.

Working remotely, you can support clients from around the globe, which offers great flexibility and diversity.

A successful example of a virtual assistant business is Time etc, a company that connects entrepreneurs with experienced VAs.

They have built a successful business model around the demand for virtual assistance, proving the viability of this online business idea.

16. Create UGC (User-Generated Content)

User-Generated Content (UGC) refers to any type of content — videos, pictures, reviews, or posts — created by users rather than brands.

If you’re good at rallying a community and encouraging engagement, creating a platform for UGC could be a great online business idea.

This venture is a good idea because it taps into the power of community and authenticity. Consumers trust user-generated content because it’s seen as more genuine and relatable compared to brand-created content.

This trust can lead to higher engagement, conversions, and customer loyalty.

A standout example of a business that thrives on UGC is GoPro.

They actively encourage fans to share their experiences with the brand on TikTok, which in turn helps build a strong community and drives sales.

17. Start a podcast

Starting a podcast can be a brilliant way to connect with an audience on a deeper level.

Whether it’s about entrepreneurship, tech trends, personal development, or any other topic you’re passionate about, podcasting gives you a platform to share your thoughts, insights, and stories in an engaging way.

It’s also a great online business idea because podcasting is a growing medium.

One notable example of a successful podcast is The Daily by The New York Times. It’s a daily news podcast with millions of listeners, demonstrating the immense potential of this medium.

When you’re ready to get your podcast off the ground, consider using Astra paired with the Creative Podcaster template to create a dedicated website.

This can provide a hub for your listeners to learn more about your show, access show notes, and engage with your content.

18. Leverage affiliate marketing

If you have a platform (like a blog or a website) and an audience, you can monetize it through affiliate marketing.

This involves promoting a company’s products or services and earning a commission for every sale made through your referral link.

Affiliate marketing is a lucrative online business because it requires little to no investment to get started, and the earnings potential is pretty significant.

Plus, you can choose to promote products that you genuinely believe in, creating a win-win situation for you and your audience.

A great example of successful affiliate marketing is Michelle Schroder-Gardner’s blog, Making Sense of Cents.

She has become a successful affiliate marketer by promoting products like eBooks and hosting services.

19. Provide language translation services

Are you proficient in more than one language? If so, offering language translation services could be an excellent online business opportunity.

From business documents and website content to books and films, the demand for professional translation services is high and spans industries.

Providing language translation services is a promising idea because we live in an increasingly globalized world where communication across different languages is vital.

Businesses often require translation services to reach global audiences, making this a lucrative field if you have the necessary language skills.

One successful example of a language translation business is Mars Translation.

They’ve built a platform that connects clients with professional translators in various languages and fields, illustrating the potential and scope of this business idea.

20. Develop software

Are you a tech whiz with a knack for coding? Developing software could be the online business idea for you.

This could involve creating anything from a mobile app or a game to a cloud-based service or a plugin for a specific software ecosystem.

Developing software is a rewarding venture because there’s a massive demand for digital solutions that can make people’s lives and work easier, more efficient, and more fun.

Plus, the earning potential in software development is quite high, especially if you create a popular product.

One noteworthy example of an extremely successful software development business is Adobe.

They have created a suite of popular software products, from the Adobe Creative Suite to their cloud-based storage solution — demonstrating just how vast the possibilities are when it comes to this online business idea.

Now, you don’t need to have an Adobe-level idea to get started, but it does go to show the potential of a well-executed software development online business.

21. Become a data analyst

If numbers are your forte and you have a knack for making sense of complex data sets, becoming an analyst could be a prime online business opportunity.

As a data analyst, you’ll be responsible for collecting, processing, and performing statistical analyses on large data sets.

Turning your data skills into an online business is a great idea, given that we live in the era of big data.

Companies in various sectors are continuously looking for professionals who can help them make data-driven decisions, making analysis a highly sought-after skill.

A successful example of a data analyst who turned her skills into a business is Ann K. Emery.

She offers data visualization services and workshops through her company, Depict Data Studio.

22. Launch a digital marketing consultancy

Do you have an in-depth understanding of digital marketing? If so, launching a digital marketing consultancy could be a great opportunity.

A digital marketing consultant provides organizations with the expertise and strategies they need to increase their online presence and reach their goals.

This type of venture is an attractive idea because it allows you to combine your expertise with your entrepreneurial spirit.

Plus, the earning potential is quite significant considering that businesses are always looking for ways to improve their digital marketing strategies.

One successful example of a digital marketing consultancy is Amy Porterfield’s.

She has built an impressive business by helping individuals and organizations grow their online presence with effective digital marketing strategies.

For building your own professional website to showcase your digital marketing services, the Astra theme is a logical choice.

Just couple it with the Business Coaching & Consulting template and you should be good to go!

23. Provide remote IT support

Are you the go-to person when tech issues arise? Providing remote IT support might just be the online business opportunity you’ve been looking for.

This role involves helping clients troubleshoot and resolve their tech-related issues.

Remote IT support is a solid online business idea because as more and more people work from home or start their own online businesses, the demand for remote IT services is growing.

Being able to offer technical support from a distance can be a lucrative venture.

A great example of a successful remote IT support business is CompuCom. It which specializes in providing remote IT services and solutions to individuals and businesses.

Their network of technicians has enabled them to become one of the largest remote IT service providers in the world.

24. Be a video editor

Video editing is an extensive and specialized field, but it’s also in high demand.

If you have the skills to create compelling visuals and videos, setting up a video editing business could be the perfect online business idea.

This type of venture can involve helping individuals or businesses create videos that tell stories or advertise products.

The earning potential of video editing is quite high as businesses are investing more and more in creating captivating visuals.

One successful freelance video editor who turned her skills into a profitable business is Valentina Vee, a Los Angeles-based director and editor who’s worked with big brands and global NGOs.

25. Become a voiceover artist

Do you have a unique and captivating voice? Becoming a voiceover artist could be just the thing.

This involves creating audio files for commercials, corporate videos, presentations, animation films, podcasts, and more.

Voiceover artists are in high demand because businesses need help creating audio that capture their audience’s attention.

This is a great idea for those who are looking for an online business they can build from the comfort of their home.

One example of a successful voiceover artist is Nancy Daniels. Her work has been featured in videos, audio books, and video games.

She now offers her services through her own company, The Voice Lady.

You will need to invest in a decent microphone and some sound-editing software, but you can otherwise get started from home.

26. Become an influencer

If you have a large following on social media, you might be able to turn it into an online business opportunity by becoming an influencer.

As an influencer, your job will involve leveraging your platform to promote products or services in exchange for commissions.

This can be a lucrative venture if you know how to effectively market yourself and the right products or services.

One example of a successful influencer is Jackie Aina, who has leveraged her platform to promote beauty brands and empower people of color in the beauty industry.

She now has over 4 million followers on YouTube and Instagram and has partnered with some of the biggest beauty brands out there.

27. Sell photography prints

If you have a good eye for capturing compelling images, selling your photographs online could be a profitable business venture.

You can sell your photos on stock photo websites, create and sell your own photo prints, or even offer your photography services for events or portrait sessions.

Selling photography is a great online business idea as there’s always a demand for high-quality images for various uses—from websites and blogs to advertisements and editorial content.

For instance, you can sell your photos on sites like Shutterstock, iStockPhoto, or Alamy.

Alternatively, you can sell your photos directly to businesses and individuals on platforms like EyeEm or Foap.

One example of a successful photographer who sells prints is Joel Sartore, who has been praised for his work both online and in galleries.

He’s best known for his work with the National Geographic Photo Ark project, which seeks to document endangered species in captivity and in the wild.

His photos have earned him global recognition and have been exhibited in various galleries and museums around the world.

28. Offer fitness coaching

Are you passionate about health and fitness? Do you enjoy helping others reach their fitness goals? Becoming a fitness coach could be an idea to pursue.

As a fitness coach, you can create and sell workout plans, offer one-on-one coaching sessions, or even launch your own fitness app.

Online fitness coaching is a good business idea because more and more people are looking for ways to stay fit from the comfort of their own homes.

Fitness influencers like Kayla Itsines have turned their passion for fitness into a successful online business by offering workout programs and fitness advice.

29. Become a nutrition consultant

The good online business ideas just keep coming! If you have a passion for general health and wellness, becoming a nutrition consultant might be the best online business to start.

As a nutrition consultant, you can offer personalized diet plans, conduct online nutrition workshops, or even create your own line of health food products.

A successful nutrition consultant to draw inspiration from is Danielle Pashko. She has made a name for herself by offering personalized health and wellness advice.

30. Become a life coach

Those who have a true gift for helping people discover their potential and motivating them to reach their goals often succeed as life coaches.

Life coaches help their clients navigate through life’s challenges, make significant life changes, or achieve specific goals.

Looking for more good online business ideas? Becoming a life coach hits the mark because people are always looking for guidance and motivation to improve their lives.

Tony Robbins is probably one of the most notable examples, whose coaching programs have empowered millions of people worldwide.

31. Start a virtual real estate brokerage

Those with a passion for real estate and who are interested in technology should consider starting a virtual real estate brokerage.

In a virtual brokerage, agents work remotely, and much of the brokerage’s operations are conducted online.

Companies like eXp Realty have experienced success with this model, proving that it’s possible to make real estate transactions easier and more convenient through technology.

32. Start an Etsy shop

If you’re creative and enjoy making handmade goods, vintage items, or crafting unique digital designs, an Etsy shop could be one of the best online businesses to start.

Etsy is a global marketplace that allows creators to sell their unique creations to customers all over the world.

Starting an Etsy shop is a great online business idea as it offers a platform for creative individuals to monetize their skills and passions.

Custom Shirt Moon Light offers custom printed shirts for a variety of themes and occasions and has done incredibly well, getting over 20,000 sales since 2022.

33. Be a personal stylist

If you have a keen eye for fashion and love helping others look their best, becoming an online personal stylist could be a great fit.

As a personal stylist, you can offer personalized fashion advice, curate outfits for clients, and even shop on their behalf.

Becoming a personal stylist is a fantastic online business idea. As people lead busier lives, they’re looking for professionals who can help them look stylish without the effort and time commitment.

Companies like Stitch Fix have built successful businesses around online personal styling, especially when placing the emphasis on time-saving.

34. Offer business coaching

Let’s say you’ve already launched a business (or two) but are looking to expand into other avenues. In such a case, offering business coaching services could be a great online business idea to pursue.

As a business coach, you can provide advice and guidance to entrepreneurs and business owners looking to grow and improve their businesses.

Jay Abraham is a renowned business coach who’s made a significant impact helping businesses grow and maximize their profits.

To emulate this path, you’ll need to create an attractive, easy-to-navigate website. Make it easy on yourself by getting the Astra theme and downloading Starter Templates.

The Coach template is a great choice because it’s simple and easy to customize.

35. Become a professional gamer

Why not turn your video game playing hobby into a business? If video games are your thing and you’re skilled enough to compete with the best, becoming a professional gamer could be an exciting online business idea worth pursuing.

As a professional gamer, you can earn income through tournament winnings, live-streaming your gaming sessions on platforms like Twitch, and getting sponsorships from gaming companies.

Successful gamers like Ninja have turned their passion for gaming into lucrative careers, gaining fame and fortune as a result.

36. Develop and sell apps

Another online business idea you might want to try is app development. Whether it’s mobile apps, web apps, or even software as a service (SaaS) applications, if you can solve a problem or fill a need, there’s potential for success.

Developing and selling apps is a solid business idea because they have become a part of daily life for many people.

Companies like Slack and Zoom started with an app and built successful businesses that serve millions of users.

But you don’t have to have millions of users to find success. Smaller apps with niche audiences do remarkably well, too.

For instance, Flo Health created an AI-powered Period Tracker app to help women track their cycles—and it’s been wildly successful.

37. Provide music lessons

Offering online music lessons could be a harmonious online business idea if you’re musically inclined.

You can provide one-on-one lessons, create an online course, or even start a YouTube channel where you teach people how to play a particular instrument.

Websites like Lessonface have seen great success by providing online music lessons. If you have musical talent, this is a possible path to take.

38. Trade stocks

If you have a solid understanding of financial markets and enjoy analyzing economic trends, stock trading could be right up your alley.

As a stock trader, you can earn income by buying and selling stocks based on market trends. Remember though, this business can be risky and requires a good understanding of the markets.

Trading stocks is a viable business idea as people are increasingly looking to grow their wealth through investing.

And successful traders like Timothy Sykes offer a solid example to follow when getting started.

39. Be a travel planner

Love traveling and really know how to put together an itinerary? Becoming an online travel planner could be your ticket to a successful online business.

You can offer services like itinerary planning, booking accommodations, arranging for transportation, and providing recommendations for sightseeing.

Becoming a travel planner is a great online business idea, as people often find planning a trip time-consuming and overwhelming.

Companies like Rustic Pathways have found success by providing comprehensive travel planning services for specific locales.

40. Start an online bakery (with local delivery)

If you’re a whiz in the kitchen and your baked goods are always a hit, consider starting an online bakery that offers local delivery.

This combines the convenience of online shopping with the instant gratification of receiving freshly-baked goods at your doorstep.

Starting an online bakery is a delicious business idea because who doesn’t love baked goods?

Successful businesses like Sweet Laurel have made a name for themselves by offering delectable baked goods with convenient local delivery. It’s certainly a model you could emulate.

The Cake Shop Starter Template would be ideal for creating an attractive bakery site!

41. Start a subscription box service

Subscription boxes are a huge hit these days. That’s why starting an online subscription box business is one of the best online business ideas around.

You can build your own box, curate items from different sources, or even partner with other businesses to create speciality boxes.

This is a great way to keep customers coming back for more and to provide value at the same time.

Birchbox has found success with their monthly subscription box filled with beauty products.

42. Invest in crypto

If you’re interested in finance and technology, and are comfortable with high-risk high-reward scenarios, investing in cryptocurrency could be an online business venture for you.

Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and others have shown potential for substantial return on investment, though they can be very volatile.

If you want to get into this high-risk, high-reward business, make sure you understand the risks before investing capital.

43. Provide resume writing and critique services

If you have an eye for spotting errors and are good at writing, providing resume writing and critique services could be a lucrative business idea.

You can help job seekers craft the perfect resumes to get them noticed by potential employers.

This is especially valuable now as people look to make their resumes stand out amid a sea of applicants.

Companies like TopResume have built a successful online business by offering professional resume writing services.

44. Be a freelance researcher

Freelance research can be a great business idea for online entrepreneurs. With everything from data collection and analysis to deep-dive investigations, there’s plenty of opportunity in the field.

If you have an eye for detail, are good at finding answers to complex questions, and like working independently, freelance research might be a great fit.

Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr have plenty of successful freelance researchers offering their services.

45. Be an illustrator

If you’re artistically inclined and can create visually captivating illustrations, you could consider starting an online business as an illustrator.

You can offer your services to a range of clients, from authors who need book illustrations to businesses needing designs for their marketing materials.

Becoming an illustrator is a fantastic online business idea for those with artistic talent, as the demand for unique and compelling visuals is always high.

You can find plenty of examples of successful illustrators online, like Loish who turned a passion for drawing into a thriving online business.

46. Become a beauty advisor

Love beauty and make-up? Consider becoming a beauty advisor to help people look and feel their best.

You can offer online consultations, provide makeup tutorials, or even write reviews on the latest products.

Beauty advisors have become increasingly popular in recent years as more and more people are looking for advice when it comes to their skincare needs and beauty routines.

Businesses like Glossier have built successful online businesses by providing thoughtful advice and helpful tips to their customers.

Same goes for beauty advisors like Bobbi Brown, who has become a household name and an inspiration for aspiring beauty entrepreneurs.

47. Work in public relations

If you have a knack for storytelling and building relationships, starting an online business in public relations could be the right path for you.

As a PR specialist, you can help businesses and individuals manage their public image, handle their communications, and build positive relationships with the media.

Working in public relations is an excellent business idea because every business, big or small, needs to effectively communicate its brand and story to its target audience.

PR professionals like Richard Edelman have built a career by helping organizations craft and manage their public image.

48. Sell handmade jewelry

If you’re a jewelry maker or designer, starting an online business to sell your handmade creations could be the perfect business opportunity.

You can create unique pieces and reach a wide audience of potential customers who might not otherwise have access to your designs.

Businesses like Catbird NYC have found success selling their handmade jewelry online and inspiring countless other entrepreneurs to follow in their footsteps.

You can even open up a shop on Etsy if you don’t want to commit to having your own website.

49. Be a journalist

If you’re a news buff and have strong writing skills, starting as a journalist could be the perfect fit.

You can report on the latest news and trends for online publications or even write articles for businesses looking for content.

Whether it’s politics, entertainment, sports, or lifestyle topics, there are plenty of opportunities for journalists to make money online.

You can even expand your scope and become an investigative journalist for the more adventurous.

Journalists like Bob Woodward have made a name for themselves by uncovering some of the biggest stories in modern history.

And while you don’t need to have the biggest scoop of the century to be a successful journalist, you do need to be passionate about the work and have a flair for storytelling.

50. Become a content curator

If you enjoy browsing the internet and discovering interesting, relevant, and unique content, then consider becoming a content curator.

Your role would be to collect, organize, and share content that provides value to a specific audience or demographic.

This online business idea is beneficial because the internet is filled with content, and sometimes the sheer volume can be overwhelming for people.

Content curators like those behind the popular site Upworthy are able to sift through this vast sea of information and deliver high-quality, meaningful content to their followers.

51. Become an online bookkeeper

If you’re good with numbers and have an eye for detail, becoming an online bookkeeper could be the best online business idea for you.

You can help businesses and individuals keep track of their finances, stay up to date with taxes, and even create financial reports.

Bookkeeping is a great online business idea as it doesn’t require a lot of start-up costs and can be done on a freelance basis.

Companies like Bench provide online bookkeeping services and software and have been successful in this space.

But if you’re looking for examples of bookkeepers who have started their own online businesses, look to successful entrepreneurs like Jessica Mah of InDinero.

Jessica has built a successful bookkeeping business from the ground up and is now inspiring others to follow in her footsteps.

With more and more businesses jumping onto the digital bandwagon, the need for bookkeepers is only going to increase. If you’re comfortable working with numbers, this is the perfect business for you.

Quick tips for pursuing good online business ideas

Before we close out this exploration of online business opportunities, let’s circle back and arm you with a few essential tips.

After all, having an array of stellar online business ideas on hand is one thing, but turning those ideas into profitable ventures is a whole different story.

Here are some tips to figure out the online business idea you’d like to pursue and to then hit the ground running.

1. Unearth your passion: Always opt for an online business idea that lights a fire in your belly. The journey of entrepreneurship demands time, sweat, and a pinch (or more) of patience. If you’re deeply invested in what you’re doing, it won’t feel like a mundane task.
2. Dive into market research: Before setting sail, dip your toes into detailed research. Understand your target market, your competition, and identify what unique value you can bring to the table.
3. Craft a robust business plan: Consider this your road map, steering you towards success. It should encapsulate everything from your business goals, marketing and operational strategies, to financial projections.
4. Use the right tools: Equip yourself with all the essential tools you need to run your online business effectively. This could range from a solid internet connection, a powerful laptop, or a solid WordPress theme.
5. Harness patience (and persistence): Building a successful business is no sprint, it’s more like a marathon. So cultivating the right attitude of patience, hard work, and dedication to power you through any bumps in the road is imperative.

As you can see, diving into an online business requires thoughtful planning and execution.

But with the right idea and a healthy dose of persistence, there’s nothing stopping you from joining the ranks of successful online entrepreneurs!

Which online business idea will you pursue?

From content curation to bookkeeping and everything in between, there’s a good online business idea there that’s a perfect fit!

And with the digital world at our fingertips, it’s never been easier to start an online business.

The most important thing is to choose an idea you’re passionate about and willing to put the effort into. Once you have that, everything else can fall into place with time and dedication.

So why wait?

It’s time to take the plunge and start bringing your best online business idea to life.

If you’re considering a membership-based business, be sure to check out SureMembers, a top-tier plugin designed to help you establish and manage your membership site effectively.

But no matter what option you choose, don’t just dream about success—make it happen!