How to start a business in the USA with minimal investment: 30 business ideas

Many people dream of starting their own business in the USA, but fear that this requires a huge start-up capital. In fact, a business can be started with little capital. Yahoo prepared a list of 30 original small business ideas with minimal investment.

30. Catering

Home catering is one of the most profitable small business ideas. You can start your project with only $356. If you start by hosting small events that you can handle on your own, then your start-up costs will be minimal.

29. Cable TV operator

The cable television industry is alive and will continue to live, because in addition to access to TV channels, it provides Internet and telephone services. And all this people need to configure. If you have a specialized technical background or experience in a related field (telecommunications, electronics, or network infrastructure), then it's worth giving it a try.

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28. Language online courses

People from all over the world live in New York, so there is a high demand for learning languages ​​in the city. You can start with almost zero investment. If you create an effective marketing strategy for the development of your project, it will attract many customers and bring great income.

27. E-commerce

E-commerce (sale of goods and services via the Internet) is a promising direction for a startup. It is predicted that by 2026, about 24% of all retail purchases will be made online. If you have something to sell, then go ahead with your dream!

You can even start a business without your own website and sell on platforms like Amazon, Shopify, Walmart, and more.

26. Email Marketing

To start an email marketing business, you can use the PeoplePerHour and Upwork platforms, where customers are looking for specialists in developing email marketing strategies.

If you have the skills to write effective emails, then you can easily create your own business by offering email campaign development and management services. The average cost to open such a business is about $1, including the purchase of the necessary tools and software.

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25. Property management

Property owners are often looking for professional property managers, and you can capitalize on this. Starting a property management business will cost approximately $500 to $10. They will cover advertising, office equipment, licensing and training.

24. Tour organizer/guide

Before starting interesting excursions, guides need to obtain the appropriate license. Training and licensing is perhaps the most significant expense when starting such a business.

Working in this industry allows you to have a flexible schedule and determine your own pricing policy in accordance with market conditions and competition. On average, you can earn from 20 to 100 dollars per hour.

23. Graphic design

To attract customers, you can use the Fiverr or Upwork online platforms. The main investments are aimed at buying premium software for graphic design (about $35 per month), advertising (from $300 and up) and creating your website, which will serve as your calling card.

22. Creation of software and applications

When evaluating the costs of starting a software startup, you need to take into account the costs of hardware and software for development, office rent or use of workspaces, employee salaries and other operating expenses.

It all depends on whether you want to work on your own, or create a whole team of experts and turn a small business into a big one.

21. Car wash and parts sales

Car owners strive to keep their cars in top condition, so the demand for car wash and parts replacement services is constantly growing.

Good service quality, friendly and professional staff, and effective advertising and marketing will help you attract customers. Income directly depends on the quality of services provided, the degree of satisfaction of the needs and expectations of customers.

20. Digital Marketing Services

By organizing a digital marketing startup, you will be able to do your work remotely. This allows you to reduce the cost of renting office space and expand your client base by working with companies from different cities or even countries.

In the field of online marketing, it is important to always be aware of the latest changes and new trends. Island spending is the cost of education and training.

19. Retail distribution

The main purpose of such a business is to profit from the difference between the price at which you purchase goods in bulk and the price at which you sell them at retail.

Conduct market research to understand demand, competitive landscape, trends and potential opportunities. Determine which products and product categories are most in demand and find your niche in that industry. Find suppliers and partners. Find out what retail licenses and permissions you might need.

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18. Information services

This particular category includes data analytics and cloud computing services. It takes an average of $3000 to open such a business. Each startup can specialize in specific areas of information services or offer a combination of different services depending on the needs of the market and its competencies.

17. Social media management

Since COVID-19, companies have become increasingly invested in promoting their products and services through various social media platforms. Instagram has been especially highlighted as the platform with the highest return on investment and is expected to see significant growth in 2023. This market is predicted to reach over $2032 billion by 110.

16. Dropshipping

This is a business model where you sell a product but don't need to have it in stock. Instead, you partner with vendors who store the goods and ship them directly to customers on your behalf.

You will need approximately $245 to organize and launch the project and have a clear idea of ​​what you are selling and to whom.

15. Organization of events

Organizing events is another great option for small businesses at minimal cost.

With the gradual recovery of social activity and the renewed desire of people to meet and celebrate, the demand for professional event management services is expected to increase.

14. Cleaning

The start-up cost of starting a home cleaning business can be as little as $2, including the cost of vacuum cleaners, detergents, and other necessary equipment.

In the US, the average cleaning rate from companies is approximately $237,5 per visit, making the industry one of the largest and most competitive in the country.

13. Order fulfillment services

Errand services or concierge services are a popular and lucrative business area. They include a wide range of tasks: personal shopping, grocery shopping, trips to the pharmacy and post office, as well as trips to the laundry and dry cleaning.

Competition in New York City can be intense, but with a growing number of busy people who are looking for help running their businesses, there is potential for business growth.

12. Accounting services

With an accounting degree/certificate, accounting software and business licenses, people can start their own accounting services business. The average initial cost is from 300 to 1000 dollars. General services include bookkeeping, preparation of financial statements and taxes, auditing and more.

11. Nurse

Starting a home care business for the elderly can be done with a small start-up cost of $150 to $700. To do this, you will need a high school diploma, First Aid Certification (CPR), a clean driving history, and a valid driver's license.

This business may include various services: hygiene assistance, cooking, house cleaning, shopping and escorting to medical procedures.

Before starting such a business, it is important to familiarize yourself with local requirements and licensing in the field of elderly care, as well as obtain all the necessary certifications.

10. Consulting

The consulting industry is currently thriving and showing decent growth year on year.

The consulting business requires constant learning and mastering new technologies and trends. The rapidly changing business environment requires consultants to keep abreast of the latest innovations and developments in their field.

Consultant fees vary widely by area of ​​expertise, ranging from $100 to $500 per hour.

9. Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing is an online method of making money by promoting the products and services of other companies. With affiliate marketing, you earn a commission for every successful sale or action your referral makes.

8. Career coaching

With unemployment on the rise, there is a significant demand for people to help in job searches. You can start a job search assistance service for as little as $188 in start-up costs, and potential clients can be found in groups on Facebook or on the Coach.me platform.

7. Website development

Web development/design is also considered to be one of the most profitable businesses with low start-up costs.

In addition to creating websites, you can offer additional services such as mobile app development, web design, content strategy, technical support, and website maintenance.

6. Babysitting or pets

Starting a pet or babysitting business does not require a large capital investment, the mandatory expenses will include local advertising. But remember that education and your skills are the main success factor.

5. Video production

Video is one of the most effective tools for marketing, education, entertainment and communication. Companies and organizations are looking for professionals who can record, edit, cut and publish video content.

Platforms Fiverr International Ltd. and Upwork Inc., provide a way for video production professionals to find clients and fulfill orders.

To successfully start a video production business, you need to have professional skills in video recording and editing, as well as use modern equipment and software.

4. Personal or virtual assistance

Many professionals choose to hire virtual assistants (VAs) or personal assistants (PAs) to help organize email and documents, make appointments, and perform other administrative tasks.

The average rate for VA is usually in the range of $15 to $30 per hour.

3. Dog walking

The dog walking business is a great opportunity for people who are passionate about animals and have experience with dogs. With the right strategy and a good reputation, you can develop a loyal customer base and build a successful business.

2. Social Media Influencer

The success of this startup depends on various factors: the quality of the content, its originality, its unique style, and the ability to attract and engage an audience. Constantly evolving your content, staying active and engaging with your followers also play a role in your success as an influencer.

According to a survey by HypeAuditor, the average influencer makes about $2 a month through their Instagram account.

1. Online tutoring

People with teaching experience can sell their courses on Amazon and other platforms.

Unleash your entrepreneurial spirit and join the growing army of small businesses.