(Perfect for Beginners Looking to Make Money)
Starting your own business is the dream of many Americans.
But let’s be real — not everyone has a ton of money to invest in a big business.
The good news?
There are many small business ideas you can start with low investment — right from your home or even online.
In this guide, I’ll share the best low-cost small business ideas for people in the USA. These ideas are beginner-friendly, flexible, and perfect for side hustles or even full-time income.
Ready? Let’s get started!
Why Start a Low-Investment Business?
Starting a low-investment business is smart because
- You don’t need to risk a lot of money.
- You can test your ideas first.
- You can work part-time or full-time.
- Many ideas are online-based — so work from anywhere!
- You have control over your time and earnings.
20 Best Low Investment Small Business Ideas in USA
Here are some of the most popular and practical ideas you can start in 2025.
1. Freelance Writing
Do you enjoy writing? Companies need content for blogs, websites, and social media.
What You Need:
- Good writing skills
- Laptop and internet
- Portfolio of your work
You can start on platforms like:
- Upwork
- Fiverr
- Freelancer
2. Social Media Management
Many small businesses need help managing their Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok accounts.
What You Do:
- Create posts
- Respond to comments
- Grow their followers
It’s a great way to earn from home if you love social media!
3. Dropshipping Business
Sell products online without buying inventory upfront.
How It Works:
- You create an online store (Shopify is best).
- The customer places an order.
- The supplier ships the product directly to the customer.
This is one of the most popular online business ideas in the USA.
4. Print on Demand (POD)
Design t-shirts, mugs, phone cases, or hoodies — without printing them yourself.
Websites like
- Printful
- Teespring
- Redbubble
Handle the printing and shipping for you.
5. Virtual Assistant (VA)
A virtual assistant helps businesses with:
- Email management
- Scheduling
- Data entry
- Customer support
Many business owners in the US hire virtual assistants online.
6. Affiliate Marketing
Promote other people’s products and earn a commission for every sale.
Best Affiliate Programs in the USA:
- Amazon Associates
- ClickBank
- ShareASale
- CJ Affiliate
You can promote products using a blog, YouTube channel, or social media.
7. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking
Americans love their pets!
Offer dog walking, pet sitting, or even pet grooming services in your neighborhood.
Apps like Rover and Wag! can help you find customers.
8. Cleaning Services
Cleaning homes or offices is always in demand.
Start small in your local area and grow through word of mouth.
What You Need:
- Basic cleaning supplies
- Transportation
- Good customer service
9. Online Tutoring
If you’re good at a subject like math, English, or science, you can teach students online.
Websites like
- Tutor.com
- Wyzant
- VIPKid
can help you get started.
10. Handmade Crafts Business
If you love DIY or crafting, sell handmade items on:
- Etsy
- eBay
- Facebook Marketplace
Popular ideas include:
- Candles
- Jewelry
- Home Decor
11. Blogging
Blogging is a long-term online business idea.
Choose a topic you love, like
- Travel
- Food
- Personal Finance
- Parenting
- Health
Monetize your blog with:
- Ads (Google AdSense)
- Affiliate marketing
- Sponsored posts
12. YouTube Channel
Create videos and earn money from ads and sponsorships.
You can start a YouTube channel about:
- Tutorials
- Product reviews
- Lifestyle vlogs
- Gaming
You just need a smartphone and creativity!
13. Lawn Care or Gardening Services
Offer grass cutting, gardening, or landscaping services in your local community.
This is perfect for people who enjoy working outdoors.
14. Babysitting or Childcare Services
If you love kids, offer babysitting services.
Apps like Care.com help you connect with families looking for trusted babysitters.
15. Sell Digital Products
Create and sell digital items like:
- eBooks
- Printables
- Online courses
- Templates
You can sell on:
- Etsy
- Gumroad
- Shopify
16. Photography Business
Love taking pictures? Start a small photography business.
Offer services for:
- Family portraits
- Events
- Product photography for local businesses
17. Food Delivery Driver
Sign up with:
- DoorDash
- Uber Eats
- Grubhub
Deliver food in your local area and earn per delivery + tips.
Flexible and great for extra income.
18. Personal Fitness Trainer
If you’re into fitness, become a personal trainer.
You can offer:
- In-person sessions
- Virtual workout classes
- Create fitness plans
Certifications can help, but many people start without them.
19. Home-Based Baking Business
Are you good at baking?
Sell homemade cookies, cakes, or snacks in your local area.
Promote on social media and take custom orders.
20. Renting Out Your Stuff
Make money by renting things you already own.
What You Can Rent Out:
- Car (Turo)
- RV (Outdoorsy)
- Storage space (Neighbor.com)
- Tools or equipment
This is a passive income idea with almost no effort.
Final Thoughts
Starting a small business in the USA doesn’t have to cost a lot of money.
Many of these low-investment ideas are easy to start, even for beginners.
The most important thing is to take action. Start small, learn as you go, and stay consistent.
Remember—every big business once started small!
Your dream of being your own boss is totally possible in 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the cheapest small business to start in the USA?
Some of the cheapest ideas include:
- Freelance writing
- Social media management
- Virtual assistant
- Affiliate marketing
- Pet sitting
Most of these only require a laptop and internet.
2. Do I need a business license to start a small business?
It depends on your state and the type of business.
Online businesses may not need a license right away, but local services like cleaning or childcare often do.
Check with your local government to be sure.
3. Can I start a small business while working full-time?
Absolutely! Many people in the US start small businesses as side hustles while working their 9-5 jobs.
Choose something flexible like online freelancing or selling digital products.
4. How can I promote my small business for free?
You can promote your business using:
- Social media (Instagram, TikTok, Facebook)
- Word of mouth
- Local community boards
- Free Google My Business listing
- Blogging or YouTube
5. How long does it take to make money from a small business?
It depends on the business type and your effort.
Some people start earning in a few days (like food delivery), while others (like blogging or YouTube) may take months.
Patience + Consistency = Success!
There you go! These low-investment small business ideas are perfect for anyone in the USA looking to start fresh in 2025.
Pick an idea that excites you — and take the first step today!