You don’t have to have much money to start a side hustle. There are many opportunities that are low cost or don’t take any money to start. Here are 12 side hustles that you can start with less than $100.
Starting a side hustle can be a great low-cost business idea. There are many opportunities that are low cost or don’t take any money to start. Here are 12 side hustles that you can start with less than $100.
1. Pet Sitter
All you need is to love animals to get this side hustle going. Taking care of pets for money doesn’t cost a thing. Use apps like Rover and Wag to find clients. Once you’ve established yourself, business will come looking for you. And it didn’t cost a thing. Local businesses, such as pet stores or veterinary clinics, can also be potential clients for your pet sitting services.
2. Grocery Deliveries
You need a car for this one, but if you have one, this is a cheap way to get started with a side hustle. It doesn’t cost anything. There are several delivery companies you can freelance with, but the big one is Instacart. Driving for Instacart is as easy as setting up an account with your driver’s license, proof of insurance and bank info. Walmart has a delivery service, Spark Driver, as well. You’ll also need a driver’s license and proof of insurance. They’ll also run a background screening. Both delivery services let you work on your own schedule, allowing you to earn extra cash.
3. Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketing is when you promote a retailer’s products and services on your platform. Having basic marketing materials is essential to effectively promote the products and services. You’ll receive a commission when someone buys the item. Your referral is received through your unique link or code. This is a great way to earn money if you have a Facebook page, podcast, YouTube channel etc. To get started, check out Amazon. Other programs are available through ClickBank, Leadpages, and ShareASale.
4. Sell Photography
You can sell your photos or videos to sites like Shutterstock and Getty Images. If your photo or video is accepted, they put your image on their site. When someone buys it, you receive a percentage of the sale. But the best part is that the same image may be bought repeatedly. That turns into passive income—all for sharing your hobby with the world. Selling photography can be part of a sustainable business model, providing ongoing revenue with minimal effort.
5. Paid Online Surveys
There are people who want to know what you think. The result is you can get paid for taking surveys. Websites like BrandedSurveys, Survey Junkie and Swagbucks offer surveys that, if you’re eligible, will pay you for participating. You won’t get rich overnight, but it can be lunch money.
6. Print-on-Demand
Print-on-demand (POD) is a great low-cost business idea to make money without any investment. If you’re a graphic artist, photographer, or write funny lines, you can upload your creative to a POD like Printful or Printify. You choose what you want it printed on, for example, a t-shirt, mug, tote bag, etc. But you don’t have to keep it on hand for inventory. Instead, when someone buys your item, the POD has it printed and shipped to the customer; no muss no fuss for you. You don’t have to buy anything. Promote your product on social media. You could also open an Etsy store.
7. YouTube Channel
If you have a smartphone with a good camera in it, you’re on your way to starting a YouTube channel. Tape yourself on the phone. Having your own website can help promote your YouTube channel and reach a broader audience. Then edit it on your laptop or PC. There’s a free editing software called Davinci Resolve. Check out how to use it on YouTube. You’ll need a thumbnail for your video. Go to Canva and download their free program. Or just use the picture on YouTube. You can even use YouTube music for free. The only barrier to entry is sticking with it until your channel grows.
8. Teach Fitness
Many people don’t have time to go to the gym and would appreciate a fitness class in their home. Creating and selling online courses can help you reach a global audience. Platforms like Zoom and Instagram Live will let you host sessions from your home. Start with a Facebook following. Give free fitness consultations or workout strategies. Then start charging for group or individual workouts.
9. Car Detailing
Most people don’t like to wash their own cars. And they definitely don’t want to clean the inside. This is a lucrative side hustle. With just a few cleaning supplies, you’re ready to set up shop. Promote your business on Facebook. Most neighborhoods have their own Facebook page or website. There are also job sites like Thumbtack Home Services that may have detailing jobs available. Offer to go to their home and clean. You can charge as much as $300 depending on your area, and be able to do two, maybe three, on a Saturday. Local businesses, such as car dealerships or rental agencies, can also be potential clients for your car detailing services.
11. Tutor
Teaching can be very fulfilling. There are online platforms like Cambly, TutorOcean and Peply that will allow you to tutor online. You’ll be helping students with homework and test preparation. First, explore what subjects or skills you are knowledgeable in, and then find the platform that caters to that. Other than a computer, there are no startup costs. Tutoring can be part of a sustainable business model, providing flexibility and the opportunity to build a steady income stream.
12. Sell Digital Products
Create items that only exist online. These could be MP3s. PDFs videos or technical assets. One type of PDF is printables. These could be spreadsheets, checklists, invitations, etc. Pretty much anything needed can be downloaded and printed out. Another digital product is an eBook. You could also create a course. Additionally, consider the potential for creating and selling online courses as digital products. Sell these on social media or open an online store like Etsy.
13. Create Content Online
Online content creation is a fantastic side hustle that you can start with less than $100. With the rise of social media platforms, the demand for high-quality content has skyrocketed. You can create content in various forms, such as blog posts, videos, podcasts, or social media posts. To get started, identify your niche and create a content calendar to keep yourself organized. Utilize free or low-cost tools like Canva, Adobe Creative Cloud, or WordPress to create and edit your content. Once your content is ready, you can monetize it through advertising, sponsorships, or affiliate marketing. This side hustle not only allows you to express your creativity but also has the potential to generate a steady stream of income.
14. Freelance Services
Freelance services are a popular and flexible side hustle that requires little to no initial investment. You can offer a variety of services such as writing, graphic design, web development, or social media management. To get started, create a professional portfolio showcasing your skills and set up profiles on freelance platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer. Additionally, use social media platforms to promote your services and attract clients. Freelancing allows you to work on a project-by-project basis and choose your own hours, making it a highly adaptable and profitable business idea.
15. Local Business Opportunities
Local business opportunities are an excellent way to start a side hustle with minimal investment. You can offer services like pet sitting, house sitting, lawn care, or handyman services. Begin by creating a professional profile and advertising your services on local classifieds or social media platforms. Word-of-mouth marketing can also be incredibly effective in attracting clients and building your reputation. With local business opportunities, you can work part-time and set your own hours, making it a flexible and profitable side hustle.
16. Social Media
Leveraging social media platforms is essential for promoting your side hustle and attracting clients. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter allow you to create a professional profile and share your content with a wide audience. You can also use paid advertising to increase your visibility and reach a broader audience. Start by creating a social media strategy and content calendar to stay organized. Use social media analytics to track your performance and adjust your strategy as needed. By effectively using social media platforms, you can build a strong online presence and attract clients to your side hustle.
Conclusion
You don’t have to have a lot, or in some instances any, money to start a business. Having your own website can significantly promote your content and reach a broader audience. All it takes is ambition, some creativity and hard work.