Starting your own business at a young age can be exciting and fulfilling. Teens have never been more resourceful or tech-savvy, so now is a great moment for them to experiment with different business concepts. Here in this article, we’ll look at some of the top business ideas for teens and youths with a focus on originality, creativity, and hobbies.
Being a teen is a great time to start a small venture. Do you know some of the popular billionaires who started their businesses as a teen? For example, Bill Gates started Microsoft in 1975 at the age of 20, Steve Jobs co-founded Apple at 21 in 1976, and Mark Zuckerberg founded Facebook at the age of 19 in 2004. These are enough to get inspiration to start a new business of your own as a teenager.
Why Teens Should Consider Starting a Business?
a) Passion and Interest
Teens generally start a business based on their interests and passions. They can pursue something they truly enjoy by making their passion into a business, whether it’s a talent, pastime, or a specific subject they are passionate about.
b) Independence and Autonomy
It is observed, that teens who pursue entrepreneurship gain a sense of autonomy and independence. They become more capable of setting goals, making decisions, and overcoming obstacles at their own pace when they are in charge of their own company.
c) Financial Independence
Many teens start businesses to earn their own money. It can be to save for future goals, cover personal expenses, or contribute to family finances. The entrepreneurship journey gives them a practical avenue for financial independence.
d) Learning and Skill Development
Starting a business is a valuable learning experience. Teens gain practical skills in areas such as budgeting, marketing, customer service, and time management. It contributes to their personal and professional growth.
e) Problem-solving and Creativity
Entrepreneurship allows teens to develop problem-solving skills. They can more efficiently identify challenges, come up with creative solutions, and learn to adapt to a dynamic business environment.
f) Educational Enhancement
Running a business equips teens with practical education beyond the classroom. Youth can learn about market dynamics, customer behavior, and the overall business landscape. It complements their formal education.
g) Networking and Social Connections
Entrepreneurship enables teens to expand their social connections and networks. They connect with mentors, customers, and other entrepreneurs. It will foster relationships that can benefit them in various aspects of life.
h) Preparation for the Future
Starting a business at a young age prepares teens for future endeavors. The skills and experiences gained in running a business lay a foundation for potential career paths or further entrepreneurial pursuits.
53 Small Business Ideas for Teens and Youths
#1. Tutoring
Teens can share academic knowledge by offering tutoring services in subjects where they excel. This can include tutoring classmates, and younger students, or even providing online tutoring in specific subjects. If you’re good at math, science, writing, or reading, consider helping students struggling in that subject and make good money. You can also help students with test preparation. It can be SATs, ACTs, AP tests, etc.
#2. Blogging
Today, blogging is the best legit online business you can start and operate from home. Start a blog to share insights, hobbies, or expertise. Whether it’s travel, gaming, or lifestyle content, teens can monetize their platforms through ads, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing.
#3. Adventure Tourism
If you are an adventure lover, the adventure tourism business is just perfect for teenagers who enjoy traveling. Many people enjoy visiting less-known destinations and look for organizers and guides. You can create adventure tour packages and sell them to customers. Some of the popular adventures are rock climbing, Surfing, Wakeboarding, Whitewater rafting, Windsurfing, Mountain cycling, Paragliding, etc.
#4. Earn From Facebook
Nowadays, there are many making millions from the Facebook platform. If you have a Facebook account, you as a teen can also make good money here. Some of the popular ways of making money from Facebook are content monetization, selling products on the Facebook marketplace, offering freelancing services by adding to the “Services” section to your profile, opening a Facebook shop, and sharing affiliate links to products or services within your posts or on your Page.
#5. Graphics Design
Consider developing graphic design skills and offer services for creating logos, social media graphics, or promotional materials. Teens can market their skills to local businesses or online platforms looking for creative design solutions. Instead of looking for a job, you can start a graphic design business. The business startup costs are minimal and a significant portion of industry operators are self-employed or freelance designers.
#6. Corn Roasting
Running a corn-roasting business allows teens not only to engage with their community but also learn about food preparation and safety, and develop entrepreneurial skills. It’s a hands-on and enjoyable venture that can also foster teamwork if other teens are involved. You need to invest in a portable corn roaster, tables, and necessary supplies like corn, seasonings, and serving trays to start this business. It is advisable to choose strategic locations for your corn roasting stand, such as local events, farmers’ markets, or popular gathering spots.
#7. Web Development
The demand for efficient and creative web designers and developers is on the rise. Learn web development skills and tap this market by offering website creation services for local businesses or individuals. Teens can build a portfolio showcasing their web development expertise.
#8. Car Wash Services
Most busy car owners look for professional car services for cleaning their cars. As a teen, you can offer car wash services to neighbors or local community members. In addition, consider providing exterior cleaning, and interior detailing, and even offer regular maintenance packages.
#9. Create Webinar
Starting a webinar business allows teens to share their knowledge or host events on various topics while engaging with a virtual audience. Choose a niche or topic you are passionate about or knowledgeable in. This could range from academic subjects to hobbies or personal development. It is important to pick a reliable webinar platform such as Zoom, GoToWebinar, or Microsoft Teams.
#10. Podcasting
Podcasting is relatively a new phenomenon. A lot of young people are making good money as a podcaster on the internet. Start a podcast on a topic of interest. Teens can share their thoughts, interview guests, or discuss hobbies while building an audience.
#11. Babysitting
Provide babysitting services for parents in need of a trustworthy and responsible caregiver. Teens can gain experience in childcare while earning income.
#12. Lawn Care Services
Assist neighbors with lawn maintenance tasks, including mowing, weeding, and garden upkeep. Teens can turn outdoor chores into a seasonal business.
#13. Home Cleaning Services
Offer home cleaning services to individuals or families. Teens can help with general cleaning tasks, organizing, and maintaining a tidy living space.
#14. Housesitting
Provide housesitting services for people going on vacation. Teens can ensure homes are secure, collect mail, and perform basic household tasks.
#15. Errand Services
You can assist busy individuals with errands such as grocery shopping, picking up prescriptions, or mailing packages. Teens can offer a convenient solution for those with hectic schedules.
#16. Seasonal Chores
Tap the demand on seasonal chores like raking leaves in the fall or shoveling snow in the winter. Teens can offer services based on seasonal needs.
#17. Art Teacher
Share artistic skills by offering art lessons to peers or younger children. Teens can teach drawing, painting, or other creative techniques.
#18. Music Teacher
Provide music lessons for instruments or vocals. Teens with musical proficiency can offer personalized lessons to aspiring musicians.
#19. Dance Teacher
Teach dance lessons for various styles, either in-person or through virtual platforms. Teens can share their passion for dance with others.
#20. Musician
Showcase musical talents by performing at local events, parties, or even busking in popular areas. Teens can earn income while honing their performance skills.
#21. Social Media Influencer
Grow a presence on social media platforms and collaborate with brands for sponsored content. Teens can become influencers in their niche.
#21. Gamer
Teenagers can explore opportunities in the gaming industry. It can be streaming on platforms like Twitch, creating gaming content, or participating in esports competitions.
#22. Photographer
Offer photography services for events, portraits, or product shoots. Teens can showcase their photography skills and build a portfolio.
#23. Transcription
Provide transcription services for businesses or content creators. Teens with strong typing and language skills can offer accurate transcriptions.
#24. Create an App
Teens can explore app development by creating a useful or entertaining app. The mobile app-making business has huge potential and vast opportunities. You can learn coding skills and potentially generate revenue through app downloads.
#25. Data Entry
Offer data entry services for businesses in need of assistance with organizing and inputting information. Teens can provide accurate and efficient data entry support.
Read: Top Trusted PTC Sites
#26. YouTube Channel
Start a YouTube channel on topics of interest, such as tutorials, vlogs, or reviews. Teens can monetize their channel through ads and sponsorships.
#27. Affiliate Marketing
You can engage in affiliate marketing by promoting products and earning a commission for every sale generated through company-provided affiliate links. It is advisable to partner with brands that you believe in.
#28. Social Media Management
Leverage social media expertise to offer social media management services for small businesses or individuals. Teens can assist in content creation, scheduling posts, and managing online presence, turning their social media skills into a business venture.
#29. Pet Care Services
Teens can turn their love for animals into a business while providing valuable services to pet owners in their community. You can offer pet care services such as dog walking, pet sitting, or grooming.
#30. Aquarium Maintenance
If you know how to maintain and decorate an aquarium regularly, you can start this business. Even if you don’t have the experience, you can attend some classes to get knowledge. The business demands a very small startup capital investment.
#31. Candle Making
Nowadays, decorative scented candles have a huge demand. You can create and sell handmade candles. Teens can experiment with different scents and designs, offering unique products to customers.
#32. Custom Merchandise Creation
Utilize online platforms to design and sell custom merchandise, such as T-shirts, stickers, or accessories. Teens can showcase their creativity and design skills while building a brand around their unique creations.
#33. Greeting Card Making
You can channel your creativity into making handmade greeting cards for special occasions. Teens can sell their unique cards online or at local markets. Consider using effective software and design apps for making attractive greeting cards.
#34. Cartridge Refilling
Cartridge refilling can be a very profitable opportunity for teens and young adults. You can start the business with your brand name or with a franchise. You can operate the business both from the home and a retail location.
#35. Handmade Crafts and Art
Create and sell handmade crafts or art on platforms like Etsy. From jewelry to paintings, teens can turn their artistic talents into a business while gaining entrepreneurial experience.
#36. Custom Mobile Cover Printing
Let us first understand what is custom mobile cover printing business. The business is all about printing images on smartphone covers as per your client’s specifications. And you can operate the business entirely online from an eCommerce store.
#37. Domain Flipping
This is a high-value business. And you can earn huge money from this business. Firstly let us understand what is domain flipping. Domain flipping is all about buying and selling domains for profit. If you are a beginner in this field, my advice would be to start with a small investment.
#38. eBay Selling
eBay is the biggest marketplace globally. And selling goods on eBay is fun. Additionally, you can earn a huge income from this business. The online giant offers a wide range of services for online sellers.
#39. Farmers Market Vendor
Sell homemade goods, crafts, or fresh produce at local farmers’ markets. Teens can engage with the community while earning from their creations.
#40. Retail Arbitrage
Engage in retail arbitrage by finding discounted items and reselling them for a profit. You need to find items at local markets and garage sales. eBay or Facebook Marketplace are popular places where you can resell them.
#41. Technology Tutor
Provide tutoring services for technology-related subjects. Teens can assist others with computer skills, software use, or even coding.
#42. Catering Service
Do you love preparing food for others? Then you can start a home-based catering business of your own. The business is perfect for both teens and youth. However, It is a demanding career. It requires stamina, and ability to work under pressure, and excellent interpersonal skills.
#42. Freelance Writing
You can develop writing skills and offer freelance writing services for blogs, websites, or student publications. Teens can explore topics they are passionate about and build a portfolio of written work.
#43. Martial Art School
Are you an expert in martial arts? If yes, you can initiate a martial arts school of your own. Revenue-wise martial arts school business is very lucrative. As it focuses on specialized instruction. Generally, martial arts are the different systems of self-defense.
#44. Micro Jobs
If you want to earn money online, then you can consider micro-jobs. These jobs are not very difficult works like you find in Freelancer, Elance, or Odesk. You will get around 0.5 dollars for most tasks you finish. In most of the sites, the minimum cashout threshold is 10$.
#45. Mobile DJ
A person who loves music and has an outstanding personality full of energy can ideally and successfully own a mobile DJ business. If you enjoy spinning tunes, making people happy and want to earn a steady stream of supplemental income, the mobile DJ business is perfect for you.
#46. Scrapbook Making
Everyone wants to have a creative scrapbook of his/her own. but everyone has enough time or creativity to craft a scrapbook. You can start this business by helping others to have an attractively memorable scrapbook.
#47. Sell Stock Photography
If you are passionate about photography, selling stock photos is a great opportunity to earn good money. If you have a creative eye and good camera sense, selling stock photos makes an ideal online income opportunity for teens.
#48. SEO Consulting
Starting an SEO consulting business is a very creative business whereby you can earn unlimited income while helping business owners and individuals attract more visitors to their websites The service you provide will consist of analyzing clients’ websites and letting your clients know what could be done to get their sites to rank higher.
#49. Shoe Laundry
Show laundry is a good business for teens. The business is all about collecting shoes, getting them cleaned and repaired if required, making delivery of the shoes to the client’s doorsteps, and getting the payments.
#50. Earn from Online Survey Sites
This is another easy online business. Several trusted sites offer handsome money after the completion of a successful survey. You need to spend 1-2 hours daily with a computer and internet connection to earn from an online survey.
Read: Top Paid Online Survey Sites
#51. Tattoo Parlor
The tattoo parlor business opportunity is perfect for those who are aspiring tattoo artists and passionate about tattoos. However, the business demands a certain level of professionalism. Additionally, in making the tattoo parlor business a successful venture tattoo artists of your shop are the key factor.
#52. Tour Guide
Tour guide business opportunity demands adequate knowledge of historical information and local culture about the location where you are starting the business. The business is all about sharing information about the places with a group of people entertainingly.
#53. Used Books Selling
Second-hand books are abundant. You can earn handsome money by selling used books. From a professional point of view, you can also do it by buying books at a cheaper rate and selling them at a higher rate.
How Teens Can Identify a Good Business Idea?
Identifying a good business idea is a crucial first step for teens venturing into entrepreneurship. Here are some steps to help teens identify a viable and exciting business idea:
⇒ Identify Interests and Passions:
Consider what you are genuinely passionate about or interested in. Businesses built around personal interests are more likely to be enjoyable and sustainable in the long run.
⇒ Problem-Solving
Look for problems or challenges in your community or among your peers. A good business idea often involves providing a solution to a problem or fulfilling a need.
⇒ Do Market Research
Conduct market research to understand trends and demands in your chosen industry. Analyze what products or services are lacking and where there might be opportunities.
⇒ Assess Your Skills and Talents
Identify your skills, talents, and strengths. A business idea that aligns with your abilities is more likely to be successful.
⇒ Explore Trends
Stay informed about current trends, both locally and globally. Trends can present opportunities for new and innovative business ideas.
⇔ Think About Sustainability
Consider the long-term sustainability of your business idea. Is it something that will remain relevant and valuable over time?
⇒ Customer Feedback
Talk to potential customers and gather feedback on your ideas. Understanding their needs and preferences is crucial for creating a business that caters to your target audience.
⇒ Check Competition
Assess existing businesses in your chosen niche. Identify what they do well and where there might be gaps that your business could fill.
⇒ Innovate and Differentiate:
Look for ways to innovate or differentiate your business from others. A unique selling proposition (USP) can set your business apart.
⇒ Consider Technology
Explore how technology can be integrated into your business idea. Tech-driven solutions often have broad appeal and scalability.
⇒ Start Small
Consider starting with a small-scale version of your idea. This allows you to test its viability with minimal risk before committing to a larger venture.
⇒ Seek Guidance
Talk to mentors, teachers, or experienced entrepreneurs for advice. Their insights can provide valuable perspectives and help refine your ideas.
⇒ Evaluate Resources
Assess the resources you have access to, such as time, money, and support. Choose a business idea that aligns with your available resources.
⇒ Explore Future Trends
Consider where the future might be headed. Anticipating future trends can position your business for long-term success.
⇒ Passion and Commitment
Finally, choose a business idea that you are passionate about and committed to. The enthusiasm and dedication you bring to your venture can make a significant difference in its success.
Editorial Team at 99BusinessIdeas is a team of experts led by Rupak Chakrabarty with over 25 years of experience in starting and running small businesses. Started in 2010, 99BusinessIdeas is now one of the largest free small business resources in the industry.
