Looking for small business ideas that your teen can easily start to make some extra money? You’re in the right place!
Teens these days are more tech-savvy and entrepreneurial than ever before. Thanks to technology and the rise of social media, starting a business is more accessible to young people than ever before. Think about Mark Zuckerberg, who founded Facebook at just 19, or Blake Ross, who created Mozilla Firefox at the same age. Let’s not forget Fraser Doherty, who started selling homemade Super Jam at 14 and built a $2 million business from his grandmother’s recipe.
This proves that age doesn’t limit business ideas – teens can come up with creative, successful ventures too. While we’re not talking about a classic lemonade stand, these success stories show that it’s possible for a teen’s idea to grow into something big.
Why Should Teens Start a Business?
Running a business as a teenager isn’t just about making money – it’s about learning valuable life and business skills. It gives your teen hands-on experience in entrepreneurship, helping them learn how to market products, manage finances, and handle customers. Plus, it may even spark a passion for business that could lead them to pursue a business degree or career down the road.
With the right guidance, teens can use their entrepreneurial spirit to thrive. Here are some of the best small business ideas they can start right now with little upfront cost.
Best Small Business Ideas for Teens
25 Profitable Business Ideas for Teens to Start Now
Starting a business as a teen is not only a great way to earn money but also an opportunity to gain valuable experience and develop skills that will serve them in the future. Whether it’s a creative endeavor or a service-based business, there are numerous options available for teens who want to dive into entrepreneurship. Here are 25 innovative business ideas that teens can start with minimal investment and a lot of enthusiasm.
1. Photography Business
If your teen has an eye for photography, starting a photography business could be a fantastic way to turn their passion into profit. They can offer services for events like birthdays, weddings, graduations, or even family portraits. With modern smartphones offering great cameras, even without a professional camera, teens can still provide high-quality services and start building their portfolio.
Key Steps:
- Invest in a good camera or use a smartphone.
- Offer services for local events or partner with other photographers for paid gigs.
- Build a portfolio and advertise on social media.
2. Graphic Design Business
Graphic design is a highly sought-after skill, and teens with a creative streak can easily tap into this demand. Whether it’s creating logos, social media posts, business cards, or even t-shirt designs, there’s plenty of work available for those skilled in design. Platforms like Fiverr are ideal for starting out and attracting clients.
Key Steps:
- Learn graphic design software (e.g., Adobe Illustrator, Canva).
- Create a portfolio of designs.
- Market services on platforms like Fiverr or directly to local businesses.
3. Social Media Influencer
Teens are already proficient in social media, making them perfect candidates for becoming social media influencers. With platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, they can build an engaged following around topics like fashion, gaming, travel, or even educational content. Once their audience grows, they can monetize their influence through sponsorships, affiliate marketing, and brand partnerships.
Key Steps:
- Choose a niche (e.g., fashion, gaming, beauty).
- Create consistent, engaging content.
- Use social media to build a following and attract brand deals.
4. Print-on-Demand (POD) Business
A print-on-demand business allows teens to create custom designs for products like t-shirts, mugs, and posters without needing to hold any inventory. Platforms like Redbubble, Teespring, and Printful enable teens to set up online shops where customers can purchase their unique designs. The best part? Teens only need to design and promote; the platform handles production and shipping.
Key Steps:
- Create designs using graphic design software.
- Set up an online shop on a POD platform.
- Promote designs on social media and websites.
5. Delivery Service Business
Teens can earn money by offering delivery services within their community. Whether it’s picking up groceries, dropping off packages, or running errands for others, this business requires minimal startup costs. With local delivery apps or word-of-mouth, this can quickly grow into a regular gig.
Key Steps:
- Advertise delivery services in the local community.
- Use apps like Instacart or DoorDash if applicable.
- Build a network of regular clients.
6. Lawn Care Business
For teens who enjoy spending time outdoors, a lawn care business is a great option. Teens can offer services like mowing lawns, trimming hedges, and even pressure washing or fertilizing. They can start by serving local clients and grow their business over time with referrals.
Key Steps:
- Gather basic lawn care equipment.
- Offer services to neighbors and local clients.
- Advertise through social media or flyers in the neighborhood.
7. Childcare Services
For teens who enjoy spending time with kids, offering babysitting or childcare services can be a profitable business. Many parents are looking for reliable sitters, and teens can expand their services by offering tutoring or homework help in addition to babysitting.
Key Steps:
- Get CPR certified or take childcare training (optional).
- Advertise your services through word of mouth or on Care.com.
- Offer flexible hours and extra services like tutoring.
8. Personal Shopper
Teens who love shopping can turn this passion into a business by becoming a personal shopper. They can help clients find the best clothing, home goods, or gifts. Whether using apps like Instacart for grocery shopping or offering local shopping assistance, there’s plenty of opportunity to earn money.
Key Steps:
- Offer personalized shopping services to friends, family, and neighbors.
- Use apps like Instacart to help with grocery shopping.
- Promote services through social media.
9. Dog Walking Business
With the growing number of pet owners, a dog walking business is an excellent opportunity for teens. It’s a fun way to earn money while getting exercise. Teens can also expand into pet sitting and pet grooming as the business grows.
Key Steps:
- Advertise dog walking services locally or through apps like Rover.
- Offer pet-sitting or dog-sitting services.
- Grow the business by providing additional pet care services.
10. Car Washing Service
Teens can start a car washing and detailing service for neighbors and local customers. With minimal supplies, they can offer services ranging from exterior washes to full detailing packages. This business can grow through referrals and word of mouth.
Key Steps:
- Gather basic car washing supplies.
- Offer services to local clients and advertise online.
- Provide excellent service to encourage repeat customers.
11. Craft-Making Business
Teens with a creative flair for making jewelry, home décor, or artwork can start a craft-making business. Platforms like Etsy are perfect for selling handmade items, and teens can market their creations through social media and local craft fairs.
Key Steps:
- Create unique crafts and products.
- Set up an online shop on platforms like Etsy or at local craft fairs.
- Promote items on social media to reach a wider audience.
12. Tech Support Business
Teens who are tech-savvy can offer tech support services to help others troubleshoot their devices or learn new software. Whether it’s setting up a computer, fixing tech issues, or teaching people how to use new apps, there’s a lot of demand for tech support.
Key Steps:
- Advertise your services to friends, family, and the local community.
- Offer services remotely or in-person.
- Create a website or social media presence for your business.
13. Music Lessons
For musically inclined teens, offering music lessons can be both rewarding and profitable. Teens can teach instruments like guitar, piano, or violin, or even offer voice lessons. With the option of online lessons, they can reach a wider audience.
Key Steps:
- Offer one-on-one or group music lessons.
- Advertise through local schools, community centers, or online platforms.
- Use platforms like Zoom to offer online lessons.
14. Web Designing Business
Teens with web development skills can offer web design services to small businesses and entrepreneurs who need affordable websites. This is a fantastic way for teens to build their portfolios while getting paid for their work.
Key Steps:
- Learn web design languages like HTML, CSS, and WordPress.
- Offer affordable web design services to local businesses.
- Advertise through social media and web design portfolios.
15. Video Gaming Business
Teens who enjoy video games can earn money by live-streaming on platforms like Twitch, YouTube, or Facebook Live. With a large enough following, they can monetize through ads, sponsorships, and donations. Another option is becoming a game tester, getting paid to test new games.
Key Steps:
- Start streaming on Twitch or YouTube.
- Build a community and engage with followers.
- Monetize through ads, sponsorships, or affiliate marketing.
16. Social Media Marketing
Teens can offer social media marketing services to local businesses, helping them grow their presence on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. With a solid understanding of social media algorithms and trends, teens can assist businesses in boosting engagement and attracting new customers.
Key Steps:
- Learn social media marketing strategies.
- Offer services to small businesses in your community.
- Build a portfolio by managing social media accounts for clients.
17. Cake-Making Business
For teens with a passion for baking, a cake-making business can be a sweet way to earn money. From custom birthday cakes to cupcakes, this business has significant potential, especially with the help of social media and word-of-mouth marketing.
Key Steps:
- Offer cake-making services for birthdays, weddings, and special events.
- Market your cakes on social media.
- Develop a portfolio with pictures of your creations.
18. App or Online Game Development
For tech-savvy teens interested in programming, developing an app or online game can be a lucrative business. While it may take time to learn, many successful young entrepreneurs have created mobile apps or games that have earned significant revenue.
Key Steps:
- Learn coding languages such as Java, Swift, or Python.
- Create and test apps or games.
- Monetize through ads or in-app purchases.
19. Retail Arbitrage
Retail arbitrage is a business model where teens purchase products at discounted prices (e.g., clearance sales) and resell them at a higher price. Platforms like Amazon, eBay, and Poshmark are ideal for this kind of business.
Key Steps:
- Buy discounted items from retail stores or online.
- Resell items on online marketplaces for a profit.
- Focus on high-demand, low-competition products.
20. Laundry Service
Teens can start a laundry service for busy families in their neighborhood. Whether it’s washing, folding, or ironing clothes, this business requires very little upfront cost and can quickly grow.
Key Steps:
- Offer laundry services with pick-up and delivery options.
- Advertise locally or through apps like TaskRabbit.
- Offer different packages for convenience.
21. Design and Sell Greeting Cards
Teens with an artistic flair can design greeting cards for holidays, birthdays, and special occasions. These can be sold online on platforms like Etsy or at local stores, providing a creative and profitable business venture.
Key Steps:
- Create designs for greeting cards.
- Set up an online shop to sell cards.
- Market your cards through social media.
22. Tutoring Younger Kids
Teens excelling in subjects like math, science, or English can start a tutoring business. Offering homework help or exam preparation services is a great way to earn money while helping others succeed academically.
Key Steps:
- Offer tutoring services for local students.
- Advertise your services at schools or through local parent groups.
- Use online platforms to teach remotely if necessary.
23. Cleaning Services
Teens can offer cleaning services for homes or offices. From basic cleaning to deep cleaning and organizing, this business can be a great way to earn money and offer value to your community.
Key Steps:
- Offer house cleaning or office cleaning services.
- Provide eco-friendly or specialty cleaning options.
- Market services locally via flyers or social media.
These 25 business ideas for teens offer great opportunities to earn money while building valuable skills. From creative endeavors like photography and cake-making to service-based businesses like dog walking and cleaning, there’s something for everyone. The key is to pick something you’re passionate about, start small, and grow your business over time.
How Can a 13-Year-Old Start a Business?
There are plenty of businesses that a 13-year-old can start, such as dog walking, babysitting, lawn mowing, or even running errands for neighbors. It’s all about identifying an opportunity and offering a service that meets people’s needs.
What Businesses Can I Start in High School?
High school is a great time for teens to start a business. Teens can offer tutoring services, start a lawn care business, teach music lessons, or even become social media influencers. Many online platforms make it easier than ever to turn passions into income.
FAQs About Small Business Ideas for Teens
- What is the best small business for a teen to start?
- The best small business depends on the teen’s interests and skills. Some popular and easy-to-start options for teens include:
- Photography Business: If they enjoy photography, they can offer event services or family portraits.
- Graphic Design: For creative teens, offering graphic design services on platforms like Fiverr.
- Dog Walking or Pet Sitting: A great business for pet lovers with flexible hours.
- Tutoring: If they excel in subjects like math or science, they can offer tutoring services to younger students.
- The best small business depends on the teen’s interests and skills. Some popular and easy-to-start options for teens include:
- How can a 13-year-old start a business?
- A 13-year-old can start small service-based businesses like:
- Dog walking
- Lawn care
- Babysitting
- Running errands for neighbors
They should start by identifying a need in their community and offering a solution. It’s also important for them to have parental guidance when dealing with finances or contracts.
- A 13-year-old can start small service-based businesses like:
- Can a teen run a business from home?
- Absolutely! Many of the business ideas for teens can be run from home, such as:
- Print-on-demand (POD) business: Create and sell custom designs for t-shirts, mugs, and other products.
- Blogging or YouTube content creation: Teens can earn through ads, affiliate marketing, and sponsored content.
- Tutoring: Offering academic assistance online.
- Freelance writing: Teens who enjoy writing can provide content creation services to businesses or websites.
- Absolutely! Many of the business ideas for teens can be run from home, such as:
- What businesses can teens start with minimal investment?
- Some low-investment business ideas for teens include:
- Social Media Management: If they are familiar with social media, they can offer to help local businesses manage their accounts.
- Virtual Assistant: Providing administrative support like scheduling, data entry, and email management.
- Car Washing: Teens can offer car washing and detailing services to local customers.
- Cleaning Services: Offer home or office cleaning services in their community.
- Some low-investment business ideas for teens include:
- What are some creative business ideas for teens?
- If a teen has a creative streak, they can consider businesses such as:
- Craft-Making Business: Create and sell handmade jewelry, home décor, or artwork on platforms like Etsy.
- Cake-Making or Baking Business: Make and sell cakes, cupcakes, or custom treats for special occasions.
- Greeting Card Design: Create unique designs for greeting cards and sell them online or at local stores.
- App or Game Development: For teens interested in coding, creating apps or games can be both fun and profitable.
- If a teen has a creative streak, they can consider businesses such as:
- Can teens start businesses online?
- Yes, many teens successfully run businesses online. Some ideas include:
- E-commerce: Selling products via platforms like eBay, Amazon, or Etsy.
- Affiliate Marketing: Promoting products or services through a blog or social media and earning a commission on sales.
- Online Courses: Teens can create and sell educational courses on platforms like Udemy or Teachable, especially if they are experts in a niche topic.
- Yes, many teens successfully run businesses online. Some ideas include:
- How can teens promote their businesses?
- Teens can leverage platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook to promote their businesses. Additionally, they can use online marketplaces (Etsy, eBay), community groups (Nextdoor), and word of mouth to attract clients and customers.
- Do teens need a business license to start a business?
- The need for a business license depends on the type of business and location. For small, informal businesses like dog walking or tutoring, a license may not be required. However, for businesses selling products or services that require a tax ID, or operating in regulated industries (e.g., food or childcare), they may need a license or permit. It’s best to check local regulations or consult a parent or mentor for guidance.
- How can a teen balance a business with school?
- Time management is key. Teens can schedule specific hours each week for their business activities, ensuring that their studies and extracurricular activities come first. Starting a small business allows them to practice organization, multitasking, and prioritizing, which are important life skills.
Conclusion
Starting a business as a teen is a great way to gain valuable skills, earn money, and foster entrepreneurial thinking. Whether it’s a creative venture like graphic design or cake-making, or a service-based business like tutoring or dog walking, there are plenty of opportunities for teens to start small businesses with minimal investment. The key is to choose something they’re passionate about and start small, then expand as they gain experience. Encouraging teens to explore entrepreneurship can open doors to future career opportunities and provide a solid foundation for their financial independence.
