Ready to start a business? We’re excited to present a list of 100 businesses young entrepreneurs can start today! These ideas cover a very wide range of interests and possibilities, so there's something for everyone. With a list like this at your fingertips, you can't say you just don't have any ideas for a good business. So look it over, pick something that you can get excited about, and go for it! And we love to hear about young entrepreneurs making it happen, so after you've started your business, be sure to let us know how it's going. If your story is good, we just might feature you in an upcoming post. But first, the list:
Work From Home
1. Backyard Plant Nursery If you have a green thumb and love both plants and people, this is the business for you. Did you know that most of your local nurseries doesn't grow most of their own plants? They actually buy them from small, specialized growers. You can easily become one of their suppliers. The key is to specialize in specific kinds of plants – the ones that are in demand. The only way to find out which plants those are is to ask. Get started in this business for just a few hundred dollars after talking with local nurseries to find out what they're looking for. Want to know more? Check out this book.
2. Personal Shopper You say going to the mall and the grocery store are your idea of a good time? How would you like to get paid to shop? Personal shoppers are popular in many areas. Generally, the larger the city you live in and the more affluent the city, the more prominent this business will be (think San Francisco, Miami, and Scottsdale), but personal shoppers can thrive just about anywhere. The best part is – there are low to no startup costs. Print some flyers to post around town or put an ad on Craigslist, and you're on your way! From there, networking and referrals will fuel your growth. If you think this is the business for you and you have 50 bucks to spend, get this book.
3. Window Cleaning Let the sun shine in! Clean windows can do wonders for a retail business's image. But who in business has time to clean windows? Besides, without the proper equipment and know-how, it's tough to make them look good. That's where you come in. Word on the street is you can make upwards of $60k a year as a professional window cleaner. Startup costs are minimal, and we're not talking skyscrapers here, so a fear of heights won't stop you. Want to know more? There's a blog for that – right here.
4. Music Lessons Remember those piano lessons you had to take when you were 8? Or was it violin? Well if you ended up sticking with it and you're still fluent in your chosen instrument, now it's your turn to pass on your knowledge. In his 2009 book, Make a Fortune Teaching Private Music Lessons, Lloyd Steiner insists you can quit your job and make this your full-time business within 30 days if you do it right. That might or might not be the case, but at the very least you know there's a market as long as there are tone-deaf 8-year-olds!
5. Virtual Assistant Entrepreneurs are most successful when they focus on what they do best. For this reason, it's smart to outsource tasks that detract from our core talents. If your talents are staying organized, creating correspondence, managing schedules, and other office tasks, you just might be someone other entrepreneurs will outsource to. Virtual assistants are in demand, and it's easy to get the word out using sites like Craigslist or VirtualAssistants.com, where you can post your qualifications and search for openings. And as long as you already have a computer and basic office needs, you're probably ready for business before spending a dime.
6. Event Planning Service You're the person your friends come to when they want help planning their wedding. You're super detail oriented and able to juggle a million important tasks at the same time. You love planning every detail of an event and get great satisfaction out of seeing it come off without a hitch. Then an event planning business is right up your ally. From weddings and family reunions to corporate functions and conventions, event planners are in demand just about everywhere. The hours are long, and the work isn't easy, but the rewards can be great. Learn more with this book.
7. Trunk Show Business You know those guys selling electronics out of their car trunks in the mall parking lot? Stay away from them. That is not a trunk show!  A trunk show is an event you hold at your house or the house of a friend, where you offer goods for sale. The products can be jewelry, purses, home goods, kitchenware, or any number of other merchandise categories. You'll purchase your products wholesale, and you'll be able to sell them at a discount because of your low overhead. There are several network marketing companies you can join up with, or you can find wholesale products everywhere from eBay to books like this one.
8. Professional Organizer Are you a little obsessive about having a place for everything and keeping everything in its place? If you get satisfaction out of organizing your workspace, your closet, your files, and everything else around you, consider providing this service to others as a professional organizer. There is no shortage of people in desperate need of some organizational therapy, and you might just be their savior. Anne Blumer's book, Get Rich Organizing will show you all the ins and outs of the business, from startup to business growth.  And as a golden circle member of NAPO, the National Association of Professional Organizers, she should know her stuff.
9. Image Consultant If you're the type of person who makes a great impression everywhere you go, from your sharp, trendy shoes to your winning conversation skills, there's big money in teaching others to do what comes naturally to you. Whether someone needs advice before a big job interview or they're just trying to feel better about how they look and feel, the professional image consultant's services are in high demand. The great part is, no special training is necessary, and you can get started for practically nothing. To avoid making some common mistakes and get off to a good start, invest in this book.
10. Pet Sitting Service Do you love animals? Would you rather spend time surrounded by dogs and cats than people? Maybe a pet sitting service is your calling. Out of the 63.2 million pet owners in the U.S., there are sure to be plenty in your neck of the woods who need quality, loving care for Sparky or Mittens from time to time. And according to How To Open & Operate a Financially Successful Pet Sitting Business, a book by Angela Duea, they're willing to pay top dollar for qualified pet sitters who provide such services.
Online Businesses
11. Write e-books You have expertise. Really – you do. Whether you've gone to school to learn a trade, worked in a particular field, or just read a lot of books, you know more about some subject than many people out there. Even if all you've done with your life is play video games for the last three years, you are an expert. Of course, you might have had a different definition of an expert up until now, but really, if you know a lot more about a particular subject than another person, then between the two of you, you are the expert. Now that we've established that, the second part of the equation is that whatever expertise you have, you can bet there are people out there who want it. And a great way to get it to them is through e-books. Many people have made a fortune, both selling e-books, and by giving them away to get people interested enough to sell them consulting, training programs, paper books, etc. The key is to market your expertise and your e-books well. There is a ton of information online about how to do so, much of it in the form of — e-books! So start researching, then get to writing.
12. Affiliate marketing In Anthony Berelli's book, Affiliate Millions, he insists anyone can make millions on search marketing and affiliate programs, with very little money to start. While this might seem a little unrealistic, a few have done it and many, many more have been able to carve out a good living in this area, even if they didn't make millions. The one thing that is absolutely true is that you don't have to be a genius or have any special training to pull it off. And it won't cost you a fortune to get started. Check out Commission Junction, the largest affiliate management company, and look through CJU, their online training site. With some patience and perseverance, this business could become your full time gig.
13. Google AdSense Do you already have a website, or are you thinking about building one? Whether it's a blog, an information site, or even a product site, many people make a living off their efforts with Google AdSense. Basically, you're just going to place Google text ads on your site, for which Google will pay you. Of course there's a lot more to making a living at it, but again, anyone can do it, and Google provide some outstanding tools to help you along the way. If you want to learn more from someone who's done very well at it, check out Google Income: How Anyone of Any Age, Location, and/or Background Can Build a Highly Profitable Online Business With Google.
14. Blogging for Dollars These days it seems like everyone has a blog. That's because blogs are a great way to attract and communicate with customers, improve your search engine optimization (SEO), and yes, make good money — if you do it right. Darren Rowse, of ProBlogger.com, has written a definitive guide on the subject, called ProBlogger: Secrets for Blogging Your Way to a Six-Figure Income, in which he reveals the secrets that have made him so successful at this business. If you like to write and you're disciplined about maintaining your content, this could be the business for you!
15. Freelancing Are you really good at something? Have you worked as a programmer, writer, social media editor or performed other online activities for an employer? Why not put the money from those activities in your own pocket? Freelancers are in demand in many fields, and there are several sites where you can find work. If you're really good, you'll get a reputation for quality, and your demand will climb fast. Check out Elance.com, iFreelance.com, and GoFreelance.com to get you started.
16. eBay For less than $100 and very little risk, you can start an eBay business right now. And because eBay is so popular, there are thousands of resources available for the eBay entrepreneur. Literally millions of people are on the site at any given time, and they're looking for stuff to buy. The trick is that whatever they're looking for, they are likely to find a lot of it. So the key to success on eBay is to differentiate and find your niche. A great book to help you figure it all out is eBay 101: Selling on eBay For Part-time or Full-time Income, Beginner to PowerSeller in 90 Days. Even if you've never used the site, an eBay business, once you learn the system, is pretty easy and can help you make your fortune, without even leaving your house!
17. Amazon Sales Like eBay, Amazon offers a tremendous opportunity for anyone looking to make a living on the Internet. You thought Amazon was just books? Oh no, my friend. You can get just about anything through Amazon, from electronics to groceries. In the book, How to Sell Anything on Amazon… and Make a Fortune!, you'll learn, step-by-step, how to set up shop on Amazon – and start making money – right away. By the way, thinking about that e-book idea at the top, Amazon is a great place to start selling it!
18. Web Design Here's one of those Internet businesses where you really should have some training and a lot of practice to get started. Yes, there are many folks out there calling themselves web designers who just use templates and have only a basic html background, but you don't really want to be one of those. The real money in this field is made by those who really know what they're doing. So why is on the list? First, to encourage you to learn the trade, if it's something that interests you. Secondly, because there are a lot of web designers out there working for companies, who could be doing well on their own, and we're all about following your dream of breaking away from the 9 to 5 and owning your own business! If you're thinking about pursuing this venture, here's a good book to get you started.
19. SEO Do you have a website that you've been able to drive a lot of traffic to? Have you learned what it takes to get ranked toward the top of the search engines? Then you're in an elite group. And people will pay big bucks for your help in getting their websites more traffic. As with web design, you'll need experience with SEO to make a business of it, but don't let that hold you back. In the process of learning the ins and outs, you can build a site that will help you to be successful in this business as well as any other idea on this list! If you're going to read a book on SEO, be sure it's current, like SEO for 2010, as this is a field that is forever changing.
20. Domain Trading You say you're not creative enough for web design, and you want a shorter learning curve than SEO consulting? Maybe domain trading is the business you should look at. Without having to ever design a website or create any content, you can be in the business of buying and selling domains quickly, and for a very low investment. If you've ever had an idea for a great domain name, only to find that it's registered but not being used for its "intended" purpose, then you already know a little about this business. Chances are, the person who owns that domain is looking to sell it. You could be that guy or gal. If you don't have a lot of money to buy domain names in bulk, just buy one or two now and then, and put any money you make back into more domain names until you have a strong portfolio. Check out sites like Sedo.com and Afternic.com to learn more and get started!
Kid-related Businesses
21. In-home Child Care This is probably one of the first businesses that comes to mind when thinking of working with children as a business. It's ideal for many people who want to work from home, especially those with kids of their own. You get to spend all day with your kids and their friends, and you get paid for it! There are some very important considerations when deciding if this is the business for you. For instance, licensing requirements differ from state to state, and even among specific cities and counties, so make sure you find out exactly what you need before starting. Also, consider your house. Most houses, and even an apartment, will work as a daycare.  You just need to make sure it's a safe, clean environment for kids, and the size of your place will determine the number of kids you can take on. And if you don't have a sufficient yard, you'll need to take kids off-site to a park so they're not inside all day, which can add another list of due diligence items. Of course there's a lot more to this business than can be said here, so check out this book for more. It's a few years old, but has great information, from planning activities for the kids, to the money side of the business.
22. Tutoring Service Were you a math or English wiz in school? Even if you weren't top of your class, your skills in one or more subjects are probably still strong enough to tutor some level of student. The more you know about the subject, the higher grade level you can tutor, and the more you can charge. Students of every subject are in need of help, regardless of where you live, and their parents are willing to pay to ensure their grades stay up – or get up. You'll obviously need to have patience and a knack for explaining your subject in terms a student can understand, and if you have those skills, the rewards can be high. You won't get rich, but you'll make some extra cash, and you'll feel great when the student you've been tutoring gets an A on that algebra final! You say, "But I want to get rich."? Ok, it's actually possible.  Tutoring centers are popping up all over, so if you have some capital, and this is the business for you, go for it! Here's a book to get you started right.
23. Kids' Party Planner Who doesn't love a party? Party planners make big bucks organizing every detail of birthday parties, graduation parties, bar and bat mitzvahs, tea parties, spa parties, sweet 16 parties, holiday parties… the list goes on. You'll need well-honed organizational skills, connections with caterers, party supply stores, and rental stores, and superb people skills to deliver superior service to your often-demanding parent clients. If you're creative and as particular as your customers about throwing the perfect party, word of mouth will travel fast, and you'll be managing a full calendar before you know it. And yes, there's a book for this too!
24. Kids' Entertainment Are people always telling you what a clown you are? Or can you pull a coin out of a stranger's ear? If you can make kids laugh, dance, or stare in awe (in a good way), then you can make money with a kids' entertainment business. You'll want to hook up with party planners (see above) in addition to marketing yourself online, at the local party store, and through schools and daycares whenever possible.  From there, it's a matter of putting on a great show, whether as a clown, magician, karaoke DJ, or mascot. If you love kids and making them happy, you'll have a blast while making a living — and you can't ask for any more than that!
25. Drop-in Center Different from a daycare center, drop-in centers have become a popular alternative for parents all over. These centers allow parents to drop kids off anytime, typically for a few hours at a time. They're a great alternative for stay-at-home parents needing to go to a doctor's appointment, lunch with friends, or just some alone time. Licensing requirements vary from state to state, and these centers are inspected in some states, and not in others. In any case, you'll need some capital to lease a space and build it out to accommodate your business. Some centers serve food, and some even offer onsite cafes for parents to sit while the kids play.  Of the businesses on our list, this one will take the most capital, research, and time, but with centers of this type charging as much as $15/hr for each kid, the potential payoff is significant. So if it peaks your interest, check into it.
26. Used Kids' Clothes If brand names like Baby Lulu, Chicken Noodle, Baby Gassy Gooma, and Naartjie mean anything at all to you, then you are likely into kids' clothes. Reselling gently used brand name baby and kids' clothing is big business, and you can get started for very little. You can start selling on eBay or Craigslist and build your business as big as you want. There are lots of sources for your inventory, from Goodwill and other thrift stores, to your neighborhood garage sale. Keep an eye out for clearance sales as well. Just because your local chain store is having a blowout doesn't mean they are in another state or that your customers were able to get what they wanted there. If you buy right your markups can be 300% or more, and you get to shop a lot as part of your work!
27. Toy Kiosk We've all seen them. Whether at the mall or as a booth at a fair or event, people all over are making a living selling toys and games to kids and parents passing by. Some of these booths specialize in a single toy, like the ones selling the Styrofoam gliders, while others have a variety of toys or games, from tiny remote control trucks, to educational lines. Inventory costs are far less and turnover faster than in a full-fledged store, and if you start out with a booth, you won't break the bank on rent. If you decide to move up to the mall scene, you're looking at significant lease prices and a possible long-term commitment, but enough folks are making this work that it appears to be a winner.
28. Instructional Classes When it comes to learning stuff (stuff they want to learn), kids are sponges. A popular trend in cities from coast to coast is offering kids opportunities to learn to cook, paint, craft, scrapbook, and more. Then there are all the traditional instructional classes, like martial arts, cheerleading, swimming, and dance, to name a few. If you have a knack for one of these areas and like the idea of expanding kids' minds and skill-sets, consider imparting your knowledge and making a business of it at the same time. While it doesn't cover all the possibilities, check out this book for some great ideas.
29. Kid Taxi Service Soccer, football, band, cheerleading, and piano practice, dance, karate, and swimming lessons. These are just a few of the activities parents have to bring their kids to and from daily. Add after-school study groups, orthodontist appointments, and their own work schedules, and it's a wonder any parent can keep up. Help them out by offering a taxi service for their kids. These services have become popular in many parts of the country, and there are still huge areas of opportunity. You'll need a van, and you'll want to check local licensing requirements, and you'd better be great at staying on a schedule while listening to gaggle of kids in the background. If you can meet all of the requirements, you'll find a large customer base to market to, and you might be expanding before you know it. Want to know more? Doris Tommie, founder of Kids on Wheels, has been doing it for the past 15 years and wants to help you do the same.
30. Amusement Rentals You know those giant inflatable slides, castles and bounce-houses you see at fairs, festivals and kids' parties? They're wildly popular among kids of all ages, and they can be the makings of a great business that takes no special training and not much capital. Add a cotton candy machine, dunk booth or hotdog cart to your rental repertoire, and you've got a great business, and all you have to do is deliver and pick up. Or, stick around as an attendant, and add some extra profit to your bottom line. Unless you get really big, all the equipment will fit in your garage, and no single piece is that expensive, so you can start small and grow quickly as demand for your service increases. If you want to see how far you can take this business, check out this site.
Businesses for Teen Entrepreneurs
31. Senior Errand Service Wherever you live, there are bound to be senior citizens who need help with errands. The errands you'll run can range from grocery shopping to picking up dry cleaning and going to the post office. If you don't yet have wheels, there are plenty of ways to help seniors around the house too, like washing the car, making minor repairs, or helping out with yard work. As the fasted growing segment of the population, it makes a lot of business sense to serve seniors, and it will feel good to know you're helping someone who really needs it.
32. Garage Cleaning/Organizing Service Have you ever walked past an open garage that was so cluttered with stuff the family couldn't fit their car inside? Those are your potential clients. Cleaning out the garage is a chore no one enjoys (unless they're getting paid like you will), so convincing people to hire you won't be that hard — especially if you're polite and professional and your rates are reasonable. Your startup costs will be minimal with this business — chances are you have most if not all of your supplies at home already. All you'll need are a good push broom, some cleaning supplies and lots of elbow grease. To get customers, make up some flyers and go door-to-door around your neighborhood. It might be intimidating at first, but before long, you'll get your pitch down, and it will be well worth the effort.
33. Haul-Away Service If you have a pickup, or know someone who has one and wants to be a partner, consider starting a haul-away service. Whether it's in their back yard, in their garage, or under their stairs, people all over the world have lots of junk. And many are willing to pay someone else to haul it away. Figure in the cost of gas, maintenance and insurance on the vehicle you use when coming up with rates, and make sure to find out if your local dump charges to drop off there. Another great thing about this business is that what one person calls junk, another might want. You'd be surprised at what some people get rid of, and there might be an opportunity there to sell some of this "junk" in the classifieds, eBay, etc. To market this business, go door to door, or post flyers at your local grocery store, or laundromat's community bulletin board.
34. Small Engine Repair Service Are you handy with all things mechanical? Can you take apart just about anything and put it back together? If you have the skills, some tools and a garage you can work in, there is a market for a small engine repair service. From lawn mowers to snow blowers, your neighbors are bound to have something they need fixed. For the price of a few flyers, you can be in business fast. As you prove yourself, your customers are sure to tell others, and you'll be busy as a professional tinkerer before you know it!
35. Yard Service Ok, so mowing lawns for the summer isn't a very original idea. But who says you have to limit yourself in this category. Why not think big? Start out by mowing lawns in the summer and clearing snow in the winter, but rather than spending your earnings on the latest video game system or car stereo, use your revenue to expand your services to other kinds of yard work. Trimming hedges, killing weeds, and planting flowerbeds are just a few of the services you could add, without spending much at all on additional equipment. As demand for your business grows, hire friends to help you out. Before you know it, you could be running a full-fledged landscaping business.
36. Social Media Consulting If you're in your teens, chances are very good you know your stuff when it comes to using Facebook, Twitter, Foursquare, and other social networks. But did you know this stuff is big business? Well it absolutely is. There are entire consulting firms dedicated to helping their clients maximize their social media efforts, and some of them probably don't have as much experience at it as you do. Step one is to find out all you can about using social media for business. There are tons of online resources for this, so that part's a breeze. Next, decide what services you'll offer and if you'll specialize in a particular area — Facebook fan pages, for instance. Then get out there on social media and make it known that you're available as a consultant. Also consider visiting local businesses that see the value in social media but might not know how to get started. There is a huge market for this right now. You just have to plan it out and go for it!
37. Candle Making For less than $100 in wax and equipment, anyone can be in business for themselves making candles. If you're creative and willing to do the necessary legwork, you can do well as a candle maker, and you'll have fun too. First, you'll want to decide which kind of candles you want to make. There are beeswax candles, colored candles, scented candles, or aromatherapy candles, to name a few. Then you've got to decide where you'll sell your finished candles. There are lots of options, such as eBay, craft fairs or direct sales to local shops — or all of the above. If you can come up with a unique design or presentation for your candles, this business can blossom into a company that will keep you busy well beyond high school!
38. Jewelry Making Like candle making, this business is for those with a creative flare. It might take a little more to get started, both in money and know-how, but you don't need tons of training, and if you use materials like beads and silver rather than gold and diamonds, starting a custom jewelry business doesn't have to cost a lot. To get started, you can learn most of what you need to know from books on the subject. Then it's a matter of practicing until you're good. If your stuff is attractive, you'll find a market eager to snatch up your pieces — often for a premium price.
39. Web Design Service This is one business where you really should have some training and a lot of practice to get started. Yes, there are many people out there calling themselves web designers who just use templates and have only a basic html background, but you don't want to be one of those. The real money in this field is made by those who know what they're doing. If it's something that interests you, it won't take that long to learn, and you can do very well from referrals and return business. And this is another business that can take you far beyond your high school years.
40. Blogging Are you an expert in a particular area, like social media or high school algebra? Are you an entertaining writer, or simply have a great sense of humor? If you can get people to read what you have to say, you can make money at it by starting a blog. There are thousands of affiliate programs that will pay you when people click through from your blog to their sites and make a purchase. You'll want to read lots of articles (like these) about how to do this right, but once you figure it out, it can mean making way more than your friends working at the taco place!
Green Businesses
41. Become a Greenifier What are greenifiers? All over the world, there are businesses and homeowners who really want to make their companies and homes more earth-friendly, but just don't know how, don't have the time, or for whatever other reason are willing to pay someone to come in and do it for them. Enter greenifiers. There's an opportunity for anyone willing to learn what it takes to turn a company or residence green to make a business out of it. You'll need to really know your stuff to make this business happen, so the key, early on and as a continuous process, is research and learning. There are tons of websites and books on the subject right now, so you shouldn't have any trouble educating yourself. From there, you'll want to establish relationships with wholesale suppliers where you can buy energy-efficient light bulbs and other supplies you'll use to help people turn their worlds green. With a good business plan and a sound marketing strategy, this could be a huge business for anyone willing to put in the time to become a greenifier.
42. Home Wind Turbine Dealer Wind energy has been around since well before the green craze hit. But now it's getting a lot more attention, and more and more people are looking into how to use this cheap, clean source of electric power. As a dealer and/or installer of home wind turbines, you can take advantage of this trend and make big bucks. Companies like Wind Energy 7 sell these systems retail, but they also set up dealers and train them on how to sell and install home wind turbines. Most of the home units are roof-mounted and fairly easy to install. The units run from around $6,000 and up, so this is a big-ticket item with a decent profit margin. The real money comes when you're busy enough to hire installers, which in many cases can be subcontractors or even sub-dealers. Especially if you live in a windy place, check this business out — it could mean a real windfall!
43. Certified Green Professional If you're in the building business or want to go into the business, consider becoming a Certified Green Professional, through the NAHB (National Association of Home Builders). You just need 24 hours of training and to agree to their code of ethics, and you can place this designation on all you do. The certification adds to your credibility and gives comfort to those wanting to hire a contractor that uses green building practices. Not in the construction business? You can also use this certification and consult with builders to help them follow green practices in their work. These consultant, much like the greenifiers mentioned above, are in high demand because, even though construction has slowed down across the board, those who are building are more interested in doing it green.
44. Green Clothing No, not clothes that are green in color — those that are made from environmentally friendly fabrics, using green manufacturing processes. Notice that there are two pieces to this industry. Many fabrics, like hemp, organic cotton, and bamboo are grown without pesticides, but some are processed using old school manufacturing methods that involve chemicals and solvents that end up in the watershed. Two bright spots though: 1. There are manufacturers that use green methods for turning the plants into fabric, and 2. People are paying a premium well beyond the additional manufacturing costs for clothes made from these fabrics. Find a good manufacturer to partner with (by conducting plenty of online research), and you will find a market hungry for your products.
45. Solar To Go When people think of solar power, they often picture large arrays of solar panels on a roof or out in the desert. As the green movement grows though, so does the number of portable solar products. In fact, there are so many different kinds of portable solar products on the market right now, that you could definitely start a business selling nothing but these cool gadgets. From cell phone and iPod chargers, to solar laptop bags, and solar lanterns, people are eating this stuff up. There's even a solar frother for lattes on the go! The outlets to sell your products range from a commerce site, to eBay, to a brick and mortar store — or any combination of all of these. Here's an online store that illustrates the range of products you could carry.
46. Local Organic Food The average food served at a US home travels 1500 miles from source to plate. That's a lot of carbon released into the atmosphere, regardless whether it comes by truck, train or ship. So it's no wonder local food is a fast-growing trend in cities all over. Obviously you need a little land to make this business work, but you don't need much to start. Your back yard might be big enough for a garden that will produce enough vegetables to make a showing at the local farmer's market. Of course you aren't likely to make a great living that way, but if it goes well, you can think about expanding. A movement in some areas is toward small farms that sell directly to the public. In a lot of these cases people pay a yearly membership to pick their own vegetables. Most also supply some meat from animals raised using sustainable methods. The great part for the farmer is that instead of selling wholesale to grocery stores, they're selling above retail to individuals who are willing to pay for the quality and the experience.
47. Greener Landscaping A good entrepreneur knows that one way to be successful is to niche. Find a different slant on the typical way your industry works, and you can really improve you bottom line. One way some landscapers are doing this is by promoting their business as a greener alternative to normal landscapers. From planting low-water-use plants and shrubs to installing low-flow, low-waste irrigation systems and using environmentally friendly fertilizers and pesticides, these companies take an already green business and make it a whole lot greener. If you're thinking of going into landscaping, this might be the niche that will make your business stand out and thrive.
48. Green Cleaning Just like with green landscaping, this business concept takes an existing industry and "niches" it. There are plenty of house and office cleaning services out there, but what if you promoted yours as an environmentally safe alternative? Promising to implement green cleaning products and earth-friendly trash disposal methods will appeal to homeowners and businesses who want to support the green movement. The products might cost a little more, but you'll be able to charge more too — one of the great things about finding a niche market!
49. Paperless Office Consultant The dream of the paperless office has come true for many small businesses, but most either think it's not possible or simply don't know how to make it happen. As a consultant in this field, you will show companies how to turn their operations paperless. You'll need training and experience in designing processes that eliminate the need for paper, from ordering processes to training materials, and even marketing materials. All of this can be learned with some online research. For some inspiration, here is a company that's currently in this business and making it happen.
50. Solar Cookers and Barbeques Hot enough to fry an egg on the sidewalk? Then it's more than hot enough to cook your food in a solar cooker. Whether you're making these cookers and selling them, or teaching others to make them — or both — it's easy to get started right now in the solar cooker business. In fact, SolarCooking.org has free plans for over 30 different solar cookers. They range from the cheap and not-so-attractive windshield shade funnel cooker, to the backyard-party-worthy Cob Solar Oven. Set up at trade shows, craft fairs and the like, and you're bound to generate a lot of interest in these products — especially if you can come up with a unique, attractive design.
Retail Businesses
51. Dollar Store In a down economy, everyone is trying to find ways to save a buck or two. For that reason, dollar stores have become very popular all over. And believe it or not, profit margins in these stores are quite high, compared to a lot of retail businesses. Obviously there are a lot of big players in this segment, but don't sweat that. Consider a different focus from the big guys by setting up a smaller, more neighborly store, and differentiate with outstanding service and unique products. Your startup costs will typically range from about $10,000 to $50,000, and reports say you can expect to turn a profit in as little as a year. Add a website component, and you could cut that down to 6 months or less!
52. Vintage Record Store No matter how much technology advancements try to improve the sound of music, many people will always prefer the pure sound of vinyl. According to purists, those little scratches and fuzzy noises add to the experience, and there's gold in that background buzz. With some market research, you can find out what people are looking for, and specialize in any number of genres, or carry a little of everything. You also have the option of making this an online venture or traditional retail store, and consider carrying vintage and/or new record players and accessories. People love thumbing through albums, and there aren't a lot of these stores out there, so find the right location, and you could be flush in no time.
53. Inventory Liquidation Large manufacturers of everything from windshield wipers to waffle irons often end up with more product than they can move through their traditional channels. And when the stuff is sitting in their warehouses rather than flying off the shelves, they're anxious to get rid of it, even if it means they sell it at a loss. That's where inventory liquidators come in. Similar to the dollar store concept, this business appeals to folks looking to save money on the things they would normally buy at full price. You'll need a large space for this kind of store, but they are often in more industrial or lower-end parts of town, so you won't pay a premium for leased space. Expect to spend $10,000+ on startup, depending on how big you want to start. Industry insiders warn that while lucrative, this business takes planning and careful execution. You don't want to get stuck with 50,000 widgets that won't sell no matter how low the price!
54. Trophy & Awards Shop Regardless of the economy, kids and adults alike are still participating in softball, football, soccer, dance, martial arts, and more. And all of these people are playing to win, and what do they win? They usually win a trophy, ribbon, plaque, or some other custom piece of recognition. For as little as $3500 in equipment and initial inventory, you can be the one providing these prizes to schools, leagues, and private businesses. If you're good at sales, or can hire someone who is, you've got it made. Offer quality products at fair prices, and you'll find a market eager to give you its business.
55. Used Wedding Gowns That's right – used wedding gowns. If you look at the statistics, you'll notice that most people get married, and the majority of those marriages end in divorce, and the majority of those people who get divorced end up remarrying at some point. What does this all mean? It means there's a huge market for wedding gowns, and a whole lot of used wedding gowns just waiting for a beautiful bride to give them another shot. For a low investment of $1000 – $5000, you can begin buying used wedding dresses and then selling them, either online or from home, or (for a larger investment) from a retail store. Consider also partnering with a seamstress for additional income, and to avoid a large initial outlay, think about selling dresses on consignment for 30%-40% of the take.
56. Antique Sales Big fan of the Antiques Road Show? If you've followed this market at all over the last few years, you might know it has taken a big dip. That's great news for someone looking to get into the business. As prices begin to increase, you'll be able to buy low and sell high in fairly short order. For as little as $500-$1000, you can begin buying various items, and you can sell from home, at least in the beginning. There are unlimited options for specializing in specific types of items, ranging from movie memorabilia, to furniture, to jewelry or toys. If you want to make this an online business, consider either starting a site that sells products, or one that facilitates others selling their stuff. In the latter example, you could charge a flat fee or percentage of the sale. The possibilities are endless!
57. Green Home Products As the green movement grows – and it there's no doubt it will continue to grow – people are becoming more and more interested in ways they can "greenify" their homes and businesses. A retail store catering to this booming market will carry everything someone needs to save electricity, conserve water, or help them effectively reuse and repurpose the stuff they would normally toss out. You'll sell everything from energy-efficient light bulbs and weather proofing, to solar-powered items and low-flow conversion kits for toilets. Green is in, and it can help you cash in!
58. Used Fitness and Sports Equipment Just like with the trophy and awards business, this business capitalizes on the huge market consisting of people's love of sports. Whose garage doesn't have some sports and fitness equipment they no longer use? Help them get rid of it while helping others find what they need at a discount price. This is also a business that offers a lot of opportunities to specialize. For example, you could just carry golf equipment, including clubs, shoes, gloves, and even apparel. Or you could focus on fitness equipment exclusively, offering quality used treadmills, stair-steppers, weight equipment, etc. Until you get a steady stream of people coming in to sell you their stuff, check out neighborhood garage sales and classified sites for some screamin' deals.
59. Child Safety Products If you love kids and want to help keep them safe while making a good living, consider opening a child safety products business. You'll carry items such as ID kits, gates, cabinet latches, outlet covers, and even safety and educational videos. Parents want variety, so you'll want to carry several options and brands. To really take this business to the next level, add a "childproofing" installation service where you go into people's homes and make them safe for kids, top to bottom. Expect to invest $10,000 +/- to acquire a good starting inventory, and consider adding an e-commerce site to sell your wares online.
60. Used Bookstore More and more books are becoming available to read online and through devices like the iPad and Kindle, but traditional books aren't going anywhere anytime soon. A Saturday walk through any Barnes & Noble or Borders will confirm that. One way people are increasingly getting their reading fix while saving some cash is by frequenting clean, well-organized used bookstores. Some of these stores have even developed into regional chains, and there's still plenty of room in the market for more. Your inventory will come to you at a low price, but you'll need a lot of it, so expect to spend $5000 – $10,000, not including fixtures and space lease. With a markup well over 100% though, you can do very well in this business, as long as you're willing to put in the time and planning necessary.
Businesses You Can Start for $100 or Less
61. Blogging No matter what business you're in or what your expertise is, you really should be blogging anyway. But you can also blog for a living. Blogging as a business is all about creating outstanding content. The better your content, the more people want to visit your site. The more people come to your site, the more opportunity there is for you to make money from blogging. Whether you put together digital products based on your expertise, like e-books or audio and video programs, or you make money from affiliate links on your blog, (or both) your costs will be minimal, and your profits can be huge. Expect to spend money on a domain name, hosting, a good blog template, and maybe some online marketing. Startup Cost: As low as $50
62. Consulting If you know a lot about a particular subject, there are people willing to pay you for your expertise. Becoming a consultant is simply a matter of calling yourself one, but being successful at consulting takes a lot of hard work and discipline. What it usually doesn't take is a lot of money — at least to start. Network like crazy to start in this business. You'll want some very professional business cards, and hopefully you'll have an appropriate wardrobe for the job. Beyond that, a good website and some slick brochures (or full media kit for some industries) will be necessary. More than anything else though, consultants are hired for who they are and what they know more so than their marketing materials, so you can get your first job or two without spending a lot. Startup Cost: As low as $100
63. Writing/Editing Service There are a lot of people — especially bloggers and other content writers — who have wonderful ideas and just need some help putting them into proper form. Great writers aren't easy to come by. In fact, just finding someone who knows the difference between "your" and "you're" and "then" and "than" can be a challenge. If you have writing skills, including impeccable grammar and spelling knowledge, you can make a living as a freelance writer or editor.  You'll be able to find a lot of business just posting a free ad on Craigslist, so your startup costs can actually be zero (assuming you already have an Internet connection and MS Office or equivalent software). If you want to take it to the next level, develop a website, get some great business cards, and start networking, both online and at local events. You'll be busy before you know it. Startup Cost: As low as $0
64. Event Planning Event Planning is another business that depends on your knowledge and ability to connect with people, more than anything that costs you money. Great event planners charge over $100 an hour for their services, and their clients pay for venues and equipment, so the overhead can be very low. You'll need to do a lot of networking, so again, get some attractive, professional business cards printed. And a good website is important, but it doesn't have to be elaborate to begin with, so you won't need to spend a lot on a developer. If you know some html or know someone who does, you can get by with just the cost of hosting and your domain name. If you're super organized, able to perform well under pressure, and enjoy pleasing picky clients, this could be the business for you. Startup Cost: As low as $100
65. Professional Organizer Families and businesses everywhere have trouble staying organized. Luckily some people are born organizers, and if you're one, you can make a good living providing your services to the rest of us. You can decide to specialize in small-to-medium businesses, home offices, or households — or any combination. The best organizers don't just make money organizing; they blog, write books, and train others to stay organized. So the sky's the limit with the income for this business — and all you need to start is a way to get the word out. Again, online and in-person networking is a great start, and you can print marketing materials, but ultimately, this is another relationship and referral business, so you can actually get started with no money! Startup Cost: As low as $0
66. Tax Preparer Think you have to be an accountant to do people's taxes? That isn't the case, and in many states, you don't even need a license. If you know your way around a tax form and are familiar with the ever-changing tax laws, you can hang your shingle out as a tax preparer. To be sure you do it right, you'll want to get some training, but you can obtain the necessary training for free from many state tax commissions as well as the IRS. Once you're ready to begin, get the word out about your new venture through free ad sites and — you know it — networking! You don't absolutely have to have a website to start, but it's always a good idea, and you'll gain credibility by blogging and posting articles related to your tax expertise. Startup Cost: As low as $50
67. Virtual Assistant Especially in today's economy, small businesses are trying to avoid hiring employees whenever possible. This has created a booming market for virtual assistants (VAs). If you have general office skills, including word processing, good written communication abilities, and the talent to manage several projects at once, you can do well in this business. As your business grows, consider becoming more of a VA coordinator, connecting VAs looking for work with clients in need. This can become a big business for you if you do it right. And your startup costs are minimal, assuming you already have the necessary office equipment and software. Startup Cost: As low as $50
68. Professional Mediator Are you a born peacemaker? If you have the ability to remain neutral and disinterested in order to reconcile differences between two or more parties, you might make a great mediator. Because you're helping your clients to avoid costly arbitration and litigation, you can charge an average of $80-$100 per hour for your services, and people will be happy to pay it. Unlike arbitrators, professional mediators do not make decisions favoring one party or the other, so there is no special licensing or certification required to become a mediator in most states. You'll need to be comfortable networking with lawyers and others in the legal community, and it would be a good idea to join related local organizations to get your foot in the door. A good start is to contact the American Arbitration Association. Startup Cost: As low as $100
69. Fund Raiser If you like the idea of helping people, and if you have excellent people skills and marketing talent, consider becoming a professional fund raiser. Your clients will be charities and non profit organizations who will hire you to raise funds and donations for them. The key to succeeding in this business is being able to present yourself as trustworthy, making people feel that the money they give to charities will indeed reach those charities. As a means to regulate this industry, some states require a certification or license before you can begin your fund raising work. You can be paid on an hourly rate of $20 to $35, but most fund raisers are paid a percentage of the funds they raise. The rates can be as low as 2% to as high as 20% of the total amount raised. Startup Cost: As low as $100
70. Pet Waste Removal Many people said, "Eww," and skipped this idea as soon as they read the title. That's the kind of thing that works in your favor when you start a pet waste removal business. The fact is, people don't like dealing with poop, and they're often willing to pay someone else to do it for them. Assuming you have transportation and some basic tools, you can get started in this business for next to nothing. Eventually, as your business takes off, you'll want your business information on your vehicle, and it will be a good idea to spend some money on marketing. In the beginning though, you can simply print flyers and go door-to-door. If you're not too grossed out by it, poop could be your ticket to the big time! Startup Cost: As low as $50
Socially Responsible Businesses
71. Used Furniture Sales. By reselling used furniture, you're keeping it out of landfills that are rapidly filling and expanding all over the world. To stock your business inexpensively, you'll use sources like garage sales, auctions, classified ads, and estate sales. To begin with, you can sell from home, and if all goes well, you could expand into a retail store. To maximize your impact as a social entrepreneur, offer to purchase or accept for free items in need of repair or cleaning. Ready these items for sale, and turn them into profit while saving landfill space at the same time.
72. Fundraising Consultant. If you have great sales, team-building, and organizational skills, put them to work helping non-profit organizations improve their fundraising efforts. You'll charge a percentage of the fundraising projects for which you're consulting, and you'll be able to work from home, so your overhead is pretty low with this business. Pick causes that are near and dear to your heart, and you'll enjoy the process of helping the community and the world while making a good living for yourself.
73. Socially Responsible Investment Firm. For anyone looking at starting an investment advisory, this niche market could be the key to long term success. More than just a marketing ploy, the genuine socially responsible investment firm helps clients to place their money in investments that represent companies that are giving back and making a positive impact on the world. Research into the business practices of individual companies and those within certain mutual funds will of course be required, and an in-depth knowledge of what sets these firms apart is vital. More and more, people are looking to support socially responsible business, so this focus is good business for you and your clients.
74. 3rd World Crafts Market. Help support crafters in economically challenged countries by importing their products and selling them here in the U.S. Your customers will be helping to support grass roots community development and financial independence for people in one or more developing regions around the world, and you'll make a fair markup while supporting this cause. Organizations like the Third World Craft Development Center and others help to facilitate wholesale purchases of such crafts, which can then be sold online, in a shop, or both. You might also consider being a distributor, selling the products to retail stores. You'll make a lower margin, but will make up for it in volume.
75. Charity Auction Service. Similar to the fundraising consultant, this business involves helping charity organizations raise money. This business does so in a very specific way — by planning and hosting charity auction events. You'll be approaching local businesses to donate prizes for the auction events, so you'll need the ability to establish relationships with other business owners, as well as sales skills. To facilitate the auction, you will either need to hire a licensed auctioneer or obtain a license, so keep that in mind when figuring your costs. This is a fun way to help out the non-profit community, and it's not a bad way to earn a living.
76. Social Responsibility Consultant. Becoming a socially responsible company is all the rage right now. But some businesses just don't know where to begin. Consider becoming a consultant to small to medium sized businesses, showing them how to improve their status as a socially responsible enterprise. You'll consult on integrating eco-friendly products and processes, humanizing HR practices, promoting social causes and more. Take this one step further by showing these businesses how to use their new-found status in their marketing efforts, and you'll be offering a unique service that will mean big bucks for you while making the business world a better place.
77. Online Farmers Market. On average, meals travel over 1500 miles from the source of the food to your plate. Local farms are becoming more popular around the country due to a growing demand for food grown closer to home. Consider creating a business that helps these local farmers market their products and distribute them to their local retail and wholesale customers. A great example of this kind of site is LocalOrb.it. As buying local becomes more and more popular, you can bet more sites like this will be popping up, and you can have one of them.
78. Fair Trade Coffee House. Pair the popularity with social responsibility with that of coffee, and you've got a winner. Consider opening a coffee shop that serves only products that support fair trade practices. It would also be a great idea to serve only organic products in this shop, and to promote community involvement and citizenship. Location, service, and great products are the keys to success in this business, and competition might be stiff, depending on where you are, but with proper promotion, you could do very well serving the growing community of folks who want their daily coffee funds to go toward good.
79. Charity-focused Search Provider. Search engine, Ecosia.org, has saved over 80 million square yards of rain forest just by encouraging people to use their search engine instead of Google and others. They've done so with just over 70,000 users, and less than 5% of those coming from the U.S. The company diverts up to 80% of ad revenue to the Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF). A similar concept could be used to raise money for any cause, or a number of causes. This could be run as a non-profit, or you could run it as a for-profit business supporting non-profit causes. Either way, whoever starts this venture could make a good living while helping worthy organizations.
80. Micro-Franchising for Developing Areas. If you have an idea for a product or service that can aid people in developing regions, consider offering it using a micro-franchising model. In such a model, local citizens are provided with micro-loans to get set up in business, and they become your distribution channel. You end up supplying a needed product or service while providing much-needed economic opportunity to an area in need. A great example of such an enterprise is NURU, a company supplying lights and compact generators to third world countries.
Low-Cost Franchises
81. Bonus Building Care This commercial cleaning opportunity comes from a company that has been selling their franchises since 1996 and had over 2,400 franchises as of 2009. In addition to being a low-cost franchise, Bonus Building Care gives you the chance to work out of your home, which reduces your ongoing overhead. You'll also have the option to purchase an exclusive territory, so you're not competing against other BBC franchisees. Startup Costs: As low as $9,000
82. Breath Testers USA Help prevent drunk driving, while building a profitable business with a low initial investment. Breath Testers USA (and Breath Testers International) lets you start small and expand as big as you want. Simply place your machines in bars, restaurants, or anywhere that serves alcohol, and collect your money. With DWI laws becoming tougher everywhere and people waking up to the tragic affects of drunk driving, people are more than willing to pay a little to test their blood alcohol level before getting into a car. And you can reap the benefits! You'll get protected territories, a 5 year warranty on the machines, and more. Startup Costs: As low as $9,000
83. SuperGlass Windshield Repair Mobile windshield repair is another business you can run from home with fairly low overhead. With this business, you have the option of targeting commercial fleets, car dealerships, insurance companies, car rental companies, or individual consumers. Or you can serve all of the above. SuperGlass provides comprehensive training at their Orlando, FL headquarters, and they offer ongoing support for as long as you are a franchisee. Startup Costs: As low as $9,500 (Not including a vehicle, if you don't already have one.)
84. PosiGrip We live in a litigious society where people are likely to sue if they slip and fall on your property. This fact is in your favor when you own a PosiGrip franchise through which, you'll apply non-slip coatings to surfaces in homes and businesses. PosiGrip represents one of the fastest growing segments of the service industry, and due to a new federal mandate, as a PosiGrip operator, you can offer your customers a federal tax credit just for using your cost effective services. Plus, they will receive a two-year guarantee. Startup Costs: $8,000 – $10,000
85. Critter Control Being a recipient of Franchise Business Review's Franchisee Satisfaction Award shows that Critter Control takes good care of its franchisees. As a franchisee for Critter Control, you will be performing work related to extracting wild animals from people's homes and businesses, and taking steps to prevent their return. You don't have to be the next Steve Irwin though. We're talking small furry critters like squirrels, raccoons, and birds for the most part. If this sounds interesting to you, Critter Control will provide you plenty of training, and give you the ability to work from home. Startup Costs: As low as $12,250
86. The BrickKicker Home Inspection The BrickKicker was founded in 1989 with the goal of offering homebuyers and sellers professional and timely home inspections. As a franchisee for The BrickKicker, you will immediately be associated with a nationally recognized industry leader offering the competitive edge you’ll need. You'll also be able to work from a home office, and you'll receive training, not only in the nuts and bolts of home inspection, but in marketing your business effectively as well. Startup Costs: As low as $12,100
87. CruiseOne, Inc. Unlike air travel and hotel reservations, most people book cruises with companies like CruiseOne, vs. sites like Expedia or Orbits. That's good news for you. Founded in 1992, CruiseOne’s Franchise Model has revolutionized the cruise industry. They've got outstanding relationships and credibility within the industry, and that reputation is yours too, when you sign on to become a franchisee. With a high level of support in marketing, technology, and ongoing training, CruiseOne franchisees are backed every step of the way to ensure success. Startup Costs: As low as $4,600
88. Proforma Even in a world where many companies are moving toward paperless operations, printing is still big business, and always will be. For instance, think of the marketing pieces, brochures and catalogs that you just have to hold in your hand to appreciate. Proforma is a national leader in the print industry, and they allow you to offer promotional items (pens, cups, wearables, etc.) in addition to printed materials. They encourage working from home, and they offer second-to-none support, so check them out. Startup Costs: As low as $4,700
89. The Drug Test Consultant Illegal drugs are a problem that employers, schools and parents around the world need to deal with every day. You can help them by offering your services as a Drug Test Consultant. While DTC is on this list of franchise opportunities, they're different, in that they do not charge any royalties or ongoing fees beyond the initial fee to get started. They do however offer ongoing training, and because you'll buy your testing supplies from DTC (they're cheaper than you'll get them anywhere else), your success is their success, so they offer great support. Startup Costs: $12,995
90. Global M.A.R.S. MARS has grown to become a world leader in the automobile appearance reconditioning business and the highest ranked and most comprehensive aftermarket reconditioning company in the world. If you love cars, and more specifically, making them look great, this might be the franchise for you. Yet another franchise you can work out of your home, MARS lets you provide your customers a quick, economical way to remove every scratch, chip, ding, tear, burn, discoloration, odor, or any blemish on paint, plastic, leather, vinyl, velour, metal, carpet or glass on any vehicle, while they wait. Global MARS is known for their comprehensive training and support. Startup Costs: As low as $500
Consulting Businesses
91. Sales. If you are an expert at sales, you have tremendous value beyond your ability to sell. You see, everyone needs to know how to sell. As you probably already know, nothing happens until a sale is made. From retail companies to manufacturers and car dealers, there is not a company that couldn't benefit from your expertise. The potential downside to this focus is the amount of competition in the general sales training sector. But take heart. The key to get around that is to niche. And here's an article that will explain just how to do that!
92. Customer Service Like sales, this is an area that every business can benefit from. During an economic downturn, this is especially crucial. When every customer becomes vital to survival, you can't afford to lose any due to gaps in customer service. Get this message across to your potential clients, along with the message that you have the solution they're looking for, and you'll stay as busy as you want to!
93. Green Business We've talked about this possibility in a previous group of 10 business ideas, and it's worth mentioning again. Green is all the rage and shows no signs of letting up anytime soon. Become a "greenifier" and show businesses how to save energy, cut down on paper use, and make other eco-friendly changes, and you'll also be showing them how to save money. And, when what you're consulting on will help offset the price of your expertise, it's an easy sell.
94. Social Media You say you're a Twitter ninja? You've mastered Facebook fan pages and know how to attract thousands of social media followers? Then, you've got a business. There's no question that social media has become a necessary part of every marketer's playbook, but not many know how to do it right. That's where you'll step in and make a fortune showing them the way. Want a great niche for this one? Newt Gingrich said earlier this week that the Republican Party is recommending to its candidates that they spend at least as much on "new media" as they do on all other forms of marketing. You think all those candidates or their staff know how to make it work? Not likely.
95. Image/Style If you're into fashion, style, etiquette, and everything else that goes into how a person presents him/herself, consider becoming an image/style consultant. While celebrities and others in the national or world spotlight obviously hire these types of consultants, you'd be surprised how many local high-profile people are looking for this kind of advice. From political candidates to CEOs to rich widows, there's a wide market for these services. Start small, and if you're good, who knows – maybe someday you'll get a full-time gig with the royal family!
96. Human Resources Many people have worked in the same field for many years and just don't see that what they've been doing all along can be turned into a business. This is often the case with talented HR employees. If you're an HR expert, why not reap the benefits of your knowledge by working for yourself as an HR consultant? Companies use HR consultants to help them write policy, devise performance review plans, compile handbooks, and a lot more. And regardless of the level you've reached in the corporate world, chances are very good that your hourly or project rate as an HR consultant will eclipse what you're earning as an employee.
97. Project Management If you're highly organized, are able to pull a team together to achieve a common goal, and love the challenge of managing large projects, being a project management consultant might be right for you. Expertise in the process of managing large projects will be required, and you'll need people management skills as well. This is a field for picking your work and how much you'll work, as each project will usually have a deadline, so you'll know just how long you'll be devoted to the client, and when you can move on to the next.
98. Startup Are you a serial entrepreneur who knows what it takes to successfully get a new venture off the ground? Use that expertise to help other would-be entrepreneurs to realize their dreams of business ownership. These days, these consultants are often referred to as business coaches, but it's the same thing. You'll be helping with everything from writing a business plan to hiring employees, negotiating leases, obtaining licenses and permits, and whatever else the startup needs to get going. You'll feel a great sense of accomplishment helping to launch a business, and you'll make good money doing it.
99. Technology For people who are experts at all things technology-based, the possibility of becoming a well-paid technology consultant is very real. Many small to medium companies can't afford in-house IT people and turn to tech consultants to fill their needs. Companies hire these consultants to determine and fill their requirements relating to computers, servers, communications, and all other aspects of technology. Typically, a tech consultant will have several clients at once and might be working on multiple projects at the same time. But many hire employees to help facilitate some of the work to be done, which, if you bring on the right people, can allow you to get away when you want.
100. Strategic Planning The strategic planning consultant is to established businesses what the startup consultant is to fledgling companies. Many entrepreneurs are very creative and have amazing ideas, but they need help taking those ideas from concept to reality. Strategic planning consultants help business owners map out their future and create plans to get from here to there. An expertise in marketing, operations, and often personnel management is important to success in this role.
