Business ideas for women run the gamut from simple side hustles that bring in a little extra pocket money to full-time ventures with unlimited earning potential. You can focus solely on one idea or create multiple income streams with various businesses, thus diversifying your income and lowering your risk.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to setting up your business as a woman. Something that might take off for one individual may not be the right fit for another. It can sometimes be a game of trial and error.
For example, when I began as a freelance writer years ago, I focused on one genre of writing. Little did I realize that I was limiting my prospects and income by doing just that. Once I took the leap and explored other types of opportunities within the freelance and creative realms, I boosted my earnings and honed in on what best suited me. Not only that, but I became aware of where my talents and skills could lead me next. With that experience, I created multiple businesses that all contribute to the big picture, with each venture complimenting my career as a whole.
I've created a comprehensive guide highlighting 30 businesses you can make work in 2024 and beyond. From online-only ventures ideal for introverts to people-facing businesses for those who enjoy interacting with others daily, it's never too late to start your entrepreneurship journey.
This guide will include what I find to be some of the best business ideas for women and relay some helpful tips for starting and growing your business so that you have the best chance of success. So, are you ready to take the plunge and learn all about starting your first business, boss lady?
How To Choose a Business Idea
How does someone decide on the perfect idea for their business? Consider what you're passionate about and how your skills complement it. Finding a service people are willing to pay for is also always helpful.
Hone in on things you love, like maybe animals or an art project. Maybe you have thought about starting a business before but didn't know where to start, so now might be the time! When considering ideas, think of your own skillset- do they match up with anything from our list below? Is one more interesting than another based on these factors alone? These are all things to take into account.
Online Business Ideas for Women
1. Virtual Assistant
A virtual assistant can make anywhere between $10 and $100 an hour, depending on your level of expertise. Nowadays, virtual assistants perform various tasks, from simple data entry to social media management and website maintenance.
To start your own business, you’ll need to set up a website, a place where you can advertise your services.
Successful virtual assistants will need to hone in on these skills:
Organizational Skills: Effective virtual assistants need strong organizational abilities to manage schedules, prioritize tasks, and efficiently coordinate various assignments for multiple clients.
Communication Skills: Proficient virtual assistants must possess excellent written and verbal communication skills to liaise effectively with clients, understand their needs, and convey information clearly and professionally.
Tech Proficiency: Being adept with various digital tools and software such as project management platforms, communication tools (e.g., Slack, Zoom), word processing software, and spreadsheet applications is crucial for a virtual assistant's productivity.
Adaptability and Resourcefulness: Virtual assistants often encounter diverse tasks and situations. Being adaptable and resourceful in finding solutions, learning new skills quickly, and handling unforeseen challenges is key to success in this role.
Time Management: Strong time management skills are essential to meet deadlines, handle multiple tasks simultaneously, and effectively allocate time for different projects while maintaining high accuracy and quality in work deliverables.
2. Bookkeeper
One of the best small business ideas to work from home is bookkeeping. Get paid to help companies keep track of payroll and spending. The average salary of a bookkeeper is about $40,000. Here are steps you can take to become a bookkeeper.
If you enjoy math and finance, this might be an excellent way to make money from home. If you want to go the technical route, consider taking some courses in QuickBooks to learn how to keep financial records for small businesses.
Both employed and freelance bookkeepers can find advantages in obtaining certification. The American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers and the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers offer the title of Certified Bookkeeper, requiring a minimum of two years' full-time experience or an equivalent part-time duration, passing an exam, and adhering to a code of ethics. Alternatively, the Uniform Bookkeeper Certification Exam online awards a Certified Public Bookkeeper license.
While certification isn't mandatory for success as a bookkeeper, it significantly enhances the potential to attract higher-tier clients. Certified bookkeepers boast assured skills and experience, making them the preferred choices for certain employers seeking to hire qualified individuals.
3. Freelance Writer
Writing is a passion for many, whether short stories, novels, or something else. While you may think you’ll never be able to make money writing a great novel in your spare time, several freelance writing opportunities can earn you extra spending money while doing what you love.
Some of the most popular ways to earn money for your writing include:
- Freelance writer for a local paper or magazine
- Proofreader, copy editor, or general fact-checker
- Technical writer
- Resume writer for others looking to make a big career change
There are many freelance writing opportunities if you know where to look, so do your research and explore the many possibilities available.
4. Blogger
Making money as a blogger is hugely satisfying. It’s a great way to get paid for creativity and sharing ideas. Find a niche you love, and start a website that covers topics related to that niche. You can make income via affiliate marketing, ads on your site, and subscription services.
If you're not ready to jump into blogging, you might want to try creating YouTube videos to earn affiliate income. Here's a guide to help you get started with your first video.
5. Social Media Influencer
Now, this may seem like a stretch. Still, there are more opportunities than ever for you to become a social media influencer and use your brand to earn extra money through direct sales or affiliate marketing. Many people start promoting products they love on their Facebook page or other social media sites and then discover they can earn even more money if they sign up with an affiliate marketing firm.
Affiliate marketing firms will allow you to promote their products on your social media sites, and in return, you’ll get a percentage of each sale made through your unique referral link. If it sounds simple, that’s because it can be, but there are many pitfalls that you’ll need to avoid if you want to maximize your profits.
Regular posts with affiliate marketing links can quickly turn off many of your followers, so it’s crucial that you only post when you have something relevant and helpful to say.
6. Sell on Etsy
If you love crafting and making beautiful things, you may want to open an Etsy store. You can make various products and sell them on the popular e-commerce marketplace.
The great thing about opening an Etsy shop is that you don't necessarily need a huge following to be successful. You'll likely sell enough for a decent profit if you make a quality product and price it competitively.
Etsy does take a portion of the sales from each transaction, but if you stick with it, you can quickly build up an audience that trusts your brand and makes future purchases. This is one of the best business ideas for stay-at-home moms who love to craft.
7. Open an Online Store
Have you ever thought about opening your own online store? If you have a knack for business and love to sell, then an online store may be a great small business idea. You can sell almost anything on the web these days—from your homemade crafts to cute outfits or even hair accessories—and earn a substantial amount of money per sale.
You can sell anything from clothing items to household gadgets through Shopify. It doesn't cost much to get started with Shopify, and if you're willing to put the time into building your business, it could be an excellent investment.
8. Design and Sell Products With an Online Business
CNBC recently wrote about a website called Zazzle, a growing company that makes it easy for you to design and sell your own products. You can sell stickers, clothes, jewelry, accessories, housewares, office products, art, food, and more. This site is not a listing site like eBay. You sell through a store you set up on their site or your website. The goods are made-to-order, cutting out the huge fees associated with inventory and fulfillment.
Service-Based Business Ideas for Women
9. Event Planning
Do you put together fabulous bashes that everyone can't wait to attend? Are your kids' birthday parties the talk of the town? Try putting together a home-based business in event planning. Other busy parents often can't wait to pay you for those services. Not only will you get to plan amazing parties on someone else's budget, but you'll also be able to make a little extra money on the side.
10. Running Errands
Busy moms, shift workers, sick or injured people, and people who work nine to five all need help from time to time getting things done. An easy business to start is running errands in your community. You only need to offer your service on a person-to-person job website such as TaskRabbit or social media.
You can start this business part-time during school hours and on weekends, making it a simple business to start quickly.
11. Landscaping
Do you dream of working outdoors? If so, landscaping is one of the low-cost business ideas you might want to try. A pickup truck, lawnmower, weed eater, and some shovels may be all you need to get started.Offer to mow lawns, pull weeds, mulch flowers, or tend a vegetable garden.
Social media can be a great way to get started with this business because posting before and after pictures of your work can really help get new customers interested.
12. Car Detailing
Another easy business idea is car detailing. For about $400, you can buy all the necessary supplies to start washing vehicles. You might need a garage to work in, depending on where you live.
Or if it’s not practical to have your business in a garage, there are plenty of other options. Some people like to work out of their driveways, designated parking spaces, or rent a garage.
Businesses like this don’t require much startup capital and provide great customer rates. Once you get started, you can build up your clientele with social media and grow your business without too much trouble. You don't need to work for anyone else when you have these excellent business ideas. For example, if you want $1,000 per week working part-time, it is possible with a business like this!
13. Fitness Training
Have you put effort into learning yoga or tightening your body through aerobics? Have you worked with a specific program or learned about overall fitness, especially if you struggled to adapt to your new post-baby body?
Becoming a fitness trainer is a great way to work with many clients to help them reach their goals. This will give you a new kind of fitness high in and of itself. Not only that, it's a surefire way to increase the odds that you'll get your workout in each day!
14. Professional Organizing
If you like working with people and love finding new ways to keep things organized, it might be time to become a professional organizer. Help your clients bring order to their lives by creating a system that keeps everything in its place in their homes, offices, and filing systems. WikiHow has some valuable tips for getting started in an organization business.
You can use social media to promote your services and make it easier for people to find you. Most people can use a little help organizing their lives and creating new business opportunities for you.
15. Dog Grooming
You may do well as a dog groomer with a soft spot for furry friends. It's essential to take the time to groom dogs properly. You may need a few years of practical experience before starting your own business, but it's a great way to make money on the side or turn it into a full-time enterprise.
To start a successful dog grooming business, keep the following in mind:
Knowledge of dog behavior and body language is crucial. Understanding how to handle dogs safely and keep them calm during grooming sessions is essential for a successful grooming career.
Familiarity with dog breeds, their coat types, specific grooming needs, and styles is essential. Different breeds require unique grooming techniques, so comprehensive knowledge is necessary.
Strong interpersonal skills are vital for effectively communicating with pet owners, understanding their preferences, and ensuring customer satisfaction. Providing a positive experience for the dog and the owner is key to building a loyal client base.
16. Start a Bed and Breakfast
A bed and breakfast might be a perfect small business if you enjoy hosting guests. Build new friendships with your guests and increase your income simultaneously. By offering various room options and amenities, you can build a reputation for being the go-to place in your community.
You will need to purchase some basic furniture and other supplies, but once that is done, you can get more reservations daily. A bed and breakfast may require work, but it can be a very fulfilling career.
17. Life Coaching
Do you have an overflowing number of friends who seem to be coming to you for advice on everything from dating to finances?
If so, it might be time to consider the business idea of becoming a life coach. This can be one of the more difficult professions to master because you’ll need to be a master at listening and asking the right questions.
Your job will naturally be to take your advice and personalize it for each client, but you can also make money by selling several coaching packages or one-on-one sessions. Many start by offering their services per session, which can help you build up your clientele before you launch into full-time life coaching.
Make sure to do plenty of market research before you jump in head first, as some of these professions are more lucrative than others.
18. Food Services and Catering
If you enjoy cooking and working with food, then this is a small business idea you should consider. You can start from home or a commercial space in your area.
A catering company might be another option if you want to work in the food industry but don't have the time or interest in working directly with customers.
A personal chef business is an excellent option if you enjoy cooking for others. You can cook for people on special occasions or even offer cooking classes to show others your skills.
You may want to focus on a specific cuisine, such as French or Italian. You should also consider baking and providing desserts if you're good at that.
And don't forget the social media aspect of this business: take pictures of your finished dishes and post them on Facebook or Instagram for all your future clients to see. You can even offer cooking lessons through social media, which may be an easier way to get potential customers interested in what you're offering.
19. Cleaning
Cleaning is one of the most profitable types of small business out there. You can also consider starting a cleaning business with friends—this way, you can all together to take on more clients.
Many cleaners charge a flat fee depending on the size of the house and the number of occupants. The scope of the work is covered with each new client before any work begins. This business can offer decent flexibility; you can choose the days you want to work and how many clients you want.
Creative Business Ideas
20. Selling Crafts
If you have a home littered with crafts, struggle to figure out what to do with them all, or have a craft closet full of supplies you never use, consider turning that crafting hobby into extra spending money.
You can set up at local craft fairs and markets to sell your wares or create an online shop to help expand your reach and discover how many people will fall in love with your products.
Do some market research, especially if you're selling online. Are there enough buyers to support your plans and make your hourly wage worth? These simple questions can help you find the right corner of the market for you.
21. Selling Pictures
One of my favorite small business ideas for women is taking and selling pictures.
Are people always asking how you get your kids in such great poses or commenting on what great photos you take? Perhaps you have a gift for seeing something through the eye of your camera that others fail to notice.
Whatever the case, consider how you can turn that talent into a productive home-based business. Do some kids' or family photography, or take your talents beyond that and try shooting weddings, graduation photos, or other important life events!
22. Flea Market Flipping
Is bargain hunting your jam? Flipping might be a good business if you can’t pass up a good yard sale and know a good deal when you see one. You might even contemplate starting a business where you fix up old furniture or flea market items, breathe new life into them, and then sell them for a profit.
23. Personal Styling
Personal styling as a business for women involves offering tailored fashion advice, wardrobe curation, and styling services to individual clients. This business is about helping clients look and feel their best by creating personalized looks that align with their lifestyle, body type, and preferences.
Building a network within the fashion industry, including connections with designers, boutiques, and makeup artists, can enhance your business offerings.
To start this type of business, you will likely need:
- A keen sense of fashion and styling and a strong understanding of different body types and fashion trends.
- A comprehensive knowledge of color theory and the ability to assess individual preferences is essential.
- A robust portfolio showcasing your styling skills through before-and-after transformations is crucial to attract potential clients.
- A professional website or social media presence is necessary to showcase your services, pricing, and previous work, aiding in brand establishment.
24. Interior Design
Do you have a knack for picking the perfect colors and furniture pieces to create a room as warm as it is welcoming? Many people would pay you to visit their homes and help them decorate.
Interior design may not be your first thought as a small business, but some clients are waiting for you to make their homes beautiful.
Many people will suggest using Facebook or other online options to build your clientele, but it’s far better to ask around and find out what decorating services your community needs. Your best bet will likely be speaking with friends and family about their future decorating needs, but don’t neglect word-of-mouth advertising.
Word travels quickly in many small towns, and once you get the ball rolling, it will be easier than ever to drum up business.
25. Temporary Tattoo Artist
Provide a unique, fun service with temporary tattoos at parties and community events. A temporary tattoo artist will surely be a hit by allowing customers to let loose and be creative.
A significant advantage to this business is that you don’t need specialized equipment to get started. This keeps your startup costs low. You can learn how to apply these impermanent markings by watching YouTube videos.You can find inexpensive supplies at the Oriental Trading Company or create your own.
Education-Based Business Ideas for Women
26. Teaching or Tutoring
Perhaps you have a gift for teaching kids how to write in a way that helps them better understand the writing process. Or you may be great at explaining subjects many struggle with, such as math and science.
If you're a good teacher, think about a home-based business in tutoring! A couple of hours a day after school can help rake in some serious cash, especially as you form a solid client base. Depending on your clients and personal needs, you can tutor from home or try a local library or public space.
27. Proofreading
You've always had an eye for detail in other people's writing. Why not turn it into a home-based business? From college students eager to turn in the perfect paper to would-be writers who need extra input for their new books, there is a wide range of proofreading clients out there.
As a bonus, you'll be able to work from anywhere. Take papers to your kids' lessons and classes, work on the commute to and from your primary job, or take them on vacation if you so desire.
28. Create an Online Course
One of the best business ideas is to create your own online course. You can teach just about anything if you put your mind to it, and plenty of people out there are willing to pay for high-quality training that they can access from their computer or smartphone.
An advantage of creating your own course is that you don’t have to share the profits with anyone else. Plus, you can promote your class and drive more traffic to your website through affiliate links and social media platforms.
Care-Based Business Ideas for Women
29. Home Childcare
One of the best business ideas for moms may very well be childcare. You're already at home with your kids during the day, so why not take advantage of that and simultaneously bring in some built-in friends for a playdate?
Offer childcare to a friend or family member who has to work–or start an entire daycare business out of your home. You'll be able to keep having fun with your kids and add a few more to the mix simultaneously. Even better, they'll never complain about being bored again!
30. Eldercare
Not everyone wants to interact with other people's children. Some prefer working with the elderly and listening to their stories. Consider being a caregiver for the elderly. In some cases, you may be able to bring the kids with you. They'll light up an elderly person's day and gain an extra “grandparent” to spoil them.
Not only can this be a rewarding experience, but it can also pay off quickly with a steady paycheck that helps you meet your financial obligations.
What To Consider Before Starting Your Own Business
There are a few things to consider before starting your own business. Examine the industry you will enter and what kind of competition there is in that field. It’s also important to consider how much money it will cost you, what skills you will need, and who you might be able to work with.
You want to ensure you can compete in the market before entering it. The best way to do this is to research other businesses in your industry. Look at companies like yours and see how they are marketing themselves. Look into their prices, the type of clientele they attract, and whether their pricing or services are better than yours.
Look over your experience. For example, if you’re selling consulting services, do you have experience in that area? Do you have enough contacts, knowledge, and skills to give the best advice possible within this industry?
If there are already businesses like yours, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t start your own. Perhaps you can offer something different than what’s currently available. It might mean you specialize in a particular area or can provide better service for less money.
Tips for Starting Your Own Business
Starting your own business as a woman involves navigating unique challenges and capitalizing on your strengths. As mentioned earlier in this article, I explained how when I first began my freelance writing career, I knew little about what all my abilities and skillset could bring to the table. Once I took the leap and tried some other opportunities outside of my original comfort zone for size, I vastly expanded my horizons.
Here are a few pointers that I wish I had been privy to when I first ventured into entrepreneurship:
Firstly, focus on finding your niche and leveraging your passions, skills, and experiences. Identify a market gap or a need that aligns with your expertise or interests. Conduct thorough market research to understand your target audience, their preferences, and the competition. Create a solid business plan outlining your objectives, target market, financial projections, and marketing strategies.
Building a support network is also crucial. Connect with other women entrepreneurs, join business associations, attend networking events, and seek mentorship to gain valuable insights and support along your entrepreneurial journey.
Secondly, embrace confidence and resilience. In a competitive business landscape, confidence in your abilities and a resilient mindset are invaluable. Believe in your vision and be prepared to face setbacks. Cultivate a growth mindset that allows you to learn from failures and adapt to changing circ*mstances.
Develop strong decision-making skills and be willing to take calculated risks. Additionally, don’t hesitate to seek advice or assistance when needed. Utilize resources available for women entrepreneurs, such as grants, loans, or programs designed to support women-owned businesses.
Finally, prioritize work-life balance to prevent burnout. Balancing personal and professional life is essential for long-term success and well-being. Establish boundaries, delegate tasks when possible, and take time for self-care to maintain a healthy equilibrium while building your business.
The Bottom Line
Starting your own business is a great way to increase your income while doing something you genuinely enjoy. It can also create additional revenue to help support your family if times get tough, even if it's just a side business. Hopefully, this list of female-friendly business ideas has motivated you to start your journey to becoming an entrepreneur! With some planning and dedication, you'll be on your way to building a business you are truly proud of!
