The 10 Easiest Online Businesses to Start 2025

Finally do it!

Starting an online business in 2024 has become more accessible than ever, thanks to advancements in technology and widespread internet access.

Here are some of the easiest online businesses to start, considering low barriers to entry, minimal startup costs, and scalability:

1. Print-on-Demand (POD)

• What It Is: Selling custom-designed products like T-shirts, mugs, and tote bags through platforms like Printful or Printify.

• Why It’s Easy: No inventory is required. You only pay for the product once a customer makes a purchase.

• Tools Needed: A design tool (e.g., Canva), a store on Shopify or Etsy.

• Earning Potential: Moderate, depending on how well you market your designs.

2. Dropshipping

• What It Is: Selling products without holding inventory. You partner with suppliers (e.g., via AliExpress or Spocket), and they ship directly to customers.

• Why It’s Easy: No upfront cost for inventory and minimal risk.

• Tools Needed: An e-commerce platform like Shopify, marketing skills (social media ads, SEO).

• Earning Potential: High if you identify a winning product and market it effectively.

3. Freelancing

• What It Is: Offering services such as writing, graphic design, web development, or virtual assistance through platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Toptal.

• Why It’s Easy: You can monetize your existing skills.

• Tools Needed: A good portfolio, time to apply for jobs, and proficiency in a specific skill.

• Earning Potential: Varies depending on your skill and niche, but high for in-demand fields like tech and marketing.

4. Content Creation (YouTube, Blogging, or Podcasting)

• What It Is: Creating engaging content around a specific niche and monetizing through ads, sponsorships, or affiliate marketing.

• Why It’s Easy: Free platforms and tools are available; you can start with minimal equipment.

• Tools Needed: Camera or microphone (even a smartphone works), free editing software.

• Earning Potential: Passive income potential; takes time to grow.

5. Affiliate Marketing

• What It Is: Promoting products or services from other companies and earning a commission for each sale through your referral.

• Why It’s Easy: No product creation or inventory required.

• Tools Needed: A website, blog, or social media presence; affiliate accounts (e.g., Amazon Associates, ClickBank).

• Earning Potential: High, depending on traffic and conversions.

6. Online Course or E-Book Sales

• What It Is: Teaching a skill or sharing knowledge through platforms like Teachable, Udemy, or Gumroad.

• Why It’s Easy: Start with expertise in any topic and create content once for recurring sales.

• Tools Needed: A course creation tool, a website or landing page.

• Earning Potential: High if you solve a significant problem or cater to a niche audience.

7. Social Media Management

• What It Is: Helping businesses manage their social media presence.

• Why It’s Easy: Businesses outsource this to save time; you can start with just a few clients.

• Tools Needed: Knowledge of social media platforms, scheduling tools (e.g., Hootsuite).

• Earning Potential: Steady and scalable.

8. Virtual Assistant (VA) Services

• What It Is: Providing administrative, technical, or creative assistance remotely.

• Why It’s Easy: No special education needed; start with basic skills like email management or scheduling.

• Tools Needed: A computer, communication tools (e.g., Zoom, Slack).

• Earning Potential: Reliable and growing demand.

9. Digital Marketing Agency

• What It Is: Helping businesses with SEO, pay-per-click (PPC) ads, email campaigns, or social media marketing.

• Why It’s Easy: High demand as businesses prioritize digital growth.

• Tools Needed: Marketing tools (Google Analytics, Facebook Ads Manager), knowledge of online trends.

• Earning Potential: High, with recurring clients.

10. Flipping Items Online

• What It Is: Buying items at low cost (thrift stores, clearance sales) and reselling them on platforms like eBay, Poshmark, or Facebook Marketplace.

• Why It’s Easy: Minimal investment; easy-to-use platforms.

• Tools Needed: A smartphone for listing products.

• Earning Potential: Moderate to high, depending on the items and sales volume.

The Bottom Line

Each business has its pros and cons, but the key to success lies in choosing something that aligns with your interests, skills, and available time.