10 Business Ideas You Can Start With Less Than $500

Starting a business doesn’t always require a huge budget. In fact, with the right idea, some hustle, and less than $500, you can kick off something that grows into a profitable venture. Whether you’re looking to create a side hustle or lay the foundation for a full-time gig, here are 10 budget-friendly business ideas to consider:

1. Freelance Services (Writing, Design, Photography, etc.)

If you have a skill—writing, graphic design, video editing, photography—you can easily start freelancing. Use your $500 to invest in software subscriptions (like Adobe Creative Cloud or Grammarly), a basic website, or ads to attract clients. Platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, or LinkedIn can help you get started.

Startup Cost Estimate: $0–$300

2. Print-on-Demand Store

Create and sell custom t-shirts, mugs, tote bags, or hoodies without having to hold inventory. Platforms like Printful and Teespring handle the printing and shipping—you just focus on design and marketing. Invest in Canva Pro or hire a freelance designer to help with the graphics.

Startup Cost Estimate: $100–$300

3. Social Media Management

Many small businesses need help managing their Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook accounts. If you're savvy with content creation and analytics, offer your services as a freelance social media manager. You might use your budget for scheduling tools (like Later or Buffer), courses, or content creation apps.

Startup Cost Estimate: $0–$200

4. Buy and Flip Thrift Items

Go thrifting at garage sales or second-hand shops, and resell the items for a profit on platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Depop. Clothing, home decor, and collectibles are popular niches.

Startup Cost Estimate: $100–$300 (inventory and supplies)

5. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking

If you love animals, this could be a perfect low-cost business. You’ll just need to create flyers, business cards, or an online presence to spread the word. Use your funds to register with platforms like Rover or invest in some basic branding and insurance if needed.

Startup Cost Estimate: $50–$200

6. Handmade Crafts or Art

Are you into jewelry-making, painting, candles, or other DIY crafts? You can sell your creations on Etsy or at local markets. Use your $500 for materials, packaging, and setting up an online store.

Startup Cost Estimate: $100–$500 (materials + setup)

7. Digital Products (E-books, Templates, Courses)

If you have knowledge in a certain field, package it into an e-book, workbook, or online course. Sell on Gumroad, Etsy, or through your own website. Your main cost would be design, software (Canva, Notion, etc.), and marketing.

Startup Cost Estimate: $0–$200

8. Tutoring or Online Coaching

You can offer tutoring in subjects like math, language, or science, or even teach skills like public speaking or resume writing. You only need a Zoom account and perhaps some basic digital tools to get going.

Startup Cost Estimate: $0–$100

9. Drop Servicing

Drop servicing is like dropshipping, but with services. You sell a service (like logo design), then outsource it to freelancers for less and keep the profit. Your costs go into building a sleek website and running some initial ads.

Startup Cost Estimate: $100–$400

10. Mobile Car Wash or Cleaning Service

A car wash or cleaning business can start small and grow fast. Basic supplies (cleaners, buckets, microfiber towels, etc.) are affordable, and you can advertise locally with flyers or online.

Startup Cost Estimate: $150–$400

Final Thoughts

Starting small doesn’t mean thinking small. Many successful businesses began on a shoestring budget and grew through consistency and creativity. If you have $500 and a strong work ethic, you’re already ahead of the game. Choose something that aligns with your skills and interests, and just start—momentum is everything.

Addentum

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Danel Homméus AKA DaHo

Writer | Founder | Consultant | Entrepreneur l Philantropist