Did you know you can start an online business that does not require a lot of upfront investment or advanced technical skills even if you are a beginner? This guide covers 4 The Best Simple Online Businesses to Start For Beginners
1. Remote Home Service Business
Starting a local service business while working remotely it is not only possible it is profitable. Many entrepreneurs run cleaning services, junk removal companies, car detailing and even CPR training businesses entirely from their laptops using local subcontractors to fulfill the services
How It Works
- Choose a high demand but simple home service such as junk removal, house cleaning, lawn care
- Set up a basic website using platforms like Wix or Squarespace
- Register your Google Business Profile to appear in local search results
- Promote your service using Facebook community groups, Nextdoor and word of mouth
Why It Works
- Low overhead
- High local demand
- Easy to scale with independent contractors
- Less competition than online only business models
Tip: Use free or low cost marketing by posting in local groups, creating simple flyers or offering referral bonuses
2. Start a Local Newsletter and Monetize with Sponsorships
With email open rates often outperforming social media engagement a local email newsletter is one of the most underrated online businesses
How to Get Started
- Pick a city or town and commit to sending value packed newsletters 3–5x a week
- Use tools such as Substack, Mailchimp or Beehiiv to design and distribute your emails
- Grow your list with Facebook ads targeted at local residents
- Monetize by selling ad placements to local businesses
Why This Works
- High trust and interest in local information
- Businesses are eager to advertise to highly targeted local audiences
- Almost no one is doing it due to low competition in most areas
Tip: Ask local coffee shops or gyms if you can post a flyer with a QR code to your newsletter signup page
3. Online Service Arbitrage (No Website Needed)
This business model involves finding services that local businesses need and connecting them with affordable freelancers and then earning a margin for facilitating the deal
What You Can Offer
- Simple websites
- Custom logos
- SEO services, social media management or copywriting outsourced from Fiverr or Upwork
How It Works
- Search local businesses on Google Maps that do not have websites or use outdated ones
- Use a Wix template, insert their logo and send it to them as a mockup
- Offer the finished version for $300–$500. You can upsell a monthly maintenance plan
4. Monetize Your Passion or Skill with Content
This is perhaps the most scalable online business and does not require a website, ad budget or inventory. All you need is a skill or passion and a willingness to share it publicly
How to Start
- Choose a niche you enjoy or have some experience in
- Start posting content on TikTok, Instagram Reels or YouTube Shorts
- Use tools such as Stan.store, Gumroad or Podia to sell courses, coaching or community access
- Collect emails and build a loyal subscriber base
