In these cash-strapped times, we all need a little side hustle. But many of us don’t have vast sums of money to invest in a new business. But starting a part time business does not have to be expensive. In fact, you can do it for just a few pounds. Here are 10 businesses you can start for less than £100.
Freelance Writing
There will always be a market for well-written, human-created content. If you think AI is taking over the world, rest assured that this is one niche, it will never completely dominate. If you have a computer and an internet connection, you are ready to go. Check out Upwork and Fiverr to find writing gigs.
Become an Online Tutor
Online learning is a growing market. If you have qualifications in popular subjects, such as science, maths, and languages, your knowledge is likely to be highly sought after. Most tutoring companies require at least a degree in the subject you intend to teach, although there are opportunities to teach English to speakers of other languages that don’t require formal qualifications. Check out websites like Tutorful or Preply
Sell Your Crafts
If you are creative, there might be a market for your handmade goods. People love to buy unique and handmade gifts. And you get to do what you enjoy and get paid for it. Etsy is a great marketplace for home-made crafts, and you can get started very cheaply indeed, for just a few pence to list your item.
Pet Sitting and Dog Walking
Love furry friends? Pet owners will always need someone to care for their pets whilst they are at work or travelling. You could offer to look after pets in the owners homes or just take them out for walks. Offer your services on local community pages or place ads in local shops. You will probably need to invest in some insurance before taking other people’s pets out of their homes.
House Cleaning
Another business which can be started very cheaply is house cleaning. You will need basic cleaning supplies, some elbow grease and some insurance in case you damage or break anything in your clients homes. People sometimes advertise for cleaners on local social media groups or you could have some low cost flyers printed and go door to door.
Personal Shopper
Having someone run errands and do shopping are essential services for people who are elderly or housebound. Whilst it’s possible to get online food deliveries now, some customers struggle to put the shopping away when it arrives. You could offer a complete shopping and putting away service as well as running local errands Start up costs are minimal and when your initial customers start to recommend you to their friends, your business will boom.
Social Media Management
Many small businesses need help with managing their social media presence. If you are tech savvy and experienced with platforms like Facebook, X and Instagram, many small businesses could use your help. Offer your services on platforms like Fiverr and start building your portfolio.
Gardening Services
If you enjoy nature and don’t mind working outdoors, consider offering a gardening service. You don’t need a huge investment, just some basic tools and a lawnmover, all of which can be acquired second-hand for less than £100. Start small with lawn mowing, weeding and sweeping leaves and your clientele will grow thought recommendations and word of mouth.
Virtual Assistant
Remote working has boomed since lockdown, and so has the market for virtual assistants. If you have a great telephone manner and a friendly can-do attitude, you might be a perfect fit as a virtual personal assistant for an executive. Or you might offer admin support or customer service. Set up costs are minimal, a reliable internet connection and ideally a laptop and headset.
Become a Mystery Shopper
If you enjoy shopping then this could be the ideal business for you. The idea behind mystery shopping is that you go into a store and pose as an ordinary customer. You then report back on how the transaction went to the business. Restaurants often employ mystery shoppers to check up on food quality and service. Find out more about becoming a mystery shopper here
That’s 10 business you can start for less than £100 and there are many more. Be creative and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and soon you could be your own boss.
Leave a Reply