2024 has arrived! As technology continues to develop, online business opportunities are increasingly attracting attention for new people who want to start a business without large capital.
Through this article, we introduce 15 online business ideas with no capital or low capital for all groups. Without having to enter a complex era or be trapped in fierce competition, these ideas can be a promising first step to achieving success in the digital world.
There are several reasons why online businesses for all groups are expected to gain greater popularity this year. Here are several factors that can explain why online businesses will be popular with many people.
Technology continues to develop rapidly, and internet access is increasingly accessible to people throughout the world. This opens up opportunities for online businesses to grow faster. More people have access to electronic devices such as smartphones and computers, which allow them to engage in online business with ease.
Let’s take the example of online shop or e-commerce users in Indonesia. As you can see in the image above, in Q3 2023, Shopee e-commerce recorded 216 million visits. Of course, the number of transactions and new business people this year and in the future will expand even more with various online businesses to start. This means it is very promising for online entrepreneurs who are trying their luck at opening any type of business.
Online businesses also have high earning potential. With the increasing number of internet users worldwide, you have access to a larger global market. You can sell your products or services to customers in different countries, which can significantly increase your revenue potential.
Plus, starting an online business generally requires lower initial costs compared to a physical business. You don’t have to rent office space or pay high overhead costs. Additionally, there are many online tools and media available at affordable costs or even free that can help you start your business.
Lastly, most importantly, consumers are increasingly comfortable with online shopping and searching for products or services via the internet. This trend is expected to continue to grow in the future. In recent years, the COVID-19 pandemic has also accelerated the shift of many conventional businesses to online models. This creates an opportunity for the common man to take advantage of this trend and open an online business.
Read more about 15 recommendations for business and sales ideas for new people who want to start. We summarize these various online business ideas based on trends in 2023 and those that are profitable in 2024. Choose an idea according to your abilities and high interest:
Social Media Consultant – This business is suitable for beginners as almost all companies and individuals today need a strong presence on social media to promote their products or services. As a social media consultant, you can help clients increase their online visibility and manage marketing campaigns through social media channels. Benefits can be obtained through consulting fees or monthly service packages.
Dropshipper – If you don’t have your own online or offline shop and are looking for a business without requiring capital, a dropshipping business allows you to sell products without having to keep your own stock. You only need to work with a supplier who will send the product directly to the customer. Profits are obtained from the difference between the wholesale price you get from suppliers and the selling price you set for customers. Provide rules for your business venture and the products you offer. For example, the down payment is a percentage and the remainder is paid after the goods are received by the buyer.
Affiliate Marketing – The next online business recommendation is affiliate marketing. You will promote other people’s products or services through affiliate links. Every time a sale is made through your affiliate link, you will earn a commission. This is a popular way to generate income online, especially if you have a large follower base or good marketing skills. Note: You must not manipulate testimonials and deceive others. More than that, you must know the details of the product by purchasing through e-commerce, thrift shop, or honestly that you are simply recommending it.
Content Creator – As a creator on channels like YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, or X, you can generate income through advertisements displayed on your videos or content. Not limited to that, through consistent content creation, you will have the opportunity to be invited to collaborate (endorsement) with various brands. The more followers and viewers who reach your content, the greater the opportunity to earn significant income.
Freelance Graphic Design – The next online business idea without capital is design services. If you have graphic design skills, you can offer your services to companies or individuals who need logo design, social media management, banners, or other marketing materials. You can set rates per project or per hour, depending on your preference. Note: even though AI is now widespread which can create designs automatically, human graphic design will not be replaced in terms of creativity and originality.
Web Developer & Application – This type of online business is suitable for novice business people who have expertise in web and application development. You can create web or applications for clients or develop your own personal projects. Profits can be earned through project payments or through monetizing your app with advertising or in-app purchases.
Virtual Assistant – As a virtual assistant, you can provide administrative services to entrepreneurs and professionals, such as email management, scheduling, or data entry. You can set hourly rates or offer monthly service packages to your clients. This business idea opportunity is rarely seen, but the opportunity is very big. Moreover, in this digital era, there are many companies that need work anywhere.
Online Courses and Training – No less competitive, online business ideas that are profitable and will always be in high demand (according to niche and segment), namely online courses or online tutors. If you have specialized knowledge in a field, you can create and sell online courses or training with low price packages. You can use online learning channels, such as Udemy or Teachable, to manage your courses and accept payments from course participants.
Freelance Writer – The next timeless idea opportunity is writing services. If you are skilled at writing or editing, you can offer services for writing articles, blog posts, or editing other people’s written work. You can set rates per word, per article, or per project, depending on your preference. This job will be popular with alumni bloggers or freelance writers on various media channels.
Photography Services – This service is an online business that is easy for novice entrepreneurs, but is very profitable and does not require business capital or low capital. If you have a talent for photography, you can sell your photos online through stock photo sites or to in-person clients. You can profit from direct sales or receive royalties from every time your photos are downloaded from the stock photo website.
Podcasting – Creating and running a podcast is one of the popular online business ideas. You can choose a topic that you like or that many people are interested in, and generate income through podcast advertising, sponsorships, or donations from listeners. You could say, podcasting is an example of a business that can be tried without large capital. Capitalize on the equipment you have at home, such as microphone, headset/headphones, pop filter, shock mount, standing mic, audio interface, pop-up filter, and other accessories if needed.
Translators – The demand for foreign language translation services continues to increase. This business model also plays an important role in translating on online platforms, such as web, applications and online marketing materials. In addition, technological developments such as machine translation and artificial intelligence open up new opportunities for translators to work with tools that speed up the translation process.
SEO Services – This online job is an online business that is suitable for beginners who have knowledge of search engine optimization (SEO). SEO service businesses can help companies, brands, or online shops improve their search rankings on Google and other search engines with effective SEO strategies. Profits can be earned through monthly consulting rates or through SEO service packages.
Reseller – A reseller is someone who buys products from a supplier or manufacturer at wholesale prices and resells them at a slightly higher price, making a profit from the price difference. The advantage of being a reseller is that you don’t need to spend large capital or have your own product stock. You can focus on marketing and selling products, while shipping and order fulfillment are handled by trusted suppliers. This allows you to start a business quickly and with lower financial risk.
Online Entrustment Services – As someone who is involved in the entrustment services business, you can offer services to purchase and send products requested by customers from abroad or certain areas. What products? Free, ranging from fashion, food, souvenirs, drinks, etc. Why can jastip be profitable? You can offer access to rare, unique, or more affordable products from foreign markets. Customers can use your services to get these goods without having to travel or face complicated logistical obstacles.
The 15 types of online business ventures above are actually quite easy. Only with an internet connection and the knowledge you have, you can run an online business that suits your capacity. So, what’s the next step? Come on, let’s look at the discussion below!
After deciding on an online business idea, what is the next step?
To build your online business, not only online business ideas are needed, but also other executions such as the things below.
Market research: Conduct market research to understand your target market, competitors, industry trends and customer needs. This will help you identify market potential, adapt your marketing strategy, and develop a compelling value proposition. Business plan: Create a clear and detailed business plan. A business plan will be your guide in running a business, including business goals, marketing strategies, financial analysis, and short-term and long-term goals. Creating a brand and business name: Choose a business name that is attractive and easy to remember. Next, create a brand identity that is consistent with your business values and goals. This includes creating a logo, website design and appropriate product packaging. Creation of a web or e-commerce platform: If you run an online business, create a web or e-commerce platform that is user-friendly and attractive. Make sure your website is easy to navigate, has clear product descriptions, and secure payment features. Marketing and promotion: Determine effective marketing strategies to increase your business visibility. This may include marketing through social media, online advertising, search engine optimization (SEO), content marketing, or collaborations with influencers. Provision of products or services: Prepare a product or service that is quality and ready for sale. Organize procurement, production, or shipping processes according to your business needs. Handling customer service: Establish systems and procedures to properly handle customer inquiries, complaints or needs. Make sure you provide responsive and satisfying customer service. Performance analysis and review: Conduct regular analysis of your business performance. Review metrics such as revenue, expenses, sales conversions and customer feedback. This will help you understand trends, identify necessary improvements, and make better decisions for business growth.
Market research: Conduct market research to understand your target market, competitors, industry trends and customer needs. This will help you identify market potential, adapt your marketing strategy, and develop a compelling value proposition.
Business plan: Create a clear and detailed business plan. A business plan will be your guide in running a business, including business goals, marketing strategies, financial analysis, and short-term and long-term goals.
Creating a brand and business name: Choose a business name that is attractive and easy to remember. Next, create a brand identity that is consistent with your business values and goals. This includes creating a logo, website design, and appropriate product packaging.
Creation of a web or e-commerce platform: If you run an online business, create a web or e-commerce platform that is user-friendly and attractive. Make sure your website is easy to navigate, has clear product descriptions, and secure payment features.
Marketing and promotion: Determine effective marketing strategies to increase your business visibility. This may include marketing through social media, online advertising, search engine optimization (SEO), content marketing, or collaborations with influencers.
Provision of products or services: Prepare a product or service that is quality and ready for sale. Organize procurement, production, or delivery processes according to your business needs.
Handling customer service: Establish systems and procedures to properly handle customer inquiries, complaints or needs. Make sure you provide responsive and satisfying customer service.
Performance analysis and review: Conduct regular analysis of your business performance. Review metrics such as revenue, expenses, sales conversions and customer feedback. This will help you understand trends, identify necessary improvements, and make better decisions for business growth.
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How to Start an Online Business Idea for Beginners in the Digital Era?
Starting an online business can be a big step towards financial independence and creative freedom.
The first step in starting an online business is determining the right idea or niche. Choose something that you are interested in and that you know something about or are willing to learn more about. Once you have an idea, conduct market research to understand your target audience, competition, and profit potential. This will help you understand what customers want and how you can differentiate your business from others.
Next, create a business plan that includes a marketing strategy, SWOT analysis (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats), and a financial plan. A business plan doesn’t need to be overly complicated, but it should be detailed enough to provide clear guidance on how you will run and grow your business.
Once the business start-up plan is ready, the next step is to choose a business name and register your business in accordance with applicable regulations. This may include obtaining a business license and understanding tax obligations.
Then, create a professional website that will be the online face of your business. Your website should reflect your brand, be easy to navigate, and be search engine optimized (SEO) to be easily found by potential customers. In addition to your website, utilize social media to build an online presence and engage with your audience.
It is also important to set up a secure and efficient online payment system. Choose an appropriate e-commerce platform if you sell products, and consider different payment gateways to give customers options. Make sure to understand all legal and security aspects related to selling online.
Hopefully, with the 15 newest online business ideas that we have shared, you can start your journey as a beginner and take the first step towards success.
Keep in mind, you don’t need a lot of capital to get started, all you need is dedication, the right skills and a never-give-up spirit. Be a pioneer in the world of online business, and see how your business grows rapidly in the next few years.
