Are you a motivated teenager looking to earn extra money and gain valuable entrepreneurial skills? Starting a business can be a fantastic way to explore your passions, develop your creativity, and learn important lessons about finances and responsibility. Explore 13 of the best business ideas for teens that can kickstart your entrepreneurial journey and help you on your way to a successful future.
Tutoring services
If you are great in a particular subject or have a talent you can share, offering tutoring services can be a fantastic start. Many students struggle with specific topics and are willing to pay for extra help. Create flyers or promote your services online. Whether math, science, music, or art, tutoring allows you to use your skills while helping others.
Handmade crafts and products
Do you have a feel for creating unique crafts or handmade products? The possibilities are endless, from jewelry and accessories to homemade extracts, soaps or candles. Try turning your hobby into a business by selling your creations. Set up an online store on platforms like Etsy or promote your items on social media to attract people. Remember to pinpoint the quality and uniqueness of your products to stand out.
Freelance services
In the digital era, freelancing offers lots of opportunities for entrepreneurial-minded teens. If you have graphic design, writing, programming or social media management skills, you can offer your services to clients on a project basis. Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr let you showcase your skills and connect with clients worldwide. Freelancing offers a flexible schedule and helps you build more knowledge.
Event planning
Do you enjoy organizing and coordinating events? From birthday parties and graduation celebrations to small weddings and gatherings, people always need event planners. Consider starting your own event planning business. Develop your skills, negotiate with vendors and create experiences for your clients. Word of mouth and social media can help you build a strong reputation in your community.
Social media management
Many small businesses and entrepreneurs need help navigating the ever-changing social media platforms. These days, companies rely heavily on their online presence. By managing their social media accounts and creating engaging content, you can help them reach their target audience and grow. If you understand social media platforms well, offer your services as a social media assistant.
“My 16-year-old has earned a steady income around her school, sports and extra-curricular activities by working as a virtual admin. She manages the social media posts for a friend’s hand-poured candle business and helps me with my bookkeeping and other administrative tasks.” — Sage Scott, EverydayWanderer.com
Pet sitting and dog walking
If you love animals, starting a pet sitting or dog walking service can be a fun and rewarding business. Many pet owners need reliable people to care for their furry friends while they are away or busy with work. Advertise your services through flyers, local pet stores or online pages dedicated to pet services. Ensure you have a brief knowledge and skills to take care of different types of pets responsibly and provide exceptional care.
Photography services
If you have a keen eye for capturing moments and enjoy photography, consider offering your services as a photographer. Many individuals and businesses require professional photographs for various occasions, such as weddings, family portraits, or any events. Invest in a quality camera and learn different photography techniques to enhance your skills. Networking with local event planners and wedding venues can help you secure photography jobs.
Car washing and detailing
Providing car washing and detailing services can be a super business idea, especially if you live in an area with many car owners. Offer exterior washing, cleaning, waxing and polishing services. Get quality cleaning products and equipment to offer excellent results. You can either set up a mobile car wash service where you travel to people’s houses or ask local petrol stations to help there.
Reselling online
With the rise of online marketplaces, reselling products has become a popular business venture. Platforms like eBay, Depop and Poshmark offer opportunities to reach a wider customer audience. Look for unique and in-demand items at thrift stores, garage sales or clearance sales and resell them at a higher price online. Develop your marketing and negotiation skills to maximize your profits. Stay current with current trends to identify popular items with high resale value.
Personalized gifts
People love personalized and unique gifts, and that is where your creativity can shine. Consider offering customized gifts, such as custom-made mugs, t-shirts, keychains, or home decor items. You can even offer to bake cookies or cakes for people. Use your artistic skills to create designs or print-on-demand services to bring your ideas to life. Set up an online store or collaborate with local gift shops to showcase and sell your products. Social media platforms can help you offer gifts to a bigger audience.
Landscaping and gardening services
Starting a landscaping and gardening service can be a fantastic business idea if you enjoy working outdoors and have a green thumb. Offer services such as lawn mowing, garden maintenance or planting flowers. Advertise your services through flyers, local nurseries and community bulletin boards. Once you get a great relationship with your first customers, word of mouth will bring you more offers. This is a great job for younger kids and you can suggest it as a way to make money as a 13 year old.
Delivery and errand services
Many people often require assistance with errands and deliveries. As a teen, you can offer delivery and errand services in your local area. Whether picking up groceries, running errands, or delivering packages, your reliable and efficient services can be a time-saver for busy neighbors. Advertise your services through local community boards, online platforms and word of mouth.
Online content creation
If you have a talent for creating engaging content, such as videos, podcasts or blogs, you can monetize your creativity by becoming an online content creator. Focus on a niche you are passionate about and consistently produce high-quality content that entertains, educates, or inspires your viewers. Platforms like YouTube, Twitch, and TikTok offer opportunities to show your skills and attract a big audience.
Starting your own business as a teenager can be an exciting experience. Whether you offer tutoring services, sell handmade crafts, provide freelance services, plan events, manage social media accounts, or care for pets, remember that dedication, hard work, and a positive attitude are the keys to success. There is nothing anymore to explore your passions and realize your entrepreneurial dreams.
Zuzana is the creative force behind her websites Lowcarb-nocarb and Best Clean Eating. As a content creator, food recipe developer, blogger, and photographer, Zuzana brings diverse skills to the table with a dedication to sharing delicious, healthy recipes and helpful tips with the readers. Get her Best Keto Recipes Book for free.