27 Best Business To Start With $100k-Our Top Picks For 2024

The best business to start with $100K are:

1. Local lead generation 

2. Auto mechanic and repair shop 

3. Delivery services

4. Coffee shop 

5. Accounting and consulting firm 

6. Education services

7. Commercial cleaning and janitorial services

8. Pet grooming 

9. Online and e-commerce business

10. Digital marketing agency

Having $100,000 as capital is a large amount of cash. This presents a significant opportunity for investment. But what’s the best business investment for that amount? Several factors come into play when deciding on a business venture. This can include competition, profit margins, overhead costs, and more. It’s crucial to find a business that aligns with your vision and talents. But, also offers the potential for financial success.

To help you navigate this decision, we’ve compiled a list of the 27 best businesses to start with $100K. This list provides a variety of options. Whether you’re looking for inspiration or a venture that matches your skills. This list aims to help you make the most of your investment. While it’s not an exhaustive list, we hope it sparks some ideas. If you have any additional business ideas, share them in the comments!

1. Local Lead Generation 

Local lead generation involves helping local businesses get leads. This leads would eventually lead to sales. This can be through SEO, PPC advertising, social media, and content marketing. This business makes money by selling leads to various industries. Including real estate, home services, legal, and healthcare.

Starting a local lead generation business with $100K is a great idea. There is a high demand from small businesses needing new customers. They are willing to pay for effective lead generation. The business model is scalable. It allows you to start with a few clients and expand over time, adding more services and industries as you grow.

Additionally, the overhead costs are low. It primarily involves digital tools, website development, and advertising. You can operate it from home to save on office expenses. With a $100K investment, you can cover these essential startup cost. You'll also have some funds remaining for scaling. You can stand to earn $500-$3000 monthly with just one local lead generation site. 

2. Auto Mechanic or Repair Shop

The auto mechanic and repair industry is profitable. This is due to the demand growing demand of this service. IBIS World estimates the Auto Mechanics industry to be valued at $66.7 billion and projects a 5.8% growth in 2021. Over 93% of American households own at least one car. But, Look Up Plate reports that towing companies tow over 55,000 vehicles daily in the US. Most of the time it is because of mechanical issues. This figure will continue to rise, given the average vehicle age exceeds 12 years. 

Cars need regular maintenance and repairs. This leads to repeat customers for auto repair businesses. Offering a wide range of services can attract more customers. From routine maintenance (oil changes, tire rotations) to complex repairs (engine and transmission).

When starting, select a location with high visibility and easy access. Don't forget to analyze local competition and differentiate your services. General Steel Buildings notes that overhead costs are between $10,000-$20,000 per month. But, the average shop owner can earn about $100,000 per year.

3. Car Wash

Starting a car wash business with an investment of $100,000 can be profitable. IBIS World reports that the car wash industry holds a value of $11.5 billion and experts project it to grow at a CAGR of 5.3%. The business offers minimal labor requirements, especially for bay-style car washes. It has high volume and quick returns on investment. CleanGo reports that 66% of US car owners wash their vehicles once or twice a month. This equates to over 8 million cars washed daily.

These numbers highlight the incredible opportunity for the business. However, the competitive nature of the market requires strategic planning. Choosing a location with high traffic, good visibility, and accessibility is crucial. Make sure it's near residential areas, shopping centers, and busy roads. This helps you optimize the potential of the business.

Types of car washes to consider:

• Self-Service Car Wash: It has lower startup and operational costs. Customers usually provide equipment to wash their cars.

• Automatic Car Wash: Higher initial investment but can handle higher volumes. The automated systems wash the cars while customers remain in their vehicles.

• Full-Service Car Wash: It has a higher labor costs. But, it offers premium services with staff cleaning the cars inside and out.

• Mobile Car Wash: It has a lower initial investment ($5,000-$25,000 according to MobileTechRX). However, this requires a reliable vehicle and equipment. 

4. Delivery Service 

Starting a delivery service business with an investment of $100,000 can be profitable. This is due to the rise of e-commerce, food delivery apps, and same-day delivery services. The demand for reliable contractors to fulfill shipment orders is at an all-time high. You can offer parcel delivery, food, grocery delivery, courier services, and specialized delivery.

One good example is the direct acquisition of a FedEx route from FedEx Ground at no cost. However, you can also try purchasing existing trucking routes. You can offer last-mile delivery service. Typically, it costs 10%-25% of the revenue generated from the route. This is according to a report from Route Consultant. Experts predict that the industry will reach $44.88 billion during 2020-2024 with a CAGR of 14%. The startup costs will depend on your transportation mode. Vans and trucks cost $18,000-$50,000 and bikes are much cheaper.

You can also try a courier-style delivery service. It can achieve up to 90% profit margins, as per Template Monster. A creative option within this sector is meal kit delivery. This service saw a revenue increase of 22.8% in 2020. It will be worth over $11.6 billion in the U.S. by 2022, competes with according to Statista.

However, the market competes with major players like Uber Eats and DoorDash. So, focusing on a specific niche can help attract local support and ensure success. You can try partnering with the local food service industry to start. 

5. Food Truck 

A food truck business can be a fantastic opportunity because of lower startup costs. It is also good in terms of location flexibility and the growing popularity of street food. According to IBIS World, there are over 36,324 food truck businesses in the US as of 2023. The industry is growing at an average rate of 9.9% from 2018 to 2023.

To get started, choose a unique and popular food concept. Ensure you have clear target market. Create an easy-to-prepare menu that is suitable for a mobile kitchen. A $100,000 investment can cover essential expenses. This includes a customized food truck, licenses, permits, and kitchen equipment. According to Toast, used food trucks cost between $30,000 and $70,000. Ingredients cost $1,000 to $2,000 and parking costs $500 to $1,000. Food truck owners earned an average annual revenue between $250,000 and $500,000. This is equivalent to $20,000 to $42,000 monthly. 

However, one Redditor said that if you want to get into the restaurant business with $100K, try a food cart or a pop up. This allowed you to start without getting tied up into a lease or buying or making payments for a truck. Also, start small, build a reputation for good food, and so on. 

6. Coffee Shop

The demand for coffee shops is always high, providing a steady customer base. This is because coffee is one of the most popular beverages worldwide. Besides selling coffee, you can also offer pastries, sandwiches, and other beverages. This further increases your revenue potential. In choosing a location, ensure that it has ample foot traffic and visibility. Make sure your shop has a welcoming and comfortable environment. This helps to attract and keep customers.

With the high competition, you need unique concepts to differentiate your shop. This can include organic coffee, specialty brews, and themed decor. The initial costs will include location, renovations, equipment, and many more. You must also include initial inventories, contingency funds, marketing, and staff salary. In the end, you will be looking at $100,000 as your initial investment. 

7. Electronic Repair

The electronic repair business involves repairing a wide range of devices. This can include smartphones, tablets, computers, gaming consoles, and other gadgets. Because of the high demand for these devices, there is a constant need for repair services. Many people prefer repairing their devices over buying new ones to save costs.

Experts expect the global electronic equipment repair service market to expand significantly. It is bound to reach a projected 238.5 billion U.S. dollars by 2033, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.3 percent. 

The overhead costs for an electronic repair shop are low. But Michael Grimshaw on Quora said that finding reliable technicians is a challenge. Especially if you lack hands-on experience in appliance repair.

As a technician, the job often involves dealing with dirty and smelly appliances. Also, it involves a variety of tasks, such as diagnosing and troubleshooting issues. You also need to manage tight schedules and interact with diverse customers. Despite these challenges, you can earn a good apay. You can also enjoy flexible working hours and have the potential to earn six figures.

8. Organic  Food and Drink Production and Sales

The organic food and drink production and sales is a growing trend. Many people wants food and drinks without pesticides and chemicals. Organic food products use safe farming practices. Farmers avoid synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, GMOs, antibiotics, and growth hormones. More people are aware of health concerns associated with these practices. Consumers are moving away from carbonated drinks in favor of healthier alternatives. 

Statista reported that the global sales of organic foods reached approximately $133 billion. Europe leads in retail sales. The United States is the largest single consumer market. It generates about 61.7 billion U.S. dollars. Experts project that this market will globally grow at a rate of 8.3% from 2018 to 2023.

Trendy niches include bubble tea, fermented drinks, sparkling waters, mocktails, and non-alcoholic beer. People are also looking at immune system-fortifying and brain-boosting drinks. But the trendiest are detox and weight-reducing drinks. You can launch this business with a starting capital of $100K. You can thank the latest product innovations and effective marketing.

9. Software Services

Software as a Service (SaaS) is a way to use software where you do not need to install it on your computer. Instead, a company hosts the software, and you can access it online using a web browser. This eliminates the need for local installation or maintenance. This model is cost-effective, secure, and user-friendly. Users typically pay a recurring fee for access. The provider manages all maintenance, updates, and security. 

Popular SaaS applications include Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Salesforce, and Slack. Statista projects that the SaaS market will reach over $387 billion by 2025, with a CAGR of 7.26% from 2021 to 2025. This is a great opportunity to bring your idea to life. Starting a SaaS business costs between $1,500 and $40,000+. If you are not tech-savvy, you can hire freelancers for development and maintenance.

Profitability depends on the business' scale and stage. For example, Slack launched in 2014 and achieved over 500,000 users. Of this, 135,000 are paying users, generating $12 million in annual recurring revenue.

Here are some of the most profitable SaaS trends in 2025:

10. Video Production

A video production business can be a profitable venture. This is because of the increasing demand for video content. With $100,000, you can establish a well-equipped and professional video production company. However, success requires careful planning and strategic marketing. You need to focus on quality and creativity. Create a social media account. For example, Instagram, to share your work and attract paying customers.

IBIS World estimates that the video production market will grow at a CAGR of 7.4% .It has a market value of over $33.8 billion. This industry is also on the rise, with minimal barriers to entry. Businesses are now using videos for marketing campaigns, social media content, and advertisements. Streaming platforms and content creators also creates a high demand for this business. 

Revenue streams in video production are diverse. This includes corporate videos, social media content, events, films, and music videos. Freelance work such as editing, animation, and post-production services also provides income opportunities. Niche-specific services like live streaming and remote video production add further value. John Bennardo runs his own video production company. He charges over $100 per hour for shooting and $75 per hour for editing. He emphasizes the importance of providing excellent service. This is to ensure repeat business and benefit from word-of-mouth advertising.

11. IT Support

An IT support business is sustainable due to the constant reliance on technology. This creates a consistent need for IT support services to ensure smooth operations. Experts forecast that the IT services market will grow at an annual rate of 8.3% by the end of 2021. The rise of remote work has amplified the need for robust IT support. Tasks includes managing remote access, cybersecurity, and cloud services.

First, you need to secure ongoing service contracts with clients. This ensures steady and predictable revenue and fosters long-term client relationships. Offerings can include maintenance and monitoring plans. You may start with basic services first. Then, gradually expand into more specialized areas. Moreover, you can always hire freelancers as needed without huge upfront costs.

Furthermore, operating from a home office reduces the need for expensive commercial space. You can use your investment with other costs, such as training and certification. Top technology trends leading the industry in 2024 include:

• Internet of Things & Total Experience
• Privacy-Enhancing Computation & Cybersecurity Mesh
• Anywhere Operations & Hyper Automation
• Generative AI
• AI Ops (Artificial Intelligence for IT Operations)
• Spatial Computing and the Industrial Metaverse
• Tool Consolidation
• Developer Experience (Dev Ex)
• Enhanced Cybersecurity

However, essential support services like troubleshooting, malware issues, and data backup remain crucial. According to Starter Story, starting an IT support business requires a budget of $6,500-$47,000+. This makes it workable within your $100,000 budget. There are also franchise options available, though they cost more than $100,000.

12. Accounting Firm

Every business, regardless of size, needs accounting services. This makes an accounting firm a profitable business. This is for financial reporting, tax preparation, payroll, and compliance with financial regulations. Some individuals also need ongoing accounting services with taxes and managing their finances. This demand ensures a steady stream of clients and recurring revenue.

IBIS World predicts that the accounting industry will experience a growth of 4% from 2019 to 2029. They also estimated its worth to be around $107 billion. If you have the right certification and training, you can leverage this industry. You can start with basic accounting and bookkeeping services. Later, expand to include tax planning, financial consulting, and auditing.

The initial setup costs for an accounting firm are low, especially if starting from a home office. Modern accounting software allows you to work remotely. This reduces the need for large office spaces. With an investment of $100,000, you can cover the essential startup costs. You can also have a buffer for the initial months of operation.

Here's a simplified breakdown of potential initial expenses:

• Office Setup and Equipment: $10,000 - $20,000

• Software and Licenses: $5,000 - $10,000

• Marketing and Advertising: $5,000 - $15,000

• Salaries and Training: $30,000 - $50,000 (initial months)

• Insurance and Utilities: $5,000 - $10,000

Startup costs will vary depending on your style of service delivery. Remote delivery will cost less than having a brick-and-mortar establishment. But having an office is also good for visibility and credibility. Regardless of delivery, you can charge $150-$300+/hour. The bigger your client base, the better your ROIs.

13. Consulting Firm

Consulting firms give expert advice and services. The goal is to help solve problems and improve performance and goals. Specializations can include management, IT, HR, marketing, finance, and many more. This business model involves charging clients hourly, per project, or recurring. These services often command high hourly rates, leading to larger profit margins.

Starting a consulting firm requires minimal initial investment in physical assets. The primary expenses are office setup, marketing, and client acquisition. As your business grows, you can hire more consultants. Then, expand your services with minimal capital investment.

Remote consulting can also reduce the need for expensive office space. It also allows flexible working hours. Costs for a physical office include rent, utilities, furniture, and equipment. But, home office can reduce these expenses.

A $100,000 investment can cover essential startup costs. This can include office setup, marketing, professional services, software, and initial working capital. With this amount, you can sustain operations until profitable.

According to Statista, the average revenue per consultant in the U.S. reached $212,000 in 2023. This just shows that the industry offers high ROI. Consultants typically charge $100-$300+ per hour. To succeed, you need to establish yourself as an expert. Also, identify an ideal niche and target market. Then, develop a strong marketing and branding strategy.

14. Education Services

Offering educational services is a scalable and in-demand business venture. It has a low overhead cost, is profitable, and is sustainable. This is due to parents looking to improve their children's academic performance. Also, many adults are looking to upskill. Globe News Wire predicts that this industry will experience a CAGR of 4.7%. It has a market worth of around $1,950 billion by 2025.

You can offer different services, such as: 

• Tutoring Centers: Providing one-on-one or group tutoring in subjects like math and science. You can also include languages and test preparation.

• Online Courses: Creating and selling online courses in various subjects.

• Enrichment Programs: Offering programs like coding, art classes, music lessons, and STEM workshops.

• Consulting Services: Providing educational consulting for college admissions, career counseling, and academic planning.

You may charge students per class, courses, or tutoring sessions. For online courses and resources, you may offer monthly subscriptions or annual fees. You may also host specialized workshops or summer camps for extra revenue.

Initial investments can be low, especially if you start with online services. Costs include curriculum development, marketing, and digital infrastructure. Managing physical locations within a $100K budget is still possible if you start on a small scale.

Moreover, to start, you need an educational background and certification. It you have the required credentials, you can start with $15,000-$50,000+, depending on your delivery method. Things to consider and should depend on your location, competition, and target market. Also, factor costs of equipment for brick-and-mortar type, online, or hybrid. 

15. In-Home Health & Senior Care

The increase in the aging population drives in-home health and senior care sector. Business Insider said that by 2035 there will be almost 78 million people over 65 in the USA. World Health Organization (WHO) said that the number of people aged 60 and older will double by 2050. That means reaching approximately 2.1 billion.

The US Bureau of Labor and Statistics predicts that this sector will growth of 34% between 2019 and 2029. This makes this one of the best businesses to start with $100k top recommendations. Also, minimal risk and high ROIs make this more enticing.

A few trends in the field include things like:

• On-demand companionship services and remote patient monitoring
• Transportation assistance, nutritional support, and laundry
• Increased focus on health and wellness
• Implementation of technology (AI) and redefining community

To start, you need to build up your client base. As your clientele grows, hire staff and provide value. Nurse Next Door Franchise said there are franchise options available for $125,000. However, if you're starting , you may be spending between $50,000 to $100,000 on non-medical services. You need a little more at $150,000+ for Medicare services. 

16. Commercial Cleaning & Janitorial Service

Commercial cleaning and janitorial service helps businesses that often require regular cleaning. It aims to maintain a healthy and professional environment. The demand for cleaning services is ongoing and stable. The need for a clean environment was further highlighted because of the pandemic. This industry has a 6% revenue increase between 2021-2026, according to Business Wire. And the demand shows no signs of slowing down.

Starting a cleaning business does not need extensive education or certifications. You can start small with basic cleaning services. Then, scale up to include specialized and industrial cleaning. This business offers varied income streams. This includes long-term contracts, one-time cleaning jobs, or specialized services. You can also offer special events cleaning and seasonal deep cleaning. 

When starting, you need some basic cleaning equipment and supplies that can cost around $5,000 to $10,000. You also need a reliable vehicle for transporting equipment and staff. It can cost between $10,000 and $20,000. Other things you might need include insurance and licensing. A small set-up will do, but you need to spend for other operational cost.  

Depending on the size of your business, plan on investing $5000-$100,000+. Franchise options are available for around $40,000, according to Vanguard Cleaning. This business comes with profit margins between 5%-40% as per How To Start An LLC. The commercial cleaning sweeping the most decent ROIs.

17. Pest Control

Pest control is an essential service, with consistent demand regardless of economic conditions. But eradicating infestations is a job best left to professionals. Providing pest control services can be a profitable endeavor. Fortune Business Insights estimates that the pest control market will be $42.79B by 2032. 

You can offer services like termite and rodent control. Other services include insect extermination and wildlife removal. Other services can include preventive and regular maintenance. You can charge per job, by contract, or premium rates for urgent or emergency pest control needs.

Starting costs are low, covering equipment, chemicals, and marketing. No need for expensive retail space. You can start small and expand by hiring extra people. You cans also acquire more equipment as the business grows. However, you need to get the required certifications and licenses. This is not a cause for worry because these are not highly expensive.

With $100K, you can cover initial setup costs. These are things like transportation, operating costs, marketing, and more. According to The Entrepreneur, pest control services can earn profits of over $75,000/year. You may also opt for the franchise route and spend around $15,000-$150,000.

18. Skilled Trades

Skilled trades businesses offer services that need specialized skills and training. Service-based businesses like this are in dire need. The business model involves providing these services to residential, commercial, or industrial clients. The business model generates income through hourly rates, project-based fees, or maintenance contracts. This can include offering services like plumbing, carpentry, HVAC, and many more.

For example, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that electricians will grow by 8% from 2019 to 2029. Skilled trades are less susceptible to automation compared to other industries. This provides better job security. Moreover, skilled trades can command high hourly rates. But, it still depends on the trade and region. For instance, electricians in the US earned $38,470 - $104,180 annually. 

In starting, you need initial costs like training and certifications. You also need to buy essential tools and equipment required. This can cost between $10,000 and $30,000 approximately. Additionally, you need a reliable vehicle for transporting tools, equipment, and more staff. You can buy a used van or truck for approximately $20,000 to $30,000. You can cut initial start-up costs by renting or purchasing used equipment. But you're still looking at an investment of $5,000-$100,000+ depending on the choice trade.

In a Reddit thread, michoguy said that he would start an asphalt paving business, grow it, and manage a few crews. The costs will vary, but roughly, the ROI is around 6% of all earnings for most sectors.

19. Landscaping

Landscaping companies in the U.S. are booming. This is because of the expanding residential and commercial properties. The market size for this in the U.S. reached over $150 billion in 2023, according to Statista. The top three landscaping companies generated over $1 billion revenue each in 2022. 

About 80% of these companies in North America offered landscape maintenance services. This includes basic maintenance. It can be lawn care and mowing, which is the most demanded service. Employment in landscaping increased by over 25,000 workers from 2021 to 2022. The wages are also rising since 2013.

Here are some trendy and specialized services you can offer: 

• Outdoors As An Extension Of Indoors
• Grow It and Eat It
• Eclectic Styles and Native Plants
• Eclectic Styles and Native Plants
• Landscape Architecture

With $100k, you can make initial purchases of mowers, trimmers, and blowers. You can also buy other essential tools that can cost around $10,000 to $20,000. Other expenses include marketing, hiring seasonal workers, and initial materials and supplies. You also need a reliable truck or trailer for transporting equipment and supplies. This can cost between $20,000 and $30,000. For safety, you are going to need business licenses and insurance. This would be around $5,000 to $10,000.

Jobber reported that the average profit margin for this industry ranges from 5%-20% per job. But, it usually depends on the work involved, the equipment needed, and the size of your team.

20. Solar Panel Installation

Solar power installation business investments run around $500,000. But, there are a couple of ways to mitigate costs. Super Green Solutions Franchise said that you can franchise for $100,000-$350,000. Alternatively, you could start a business out of your home. Forgo purchasing equipment in advance and rent instead. Do this and you're looking at a $9,000-$50,000 initial investment.

In 2023, the US solar industry saw significant growth. It installed a total of 32.4 GWdc, a 51% increase over the previous year. Solar Energy Industries Association said that this industry continues to expand. Solar installations achieved an annual growth rate of 22% over the past decade. The sector also supports over 263,000 jobs. It generated $51 billion in private investments in 2023 alone. You're looking at numbers around $500,000-$2 million as an independent contractor. 

It is possible to achieve outstanding profitability with this business model. But you need to do your research with a fine-tooth comb. Understand what you are investing in and the skills, tools, and licensing you need to succeed. Allocate funds carefully and invest in training and marketing. By doing so, you can establish this successful business with $100K. 

21. Pet Grooming

Pet grooming industry is essential for the pet's health and hygiene. Additionally, innovative and creative grooming trends are boosting demand. Dog grooming services dominate the market, but cat grooming is also growing. The global pet grooming services market value is USD 5.38 billion in 2021. It will experience a CAGR of 7.09% from 2022 to 2030. Grand View Research said it's due to many factors. This includes the increasing pet expenditure, expanded services, and pet humanization. Redditors, unknownpanda121 and menatopopboi, said that dog grooming/boarding are both profitable ventures. 

There are over 66% of U.S. households own a pet, which equates to 86.9 million, as per the American Pet Product Association. People love spending money on their pets. The United States alone spent $147 billion in 2023. Experts project that this will surpass $150.6 billion in 2024. Of this, pet owners spent $12.6 billion on grooming, training, and boarding. Other expenses include insurance and pet sitting/walking.

For pet grooming, you can offer a mobile option or a physical establishment. Initial investment can be from $5000-$50,000+, according to Small Business. How To Start An LLC said that you can earn around $75,000-$100,000+/year. 

22. Franchise Options

Franchise option is a profitable business for $100K. It plays a significant role in the U.S. economy. With a diverse range of over 3,000 unique franchise brands, the sector continues to grow. There are hundreds of new franchises starting each year. WebFX reported that franchises in the U.S. employ over 8.5 million people. It contributes $827 billion to the U.S. economy. Food-related franchises make up around 37%. The remaining 63% are from 28 other sectors.

These statistics highlight the expansive and dynamic nature of the franchise industry. Generally, franchises have high success rates and impressive ROIs. Budget Blinds said 85% of franchise businesses are still thriving after five years. Investopedia said that this is for those interested in starting their businesses quickly. But choosing your niche is crucial. Redditor, dptesllc, said that you can Google "the best franchise opportunities". Then, you will see a lot of options for $100K or less. This is also the comment of Walton Teltru. He said that the advantage is that the business model is tested already, this reducing the risk. 

There are many advantages to buying a franchise. First, you skip the start-up phase. Second, you get support and training at your fingertips. Lastly, you can enjoy built-in marketing and branding. However, this often entails high initial investment costs. You also have no control over reputation management and limited flexibility of ownership.

23. Online and E-Commerce Business

Starting an online and e-commerce business is worth it. It is driven by the surge in online shopping, so it is here to stay. Market drivers such as customer demand, shopping habits, and the need for convenience. This industry permeates with opportunities. The global e-commerce and social media commerce markets will achieve a value of $8.1 trillion by 2026. The market worth reaches $6.3 trillion in 2024, up from $5.8 trillion in 2023. In the US, it continues to grow from $925 billion in 2023 to $1,415 billion by 2027. Moreover, Upmetrics also reported that there were 2.64 billion digital buyers in 2023. This accounts for 33.3% of the global population. The average conversion rate in the U.S. e-commerce sector is 2.3%.

Forbes mentioned that 20.1% of retail purchases will take place online in 2024, rising to 23% by 2027. Social media commerce was worth $992 billion in 2022 and will reach $8.5 trillion by 2030. Over 106.8 million people in the U.S. shopped on social media in 2023, projected to increase to 118 million by 2027.

These statistics prove that the global e-commerce market is expanding, and it is high time you hop on in. Imagine having the entire world as your audience. Take note that 52% of online shoppers report shopping internationally. Also, 34% of shoppers buy something online at least once a week.

Redditor, AccessoryHub, said that she would start an e-commerce business. She added that she'll also manage affiliate programs on the side. Stephen Chinonso also said that you can sell products directly to the customers. This can be through an online store. He added that this business model allows you to reach a wide audience. It also operate with lower overhead costs.

Some of the most profitable include POD, affiliate marketing, e-courses, and many more. However, choosing the right niche is crucial. You also need to factor in costs for things like website development, marketing, and more. Other expenses should cover inventory and subscriptions to e-commerce platforms. Add it all up, and you're looking at an initial investment of $5000-$100,000+ in your first few years. 

24. Mobile App Development

The rise of online businesses drives the mobile app development as another opportunity. For those who are tech-savvy with developing a mobile app, this one's for you. The expansion of this market has increased consumer demand for innovative apps. Startups, small businesses, and enterprises are investing in mobile apps. However, the vast majority them haven't got a clue on how to do this.

Statista expects the global mobile app market to reach $756 billion by 2027. The market will grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.58% from 2022 to 2027. Globe App Testing reported that from 2016 to 2022, annual app downloads increased by 82%. Apple App Store and Google Play Store sees 35-36 billion app downloads each quarter. Also, about 60% of website visits now originate from mobile devices. This market has seen significant revenue growth over the years.

A significant 92.3% of internet users connect to the web via mobile phones and tablets. This shows the growing importance of mobile apps. In starting a mobile app development business, you can always start small. Just scale as the demand increases. With the right app idea and execution, the potential for high returns on investment is large.

Developing a mobile app can be cost-effective. Especially if you are using agile development practices and open-source tools. A $100K investment can cover initial development costs, marketing, and deployment. If you are not technical, you can always hire developers and outsource the project. You can charge around $5000-$10,000+ per build so the ROIs are pretty sweet.

25. Event Planning and Management

Event planning and management is a glorious business to start with $100K. This is because of its high demand and importance for businesses. It has low initial costs, its scalable, and profitable.

According to Sweap, 89% of businesses see events as essential for reaching their goals. The demand for event planning services is high in various sectors. Whether from corporate to personal events, as reported by IBIS World. Over 52% of CEOs believe event marketing gives high ROI than other marketing channels. 

Starting an event planning business requires minimal initial investment in physical assets. More important are skills in organization, communication, and creativity. This business can start small. Then, gradually take on larger projects or expand the range of services offered.

The financial potential is large. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that annual wage for event planners was $56,920 in 2023. Successful event planning businesses can have profit margins of 15% to 40%. Services offered can include:

• Corporate events (conferences, meetings, trade shows, product launches, company parties)

• Social events (weddings, birthday parties, anniversaries)

• Specialized events (festivals, concerts, fundraisers, and community events)

26. Graphic Design Firm

The market for graphic design firm is promising. Around 85% of new graphic design graduates find employment within six months. The graphic design industry in the US has over 400,000 businesses nationwide. Globally, the graphic design market will grow at an annual rate of 3.5% from 2020 to 2025. According to Wi-Fi Talents, freelancers dominate the industry. They make up 90% of the design workforce, and 44% of graphic designers are self-employed.

Experts project that the typography software market will also grow by 28% in the next five years. It has applications used for creating, designing, and using typefaces and fonts. This also affects the graphic design field. Moreover, social media design is becoming increasingly important. Over 50% of marketing professionals emphasize its tremendous role in branding.

This is great news for creatives who have an eye for design, talent, and tech-savvy skills. Starting a graphic design business may be a perfect fit. The biggest challenge is developing your brand and keeping clients. However, it's a competitive industry, and if you're good at what you do, you can earn $75-$200+ per hour.

Identifying your niche and target market will help you market your brand. You can start your business from home to reduce startup costs. You can also work as a freelancer or establish a physical office. Plan to invest between $1,000 and $100,000 in the first few years, especially if you hire staff.

27. Digital Marketing Agency

Digital marketing agencies provide a wide range of services. This includes SEO, pay-per-click marketing (PPC), social media marketing, and content marketing. Additionally, these services cater to diverse industries. There are many profitable niches for digital marketing agency. It includes retail, travel, media, automotive, financial services, and telecommunications. 

Business Research Insights said that this industry's market has a value of USD 4,233.29 million in 2021. It will reach USD 9,449.52 million by 2027, experiencing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.32%. This led to a higher-than-anticipated demand for digital marketing services across all regions.

But it all comes down to your strategy and ability to increase business ROIs. Essentially, you need to be up to date on all the latest trends. For instance, video marketing is a significant trend nowadays. It offers higher engagement than traditional text, helping businesses connect with consumers effectively.

Redditor, DrSp3ctr3, said that the best would be digital marketing. He said you can simply hire a few freelancers. Then, get things done until you grow bigger and are ready to create an agency. 

Despite the market's growth, high competition poses as a challenge. This is especially true for smaller agencies. However, this business is pretty flexible and scalable. You can start a digital marketing company from home to cut costs. As you grow, hire staff and consider leasing office space. Plan on an initial investment of about $1000 - $50,000+ depending on how big you want to be. This ensures you still have extra for unexpected cost in a long run.

According to Business Research Insights, the global digital marketing agency market reached a value of USD 4,233.29 million in 2021. It will reach USD 9,449.52 million by 2027, experiencing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.32%. This led to a higher-than-anticipated demand for digital marketing services across all regions.

But it all comes down to your strategy and ability to increase business ROIs. Essentially, you need to be up to date on all the latest trends. For instance, video marketing is a significant trend nowadays. It offers higher engagement than traditional text, helping businesses connect with consumers effectively.

In a Reddit thread about business to start with $100K, DrSp3ctr3 said that the best would be digital marketing. He said you can simply hire a few freelancers and get things done until you grow bigger and are ready to create an agency. 

Despite the market's growth, high competition poses as a challenge, especially for smaller agencies. However, this business is pretty flexible and scalable. You can start a digital marketing company from home to cut costs. As you grow, hire staff and consider leasing office space. Plan on an initial investment of about $1000 - $50,000+ depending on how big you want to be. This ensures you still have extra for unexpected cost in a long run.

How Can You Start a Profitable Business With $100K?

1. Conduct market research: Identify a niche or industry with growth potential. Analyze competitors and target audience and understand market trends and their needs. Ensure your product or service solves a real problem or fulfills a need better than competitors.

2. Create a business plan: Outline your business model, target market, and value proposition. Include a detailed financial plan covering startup costs, operating expenses, and revenue projections. Make a plan for marketing, sales strategies, and operational processes.

3. Choose a business and register: Identify a business structure (e.g., sole proprietorship, LLC, corporation). Then, register your business and obtain necessary licenses and permits before starting. 

4. Create a funding allocation plan: Make a budget for initial inventory, equipment, technology, and workspace. Make sure to allocate funds for marketing, employee salaries, and emergency. Track expenses meticulously and avoid unnecessary spending.

5. Build your team: Hire skilled employees or contractors and consider outsourcing non-core activities to save costs.

6. Invest in marketing: Develop a strong online presence with a professional website and social media profiles. Use digital marketing strategies such as SEO, PPC, content marketing, and email campaigns.

7. Monitor your performance: Continuously monitor financial performance and customer feedback. Adapt strategies based on data and market changes. Scale operations gradually, reinvesting profits into the business.

8. Use technology: Use tools and software to streamline operations and improve efficiency.

9. Continue learning: Stay updated with industry trends and continuously seek ways to improve your business.

Why is Local Lead Generation Changing Lives?

Local lead generation is changing lives by helping small businesses attract more customers. This will eventually lead to increased sales and growth. Sender said that over 50% of companies use 50% of their marketing budget on lead gen efforts. If you provide potential leads, you're helping small businesses expand their operations. This allows them to hire more staff, contributing to local economic growth.

Traditional advertising methods can be costly and less effective. Local lead generation through digital marketing is more cost-effective with higher ROI. This is crucial for small businesses with limited marketing budgets. In addition, you can start this business with relatively low startup costs. This offers flexibility and high earning potential of up to 90% profit margin. 

Deciding the best business to start with $100k is not a simple task. Arm yourself with as much information as possible before you commit. But if you're looking for an opportunity to be your boss and earn staggering profit margins, then examine local lead generation closely.