100 Businesses to Start With 10K  (Summary Breakdown of the Cost)

The businesses to start with 10K are:

1. Local lead generation
2. Commerce business
3. Digital marketing agency
4. Consulting business
5. Coaching
6. Import/export business
7. 3D printing
8. Small business coaching
9. Social media management agency
10. Graphic design

According to Small Biz Genius, 64% of small businesses start with $10,000 in capital. The key is to focus on low-overhead, high-demand services or products. You need to leverage digital platforms to help reduce costs and reach a broader audience. Kabbage even reports that one-third of successful small businesses started with less than $5,000.

For online businesses, this investment can cover website hosting, e-commerce platform fees, initial inventory or product development, and digital marketing expenses. According to Tigren, the average cost of website hosting ranges from $2.95 to $49.95 per month. But physical businesses often need much more capital to get off the ground. In these cases, $10,000 can be seed money for a business plan, market research, and securing more funding.

But starting a business with limited funds means you must wear multiple hats. This can lead to long working hours and eventual burnout. Limited funds also restrict your ability to scale, pushing you to seek loans. Careful financial planning is essential to avoid running out of funds. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, 82% of small businesses fail due to cash flow issues. Your business might rely heavily on a few clients. You will also need to diversify your client base to avoid risks with client dependency.

This article covers 100 businesses to start with a 10K investment. We will also breakdown the estimated startup cost of each business and reveal why 90% of business fail in four month. Lastly, we discuss the best business the start and introduce another model that might be better for you.

1. Local Lead Generation

Local lead generation uses websites to target customers searching for local services. These sites collect leads, pass them to local businesses, and earn a commission for each lead. According to Saleshandy, a one-person local lead gen agency’s initial cost can range from $800 to $1,500. The expenses include a website, domain, hosting, and lead generation software. According to Salesmate, SEO leads have a 14.6% close rate. This is higher than the 1.7% close rate for outbound leads, making them 8 times more likely to close. Local businesses should optimize their sites because local searches drive more store visits.

Salesmate states that leads that are followed up within 5 minutes are 9x more likely to be converted. This shows the importance of timely follow-ups in the lead generation process. 53% of marketers spend about 50% of their budget on lead generation. The importance of lead generation in business growth is highlighted by this substantial investment. Starter Story reports that lead generation businesses average $48,600 in weekly revenue. This weekly revenue can translate to monthly revenue of $194,000. Whereas, established lead generation companies can make $500 to $2,000 monthly per site.

2. eCommerce Business

An ecommerce business generates revenue from selling products or services online. For instance, it might sell apparel, software, or housewares. Ecommerce refers to buying and selling online and can happen on a website, social media, or a company app. Online transactions will account for 22.6% of retail sales by 2027. This statistic shows that the rise in digital orders is a permanent shift. Upmetrics says that individuals can start an ecommerce store with an investment of $500 to $1,000. The initial investment covers website setup, domain, and eCommerce platform expenses.

According to Shopify, the average profit margin can be around 10% for an eCommerce business in the USA. These profits can rise to 20% with a proper plan and management depending on the industry you are dealing in. An eCommerce site in the US can make over $150,000 in revenue per month within three months. But if the business operates for one year, it will generate nearly $330,000 per month.

3. Digital Marketing Agency

A digital marketing agency handles:

• Social media management
• Cntent creation
• Graphic design
• Paid advertising. 

To set up a digital marketing agency, you’ll need an initial investment of $50 to $500. It’s also wise to have small business insurance. It costs $500 to $2,000 to cover potential risks while permits and licenses run from $50 to $700. You also need to factor in miscellaneous expenses, like office supplies and utilities.

Profit margins in the digital marketing industry can vary from 15% to 25%. A small agency generate $500,000 in revenue. These agencies typically serve local clients or focus on specific niches. Salaries will depend on the size of your agency and its growth. Full-time salaries can range from $30,000 to over $100,000. This depends on their role and experience.

4. Consulting Business

Consulting firms provide tailored guidance to assist both companies and individuals. It helps them solve problems or improve processes. Starting a consulting business costs between $5,000 and $10,000. Investments include a professional website, marketing materials, and essential software tools. But if you plan to have a physical office, you need to spend over $20,000.

The annual income ranges from $90,000 to $350,000. This means that business consultants make an average of $56 per hour. This varies based on services offered and client types. Consulting businesses can scale by hiring more consultants or expanding service offerings.

5. Coaching

A coaching business offers personalized support for personal or professional development. Coach Foundation says need to invest $5,000 to start a coaching business with a $5,000 investment. Over 98% of coaching clients say that coaching was worth the investment. Demand for life coaches is rising, with the industry expected to grow at 5.4%. 80% of leaders believe they need external help for growth and development.

According to a case study, coaching businesses have a 221% ROI. The 2023 ICF study found the average annual revenue is $52,800. Business coaches earn an average of $100,145 per year. But running a coaching business full-time allows you to earn more. The average annual earnings for a small coaching business are $84,190. Which means they earn $2,000 to $10,000 per month. While top earners make up to $30,000 per month.

6. Import/Export Business

Import and export businesses engage in the trading of products and goods across borders. This trade is vital for the global economy because it helps countries get needed products. Entrepreneurs need to invest $5,000 to $20,000 for initial setup and operational expenses. Operating from home minimizes costs by eliminating office space and extensive inventory. Specific costs include product cost, shipping, customs fees, insurance, and overhead charges.

USA Custom Clearance says import-export startups average $75,000 profit. But a mid-level importers/exporters earn $50,000 a year. This venture is ideal for those with a keen interest in international trade. Since they must navigate many regulations and logistics.

7. 3D Printing

3D printing turns a digital model into a tangible, 3D object by layering materials. This method has grown fast because it’s cheap and small. The initial investment cost for a 3D printing business is around $5,000. But your budget can be approximately $2,000 to $10,000 for mid-range 3D printers. The demand for 3D printing is strong. According to many analysts, the 3D printing market will expand between 18% and 27% annually. Entrepreneurs make and sell items like smartphone cases, toys, and home accessories.

According to The 3D Bros, a 3D printing business have an 80% profit margin. This translate to a potential annual revenue of $40,000 to $130,000. YouTuber and 3D printing company owner Austen Hartley shares that he earns $5,000 to $30,000 per month. He says entrepreneurs can make a decent profit printing objects and selling pre-made prints on platforms like Etsy.

8. Small Business Coaching

A small business coaching is a service that offers professional and personal development for entrepreneurs. Life coach Smita Das Jain shares that she initially invested $7,000. She spent most of it on certifications, affiliations, and a professional website. Smita says engaging personally with your network is key to achieving results. Gitnux states that the business coaching industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.5% from 2020 to 2027.

The rise of entrepreneurship created a big demand for skilled business coaches. Deposit Fix states coaching businesses maintain a 25-30% profit margin. The average hourly rate for business coaching range from $75 to $300 which translates to $1,572 per week. As of 2024, business coaches earn an average of $100,145 per year, according to Glassdoor.

9. Social Media Management Agency

A social media management agency oversees a company’s presence on social platforms. It includes creating, scheduling content, and monitoring performance. According to Starter Story, starting a social media management business costs $5,911. Your expenses include software tools for project management, email marketing and accounting. Gitnux reports that in 2021, 91% of small businesses use social media. That means nine 9 of 10 companies use social media to connect with their target audience.

MavSocial states that social media management rates range from $250 to $5000+ per month. The average salary for a social media manager in the U.S. is $73,099, according to Builtin. Beginners use platforms like LinkedIn to find freelance jobs and contact small businesses. Collaborate with small businesses to establish steady contracts and achieve growth.

10. Graphic Design

Businesses rely on graphic design to attract and engage their target audiences. Entrepreneur estimates starting a graphic design business costs $2,000 to $10,000. But CNBC suggests it can be done for under $1,000. The initial expenses include a computer, design software, and a website. This costs between $500 and $5,000. Piktochart says that 20% of organizations spend $10,000 on graphic design. 32% of organizations report an annual graphic design budget of $1,000 to $5,000.

A graphic designer who charges 25.05 to $31.01 per hour earns $52,100 to $64,500 a year. A midlevel graphic designer earns between $45,000 and $55,000 on average. Freelancing is common in this field. Platforms like Fiverr and Upwork allow designers to find clients quickly.

11. Tax Preparation

Tax preparation is devising tax returns for compensation on behalf of the clients. It ensures compliance with tax laws and finding deductions or credits to reduce tax owed. Tax preparation is an affordable businesses to start with an initial investment of $2,000 or less. You only need to spend on certifications, software subscription, and marketing to start your business.

Tax preparation is in demand, especially during tax season from January to April. Many people hire professionals because U.S. tax laws are so complex. Tax preparation service earns around $77,000 per year. Indeed, reports the national average salary for a tax preparer is $48,274.

12. Content Creation

Content creators brainstorm, create, and publish relevant content pieces. A survey by Learn with Breonna found that content creators spend around $2,221 per year on expenses. FindModelsLab states that content creators need to spend $5,000 - $2,000 on tools and software. The demand for content creators rose 117% in July 2023 year-over-year, per Indeed. Companies spend $2,500 and $75,000 on content marketing, as reported by Marketing Insider Group. 

Glassdoor reports that the average annual income for content creators between $49,000 and $79,000. Your hourly rate ranges from $23.56 to $37.98, with a monthly earning of $4,083 to $6583. Provide valuable and informative content to build trust with your audience. This trust builds long-term relationships with your clients and allows you to earn more.

13. Online Translating Service

An online translating service quickly converts text or speech from one language to another. StartUp101 states that starting a translation business costs between $2,000 and $5,000. These include grammar books, dictionaries, and books in your niche. Translators use digital tools with advanced algorithms and machine learning to translate content in real time.

This service is in high demand due to globalization and international communication needs. Average income ranges from $20,000 to $80,000. Freelance translators earn around $60,000 annually, with hourly rates of about $18.

14. Online Retail Business

An online retail business is the sale of products and services to the public in small quantities over the internet. Upmetrics reports individuals need to spend $500-$1,000 to start an e-commerce business. Ongoing expenses include website costs, logistics, and marketing. Forbes predicts that by 2024, 20.1% of retail sales will be online, a number expected to rise to 23% by 2027. This growth is fueled by the convenience and competitive pricing of online shopping.

E-commerce store owner Jenn Leach shares that she earns $10,000 a month in less than 10 hours per week. A Quora user even states that a new eCommerce store make over $63,000 in monthly revenue. To enhance profitability, you need to provide a seamless and enjoyable shopping experience for customers.

15. Domain Flipping

Domain flipping involves buying and selling domain names for a profit. You don’t need a lot of money to start flipping domains. Based on Hostinger, individuals get domains for only $0.99/year. Other than those costs, you need a computer and a stable internet. This makes domain flipping a low-risk and accessible business.

According to WeCanTrack, successful website flippers achieve a 30-150% return on investment. Beginner domain flippers earn $100 to $10,000 and part-time flippers earn from $1,000 to $8,000 per year. Domain flipping is risky without a buyer but easy to start with minimal investment. Successful domain flippers identify domains with potential value.

16. Dropshipping

Dropshipping is when an eCommerce business sells products without stocking them. It appeals to individuals who prefer efficiency and low overhead. AppScenic says you’ll need around $2,000 to start drop shipping. LitExtension states that 30% of eCommerce stores use dropshipping as a fulfillment method. This suggests a thriving market for dropshipping suppliers and service providers. 

According to BlueCart, dropshipping make between 20% and 30% profit from each sale. This means they take home at least $100,000 per year or $1,000 and $5,000 per month. Successful dropshipping businesses earn from $50 to $5,000 daily. Established dropshippers make between $2,000 to $10,000 per month.

17. Online Researcher

Online researchers collect data for companies or individuals by browsing websites and online databases. The estimated startup costs for an online research service range from $200 to $5,000. This includes basic online tools, research software, and office space. You also need to spend on a reliable computer, internet connection, and software for data analysis.

The average hourly rate for an online researcher range between $10 to $29/hour. However, an entry-level online researcher start out at $5 to $10 per hour, with pay raises to follow. According to Comparably, the average US salary for an internet researcher is $67,349. This means they earn $5,600 per month.

18. Social Media Consultant

A social media consultant helps businesses improve their online presence. They do this by creating and managing content on many platforms. Starting a social media consulting business costs $730 to $7,000 investment. This covers essential tools, marketing, and a few initial advertisements. Finmodelslab reports that the social media consulting industry grows at 10% every year.

Businesses rely more on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn for marketing. The Economic Research Institute states that average social media consultants earn $52,000. This business is ideal for tech-savvy entrepreneurs who understand digital marketing trends.

19. SEO Consultant

An SEO consultant helps businesses improve their online visibility by optimizing their websites for search engines. The initial cost to start an SEO consultant business range from $62 to $7,000. This depends on the number of services the agency will offer and features they plan to use. Companies need SEO consultants to boost their online presence. Forbes projects that SEO roles will continue to grow by 22% between 2020 and 2030.

Search Engine Journal states 27% of SEO professionals earn $35,000 to $49,000 after 2-4 years. Experienced SEO consultants charge $100-$150 per hour. This translates to an earning of $200,000-$300,000 as solo entrepreneurs. However, the potential for profit grows even more when you start an agency.

20. App Development

An application developer creates programs for various platforms, such as Android or iOS. According to Clutch, the minimum cost for an app development project ranges from $5,000 to $10,000. The total median cost is around $171,450 because of complexities. Pat Walls shares that an app development business can make $950,000 per year with a gross margin of 83%.

Business of Apps reports that the average US developer earns about $121,000 per year. Appbooster says 5G and more digital content are driving the demand for mobile apps. Businesses can use these trends by adding features that improve user experience.

21. Virtual Assistant

A virtual assistant is a remote professional that provides administrative, technical, or creative support to businesses. GrowThink indicates that it costs $100 to $2,000 to start a virtual assistant business. You only need a computer and internet to start. The demand for virtual assistants surged by 40% in 2020. This trend continues to grow because of the increasing need for remote work solutions.

On average, a virtual assistant in the US is paid $23.95/hour, according to Doola. And those with specialized skills earn even more. VAs on Upwork make $18.89 per hour. Virtual assistants must invest in marketing and advertising to grow their business.

22. Social Media Marketing Agency

A social media marketing agency provides services for businesses looking to enhance their online presence. These agencies manage Ad campaigns and create promotional content for Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Zarla’s research shows that it costs between $1,410.00 and $2,575.00 to start a social media marketing agency. High demand for digital marketing makes starting a social media agency appealing. Social media is now a key marketing tool due to the shift online.

Agency Analytics reports that social media agencies earn $1,500 to $25,000 monthly per client. ZipRecruiter says a social media marketing agency earns about $78,800 a week. A marketing agency is profitable if they use new trends and keep a smart a approach. 

23. Self-Publishing Consultant

The role of a self-publishing consultant is to assist authors in independently publishing their works. Starting a self-publishing consultancy requires low initial investment. It ranges from $2,000 to $10,000 for a basic setup. You need tools like a computer, internet, and editing software.

The self-publishing industry has seen a 264% increase in the last five years. And in 2023 alone, over 500,000 self-published books were released. This surge highlights a growing market for self-publishing consultant. Career Bliss reports, publishing consultants charge $34 per hour and an annual salary of $70,000. But project-based fees vary based on the scope of services offered.

24. Business Plan Service

A business plan service helps small businesses create detailed and strategic business plans. A conservative estimate for a home-based business start at a few thousand dollars. But a more traditional office setup need tens of thousands. According to NerdWallet you need to spend $50 to $725 for business licensing and certification. Your initial expenses include marketing campaigns, website, insurance, and research and development. 

A business plan service is crucial for guiding businesses reach their definition of success. Steve Goldstein says 30% of businesses without a plan fail in the first 3 years. And 70% of the businesses that manage to survive for 5 years after following a strategic business plan. Zippia reports that an average US business planner salary is $119,250. Business planner salaries typically range from $85,000 to $166,000 annually.

25. Customer Service Training

A customer service training ensures businesses deliver high-quality service. It teaches employees the skills necessary to handle customer inquiries and complaints effectively. According to Starter Story, the initial investment ranges from $2,000 to $10,000. This depends on the scale and complexity of the training services offered.

Customer service is vital for business growth. This is because consumers now expect a great experience at every touchpoint. PWC reports 73% of consumers say great experiences influence future purchases. A Customer service training specialist makes, on average, $20 per hour. According to the Coach Foundation, customer service coaches make an annual salary of $30,000 to $50,000.

26. Sales Training 

Sales training businesses focus on helping individuals and organizations improve their sales skills. According to Uteach, you need $190 to $500 to start a sales training business. Data from Business says the initial investment ranges from $100 to over $1,000. A well-established sales training business generates significant revenue.

The average salary for a US sales training specialist is $69,157. A sales training manager earns an average of $90,786, according to Pay Scale. As a business owner, your potential earnings exceed these figures.

27. Resume Service

A résumé service offers professional writing and editing services to job seekers. They create appealing resumes to attract recruiters and hiring managers. You can start a resume writing business with an initial investment of $50-$100. Your ongoing expenses include computer maintenance, marketing expenses, and internet connection fees. 

According to Upwork, resume writers on their website earn $25–$65/hr. Most of the money you earn will be pure profit. Earning $100,000 annually is achievable with 100 clients at the top price tier. Glassdoor reports that a professional resume writer earn up to $79,000 annually.

28. Expense Reduction Consultant

An expense reduction consultant helps businesses identify and implement strategies to cut costs. They analyze financial statements and operational processes to pinpoint inefficiencies. Entrepreneur reveals that the startup costs is between $2,000 to $10,000. The major expenses include financial analysis software, certifications, and marketing materials. Start small and expand your services or team members as you gain more clients. 

A consultant at Expense Reduction Analysts earns an estimated total pay of $92K–$145K per year. This includes base salary and additional compensation. Glassdoor reports an average base salary of $107,000 per year, plus $8,000 in additional pay.

29. Liquidated Inventory Sales

Liquidated inventory sales are about buying excess or returned items at deep discounts and reselling them to make a profit.  According to ProjectionHub, the startup costs for a liquidation business are $10,000. Liquidation businesses capitalize on the buying frenzy people are feeling. The total amount of liquidation sales has increased by 5% over the last decade. Entrepreneurs leverage the impulsive nature of online shoppers to be profitable.

 A liquidator who buys a truckload of retail goods valued at $115,000 for $8,000 sells it at the retail price makes around $32,000. This means their cost of goods are sold at 25%. Liquidators can have an annual revenue of $3 million with net profit of 15% of sales. This amounts to $450,000 in annual profit.

30. Health and Wellness Coaching

Health and wellness coaching is a collaborative approach that helps clients achieve sustainable lifestyle changes. The price range for starting a health coaching business is $3,000 to $10,000. This depends on factors like location, overhead, and marketing expenses. According to Market Research, 60% of Americans want health coaching. But 80% of them have never had it offered to them. This market gap shows there is a demand for this type of service. 

Millennials and Gen Z are particularly inclined to spend on health and wellness. This shift and the rise of holistic health create a business opportunity for this industry. Kresser Institute reveals that health coaches earn around $50,000 to $100,000 per year. Full-time health coaches earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually. And according to Zip Recruiter, the average personal health coach earns between $29,000 to $97,00 per year.

31. Green Business Consultant

A green business consultant helps companies integrate sustainability into their strategy and operations. Businesses today are motivated to “go green” due to regulations and public pressure. Organizations look to improve their image and follow evolving regulations. The cost for green building consulting businesses ranges from $2,000 to $10,000.

Studies show that 88% of consumers are more loyal to a company that helps them be eco-friendly. In the US, Green Consultants earn about $41.55 an hour on average. Green building consulting business owners earn between $50,000 to $150,000 annually.

32. Professional Organizer

A professional organizer helps businesses and individuals declutter and arrange office spaces. Surveys show 25% of Americans admit to having a clutter problem at home. Finmodelslab states that the initial costs ranges between $500 to $10,000. You also need to shell out for advertising, insurance, website development and expenses. QC Design school suggests saving $15,000 - $20,000 before starting operations. But this number may be higher or lower and depends on how big you want your company to be.

A professional organizer also serve niche markets. They also organize for seniors or people with disabilities. Data shows home and office organizers charge $50-$75 per hour. Although experienced organizers demand over $100/hr. Indeed, reports the average salary for an organizer is about $45,023. As a professional organizer, you earn $50 to $200 per hour or more.

33. Music Instruction

Music instruction is a teaching business that involves imparting music knowledge to students. The Tattooed Piano Teacher says you can start with under $500 for basic supplies and tools. According to Newfoundr, starting a music lessons business costs about $10,500. Gitnux data shows that 83% of Americans believe music education is important for children. According to Career Explorer, the US will need 18,500 music teachers in the next ten years.

The average yearly revenue for music school businesses in the US range from $200,000 to $500,000. Careers in Music states that music teachers earn $51,000 annually. Tom Hess Music Corporation also reports successful music teachers earn $100,000. Music instruction is also a good fit for those who want to work from home or have a flexible schedule. 

34. Home Staging

Home staging is preparing a home for sale by making it look more appealing to potential buyers. The goal is to sell a home faster and at a higher price. Starting a basic home staging business requires an initial investment of $10,000 to $50,000. According to the Real Estate Staging Association, home staging offers a return on investment exceeding 400%. Across the industry, 75% of staged homes achieve an ROI of 5% to 15% over the asking price. Sellers who skip staging risk significant financial losses.

The Staging Diva’s Debra Gould shares home stagers charge $300 for a two-hour consultation. Completing three consultations a week can earn you $3,600 a month. According to ZipRecruiter, home stagers earn between $26,000 and $42,000. Successful stagers make up to $81,000. Create a portfolio showcasing your skills with before-and-after photos to show the value you bring to potential clients. 

35. Hair Styling

A hair styling business is focused on cutting, coloring, and styling hair to meet client preferences. Many stylists also offer extra services like makeup application and skincare treatments. Starting a hair styling business requires an initial investment of $2,000 to $10,000. People need hair styling for grooming and special events. For example, Madison Dufour opened her studio with about $700.

According to StyleSeat, the average cost for haircuts ranges from $10 to $90. Special occasion hair styles cost between $40 and $325, and bridal hair services range from $60 to $400. According to Doola, the monthly earnings of hairstylists range between $1,500 and $5,000. But stylists earn six figures or more if they work in the right field.