These 25 small businesses can all be started for relatively low start-up costs and in most cases, with general knowledge. They require little or no overhead and little or no specialized training. You can start these businesses quickly and on a part-time basiswhile keeping your day job. This is a good idea, because you can “test the water” to see if you enjoy it and it gives you time to build up a customer-base, and save some money if you want to be a full-fledged small business owner.

In all cases, you will need some money for marketing. Try shoestring marketing—fliers, business cards, and networking with your current co-workers, neighbors and family members, and in your neighborhood. Attend community events, offer discounts for referrals, and don’t give up too soon. If you keep costs in line, these businesses should quickly turn a profit, but it could take some time, especially if you are running them part-time. Set achievable goals at first—aim for any profit your first month, $200 your second, and so on. Bank this profit and when you’ve saved up the equivalent to a year’s salary, think about going full-time!

Check with your local authorities regarding any special permits or licenses before you start. There may be no requirement, or you may have to pay a small business license or permit fee.

1) Home organizing: from closets to garages to entire households.
2) Holiday/Seasonal Decorating
3) House and/or Garage Cleaning
4) Window Blind Cleaning
5) Window washing for homes and/or businesses
6) Weed Removal
7) Lawn care (mowing & edging)
8) Pool & hot tub cleaning
9) Errand service
10) Letter writing
11) Bill-paying for individuals or companies
12) Calligraphy for invitations, announcements, certificates
13) Tutoring in your best subjects
14) Decorating: painting, wallpapering, upholstery, etc.
15) Office organization: setting up files, work systems
16) Greeting Card mailings
17) Craft sales
18) Direct selling for home party plans
19) Personalized gift baskets
20) Yard sale organizer (charge a flat fee or a percentage of the sales)
21) Junk removal service
22) Delivery Service (furniture, prescriptions, gift baskets, flowers)
23) Resume Service
24) Sewing services including alterations
25) Party Planner

Finding the Perfect Small Business for You can help you discover which business is just right for you.