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The idea of starting a business might seem like a daunting task, especially when faced with the demands of a full-time job or other commitments. However, there's an alternative business iidea that's gaining momentum – part-time businesses. These ventures offer flexibility, freedom and a chance to turn your passions into profit without the need to leave your day job.
In this article, we'll delve into 11 part-time business ideas and explore some of the most common and popular options. We’ll discuss the reasons why embarking on a part-time business venture could be the key to unlocking your entrepreneurial spirit and financial success.
Learn more: How to choose a business idea
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15 part-time business ideas to start alongside your day job
Whether you're looking to boost your income, follow your passions or simply add more excitement to your life, a part-time business might just be your ticket to a more rewarding professional life. Here are some weekend side hustle ideas to consider:
01. Dropshipping
Dropshipping is a method of retail where an online store doesn't keep the products it sells in stock. Instead, when a store sells a product, it purchases the item from a third party and has it shipped directly to the customer. In essence, the store acts as a middleman and the product never passes through the hands of the seller.
Learn more: How to start a dropshipping business
Dropshipping can be a great part-time business idea for several reasons. It doesn't require a significant upfront investment because you don't need to purchase inventory. This makes it an accessible option if you’re looking to start a business on a limited budget.
With dropshipping business ideas, you can run your business from anywhere as long as you have an internet connection and a computer. This flexibility allows you to work around your existing job or other commitments, making it an ideal part-time business.
You also won't need to worry about storing, packing or shipping products. This means you can focus on marketing and growing your business rather than dealing with the logistics of it. It also means there is no need to invest in physical storage for inventory.
Dropshipping enables you to offer a wide range of products without the constraints of physical inventory. You can adapt your product offerings easily to meet market demand or seasonal trends and pivot quickly to meet this demand or change in demand. Dropshipping allows you to test different products and niches to find what works best for your audience without a significant financial commitment. It's a great way to explore your entrepreneurial interests and find your niche.
Be inspired: eCommerce business name ideas
At the same time, because you don't purchase inventory upfront, you won't be stuck with unsold products. This minimizes the financial risk often associated with traditional retail businesses.
Ready to run with this part-time business idea? You can set up an online store quickly and easily using an eCommerce platform such as Wix.
Learn more: Automated business ideas
It's important to note that while dropshipping offers several advantages as a part-time business idea, it also has its challenges both as a business idea and eCommerce model. These include often tough competition, managing customer expectations, finding reliable suppliers and ensuring a high level of customer service. Success in dropshipping often requires market research, ongoing entrepreneurial learning and a commitment to delivering quality products and services to your customers.
02. Making and selling crafts
A craft business involves creating and selling handmade, artisanal products. Crafters typically make a wide variety of items, including jewelry, candles, soap, home décor, clothing and accessories. A craft business can be operated online and in physical locations such as craft fairs, markets and boutiques.
If you have a passion for crafting and creating, starting a craft business allows you to turn your hobbies and creative skills into a profitable venture. It's a business that can be easily aligned with your interests and talents.
Many craft businesses can be launched with relatively low startup costs. You may already have the necessary crafting supplies and tools and you can often start small and gradually invest in additional materials as your business grows. It can also be done from home which reduces startup costs. Many craft businesses are home-based, which keeps overhead costs low. You don't need a dedicated retail space and many crafters manage their inventory and orders from home.
Be inspired:
Crafting can be done at your own pace and on your own schedule. It's an ideal part-time business that you can operate alongside your job or family. You have the freedom to work when and where it suits you.
While a craft business can start as a part-time endeavor, it has the potential to grow into a full-time business if you choose to expand. As your brand and customer base grow, you can increase your product offerings and sales channels. Listen to your customers along the way and build out your business accordingly.
“As a good starting point, talk to your customers and target buyers. Ask what they like or dislike about your products. Take their feedback in stride and take the time to truly listen, as opposed to rebutting any criticisms with your own witty remarks.”
Founders, Darby Pritchards
It's important to remember that the success of a craft business requires more than just creativity and a love for crafting. Effective marketing, pricing and business management are also essential components of a thriving craft business. By combining your crafting talents with sound business strategies, you can turn your part-time craft business into a fulfilling and profitable venture.
Crafting businesses we love:
03. Print on demand
A print-on-demand business is one in which custom products, such as clothing, accessories, home decor are created and printed only when an order is placed. It’s a form of eCommerce and it allows entrepreneurs to sell a wide range of personalized and unique products without the need for inventory or large upfront investment.
Learn more: How to start a print-on-demand business
One of the most significant advantages of a print-on-demand business is its low barrier to entry. You don't need to invest in large quantities of inventory, equipment or a physical store. This makes it an accessible option for those looking to start a part-time business with limited funds.
With a print-on-demand business, products are manufactured and shipped on demand, so you don't need to worry about storing, managing or holding inventory. This reduces the risks associated with unsold goods and means you don’t need to invest in storage. You also don't need to invest in printing equipment or machinery. The print-on-demand partner handles the printing, quality control and shipping, saving you time and resources.
With this part-time business idea you can create and sell customized products, enabling customers to add their own designs, text or images. This level of personalization can set your business apart and foster customer loyalty.
“And I think that the world is headed towards personalization, which I know has been a topic for a long time. But I think that the data we have available and the way we use that data to really understand what the consumer is looking for and to put the right product in front of them is going to continue to have a lot of legs.”
Shanna Tellerman, Founder and CEO of Modsy, a groundbreaking interior design technology startup.
Running a print-on-demand business provides flexibility in terms of working hours. You can manage your business and fulfill orders according to your schedule, making it an ideal part-time business.
While a print-on-demand business offers numerous advantages, it's always important to conduct market research, explore compelling designs and implement effective marketing strategies to succeed in this competitive space. By leveraging both your creativity and business acumen, you can turn your part-time print-on-demand business into a fulfilling and profitable venture.
04. Tutoring
A tutoring business involves providing educational instruction and support to students, typically on a one-on-one basis or in small groups. Tutoring can help students improve their academic performance, gain a better understanding of subjects and develop effective study skills.
Learn more: How to start a tutoring business
Tutoring is a rewarding part-time business idea for those looking to make a positive impact on the lives of their students by helping them achieve their educational goals. It can be personally and professionally fulfilling to witness their progress and success.
It can also be a profitable business as there’s a constant demand for tutoring services, as students of all ages seek assistance to excel in their studies, prepare for exams and overcome academic challenges.
Tutoring can be scheduled around your availability, making it a great part-time business that can be managed alongside other commitments such as a full-time job, like teaching, (check out these business ideas for teachers or how to make money as a teacher) or school commitments. It can also be started with minimal overhead costs and limited resources. It’s a part-time business idea that can be conducted in person or online and you can potentially attract students from all over the world to your services.
Tutoring business examples we’re inspired by:
It's important to have a strong understanding of the subjects you plan to tutor, as well as effective teaching techniques and strategies. Additionally, consider the legal and regulatory requirements for tutoring businesses in your area. With dedication and a passion for education, you can turn your part-time tutoring business into a rewarding and profitable endeavor.
05. Consulting
A consulting business involves providing expert advice and guidance to individuals, businesses, or organizations in a specific industry or field of expertise. Consultants are typically experts in their respective fields, possessing specialized knowledge and experience. They use their knowledge and experience to help clients solve problems, make informed decisions, improve processes and achieve their business goals. Consultants might advise companies in their marketing, accounting or business management and human resources.
Be inspired: Consulting business ideas, Consulting business name ideas
Consulting offers flexibility in terms of working hours. You can take on clients and projects as your schedule permits, making it an ideal part-time business that can be managed alongside other commitments, such as a full-time job, another business or family obligations.
Many consulting businesses can be launched with minimal overhead costs. You generally need only a computer, internet connection and professional liability insurance, as well as expenses for marketing and promoting your venture. Then as you gain experience, build your reputation and develop a client base, you can scale your consulting business by taking on more clients or expanding your service offerings.
Consulting businesses we love:
To succeed in consulting, even just part-time, it's important to have a solid understanding of your chosen field and to develop strong communication, problem-solving and interpersonal skills. Additionally, you should consider legal and regulatory requirements for consulting businesses in your state.
06. Virtual assistant business
A virtual assistant (VA) business involves providing administrative, creative, technical or support services to clients remotely. Virtual assistants usually offer a wide range of services, including email management, data entry, social media management, content creation and bookkeeping business services amongst others.
Learn more: How to start a virtual assistant business
There are many advantages to this type of part-time business idea. Chief amongst them is the fact that virtual assistants can work from almost any location with an internet connection, which provides the flexibility to manage a VA business alongside other commitments, such as a full-time job or family responsibilities.
This type of business can be launched with minimal overhead costs. You'll need a computer, internet connection, software tools and a phone, making it a cost-effective business to start. Even with these limited resources you can offer a variety of services across different industries and markets. Then as your part-time business grows, you can choose to take on more clients, offer additional services, or hire subcontractors to handle the workload thus scaling your business to a level that suits you.
Virtual assistant business examples to inspire your part-time venture:
To succeed as a virtual assistant, it's essential to possess strong organizational, time management and communication skills. You should also consider legal and tax requirements for running a virtual assistant business in your area.
07. Freelance writing
As a business idea, freelance writing involves providing writing services to clients on a project-by-project or contract basis. Freelance writers create various types of content, including articles, blog posts, web content, social media posts, marketing materials and reports.
Because freelance writers have the flexibility to set their own work hours and take on assignments that fit their schedules, it’s a popular part-time business for those with other commitments, whether work or family. It can also be done from anywhere, either from home or even while traveling.
Starting a freelance writing business requires minimal overhead costs. You need a computer and internet connection, chances are you already have both and won’t need to invest in anything initially to start your part-time business idea. Freelance writers often work with clients from around the world, which broadens the potential market to a global one.
To succeed as a freelance writer, it's essential to have strong writing skills, time management and effective communication. Building a diverse writing portfolio and marketing your services effectively can also help you attract clients. Freelance writing can be a rewarding part-time business for those who enjoy writing and the freedom to manage their own work schedules.
08. Freelance web design
Freelance web design involves offering web design and development services to clients on a project-by-project basis. Freelance web designers design and build websites for individuals, businesses, organizations and other clients.
In today's digital age, the demand for web design services is consistently high, as businesses and individuals seek to establish and maintain a strong online presence. Freelance web designers can set their own schedules and take on projects that fit their availability, making it a suitable part-time business for those with other commitments. Most web design can be done from anywhere with an internet connection, enabling you to work from home or while traveling.
Web design as a part-time business idea allows for creative expression and artistic design, making it an attractive business option for those with a passion for design and aesthetics.
To succeed as a freelance web designer, it's essential to have strong design skills, knowledge of web development technologies, time management, communication and self-discipline. Building a portfolio and marketing your services effectively can help you attract clients. Freelance web design can be a rewarding part-time business for those who have a passion for web development and design.
09. Fitness services
As a part-time business idea, a fitness business involves offering fitness-related services and products to help individuals improve their physical health and well-being. This business can encompass various activities and niches, including personal training, group fitness classes, nutrition coaching and selling fitness equipment or supplements.
Learn more: How to start a gym business
There are plenty of advantages to launching a fitness business as a part-time venture. With a growing emphasis on health, wellness and keeping fit, such services are in growing demand.
If you have a genuine passion for fitness, starting a fitness business can be a fulfilling way to share your enthusiasm and help others achieve their health and fitness goals. You can offer your services according to flexible scheduling making it feasible to operate part-time and alongside other commitments.
Be inspired:
Depending on the type of fitness business you choose, it may be possible to launch with minimal overhead costs, especially if you can run your services from home or public spaces. Some fitness instructors often use community facilities or parks for their classes. Some fitness services can also be conducted online, allowing you to work with clients remotely and expand your reach.
To succeed in the fitness industry even part-time, it's important to have the necessary knowledge of fitness and nutrition, excellent communication and motivational skills and some understanding of business management. Whether you offer personal training, group fitness classes, or online coaching, a part-time fitness business can be a rewarding and profitable way to share your passion for fitness and help others lead healthier lives.
10. Dog walking
Dog walking is a service where individuals or businesses offer to take dogs out for walks, exercise and play for their owners. Dog walkers typically help pet owners who may have busy schedules, limited mobility or other commitments that prevent them from providing their dogs with regular exercise.
Learn more: How to start a dog-walking business
If you have a genuine love for dogs and enjoy spending time with them, starting a dog-walking business can allow you to turn your passion into a part-time income. It's also a great business idea for teens.
Dog walking examples that we love:
Dog walking offers flexibility in terms of working hours. You can manage your schedule and take on clients as your availability allows, making it a suitable part-time business alongside other commitments. With this, the startup costs for a dog-walking business are relatively low. You may need basic supplies like leashes, waste bags and possibly business insurance. Remember to seek legal advice before starting any type of business.
To succeed with this part-time business idea, it's important to have a genuine love for dogs, an understanding of dog behavior and basic pet care skills.
11. Blogging
Blogging involves creating and regularly publishing written, visual, or multimedia content on a website, known as a blog. Bloggers share their insights, opinions, expertise or interests on a wide range of topics and they often engage with their audience through comments and by sharing their posts on social media.
Learn more: How to build a blog
Blogging allows you to express your creativity and passion for a particular topic, while also finding opportunities to monetize it through running ads, subscription content and affiliate marketing.
Blogging is the perfect opportunity for us to build trust and authority with our users. Some people may consider blogging only as a nice piece of content but I think that it goes beyond this. I believe that it’s a relationship that you're building with your readers where you can share with them useful tips, quotes from experts and your experience on a given topic.
Clemence Arthur, SEO Manager at Wix.com
Blogging offers flexibility in terms of when and where you work, allowing you to manage your blog alongside other commitments, such as a full-time job or family responsibilities. Many blogs are started alongside a full-time job and in a blogger's spare time.
Bloggers can operate their business from home or anywhere with an internet connection, making it easy and simple to start.
Get started with the Wix Blog Maker.
You can blog about a wide variety of topics, from personal interests to niche subjects, making it possible to cater to diverse audiences and markets.
Be inspired:
To succeed in blogging, it's important to consistently produce high-quality content, understand your target audience and effectively market your blog. While blogging can be enjoyable and potentially profitable, it's important to note that building a successful blog often takes time, dedication and consistency with posting and updating your content.
12. Photography
A photography business involves offering photography services to clients for various occasions or purposes, such as weddings, portraits, events and commercial or artist projects. Photographers capture and create images that convey emotions, tell stories and capture moments in time.
If you have a passion for photography and a creative eye, a photography business allows you to express your artistic vision while also earning an income.
Photography offers flexibility in terms of scheduling, making it a suitable part-time business that can be managed alongside other commitments, such as a full-time job or family responsibilities, or studying. Check out these other business ideas for students.
You can start a photography business with relatively low startup costs. While professional equipment is an investment, you can begin with the equipment you already have and gradually upgrade. As a photographer, you can operate your business from home, a home studio, or a dedicated office space, eliminating the need for physical inventory.
To succeed with this part-time business idea, it's essential to invest in quality equipment, develop your technical and artistic skills and effectively market your services. Depending on your chosen niche and location, you may also need to understand legal and regulatory requirements for operating a photography business.
13. Catering
A catering business involves preparing and serving food and beverages for various events and occasions, such as weddings, corporate gatherings and parties. Caterers provide a range of services, including menu planning, cooking, food presentation and sometimes event planning.
If you have a passion for cooking and culinary skills, a catering business allows you to showcase your talent and creativity combined with flexibility in terms of scheduling, as you can take on events and projects that align with your availability. This is what helps make it a suitable part-time business idea.
You can start a catering business with minimal overhead costs, as you may already have a kitchen and basic cooking equipment and you can start this business idea from home. Initial expenses are largely ingredient and marketing-related. As your culinary skills and client base grow, you can gradually take on more events or expand your services, such as offering cooking classes or food delivery.
Examples of catering or food businesses you can start:
To succeed in catering as a part-time business idea, you should have a passion for cooking, culinary training or experience, good time management, strong organizational skills and excellent communication with clients. Additionally, consider legal and regulatory requirements, such as food safety regulations and licensing, in your state.
14. Coaching
A coaching business involves providing guidance, support and expertise to individuals or groups seeking personal or professional development. Coaches help clients set and achieve goals, overcome challenges and improve their skills, performance and well-being.
Coaching offers flexibility in terms of working hours. You can conduct coaching sessions according to your availability, making it a suitable part-time business alongside other commitments. Launching a coaching business requires minimal overhead costs. You may need a phone, computer, internet connection and marketing materials, to keep expenses low.
You can operate a coaching business from home or any location with the necessary communication tools, eliminating the need for physical office space or other expenses. This also gives more freedom and ability to adapt to changing market demands and emerging trending products, addressing new challenges and opportunities without large risks involved.
Coaching examples to be inspired by:
To succeed with coaching as a part-time business idea, it's important to have strong communication, listening, empathy and interpersonal skills. Additionally, you should consider training and certification requirements, as well as understanding any legal and regulatory requirements for coaching businesses in your state.
15. Event planning
Type of business that involves the organizing and coordinating of various aspects of events and special occasions, such as weddings, parties, corporate meetings, conferences and other social gatherings. Event planners work closely with their clients to design, plan and execute events, ensuring that all details, from venues and catering to entertainment and decorations, are perfectly orchestrated.
Learn more: How to start a party planning business
Event planning can be a fun part-time business idea to start as it allows you to apply your creativity while using your strong organizational skills to execute memorable events for people and families within your community.
For the most part event planners can choose when to work and manage their time effectively, making it a suitable part-time business alongside other commitments. You can also choose to specialize in various event types, such as weddings, corporate meetings, birthday parties, or cultural celebrations, providing a broad range of services to clients. Or hone in on a niche and become an expert planner in that.
Event planning businesses to be inspired by:
As your event planning skills and client base grow, you can gradually take on more projects, larger events, or additional services, such as destination events or corporate team building.
To succeed with event planning as a part-time business, it's important to have strong interpersonal, negotiation, problem-solving and communication skills. Event planners should also consider legal and regulatory requirements in their area, as well as potential liability insurance. By combining your creativity and organizational skills with effective strategies, you can establish a part-time event-planning business that is fulfilling and profitable.
Other business ideas to consider
Part-time business ideas FAQ
What are the easiest and cheapest businesses to start?
Freelancing: Offer your skills on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr.
Consulting: Advise clients based on your expertise, even if it's within your day job domain.
Blogging or vlogging: Share your knowledge and passion online and potentially monetize through ads or partnerships.
Tutoring or teaching: Share your academic or professional knowledge online or offline.
Selling unused items: Declutter your home and generate income through platforms like eBay or local yard sales.