If you’re anything like me, your grandfather has been urging you to get a job since you were eight years old.
“Back in my day,” “When I was your age,” and “It’s time to start contributing” are phrases I’ve heard all too often.
But what if, instead of getting your first job delivering newspapers for a few dollars, you could create your own job?
With technology advancing, more opportunities are emerging for young teenagers to start their own businesses, often from the comfort of their homes.
So, if you’re an aspiring young entrepreneur (or a parent looking to stop giving allowance), check out our list of the best small business ideas for teens.
Why Start a Business in Your Teenage Years?
In addition to the financial benefits of a successful business (less nagging from your mom!), starting a business in your teens comes with other advantages.
Whether you plan to attend college or not, take a gap year, or dive into a job, you have plenty of time to explore creating your own business first!
Life lessons go beyond books and classroom lectures. To truly learn and develop practical skills, you need to contribute instead of just consuming information.
Starting your own business is attractive to colleges as it shows your ambition, drive, and forward-thinking.
It also provides valuable experience and networking opportunities with professionals, making it easier to find a job in the future.
And, it’ll keep your parents off your back when you say you need more time on your laptop…
Disclaimer: Some platforms, tools, or regions may require you to be at least 18 to register. Always seek parental or guardian consent before starting a business.
Don’t Skip: 19 Reasons to Start a Business
8 Small Business Ideas for Teens
1. Streaming
The streaming world boomed during Covid-19, with a 45% increase in live-streaming and a 99% industry growth within the first two months.
With technology advancements making streaming equipment more affordable, this could be a great option for online enthusiasts or gamers.
Building an audience takes time, so don’t expect immediate profits.
Dive Deeper: Hate Creating New Content? Cut Your Content Creation Time in Half with This Strategy
2. Ecommerce
If you’re into business, economics, and digital design, starting an ecommerce brand could be a lucrative venture. Platforms like Shopify and Squarespace have simplified website creation and online selling.
Dive Deeper: How to Start an Ecommerce Business
3. When life gives you lemons, make lemonade
During financial crises, kids selling lemonade or snacks is not just a movie trope—they’re effective ways to earn extra pocket money.
Though it may not be a full-time career, selling homemade goods in your neighborhood can bring in some cash.
With accessible card readers, payment options are easier, ensuring more sales.
Dive Deeper: How to Make Money on the Side
4. Get crafty
If you enjoy making handmade goods, consider selling them on platforms like Etsy or eBay. Unique items and support for small businesses make this a profitable venture with some design and business skills.
Dive Deeper: How To Start An Etsy Shop
5. Design websites and online stores
If you spend a lot of time online, offering website and online store design services can be lucrative. Many small business owners lack these skills, creating a demand for such services.
You don’t need coding expertise, as drag-and-drop platforms like Squarespace allow easy website creation.
Dive Deeper: 16 Ways to Find (and Win) Your Dream Clients
6. Make use of your “social” skills
If you spend hours scrolling through TikTok, YouTube Shorts, or Instagram Reels, put those skills to use. Social media marketing, especially using short-form video, is essential for brands today.
Helping brands navigate platforms like TikTok or Reels can be a valuable service, given the generational gap in social media understanding.
Short-form video and social media are long-term trends, making this a viable business option for teens.
Dive Deeper: How to Make Money on TikTok – 15 Surefire Ways
7. Dip your toe into AI
Exploring the world of AI offers unique business opportunities for young entrepreneurs. Whether creating chatbots, teaching AI tools, or consulting on AI for businesses, AI presents diverse opportunities.
While adults are still catching up with AI concepts, teens can leverage this technology for business ventures.
8. The devil is in the detailing
Car detailing has seen a rise in demand, allowing teens to offer quality detailing services. Promoting through social media to a demand-heavy market can lead to a successful venture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Business Ideas for Teens
…FAQs content…
Keep Learning: Business Ideas for Women Entrepreneurs
The Pocket Money Ends Now!
Teens, now you have all the information you need to get started with your very own business. Parents, now you have all the encouragement you need to get your teenager off to the perfect start!
We have a series of stories from successful business people that started as teenagers:
- This Entrepreneur Convinced His Mentor to Be His Co-Founder
- How Shipt Founder Bill Smith Had Three Exits Before 40
Whatever your business idea may be, make sure to download our free product idea guide to kickstart your venture on the right track.
Source: ( foundr.com / Financementality.com )
