Top 10 Proven Businesses You Can Start in 2025 (for Absolute Beginners)
Zaima Butt
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Are you ready to start a business in 2025 but worried you don’t have enough experience, time, or funds? Good news: with the right guidance, you can get started with little to no experience! Here’s a list of 10 proven, beginner-friendly businesses to launch in 2025, plus tips to get you started.
1. Freelance Social Media Management
Why It’s Hot in 2025: Social media marketing is still growing, especially with small businesses who need an online presence but don’t have big budgets to hire agencies. As platforms evolve, the need for personalized, hands-on social media managers has never been greater.
How to Get Started: Focus on one platform like Instagram or LinkedIn to start. Take a quick online course (there are many free ones!) on managing social accounts, then practice by helping a friend’s business or a local charity.
Real-World Example: Take inspiration from Hootsuite's social media manager who started freelancing to gain experience. Now, they lead social media strategy for a global brand—proof that freelancing can be a gateway to bigger roles.
2. Content Creation (Blogging, Vlogging, or Podcasting)
Why It’s Hot in 2025: With short-form video and podcasting on the rise, content creators are more in-demand than ever. Businesses need engaging content, and audiences are consuming it at unprecedented rates.
How to Get Started: Pick a niche you’re passionate about—whether it’s cooking, travel, or personal finance. Start with minimal equipment (most smartphones work great) and consistently post. Use platforms like Medium, YouTube, or Spotify, which make monetization easier.
Real-World Example: Think about bloggers like Adam Enfroy who started his blog in 2019 with a focus on digital marketing and business advice. By combining SEO expertise with strategic content partnerships, he scaled his blog into a seven-figure business within a few years. His journey showcases the potential of blogging as a lucrative business model for those willing to put in the work.
3. Virtual Assistant (VA) Services
Why It’s Hot in 2025: As remote work grows, so does the demand for virtual assistants to help busy professionals manage their time and tasks. VAs are needed for scheduling, inbox management, and more.
How to Get Started: Create a profile on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr, list your skills, and offer competitive rates to start building a client base. You can specialize as a generalist or niche down into areas like real estate or e-commerce.
Real-World Example: Take Gina Horkey, who started as a VA and is now an entrepreneur teaching others how to break into the industry. Starting as a VA can lead to specialized career paths!
4. Pet Services (Dog Walking, Pet Sitting, etc.)
Why It’s Hot in 2025: The pet industry is booming! With more people returning to work, there’s an increased demand for dog walkers, pet sitters, and other pet services.
How to Get Started: Advertise your services on neighborhood platforms like Nextdoor, or use apps like Rover to find clients. You don’t need much experience—just a love for animals and reliability.
Real-World Example: As soon on CNBC, Gabriel Feitosa turned his passion for creative pet grooming into a million-dollar business. Starting with just a pair of scissors and clippers, he now owns a thriving San Diego salon where he transforms dogs with intricate, artistic makeovers, gaining over 2 million followers on social media and bringing joy to his clients. His success story proves that following your passion can lead to both fulfillment and financial success.
(NOTE: This industry is popular in the US and first-world countries, not much applicable in third-world countries)
5. Etsy Store for Handmade Goods or Digital Products
Why It’s Hot in 2025: The "maker economy" is thriving, especially on platforms like Etsy. From handmade crafts to digital downloads (like printable planners), there’s a vast market for unique, personalized items.
How to Get Started: Choose a specific product type (jewelry, stationery, or home décor) and create a small batch. Test the waters on Etsy and refine based on customer feedback.
Real-World Example: In 2020, Caitlin started selling digital budget planners on Etsy; now, it’s her full-time job! If you’re creative, this can be a flexible and scalable business.
6. Online Tutoring or Coaching
Why It’s Hot in 2025: The online learning industry is expanding, and more people are looking for personal coaching or tutoring in everything from math to life skills to fitness.
How to Get Started: Pick a subject you’re comfortable teaching. Platforms like Wyzant or Preply are excellent for tutoring, while coaching can be done through LinkedIn, Zoom, or other online platforms.
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Real-World Example: Marie Forleo is a successful life and business coach who emphasizes the importance of starting from scratch and building resilience in the face of challenges. Through her coaching, her TV show MarieTV, and her book Everything Is Figureoutable, she inspires clients to cultivate a positive mindset, prioritize self-care, and stay adaptable in the fast-paced world of business.
7. Dropshipping E-commerce Store
Why It’s Hot in 2025: E-commerce is still expanding, and dropshipping—selling products without holding inventory—is an easy way to get into the market.
How to Get Started: Choose a specific niche (like eco-friendly home goods), find suppliers through platforms like Shopify or Oberlo, and start promoting on social media.
Real-World Example: Starting from scratch at 18, Cole Turner immersed himself in dropshipping and, through trial and error, built a series of ecommerce stores. After experimenting with products and scaling Facebook ads, he found success, eventually generating over $2 million in sales in just over a year. His journey highlights the power of persistence and learning in ecommerce.
8. Digital Marketing Consulting for Local Businesses
Why It’s Hot in 2025: Many small, local businesses need help with digital marketing, especially as customers increasingly rely on online platforms.
How to Get Started: Learn the basics of SEO, social media advertising, and email marketing. Start by offering services to a friend’s business or a small local shop to build experience.
Real-World Example: Shane Barker is a top-ranked digital marketing consultant with expertise in lead generation, conversion optimization, and customer acquisition. He works with businesses of all sizes, offers reputation management for celebrities, and contributes to major publications like Yahoo Small Business and Salesforce.
9. Personal Training or Wellness Coaching (Online or Offline)
Why It’s Hot in 2025: The focus on health and wellness continues to grow, especially with virtual fitness becoming mainstream.
How to Get Started: If you’re interested in fitness, you could start by getting a certification. You can work with clients one-on-one or create digital programs.
Real-World Example: Jason Helmes, owner of Anyman Fitness, transformed his business from earning $2,500 in his first year to six figures in just two years. Through patience, persistence, and focusing on consistent growth, he has continued to scale his fitness business, emphasizing the importance of "getting in your reps" and staying dedicated to the process.
10. Event Planning and Coordination
Why It’s Hot in 2025: Events are back, and people want help planning everything from weddings to corporate retreats.
How to Get Started: Start by organizing small gatherings for friends and family to build a portfolio. Once confident, you can approach local event spaces or clients directly.
Real-World Example: Marc started by planning small family events and is now a wedding planner for high-profile clients. If you love organizing, event planning can be highly rewarding.
Final Thoughts
Starting a business doesn’t have to be complicated or overwhelming. The key is to start small, choose a business that matches your skills and interests, and be willing to learn along the way. The most important part? Take action. Start with one small step, and your future business will grow from there!
Good luck in 2025—this could be the year you start something amazing!
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