20+ Best Businesses to Start With 100k in 2025 | Venturz

“You make most of your money in a bear market, you just don’t realize it at the time.” – Shelby Cullom Davis.

With $100k in hand, you’re in a great position to turn challenges into opportunities. The key is knowing where to put that money to work. Right now might feel uncertain, but this is exactly when smart investments can pay off in ways you wouldn’t expect.

The right business idea, combined with careful planning, can turn your savings into a thriving, long-term success.

But here’s the big question: What kind of business should you start With 100k? With 100k$, you have enough capital to explore a variety of ventures, whether it's opening a storefront, investing in a franchise, or starting an online business.

But not all ideas are created equal, and making the right choice can be the difference between success and struggle.

In this article, we’ll explore a range of businesses you can start with $100k or less, designed to give you the best shot at long-term growth.

Whether you're a first-time entrepreneur or looking to expand into something new, there’s something here for everyone. let’s explore what might be the best fit for you, and help turn that capital into a thriving venture.

You’ve got $100k and you're wondering, is it enough to launch a business? The short answer is yes, but the real answer depends on a few key factors.

What type of business are you looking to start? Are you thinking about a brick-and-mortar shop, an online venture, or something in between? Each option comes with its own set of costs and challenges, particularly if your business will involve material handling in warehouses or requires significant infrastructure.

The good news is that $100k is more than enough to get the ball rolling in many cases. In fact, some of the most successful businesses today started with much less.

But, it’s important to manage your budget wisely. Things like inventory, marketing, equipment, and even unexpected expenses can quickly add up if you’re not careful.

If you're transitioning from a traditional job into entrepreneurship, refining your resume with an AI resume writer can help you explore alternative career opportunities or side income streams while you build your business.

On the flip side, having this amount gives you breathing room to invest in quality and set yourself up for smoother growth. You can avoid cutting corners, which often leads to costly mistakes down the road.

Plus, with the right business model, that $100k could stretch further than you think, giving you a head start in markets that are ready to boom.

So, is 100k enough? Absolutely—if you plan smart, stay focused, and choose a business that matches your budget. Let’s break down how to make that happen.

The U.S. food truck market is valued at about USD 1.09 billion in 2025, and it’s expected to grow to around USD 1.51 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of ~6.6%.

Startup costs vary a lot depending on size, equipment, locality, and whether you buy or rent. Realistic budgets today fall between USD 50,000 to USD 250,000 to launch fully (truck/vehicle, kitchen setup, licensing, inventory, branding, etc.).

Although your budget is capped at 100K, you can start small—rent a used truck or trailer, limit your menu, handle more of the work yourself initially. Many operators spend toward the lower end and scale as demand grows.

Average annual revenues for food trucks in the U.S. in 2025 hover around USD 346,000, though that depends heavily on location, foot traffic, ability to serve events/festivals, etc.

The global e-commerce market is now projected to hit about USD 6.8 trillion in 2025, which means online stores still offer major upside.

With lower startup costs, an online store lets you reach customers globally without needing a physical storefront.

Models like dropshipping or print-on-demand mean you don’t need to hold large inventory, helping keep initial expenses well below USD 100,000. Many small e-commerce businesses generate six-figure revenues, and a good number scale into the millions if they find a strong niche.

A key factor for success is solid digital marketing and a polished website that works smoothly on mobile devices — over 90% of consumers shop using their phones.

Risks include stiff competition and logistics challenges (shipping, returns, customs). But platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and others make it easier for beginners to build, launch, and grow without huge upfront tech costs.

The property management industry in the U.S. is now generating about USD 123.5 billion in revenue in 2025, and it continues growing steadily.

Startup costs for a property management company can be fairly low, especially if you begin by managing just a few properties and scale later.

Property managers typically charge 6-12% of monthly rent collected (depending on property type and location), plus fees for leasing or tenant placement. With a solid client base and efficient operations, there’s strong repeat business potential.

This business is ideal for those with excellent customer satisfaction skills and knowledge of local regulations. A professional website and strong online visibility through smart marketing are crucial to attract property owners.

Risks include fluctuating real estate markets and stiff competition, but giving great service, maintaining strong client relationships, and being responsive to local demands can help you stand out. The property management field still offers good chances for stable income, especially in areas where demand for rentals is high.

The global mobile car wash market was valued at about USD 9.3 billion in 2024, and it’s expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate around 8.8% through 2033.

Compared to brick-and-mortar car wash locations, startup costs for a mobile car wash are relatively low—less overhead since you don’t need a fixed facility, and equipment costs can scale with how many services you offer.

Customers value convenience, so demand tends to stay steady, especially in cities or suburban areas where people prefer door-to-door service. A strong online presence, scheduling via app or website, and transparent service packages help attract repeat clients.

Risks include limited capacity (you can only serve so many cars a day), managing travel/fuel costs, weather dependency, and local regulations (water usage, waste disposal).

This business idea is a good match for entrepreneurs seeking low startup costs and flexible working hours. Offering flexible packages (basic wash, interior or exterior detailing, premium options) helps broaden your customer base and grow loyalty.

More than 5.41 billion people use social media globally in 2025 (about 65.7% of the world population), so demand for social-media presence is big. Ad spending on social platforms is projected to reach USD 247.3 billion this year, up from previous years — meaning there’s serious budget moving into this space.

Startup costs are low and overhead minimal, especially if you start solo or in a small team. Agencies can work with small businesses, e-commerce brands, even franchises, helping them improve visibility, engage audiences, and run ad campaigns.

Revenue and profit depend heavily on the services offered — for example: managing content and community, running paid ad campaigns, consulting on influencer partnerships, or creative strategy. Keeping up with shifts (e.g., short-form video, trends, platform changes) and using tools for analytics and scheduling make a difference.

A strong business plan, effective pricing, and excellent client satisfaction can lead to fast growth and recurring clients.

The fitness industry in the U.S. is projected to generate about USD 45.7 billion in revenue in 2025, showing steady growth as more people prioritize health and wellness.

Startup costs for a fitness studio or personal training business often range USD 50,000 to USD 100,000, depending on location, size, equipment, and whether you offer virtual or in-person classes.

Boutique studios and personal trainers are seeing high demand, particularly for specialized classes like yoga, pilates, strength training, functional fitness, and hybrid models that combine in-studio and online coaching.

Profit margins can be strong, especially with recurring memberships or packages. Using mobile apps or online platforms for scheduling, class management, and remote coaching helps expand reach and maintain a strong online presence.

Risks include high rent and facility costs, equipment maintenance, competition (especially from gyms with large scale), and turnover of members.

This business is best for people who are passionate about fitness, know how to motivate clients, and are willing to adapt offerings to meet changing demand.

The global e-commerce industry is projected to reach about USD 6.8 trillion in sales in 2025, reflecting strong consumer demand for online shopping.

Launching an online store focused on niche products is a smart way to enter this market with relatively low startup costs. Platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, or BigCommerce make it straightforward to set up a store, manage orders, and handle payments without needing a physical storefront.

Dropshipping and print-on-demand remain appealing models because they don’t require you to hold inventory, which lowers upfront costs and risk. This keeps the total investment comfortably under USD 100,000 for most setups.

Success depends on targeting the right audience and building trust. Digital marketing — especially social media advertising, email campaigns, influencer partnerships, and SEO — plays a big role in driving traffic and conversions.

Niche stores that solve a problem or offer unique, hard-to-find products often build loyal customer bases and achieve healthy margins. With the right model and consistent marketing, it’s possible to scale into a profitable business while keeping costs lean.

The mobile app industry is booming. Global revenue from apps is projected to hit USD 585–600 billion in 2025, reflecting continued strong growth.

Whether for iOS, Android, or cross-platform tools, there’s rising demand from businesses in fitness, retail, finance, entertainment, and more for specialized apps.

With an initial investment between USD 50,000 to USD 100,000, you can build a robust MVP (Minimum Viable Product) app—a high-demand product—especially if you focus on a niche or use low-/no-code tools to reduce costs.

Key skills to succeed include user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design, app store optimization, and marketing. For monetization, consider subscription models, in-app purchases, or ads depending on your target audience.

Challenges include competition (there are millions of apps already), platform approval requirements, ongoing maintenance and updates, and ensuring strong security. But if you create something unique, user-friendly, and well-marketed, the scaling potential is strong.

The bookkeeping services market globally is about USD 11.6 billion in 2025, and it’s expected to grow rapidly over the next decade, with a CAGR around 9-10%. U.S. payroll & bookkeeping services alone are worth USD 82.1 billion this year.

There are around 88,000 accounting firms in the U.S., many small, many serving local businesses. Most firms offer bookkeeping or accounting as core services.

Offering specialized services like tax prep, payroll management, financial consulting, and cloud-based bookkeeping can be low-cost and scalable. Many small businesses need professional accounting help but lack in-house expertise.

With initial investment modest (software subscriptions, a small team, compliance tools), this business model has relatively low overhead. Platforms like QuickBooks, Xero, and other cloud tools can reduce manual work and improve efficiency.

Great fits for this business are people with financial background, attention to detail, trustworthiness, and good client communication.

Key risks include regulatory changes, fluctuations in tax law, competition from both solo practitioners and larger firms, and keeping up with technology (automation, cloud, AI).

But overall, this kind of service tends to offer strong returns, recurring revenue from regular clients, and decent margins if you manage costs well.

The global private tutoring market size is about USD 131.04 billion in 2025, growing at around 9% year-over-year, and expected to reach roughly USD 192.09 billion by 2029.

Online tutoring services alone are estimated at USD 12.06 billion in 2025, with forecasts showing strong growth toward 2030 driven by digital tools, AI-driven platforms, and rising demand for flexible learning.

You can specialize in academic subjects, test prep, language learning, coding, or niche skills. The flexibility of online delivery means low startup costs and access to a global market.

Target students, professionals, or parents who want extra help; repeat customers are common. Offering packages for long-term tutoring, exam prep, or specialized coaching adds stability.

A polished website, strong brand presence, social media marketing, and good reviews are essential to reach your audience and build trust. Many successful tutors combine in-person and online methods.

Risks include competition, keeping up with curriculum changes, maintaining quality, and managing scheduling/time differences. But with consistent quality and strong customer relationships, this business can offer solid returns and recurring revenue.

The global mobile pet care market is estimated at around USD 772-800 million in 2025, and it’s forecast to grow toward USD 1.4–1.6 billion by the mid-2030s, rising at a CAGR of ~7-8%.

Mobile pet care services include grooming, wellness checks, minor veterinary services, vaccinations, and other in-home visits. Because many pet owners prefer convenience and less stress for their pets, this model is seeing strong demand, especially in urban areas.

Startup costs are relatively low compared to fixed pet clinics or salons. Main expenses are a mobile vehicle or van, grooming tools or medical kits, licenses, insurance, and marketing. With modest investment under USD 100,000, many entrepreneurs can launch this service and build up gradually.

Risks include travel/vehicle maintenance costs, dealing with regulations (especially for veterinary or medical services), weather dependency, and properly training staff.

However, if done right, this business can generate solid recurring income, a loyal customer base, and scale by adding more vans or expanding services.

The event planning industry continues growing, with estimates showing global revenue over USD 1.6 trillion by 2025-2026. Demand is rising for in-person, virtual, and hybrid events as businesses and individuals seek memorable experiences.

Event planning covers corporate meetings, weddings, launches, trade shows, virtual conferences, and social gatherings. Entrepreneurs who can handle vendor coordination, logistics, budgets, and client expectations have room to build a solid business.

Startup expenses can stay well under USD 100,000 if you begin with remote operations, contract or freelance staff, and modest marketing. Much of the cost is tied to vendors, venues, permits, and client-serving expenses rather than fixed overhead.

If you manage client satisfaction, maintain good vendor relationships, and stay on top of trends (tech for virtual/hybrid, event safety, sustainability), this business can deliver recurring revenue and growth.

The catering industry is showing strong momentum. In 2024, U.S. caterers pulled in about USD 72 billion in revenue, and the global catering service market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.6% from 2025-2032, reaching nearly USD 244 billion by then.

Catering is a good option if you’re interested in food but not ready for a full restaurant. Startup costs are lower—many caterers launch with a modest kitchen or shared space, basic equipment, staff, and a reliable supply chain. Keeping overhead lean (no fixed large storefront, flexible staffing) helps keep costs under USD 100,000 in many cases.

Corporate catering, weddings, social events, and online / delivery-based orders make up a large share of business. Repeat demand is high: companies want regular event service, families want catering for celebrations, and virtual or hybrid events often need food or snack options.

Risks include rising ingredient costs, logistical challenges (transport, storage), tight competition, and managing hygiene/regulation compliance.

But when managed well, catering services can deliver good margins, steady cash flow, and growth potential — especially by scaling up to serve larger events or by specializing in things like corporate or niche catering (e.g. health-food, vegan, ethnic cuisines).

Dropshipping remains one of the most accessible online business models in 2025. Global dropshipping market revenue is projected to surpass USD 300 billion this year, and it’s expected to keep growing steadily as more consumers shop online.

With dropshipping, you don’t need to hold inventory. When a customer orders, the supplier ships directly to them. That keeps startup costs low — often well under USD 10,000 if you’re running a lean store on platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce.

The key to making this work is solid research. Successful stores focus on niche products with steady demand but low competition. Examples include eco-friendly lifestyle items, specialized fitness accessories, or pet supplies.

Marketing is another major factor. Social media ads, influencer partnerships, and SEO can all drive targeted traffic to your store. Consistent branding and customer experience (clear policies, fast support, smooth checkout) build long-term trust.

Risks include reliance on third-party suppliers, shipping delays, product quality issues, and competition. To reduce problems, partner with reliable suppliers, order test products before selling, and maintain open communication with customers.

Dropshipping works best as a scalable model. Once you find a winning product and audience, you can expand quickly without heavy upfront investment.

The global subscription box market was worth about USD 36-37.5 billion in 2024, and it’s expected to grow to around USD 41.5 billion in 2025, with forecasts pointing to roughly USD 85 billion+ by 2029.

Starting a subscription box business involves curating and delivering specialized products to customers on a recurring basis. Whether the focus is beauty, wellness, pets, food, fitness gear, or lifestyle items, people like the surprise, convenience, and personalization.

With moderate initial investment for sourcing, packaging, branding, and website setup, many subscription box models can be launched for well under USD 100,000, especially when you start small and scale gradually.

Challenges include shipping costs, packaging, inventory management, and churn (customers cancelling). But if you manage these well, this business can produce steady recurring revenue and build a loyal customer base.

Print-on-demand (POD) stores let you sell custom products such as t-shirts, hoodies, mugs, posters, and accessories without holding inventory. Once a customer orders, your design is printed and shipped directly by the supplier.

Startup costs are low since you don’t need to invest in stock upfront or manage warehousing. Most businesses can get started with well under USD 10,000, mainly for design tools, store setup (Shopify, WooCommerce, Etsy integrations), and marketing.

This model is flexible—you can test different niches, expand into seasonal designs, or experiment with new products without big financial risks.

Risks include heavy competition, low margins if you rely solely on generic designs, and dependency on third-party print providers for quality and shipping times. Partnering with reliable POD suppliers and offering unique, well-researched designs helps you stand out.

Done right, a print-on-demand business can scale quickly while keeping overhead minimal, making it one of the most beginner-friendly e-commerce models in 2025.

The home improvement and handyman services market is strong and growing. In the U.S., homeowners are spending heavily on repairs, renovations, and upgrades. The home improvement services market in 2025 is expected to rise to about USD 594 billion, up from around USD 574 billion in 2024. Globally, the handyman services segment is also expanding quickly as demand for on-demand repairs, maintenance, and small renovation jobs increases.

You can start this type of business with relatively low overhead. For many, initial costs stay under USD 100,000 when you begin with basic tools, transportation, marketing, and hiring skilled labor as needed.

To get going, define clearly what services you’re offering — e.g. small repairs, carpentry, plumbing, painting, tiling, or full room renovations. The more specialized or higher-skill the work, the more you can charge.

Building trust and reputation is essential. Customers care a lot about reliability, quality of work, punctuality, and clean job sites. Word-of-mouth matters a lot; good reviews and referrals drive steady business.

Risks include fluctuations in material costs, higher labor costs, regulatory/permit issues, and economic slowdowns. Also, competition is intense locally.

If you manage quality, maintain customer satisfaction, and scale carefully (adding more staff or covering more service types), this business can provide solid income, recurring work, and growth over time.

The global electronics repair & maintenance market is estimated at USD 18.6-19 billion in 2024, and it’s projected to grow to around USD 31 billion by 2033, driven by demand for longer device lifespans, cheaper alternatives to replacing devices, and sustainability.

You can start a mobile repair service with relatively low startup cost since you don’t need a fixed shop. Key initial expenses include quality tools, replacement parts, marketing, transportation, and possibly a small workshop space if you do more complex repairs.

When done right, the business can generate repeat customers, solid margins, and scale by covering more types of devices or expanding service area.

The laundromat industry in the U.S. is stable and still profitable. Industry revenue is around USD 6.8 billion in 2024-2025, with steady demand driven by renters, urban populations without in-unit laundry, and people valuing convenience.

Startup costs tend to be high, especially for equipment and site setup. Most new laundromats cost USD 200,000 to USD 500,000, depending on location, size, and whether you buy or lease space. Smaller setups or buying existing ones in less expensive areas may require less.

If you manage operations efficiently, pick a good location (high density, low in-unit laundry access), provide excellent service/hygiene, and add value through ancillary services, laundromats can deliver steady cash flow, good margins, and reliable long-term income.

Opening a small café or coffee shop remains a reliable business idea for 2025. People seek relaxed spots to work, socialize, or grab specialty drinks, and these habits are strong in urban and suburban areas alike.

Startup costs vary depending on the format (walk-in, kiosk, drive-thru) and location.

When done well, a café can become a community favorite, generate repeat customers, steady income, and even scale to multiple locations.

The global photographic services market is estimated at about USD 37.96 billion in 2025, and it’s expected to grow at a CAGR of around 6.1% through 2034, as demand increases for professional visuals across e-commerce, real estate, events, and more.

You can start this kind of business with relatively low overhead, especially if you already own decent camera gear. Key initial costs include equipment (camera, lenses, lighting, stabilizers/drones), editing software, a solid computer, marketing, and sometimes a minimal studio or rented space.

To stand out, offer specialized services like drone footage, real estate photography, event or wedding videography, commercial shoots for businesses, or even content creation for social media influencers. A strong portfolio is essential — clients want to see examples of your work before booking.

Success often relies on networking, referrals, and maintaining an online presence. Having a website, social media portfolios, and client reviews help a lot in attracting bookings. Clients tend to trust photographers/videographers with visible past work and clear pricing.

Risks include high equipment maintenance costs, rapid technology shifts (new formats, file types, video resolutions), competition (many freelancers), and managing workloads especially during event seasons.

If you manage your pricing well, deliver quality consistently, leverage referrals and social proof, this business can yield solid margins, reliable income, and growth possibilities (adding services, scaling to teams or subcontractors).

There are plenty of great opportunities to start a business with $100k or less. Whether you’re interested in food, tech, creative services, or hands-on work, there’s a business idea that can fit your passion and budget. While every venture has its challenges, with smart planning and focus, you can turn your investment into a successful and rewarding business.

The key is to pick something that matches your skills and interests. Take your time, do thorough research, and build a solid plan. With patience and determination, that $100k can grow into something bigger than you might expect.

Now, it’s time to take action! Find the business idea that excites you and begin the journey to building something great.