Not every great business begins with a huge investment. If you have a determination to make about $ 500 in your pocket and something of your own, then you are in the right place.
The $500 Rule
Before we dive into the ideas here’s what we mean by businesses under $500. These projects can typically be started with:
- Basic materials or tools
- Free or low-cost digital platforms for sales
- A small home-based workspace
- Your time, creativity, and energy
1. Metal Bank Cards – A Luxe Twist on the Ordinary
Ordinary plastic bank cards are in the previous season. A top but rapidly growing market is custom metal bank card. The concept here dissolves a plastic card to remove its chip, embed it in a smooth metal frame, then customize it with laser-tavern monograms, logo, minimum design, even gold plating.
Startup Needs:
- Basic tools (Dremel, adhesive, metal card blanks)
- Acid solution for dissolving plastic
- Laser engraving service or partnership
Target Market: Entrepreneurs, executives, influencers, luxury lovers
Estimated Startup Cost: ~$200–$400
2. Upcycled Fashion – From Old to Bold
Thrift store turn thrift store and old clothes in a kind of fashion pieces. Mix embroidery, patch, custom cut, or fabric to create stunning new styles. This environment-conscious fashion trend is exploding on platforms such as Instagram and Depop.
Startup Needs:
- Sewing machine (basic)
- Fabric, thread, embellishments
- Social media account for showcasing
Target Market: Eco-conscious shoppers, Gen Z, fashionistas
Estimated Startup Cost: ~$150–$300
3. Lava Stone Jewelry – Beauty with Benefits
Lava stone is light, texture and unique. It is also an exploiter, which means that it can keep essential oils perfect for aromatherapy. Mix with wooden beads, attraction, or colored cords to make stylish, functional jewelry.
Startup Needs:
- Jewelry tools and lava stones
- Essential oils (small batch)
- Simple branding and packaging
Target Market: Wellness lovers, gift shoppers, festival goers
Estimated Startup Cost: ~$100–$200
4. Magnetic Stickers – Swappable, Fun, and Profitable
These fridge are like magnets, but are coolers. Magnetic stickers can facilitate custom art, slogans, or subjects and can be easily swapped. Great for home decorations, cars, offices or gifts.
Startup Needs:
- Magnet sheets
- Printer and sticker paper
- Basic cutting tools
Target Market: Teens, small businesses, gift shops
Estimated Startup Cost: ~$100
5. Custom Keyboard Keycaps – Nerdy Meets Artsy
Gamers and desk setup enthusiasts love customizing their gear, especially kicap. You can create themed sets using 3D printing for resin mold, colored paints, and LED or even unique designs.
Startup Needs:
- Resin and molds
- Keycap base sets
- Artistic flair
Target Market: Gamers, programmers, tech YouTubers
Estimated Startup Cost: ~$200–$400
6. Beekeeping & Honey Products – Sweet Profits
With just a few hives, you can start producing natural honey. Infect it with lemon, berries, or nuts, and sell it in the environmentally friendly jar with beautiful labels. Bonus: Bee for candles and balm.
Startup Needs:
- Starter hive kit
- Beekeeping gear
- Basic packaging
Target Market: Organic lovers, farmers’ market goers, natural product fans
Estimated Startup Cost: ~$400–$500
7. Mobile Brick Maker – Concrete Business, Literally
If you are in an area where construction is booming, a mobile brick manufacturer may be a surprisingly attractive venture. Produce bricks on site for builders or farmers. This is less technology but in high demand.
Startup Needs:
- Manual or semi-automatic brick press
- Access to sand, cement, and gravel
Target Market: Local builders, homeowners, rural communities
Estimated Startup Cost: ~$500
8. Artisanal Sausages – For the Foodie Entrepreneur
Go to old school with homemade sausages made of quality materials. Add garlic, pine nuts or wine like taste to that gourmet edge. Vacuum packs and sell locally or in weekend markets.
Startup Needs:
- Meat grinder and sausage stuffer
- Natural casing, spices, basic branding
Target Market: Food lovers, gourmet shops, local delis
Estimated Startup Cost: ~$300–$500
9. Proposal Ring Presentation Kits – A Moment to Remember
It is all about making a magical moment. Think of the custom ring box with the underlying lights, flower petals, sound effects, or a hidden message. Sell it as a premium service with privatization options.
Startup Needs:
- Custom boxes, packaging materials
- Simple electronics (LEDs, audio modules)
- Branding and presentation
Target Market: Wedding planners, romantic partners, proposal consultants
Estimated Startup Cost: ~$200–$300
10. Laser Tattoo Removal – Clean Slate, Big Opportunity
The tattoo regret is real – and the laser tattoo is in demand for removal. The cost of a basic laser removal device is approximately $ 300, and even beginners can start small. Offer mobile services, visit customers at home, or rent a compact studio location to test water.
Startup Needs:
- Entry-level laser machine
- Safety goggles, skin gel
- Basic skincare training
Target Market: People with tattoo regret, salons, cosmetic clients
Estimated Startup Cost: ~$300–$500
Bonus Tip: Consider adding scar or skin spot treatments for more revenue.
11. Custom Phone Cases – Always in Style
Trendy, adaptable phones never go out of fashion. Print slogans directly on client design, artwork, or cases. Use Instagram, ETC, or a small ecommerce store to take orders.
Startup Needs:
- Phone case printer or heat press
- Blank phone cases
- Design software or templates
Target Market: Teens, artists, small businesses
Estimated Startup Cost: ~$300–$500
Bonus Tip: Offer bulk deals for businesses or influencers.
12. Okashi Gaku-Style Desserts – Edible Art in a Can
These Instagram-worthy Japanese desserts look great to eat as long as you try them. Cream, sponge and fruit layers are packed in clear compartments that are visually stunning and easy to store.
Startup Needs:
- Clear cans and sealer
- Dessert ingredients
- Refrigerated display or cooler
Target Market: Cafes, dessert lovers, event planners
Estimated Startup Cost: ~$300–$500
Bonus Tip: Create seasonal or themed editions to go viral.
13. Engraving Services – Make It Personal
With a mini engraver, you can convert normal objects into nourished gifts. Think about cutting the perfect board, pens, watches, leather goods for weddings, birthdays and corporate programs.
Startup Needs:
- Mini engraver (rotary or laser)
- Practice materials (wood, metal, glass)
- Safety gear
Target Market: Gift buyers, event organizers, Etsy shoppers
Estimated Startup Cost: ~$200–$400
Bonus Tip: Offer a “rush engraving” service for last-minute gifts.
14. Shoe Cleaning & Care – Sole Business, Real Profits
Sneakerheads and style-conscious buyers spend big on keeping their kicks fresh. A mobile shoe-clining setup with steamer, brush and polish is a fast way to start service to customers and sell care kits.
Startup Needs:
- Steam cleaner, soft brushes, leather creams
- Shoe care kits (for upselling)
- Branding materials
Target Market: Sneaker collectors, fashion-conscious customers
Estimated Startup Cost: ~$250–$400
Bonus Tip: Start a social media page showing dramatic before/afters.
15. Jewelry Plating – From Costume to Premium
Upgrade costume jewelry with gold, silver, or rhodium plating. You can work with clients’ pieces or sell your own collection. The results are stunning and profitable.
Startup Needs:
- Electroplating kit
- Safety gear, chemicals
- Old jewelry to practice on
Target Market: Jewelry owners, crafters, online shoppers
Estimated Startup Cost: ~$300–$500
Bonus Tip: Offer “revamp my old jewelry” kits or services.
16. Smart Ping-Pong Trainer – Practice Makes Perfect
Table tennis is booming—and smart tables make solo training easier. A table with a ball feeder and programmable shots helps players sharpen their skills. Rent it out or offer training sessions.
Startup Needs:
- Entry-level training table or ball feeder
- Paddles, balls, camera tripod (for demos)
Target Market: Schools, sports centers, individual players
Estimated Startup Cost: ~$400–$500
Bonus Tip: Record training sessions and offer online lessons.
17. Closed Sandblasting – Clean Without the Mess
This contained cleaning system is perfect for delicate restorations old tools, coins, antiques. It’s cleaner, safer, and more precise than traditional sandblasting.
Startup Needs:
- Compact sandblasting cabinet
- Protective gear, abrasive material
- Practice items (metal parts, tools)
Target Market: Antique dealers, car part restorers, collectors
Estimated Startup Cost: ~$300–$500
Bonus Tip: Bundle services with vintage restoration and polishing.
18. Edible Art – Food as Canvas
Decorate cupcakes, cookies, and lattes with beautiful, edible designs. All you need are food-grade markers, stamps, and a creative touch. Great for birthday parties, pop-ups, and bakeries.
Startup Needs:
- Edible ink pens and stamps
- Basic baked goods (or partner with a baker)
- Photography setup for sharing designs
Target Market: Parents, party planners, cafes
Estimated Startup Cost: ~$150–$300
Bonus Tip: Offer workshops or party packs for kids.
19. Mobile Hair Removal – Smooth, Simple, On-the-Go
Relaxed laser or waxing hair removal of the house? Yes, please. Provide professional-quality service to customers who want privacy and convenience.
Startup Needs:
- Portable waxing kit or IPL laser device
- Disposables (gloves, strips, sanitizers)
- Scheduling and marketing tools
Target Market: Busy professionals, women, athletes
20. Glazed Snack Coating – Sweet Side Hustle
With a small coating drum, you can make snacks immersed in chocolate, caramel or curd. Think the perfect for gifting or online sale with a twist with gourmet almonds, pistachios, or orange peels.
Startup Needs:
- Small coating drum
- Flavorings, nuts, dried fruit
- Packaging supplies
Target Market: Snack lovers, gift buyers, specialty stores
Estimated Startup Cost: ~$400–$500
Bonus Tip: Brand your snacks and pitch to local cafes or events.
21. Ultrasonic Cleaning – Shine and Satisfy
Some things are as satisfactory as it disappears in seconds. An ultrasonic cleaner uses sound waves to clean jewelry, coins, glasses, dental tools and even car parts. This is sharp, effective and perfect for social media content.
Startup Needs:
- Compact ultrasonic cleaner
- Cleaning solution
- Basic lighting and video setup
Target Market: Jewelers, collectors, opticians, everyday customers
Estimated Startup Cost: ~$100–$300
Bonus Tip: Post before-and-after cleaning videos on TikTok and Instagram to drive engagement and attract local clients.
22. Self-Publishing on Amazon – Authorpreneur Life
Writing and publishing books has never been easy. With Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), you can launch an eBook or paperback for free and do not require a printing or inventory to royalty.
Startup Needs:
- A book (fiction, nonfiction, guide, etc.)
- A free KDP account
- Cover design (use Canva or Fiverr)
Target Market: Readers, students, professionals
Estimated Startup Cost: ~$0–$100
Bonus Tip: Build a book series or translate into multiple languages to multiply earnings.
23. Professional Organizer – Order for Hire
Some people crave structure but don’t know where to begin. As a professional organizer, you’ll declutter homes, optimize workspaces, and help with digital file management. It’s therapeutic and highly valued.
Startup Needs:
- Labels, storage boxes (for home clients)
- Digital tools (for online organizing)
- Portfolio of before/after results
Target Market: Busy professionals, families, small businesses
Estimated Startup Cost: ~$100–$300
Bonus Tip: Offer virtual sessions and create a content series with organizing tips to grow your audience.
24. Virtual Magician – Magic Behind the Screen
Magic hasn’t lost its charm, it’s just gone virtual. With a few props and a webcam, you can perform interactive tricks for birthdays, company events, or even online parties.
Startup Needs:
- A webcam and basic props (cards, coins, scarves)
- Virtual meeting platform (Zoom, Meet)
- Website or social media page
Target Market: Event planners, families, corporate teams
Estimated Startup Cost: ~$100–$300
Bonus Tip: Record teaser videos and offer “virtual magic shows” on Fiverr or social media.
25. Computer Repair Services – Tech to the Rescue
Computers are essential, and when they break people need help fast. If you’re tech-savvy, offer services like virus removal, speed optimization, hardware replacement, and software setup.
Startup Needs:
- Basic tools (screwdrivers, thermal paste, etc.)
- Diagnostic software
- Online presence (Google My Business, Facebook)
Target Market: Students, freelancers, small offices
Estimated Startup Cost: ~$100–$400
Bonus Tip: Add remote services like screen-sharing support and PC tune-ups.
26. Selling Digital Products – Passive Income, Unlimited Sales
Create once, sell forever. That’s the magic of digital products. Whether it’s printable planners, Canva templates, Lightroom presets, or sound effects you can upload them to Etsy and sell with no inventory or shipping.
Startup Needs:
- Design software (Canva, Photoshop, Illustrator)
- Etsy shop or Gumroad account
- Product ideas (templates, journals, workbooks, etc.)
Target Market: Students, creatives, online entrepreneurs
Estimated Startup Cost: ~$0–$150
Bonus Tip: Bundle similar products to increase cart value.
27. Ghostwriting – Words That Work (for Others)
Not all manufacturers write their content. Bloggers, affected, and even appoint ghosters to prepare their articles, captions, newspapers and books. If you are good with words, you can earn sometime without signing your name.
Startup Needs:
- Writing portfolio or samples
- Fiverr/Upwork profiles
- Basic SEO or scriptwriting knowledge
Target Market: Bloggers, YouTubers, authors, professionals
Estimated Startup Cost: ~$0–$100
Bonus Tip: Specialize in a niche (tech, wellness, business) to charge premium rates.
28. Surprise Travel Planning – The Mystery Trip Experience
Turn wanderlust into a service! Surprise travel agencies offer mystery trips where the client doesn’t know their destination until the last moment. You take care of the planning, they enjoy the ride.
Startup Needs:
- Travel booking platforms (Skyscanner, Airbnb)
- Website or Instagram for bookings
- Templates for itineraries
Target Market: Couples, adventure seekers, busy travelers
Estimated Startup Cost: ~$200–$500
Bonus Tip: Offer different “themes” (romantic, budget, nature) and include optional merchandise or care packs.
29. Doula Services – Comfort and Care for Moms
A doula is a birth support specialist not a medical provider, but a comforting presence for expectant mothers. All you need is certified training and a passion for nurturing.
Startup Needs:
- Doula certification (online or local)
- Social media promotion
- Client care materials
Target Market: Pregnant women, birth centers, OB/GYN clinics
Estimated Startup Cost: ~$300–$500
Bonus Tip: Offer prenatal packages or postpartum care support.
30. Landscaping & Yard Care – Greener Grass, Better Business
Lawn care is always in demand. Even with just a mower, trimmer, and some shears, you can start a profitable local landscaping business. From weekly maintenance to garden design, the opportunities are evergreen.
Startup Needs:
- Lawn tools (mower, trimmer, rake)
- Safety gear
- Local advertising (flyers, Facebook, referrals)
Target Market: Homeowners, landlords, small businesses
Estimated Startup Cost: ~$300–$500
Bonus Tip: Offer subscription-based services (bi-weekly or monthly care).
Wrapping Up
This chapter proves that one thing is skill posture. Whether you are writing words, organizing chaos, or restoring technology, service businesses are flexible, scalable and incredibly inexpensive start. Add a little creativity, and you have found a business that can grow on your terms.
