More and more women are using their skills, creativity, and passion to build businesses. As entrepreneurs they’re leaving their mark across various industries. With these 40 business ideas for women, you can do it too!
Whether you’re a stay-at-home mom looking to start a business on the side or a professional seeking a career change, there are countless opportunities waiting for you. As a business owner, you’ll have the freedom to plan your day and dedicate yourself to something you’re passionate about.
See also: 7 tips to succeed as an entrepreneur
In this article, we’re going to show you 40 inspiring business ideas for women. Are you ready to turn your dreams into reality and make a difference? Perfect!
Profitable business ideas for women
Starting your own business requires a good business idea and solid business plan. Look to your skills and abilities so you can find an industry that’s a good fit for you. Here are some tips for how to write a business plan.
Here are some profitable business ideas for women:
1. Daycare
Running a daycare is a lucrative business opportunity that can also make a positive impact on children. If you have a passion for working with children, starting a daycare business might be the perfect thing for you.
2. Candlemaking
Candle making has emerged as a popular business in the last few years. It’s all about self-care, and candles are the perfect product for when you want to treat yourself. If you’re creative and have a passion for crafting, this might be the perfect idea.
Compared to many other businesses, candle making has low startup costs, making it perfect for a startup. You can design candles with different designs and scents, and even eco-friendly candles. You can also create candles for special occasions, like Christmas and other holidays.
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3. Makeup service
If you enjoy makeup and skincare, starting a makeup service can be the right fit for you. You can do clients’ makeup on special days like weddings and birthdays or just when they want a touch of everyday glamour.
As a makeup-artist, you get to express your creativity by experimenting with styles, colors, and techniques to enhance your clients’ natural beauty. Start with building up your makeup-kit, with a variety of foundations, concealers, eyeshadows and more, and make sure that you have products that suit different skin types and tones. You’ll also need to buy some makeup tools to get started.
To gain traction, try posting some videos on Youtube or TikTok, showing off your makeup skills.
4. Dropshipping
Droppingshipping is a great business idea for newbies, as you don’t need to manage inventory or handle shipping. With dropshipping, you sell products through your own online store, while a third-party supplier stores and ships the items directly to your customers. This allows you focus on marketing, customer service, and brand-building.
To start, you should choose a specific niche that you are passionate about and where there’s a big demand. Set up your online store and make sure to develop a unique brand identity.
Read also: How to build a strong brand for your startup
5. Fashion stylist
As a fashion stylist, you have the ability to influence how people dress and help them refine their personal style. This is a flexible business idea, as it lets you set your own schedule and choose your clients. You can also have quite varied work opportunities, everything fromfashion shows, to shopping trips and photoshoots.
You don’t need a lot to get started. Market yourself through social media and make sure you have a booking system so that people can schedule appointments. Stay updated with the latest fashion trends and industry news by following fashion blogs, magazines, and influencers on social media.
6. Baking
Starting a baking business can be a sweet and satisfying experience. You can start a baking business from your own home, and you can make everything from custom cakes to pastries and bread.
It might actually be a good idea to find a niche to focus on, as it sets you apart from competitors. You can make, for example, custom cakes, artisan bread, themed pastries or gluten-free or vegan options. A detailed business plan that outlines your goals, budget, recipes, and your marketing plan is a great advantage.
7. Nail salon
The nail industry is a thriving sector within the beauty market. Starting a nail salon is a great way to carve a niche and build a business out of it. You can even offer your own nail care products or mobile nail services, where you come to people’s homes to do their nails. This is a great option for elderly people or busy parents who want nail services.
You can offer everything from classic manicures and pedicures, to gel nails, acrylic nails, nail art, and paraffin treatments. Having a variety of services, will most likely mean more customers. But make sure you have the right certificates in place to offer these services.
8. Jewelry making
Do you have an eye for design and like to create unique pieces? If so, starting a custom jewelry business might be perfect for you. Jewelry is always in demand, either as gifts, for accessorizing or for special events. You can start small working from home and gradually scale up by expanding your collection and maybe even setting up your own store.
The first step is to market yourself on social media and set up a website where you can sell your pieces. Make sure you follow the latest jewelry trends to create the products that are in demand.
9. Florist
Flowers have a timeless appeal, adding beauty and elegance to any occasion. Floristry is an art form that allows you to express creativity and craftsmanship through stunning floral designs, arrangements, and installations.
To get started, you should build an online portfolio to showcase your skills. Invest in necessary equipment like floral coolers, cutting tools, floral foam, ribbons, vases and containers. With passion, dedication, and a touch of floral magic, you can create a thriving business that brings joy to your clients.
10. Bookkeeping
Every business needs accurate bookkeeping; It’s important to have well-organized financial records, in compliance with tax regulations. If you’re good with numbers, a bookkeeping business could be the perfect opportunity to use these skills.
A bookkeeping business is flexible: You can work from home, set your own hours, and choose clients according to your expertise and preferred industries. The best idea might be to start as a sole trader and grow your business by adding more services.
11. Video editing
Video editing is a way to collaborate with brands, content creators, and other businesses. If you like to create engaging and professional content, this might be the perfect business idea for you. You can collaborate with clients on individual projects, create promotional material for several clients, create your own content for YouTube, or edit videos for other Youtubers. This is a very flexible business idea, as it allows you to work from home, and scale your business as you go.
12. Rental business
Whether you’re interested in renting out vacation homes, party supplies, or even specialized machinery, the rental market provides numerous opportunities to generate steady income. It can be expensive to start a rental business, since you have to have the equipment or property to rent, but once you start your rental business, it can provide a steady income.
Set up an online presence so customers can browse, book and pay for rentals. If you’re renting out a flat, check out something like Airbnb.
13. Event planning
Event planning allows you to use your organizational skills, creativity, and attention to detail to create memorable experiences for clients. Whether it’s weddings, corporate events, birthday parties, or charity galas, the demand for professional event planners is high. If you have a passion for planning and executing flawless events, this is how you can turn that passion into a successful business.
You should start with conducting a market research to understand what’s in demand in your area, identify your competitors, and figure out how you can stand out from the rest.
14. Graphic design
As a graphic designer you can offer design services to businesses that are seeking to stand out in the market. When you set up this type of business, you can create powerful visual communications, from logos to branding, marketing materials, and web design.
It’s good if you have a background working in graphic design or a degree in a related subject. You also need software like Figma, Photoshop or Illustrator to create what you need. Build a portfolio where you showcase your best work, and make sure that it’s easy for potential clients to contact you.
15. Multi-level marketing (MLM)
Multi-level marketing (MLM), also known as network marketing, is a business model that involves selling products or services directly to clients through a network of independent distributors. These distributors earn income not only by selling products but also by recruiting and building their own sales teams.
To start a multi-level marketing business, you should do some research first to check out which products you’d like to sell. MLM businesses typically require a relatively small initial investment. It often consists of purchasing a starter kit or inventory of products. It also offers the flexibility to work from home and set your own hours, which helps your work and personal commitments.
16. Life coaching
Life coaching is in demand as people increasingly value personal development and self-improvement. A life coach helps clients achieve their goals, overcome obstacles, and make positive changes in their lives. If this is something that sounds appealing to you, it might be the way to go to start your own business.
Getting a certification from a reputable life coaching program will increase your skill and boosts your credibility. When you have enough knowledge, you should set up a professional website where potential clients can learn about your services, read testimonials, and schedule consultations.
17. Painting classes
Art is a powerful tool for expression, creativity, and relaxation. If you’re good at painting, it might be an idea to start a business that offers painting classes so that you can share your passion for art with others. You can focus on beginners, children or experienced artists, depending on your skills, experience, and preference.
You also have to decide on the type of painting classes you want to offer. It might be acrylic painting, watercolor, oil painting, or mixed media. Consider whether you’ll focus on specific techniques, styles, or subjects.
18. Massage business
In a world where stress and physical fatigue are common, the demand for professional massage therapy is higher than ever. You can use your skills to help customers relieve stress, alleviate pain, and improve their overall well-being.
To start a massage business, you need to get formal training and certification from an accredited massage therapy school. There you can learn various techniques such as Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, sports massage, and other specialized types of massage. Once you’re ready to start your own business, you can can operate from a home studio, rent a space, or even offer mobile services to clients at their location.
19. Photography service
Whether it’s capturing precious moments at weddings, creating stunning portraits, or producing high-quality images for businesses, being a photographer gives you endless opportunities to practice your creativity.
You need equipment such as a professional camera, lenses, lighting, and editing software. Then it’s just a case of building a portfolio to attract customers.
See also: 10 things to do before starting a business
20. Cleaning service
Are you detail-oriented and enjoy cleaning? There’s a steady demand for cleaning services, as well as the opportunity to grow, if you’re interested in that. You can clean offices, residential homes, or take on specialty cleaning jobs.
To start, you need the right licenses and permits, as well as equipment such as vacuum cleaners, mops, and protective gear.
21. Wedding planner
Weddings is one of the most significant events a couple goes through, and you can help them plan that special occasion. Many couples turn to professional wedding planners in order to make their big day flawless and stress-free. As a wedding planner, you get to combine your organizational skills and creative flair and create beautiful, tailor-made celebrations.
The first thing you should do is create a compelling portfolio that showcases your ability to plan and execute stunning weddings. If you’re new to the field, consider offering your services for a friend or family member’s wedding or organizing styled shoots with other vendors to demonstrate your skills.
22. Organizing business
Another great business idea for women is an organizing business: You can help clients declutter, streamline, and maintain orderly spaces, which leads to improved productivity, reduced stress, and a more enjoyable living or working environment.
You don’t need a lot of tools to start with, but it’s useful to stock up on label markers, storage containers, draw dividers, hanging organizers and so on.
See also: 15 business ideas for millenials
23. Interior designer
Transform spaces into beautiful, functional environments that reflect the personalities and needs of different clients. As an interior designer you can showcase your creativity and design experiences in residential homes, corporate offices, or commercial spaces.
You’ll need some tools to become an interior designer: It’s a good idea to start by getting design software and moodboard applications so that you can share ideas with your customers. If you haven’t got any previous experience to put in your portfolio, take pictures of your home or the homes of friend’s and family members, if you’ve helped them decorate.
24. Nutritionist
Are you interested in eating healthy and setting wellness goals? If so, you can consider becoming a nutritionist. It’s a great way to help others to live healthier lives. You should start by getting a degree in nutrition, dietetics or a related fields from an accredited institution.
25. Personal chef
Who wouldn’t want a personal chef for a big event or even a fancy dinner at home? As a personal chef, you can offer personalized culinary experiences tailored to your customers tastes and dietary needs, whether it’s for families, individuals, or special events. If you have a passion for cooking and enjoy creating great dining experiences, this could be the idea for you.
You need culinary tools, experience, and cooking equipment to start a business like this. However, it does offer some flexibility since you can cook in your own kitchen or at your client’s locations.
26. Esthetician
Estheticians are in demand for their expertise when it comes to skincare and beauty treatments. As an esthetician, you can help clients feel refreshed through various treatments, from facials and waxing to microdermabrasion and chemical peels. To start, you should make sure you have the right certifications to run your business, for example a certificate from of an accredited esthetician program.
27. Podcasting
Podcasting is a powerful medium for storytelling and entertainment. There are many different things you can talk about in a podcast, like career advice, personal development, or niche hobbies. You can make money from advertising, which might be easier if you already have a large following on social media.
28. Etsy shop
Etsy is one of the leading online marketplaces for handmade and unique items. If you like to knit, croquet, make jewelry or other handmade items, you can sell your products on platforms like this. This will allow you to reach a global audience.
29. Catering
If you like to cook, you can showcase your culinary skills at different events, such as parties, corporate events, and celebrations. The equipment can be expensive, but you can reduce costs by cooking at home and transporting the food to the event.
When it comes to catering, it can also be a good idea to focus on one particular niche, whether it’s corporate catering, weddings, parties or vegan or gluten free events.
30. Content creation
Content creation is a term used for blogging, vlogging, social media posting and more. As a content creator, you can share content about topics you’re passionate about, like fashion, wellness, travel and so on. As you build a large following, you can make money through advertisements or sponsorships.
31. Lash extension business
Lash extensions provide a semi-permanent solution for enhancing the length, curl, and fullness of eyelashes, and it’s a popular choice for clients wanting a glamorous and low-maintenance look. As a lash technician, you can deliver beauty services from home or from a salon. But make sure you have the right certificate to run a business like this.
32. Animal care
If you like pets, how about starting a business where you can spend your whole day surrounded by animals? You can, for example, offer pet grooming, walking services, or pet sitting. As pet ownership continues to rise, so does the demand for quality animal care services.
33. Hair Styling
Hair stylists provide a wide range of services, from haircuts to coloring, updos and treatments. Whether you’re looking to open a full-service salon or provide on-location styling services, you have the potential to build a loyal customer base.
To start, you should consider getting some kind of training in hairstyling, as well as the necessary equipment. To make sure that you can compete against other hair stylist, make sure to have an extensive menu of services including haircuts, coloring, highlights, balayage, straightening treatments, perms, and hair extensions.
34. Landscaping
Are you interested in garden design, lawn care or could you imagine yourself doing full-scale landscape renovations? With a landscaping business, you can specialize in the design, maintenance, and enhancement of outdoor spaces. Landscaping services are in demand all year around, especially in the spring- and summertime.
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35. Subscription boxes
Another unique idea is to offer subscription boxes. You can send them out monthly, or as often as your clients require them. The theme for the boxes can be beauty, wellness, fitness, food or something entirely different—it’s up to you! You could, for example, offer subscription boxes for a healthy lifestyle, where you include organic snacks, supplements, fitness gear and wellness tips. Another example is a be subscription boxes with beauty products like makeup, skincare and so on.
36. Travel business
Love to travel? A travel business allows you to share your enthusiasm for travel.. You can offer tailored travel planning, guided tours, or specialty travel packages. You can also narrow it down to more specific offers like luxury getaways, cultural immersion, or ecotourism. You can even create themed travel packages such as wellness retreats, photography tours, or culinary adventures that cater to specific interests.
To make sure that your travel business operates smoothly and efficiently, you’ll need a mix of digital tools, professional services, and resources to manage bookings.
37. Pottery making
Do you dream about spending your whole day making pottery? With a pottery business you can! Pottery making is a timeless craft where you can create beautiful and functional pieces from clay.
To sell your pottery, you can create a profile on Etsy or make your own website. You can even research more niche marketplaces online or talk to local markets and galleries about showcasing your products.
38. Personal shopping
As a personal shopper, you offer your expert advice to make shopping more efficient, enjoyable and tailored to your client’s taste. You can help a diverse range of clients: Busy professionals, fashion enthusiasts or individuals looking to upgrade their wardrobe.
You don’t need a lot to start this business, but you need to set up a way for clients to book your services, starting with an in-depth consultation to understand their style preferences, lifestyle, and wardrobe needs.
39. Food truck
Love making food? The food truck industry offers an amazing opportunity for you to dive into the culinary world. It has a low startup costs compared to a restaurant, and you can cater to various locations and events. You can sell anything from vegan dishes, to mediterranean food or gourmet burgers.
Launching a successful food truck business involves more than just a passion for cooking. You’ll need a combination of culinary tools, kitchen equipment, and business management resources to ensure smooth operations. Additionally, you’ll need a food truck, and cooking appliances and tools.
40. Party decoration business
With party decoration you can tap into your creative flair and organizational skills and transform ordinary spaces to extraordinary event venues. You can decorate for birthdays, weddings, corporate events or holiday gatherings.
To launch this business, you should design several tailored packages to suit different styles and budgets. Then it’s just a a matter of stocking up on supplies like balloons, flowers, lighting and table settings.
Pro tip: Check out our other business ideas
Still feel stuck? We’ve written articles with lots of business ideas, whether you’re a Gen Z, millennial or recently retired. Check them out here:
I have a business idea, what now?
Hopefully these business ideas for women helped you on your way. Once you’ve decided what you want to do, here are some of the things you should do to make sure you get off to a great start:
1. Make a business plan
You should outline your business goals, mission and vision in a business plan. You’ll have some goals to reach for, so it can both motivate you and give you some structure. Here are 10 reasons why you need a business plan.
2. Do a market analysis
Research your target market, and understand your competitors and what they offer. You should also identify your unique selling point (USP).
3. Decide on your business structure
You can operate as a sole proprietor, also called self-employed, freelancer or contractor, or set up a limited liability company or a corporation. Which one is best for you depends on your ambitions, your funding and several other factors. These are the key differences between a sole proprietorship and a limited company.
4. Register your business and obtain licenses
Make sure that your business name is unique, and register it with the appropriate local authority. You should also be sure that you are going to pay taxes in the right way for your country. Make sure you have the right education and/or licenses to operate in your industry, and read up or get an accountant, so you can pay taxes the right way
Worried about starting your own business? We’ve collected 10 common startup mistakes to avoid.
5. Use Conta for free invoicing
Conta offers free invoicing software for all businesses. This is a great way to save some money in your budget. Money saved = money that can be spent on other exciting things. Girlmath!
You don’t need to download anything, just set up your account and send an invoice in under 2 minutes. More than 70 000 businesses use Conta.
