Ever thought about starting your own business but felt overwhelmed by the cost or didn’t know where to begin? You’re not alone! The good news is that thanks to platforms like Shopify, launching an online business has never been easier—or cheaper. You don’t need a big budget, a fancy office, or a warehouse full of products. In fact, you can get started right from your couch with just a laptop and an idea!

In this post, I’ll walk you through 10 low-investment business ideas that are perfect for beginners. Whether you’re looking to turn a hobby into income, launch a side hustle, or start your dream business, there’s something here for you. The best part? Shopify makes the entire process simple, with tools that help you build, manage, and grow your business all in one place.

So, if you’re ready to stop daydreaming and start doing, let’s dive into these business ideas—and who knows? You could have your online store up and running by the end of the day. Don’t worry, I’ll be linking to Shopify’s free trial along the way to help you get started (yes, it’s really that easy!).

1. Print-on-Demand T-Shirts and Apparel

Print-on-demand (POD) is one of the easiest ways to start an online business with little upfront cost. With this model, you create designs, and the printing and shipping are handled by a third-party supplier only when a customer places an order. This means no inventory, no storage headaches, and no wasted products.

How It Works

• You create unique designs using tools like Canva or Photoshop.
• Upload your designs to a POD service, such as Printful or Printify, which integrates with Shopify.
• When a customer orders a product, the POD supplier prints it and ships it directly to them.
• You only pay for the product after it’s sold, so there’s minimal financial risk.

Why It’s a Great Low-Investment Idea

• No need to buy stock upfront—you only produce what’s ordered.
• You can experiment with different designs and trends without worrying about unsold inventory.
• It’s easy to scale—just add more products like hoodies, tote bags, or mugs to your store.

How Shopify Makes It Easy

• Shopify integrates smoothly with Printful, Printify, and other POD apps, automating the order process from start to finish.
• You can choose from a variety of themes to showcase your t-shirts and apparel beautifully.
• Shopify’s built-in marketing tools help you promote your products through email campaigns, social media, and more.

Tips for Success

• Focus on a specific niche (e.g., funny quotes, eco-friendly designs, or fitness apparel) to stand out from the crowd.
• Promote your store on Pinterest and Instagram to attract customers who love visuals.
• Test multiple designs and collect feedback to see which ones are most popular.

With Shopify and print-on-demand, you can turn your creativity into a business without needing a warehouse or a huge budget. It’s a perfect start for anyone who wants to dip their toes into e-commerce while keeping things simple and stress-free.

2. Dropshipping Store

Dropshipping is a business model where you sell products without keeping any inventory. When a customer places an order, the product is shipped directly from your supplier to the buyer. This means you don’t have to worry about storage, packing, or shipping. Your job is to focus on marketing and growing your store.

How Dropshipping Works

• You choose products from dropshipping suppliers and add them to your Shopify store.
• When a customer places an order, you forward it to the supplier.
• The supplier ships the product directly to your customer under your store’s name.
• You earn the profit margin between the supplier’s price and your retail price.

Why Dropshipping is a Great Low-Investment Idea

• No upfront inventory costs: You only buy products after you’ve made a sale, which reduces financial risk.
• No storage or logistics headaches: Suppliers handle all the warehousing and shipping for you.
• Wide product variety: You can sell a range of products without needing to stock them yourself.
• Work from anywhere: All you need is an internet connection to run your store.

How to Start a Dropshipping Store on Shopify

• Pick a niche: Choose a product category you’re interested in, like fashion, tech accessories, or fitness gear.
• Find reliable suppliers: Use Shopify apps like DSers or Spocket to connect with suppliers and import products to your store.
• Customize your store: Select a Shopify theme, add product descriptions, and design your store to match your brand.
• Set competitive prices: Research other stores to find the right balance between profit and affordability.
• Promote your store: Use social media, Pinterest, and email marketing to drive traffic and get your first sales.

Challenges and Tips for Success

• Shipping times: Since suppliers often ship internationally, delivery can take longer. Be upfront with customers about shipping estimates.
• Competition: Dropshipping is popular, so focus on branding and customer service to stand out.
• Quality control: You won’t see products before they reach customers, so test samples to ensure quality.
• Customer support: Respond promptly to inquiries and offer clear return policies to build trust.

3. Digital Products Store

Selling digital products is a fantastic way to start a business without worrying about inventory, shipping, or storage. With Shopify, you can set up a store that sells downloadable items like eBooks, printables, templates, or online courses. The beauty of digital products is that once you create them, you can sell them repeatedly without any additional cost.

How It Works

• Create a digital product that provides value to your audience. Examples include recipe eBooks, planners, design templates, or fitness guides.
• Upload the product to your Shopify store using a digital product app that handles secure file delivery (e.g., Shopify’s Digital Downloads app).
• When a customer buys your product, it’s automatically sent to them via email or download link. No need for manual work!

Why This Business Idea is Great for Beginners

• Low investment: You only need to create the product once and sell it repeatedly.
• No shipping hassles: Everything is delivered instantly online.
• Flexibility: You can sell multiple types of products (eBooks, music files, design templates, or even virtual workshops).
• Passive income potential: Once your store is set up, it can run with minimal involvement.

Investment and Tools You’ll Need

• Basic design software (Canva or Adobe Spark) for creating eBooks or templates.
• Shopify’s Digital Downloads app (free) to manage and deliver products automatically.
• A Shopify store plan (start with the free trial to test things out).

How Shopify Helps You Succeed with Digital Products

• Easy setup: Shopify’s templates and apps make it easy to showcase your products.
• Secure payment options: Shopify provides built-in tools to accept payments from customers around the world.
• Marketing integrations: Use Shopify’s SEO tools and apps to promote your digital store on Pinterest or Instagram.

A digital products store is a great way to share your skills, creativity, or expertise with the world while building a steady income stream. The startup costs are low, the possibilities are endless, and Shopify takes care of the tech side—so you can focus on creating and selling. Ready to try it out? Get started with Shopify’s free trial today!

4. Subscription Box Business

A subscription box business is an exciting way to offer curated products to customers on a recurring basis, whether it’s every month, quarter, or season. From self-care kits to snack bundles, the possibilities are endless—and the best part? You don’t need a huge upfront investment to get started.

How It Works

• Create themed boxes based on customer interests, like skincare, books, or fitness gear.
• Pre-sell subscriptions through your Shopify store to cover product and packaging costs.
• Order products in bulk once you have enough subscriptions, saving money and reducing waste.
• Ship boxes regularly, keeping customers excited and loyal to your brand.

Why It’s a Great Low-Investment Business Idea

• You can start small with just a few curated items.
• There’s no need to maintain a large inventory—just stock what you need for the upcoming shipment.
• Shopify has tools to help you manage recurring payments and renewals automatically.
• Predictable income makes it easier to plan and grow your business over time.

How Shopify Makes It Simple

• Use Shopify’s subscription apps (like Recharge or Bold Subscriptions) to manage recurring orders.
• Choose from a variety of Shopify themes designed for subscription businesses, making it easy to set up a professional-looking store.
• Easily track customer data and order history to offer personalized deals and rewards to loyal subscribers.
• Shopify integrates with shipping apps to simplify the delivery process, whether you ship locally or internationally.

Tips for Success with a Subscription Box Business

• Start with a niche you’re passionate about, like sustainable products, books, or pet toys.
• Offer a trial box or a limited-time discount to attract first-time customers.
• Use social media and Pinterest to create buzz around your boxes, showing sneak peeks of what’s inside.
• Make unboxing an experience! Encourage customers to share their boxes online, which can attract more subscribers.

Subscription boxes are a great way to build a loyal customer base while providing something people look forward to each month. With Shopify handling the technical side, all you need to focus on is curating great products and delivering an awesome experience. Ready to give it a shot? Try Shopify’s free trial today and start building your subscription box business!

5. Homemade Beauty Products Store

Starting a homemade beauty products store is a great way to turn your passion for skincare or cosmetics into a business. With Shopify, you can easily set up an online shop, showcase your creations, and connect with customers looking for natural, handmade alternatives to store-bought products.

How It Works

• Create small batches of products like soaps, candles, body scrubs, or lip balms from home.
• Sell items directly through your Shopify store without needing a physical storefront.
• Offer customizable options (like personalized scents) to make your products stand out.

Why It’s a Low-Investment Business Idea

• You only need to buy ingredients and packaging in small amounts to start.
• Since everything is made to order, there’s no need to hold large amounts of inventory.
• Many recipes use inexpensive materials like essential oils, shea butter, or beeswax, which you can buy in bulk to lower costs.

How Shopify Can Help You Succeed

• Shopify offers easy-to-use templates where you can beautifully display your products with descriptions and photos.
• You can use apps on Shopify to manage shipping and track inventory, so you don’t get overwhelmed.
• Shopify also integrates with social media platforms, making it easy to promote your products on Instagram or Pinterest.

Tips to Grow Your Store

• Start small with a few signature products to build your brand, like a popular soap or lotion.
• Offer sample packs to encourage first-time buyers to try multiple items.
• Use Shopify’s built-in email marketing tools to stay in touch with customers and send updates on new launches or promotions.
• Educate your audience by sharing the benefits of natural ingredients through blog posts or videos linked to your store.

Selling homemade beauty products isn’t just a great way to earn income—it also gives you the freedom to express your creativity and connect with like-minded customers who value natural, handcrafted items. With Shopify’s tools by your side, you’ll have everything you need to get started and grow your beauty brand from the comfort of your home.

6. Personal Branding Merch Store

Selling personal branded merchandise is a fun and low-cost way to build a business while expressing your unique personality or message. Whether you’re a content creator, coach, artist, or someone building a community online, merch lets you connect with your audience in a meaningful way. Plus, thanks to print-on-demand services, you can start this type of store without ever holding inventory.

How It Works

• Create a Shopify store featuring products like t-shirts, hoodies, mugs, or stickers with your logo, catchphrases, or designs.
• Use print-on-demand providers such as Printful or Printify. These services handle printing, packaging, and shipping for you—only when a customer places an order.
• Focus on building a community or growing your social media presence to drive traffic to your store.

Why This Business Idea Works

• No upfront investment in inventory—products are created only when ordered.
• You can experiment with different designs without financial risk.
• It’s a great way to strengthen your personal brand and build deeper connections with your followers.

What You Need to Get Started

• A unique brand concept or design that resonates with your audience.
• A Shopify account to set up your store (link to Shopify’s free trial here).
• A print-on-demand partner integrated with Shopify to automate the process.

Tips for Success

• Start small with a few product categories and expand as your audience grows.
• Promote your store on social media platforms where you’re active.
• Run limited-time promotions to create urgency and boost sales.

With Shopify and print-on-demand tools, you can easily launch your personal branding merch store without worrying about logistics. It’s all about sharing your message and giving people a way to feel connected to your brand—while earning income on the side.

7. Pet Supplies and Accessories Store

Running a pet supplies and accessories store can be a rewarding way to turn your love for animals into a profitable business. With pet ownership on the rise, there’s a growing demand for unique and high-quality products. Here’s how you can get started!

Why Choose Pet Supplies?

Pets are considered part of the family, and pet owners are willing to spend money to keep their furry friends happy and healthy. Starting a pet supplies store allows you to tap into a passionate community of pet lovers. Here are some reasons why this niche is a great choice:

• Growing market: The pet industry is booming, with more people adopting pets each year.
• Diverse product range: You can sell a variety of products, from toys and treats to grooming supplies and pet apparel.
• Opportunity for customization: Many pet owners love personalized items, like custom collars or pet portraits.

How to Start Your Pet Supplies Store

Setting up your pet supplies store on Shopify is simple and can be done in just a few steps. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Research your niche: Identify which types of pet supplies you want to focus on, such as eco-friendly products, specialty food, or unique toys.
• Find suppliers: Look for dropshipping suppliers that offer pet products. This way, you won’t need to keep inventory on hand, reducing your startup costs.
• Build your Shopify store: Sign up for Shopify, choose a template, and customize your store to showcase your pet products.
• Market your store: Use social media, blogs, or local events to promote your store. Consider partnering with pet influencers to reach a wider audience.

Tips for Success

To make your pet supplies store stand out in a competitive market, keep these tips in mind:

• Focus on quality: Offer products that are high-quality and safe for pets. Pet owners are often willing to pay more for items they can trust.
• Engage with your audience: Use social media to connect with pet owners. Share tips, cute pet photos, and customer testimonials to build a community around your brand.
• Offer excellent customer service: Respond promptly to inquiries and address any concerns. Happy customers are likely to return and recommend your store to others.

Starting a pet supplies and accessories store on Shopify can be a fun and fulfilling venture. With a bit of research and creativity, you can create a thriving business that not only benefits you but also makes pets and their owners happy!

8. Handmade Crafts Store

Selling handmade crafts can be a fulfilling and profitable way to turn your creativity into a business. If you love making things with your hands, this could be the perfect venture for you. Here’s everything you need to know about starting your own handmade crafts store using Shopify.

Why Choose a Handmade Crafts Store?

• Express Your Creativity: If you enjoy creating unique items, running a handmade crafts store lets you showcase your skills and share your passion with others.
• Personal Connection: Handmade items often carry a personal touch, making them more appealing to customers who appreciate the story behind the product.
• Growing Demand: People love supporting small businesses and buying unique, handmade products. There’s a growing market for artisanal and personalized goods, so you’ll find plenty of potential customers.

Getting Started with Your Handmade Crafts Store

• Choose Your Niche: Decide what type of crafts you want to sell. This could be anything from jewelry, candles, and home decor to knitted goods or personalized gifts.
• Source Your Materials: Start by gathering materials needed to create your products. Look for local suppliers or shop online for the best deals.
• Create Your Products: Make a small batch of your crafts to showcase in your store. Focus on quality and uniqueness to attract buyers.

Setting Up Your Shopify Store

• Sign Up for Shopify: Create an account and choose a plan that fits your needs. Shopify offers a free trial, so you can explore the platform without any commitment.
• Design Your Store: Use Shopify’s customizable templates to create a beautiful storefront. Showcase your products with high-quality images and engaging descriptions.
• Add Products: List your handmade crafts on your store. Be sure to include clear photos, detailed descriptions, and prices. Don’t forget to mention any customization options if available!

Marketing Your Handmade Crafts Store

• Leverage Social Media: Share your creations on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. Use engaging visuals and storytelling to attract followers and potential customers.
• Participate in Local Markets: Consider selling at craft fairs or farmers’ markets to get your products in front of people. It’s a great way to build your brand and gather feedback.
• Engage with Customers: Respond to inquiries and feedback. Building a community around your brand can turn first-time buyers into loyal customers.

Managing Your Business

• Inventory Management: Keep track of your materials and finished products. This will help you know when to restock and manage your orders efficiently.
• Order Fulfillment: Once you start receiving orders, make sure you have a plan in place for packaging and shipping your products. Quick and reliable fulfillment can enhance customer satisfaction.
• Analyze Sales: Use Shopify’s built-in analytics tools to monitor your sales, track customer behavior, and identify your best-selling products. This will help you make informed decisions as you grow your business.

Starting a handmade crafts store on Shopify can be a rewarding way to share your creativity with the world. With a little passion and the right tools, you’ll be able to turn your hobby into a thriving business right from the comfort of your home!

9. Online Consulting or Coaching Services

In today’s world, sharing your expertise and helping others achieve their goals is not only fulfilling but can also be a great way to earn money. If you have knowledge in a specific area—whether it’s fitness, business strategy, career coaching, or personal development—starting an online consulting or coaching service might be the perfect low-investment business idea for you.

What is Online Consulting or Coaching?

Online consulting or coaching involves providing expert advice or guidance to individuals or groups through virtual meetings, emails, or online courses. You can tailor your services to meet the needs of your clients, offering one-on-one sessions, group workshops, or pre-recorded content.

Why Choose This Business Idea?

• Flexibility: Work from anywhere, set your own hours, and choose how much you want to take on.
• Low Overhead: No need for physical products or a storefront; all you need is a computer and an internet connection.
• Unlimited Income Potential: As you build your reputation and client base, you can increase your rates or expand your offerings.
• Impactful Work: Help others achieve their goals while doing something you’re passionate about.

Getting Started

To launch your online consulting or coaching service, follow these simple steps:

• Identify Your Niche: Determine what area you want to focus on and who your target audience is. This could be anything from business coaching to fitness training.
• Build Your Brand: Create a professional website using Shopify, where you can showcase your services, share testimonials, and provide valuable content related to your niche.
• Create Your Packages: Decide what services you’ll offer—whether it’s hourly consultations, monthly coaching programs, or online courses. Make sure to clearly outline what clients can expect from each package.
• Promote Your Services: Utilize social media, blogging, and online ads to reach potential clients. Share valuable tips and insights to establish your expertise and attract an audience.
• Utilize Tools: Use tools like Zoom for virtual meetings, and consider appointment booking apps to make scheduling easier for both you and your clients.

Tips for Success

• Build Relationships: Focus on creating strong connections with your clients. Listening to their needs and providing personalized support will keep them coming back.
• Offer Free Value: Consider providing free resources like ebooks, webinars, or blog posts to attract leads and showcase your expertise.
• Collect Testimonials: Ask satisfied clients for reviews to build credibility and attract new customers.

Starting an online consulting or coaching service can be an incredibly rewarding venture. With a little effort, you can create a thriving business that allows you to work from home, help others, and earn a living doing what you love. So why wait? Dive in, share your knowledge, and start making an impact today!

10. Eco-Friendly Products Store

Starting an eco-friendly products store is a fantastic way to make a positive impact on the planet while building a successful online business. With more people becoming environmentally conscious, there’s a growing demand for sustainable alternatives. Here’s how you can jump in and create your own eco-friendly store using Shopify.

What to Sell

When it comes to eco-friendly products, the options are vast. Here are some popular ideas:

• Reusable bags
• Bamboo utensils
• Beeswax wraps
• Natural skincare products
• Eco-friendly cleaning supplies
• Compostable phone cases
• Organic cotton clothing

Choose products that resonate with your values and that you believe will attract your target audience.

How to Source Products

Finding the right suppliers is crucial for your eco-friendly store. Here are a few methods to source your products:

• Partner with eco-friendly manufacturers who prioritize sustainable practices.
• Use dropshipping suppliers that specialize in green products, so you don’t have to hold inventory.
• Create your own handmade items if you have a knack for crafting.

Make sure to research your suppliers thoroughly to ensure their commitment to sustainability.

Setting Up Your Shopify Store

Getting started with Shopify is super straightforward. Here’s how to set up your eco-friendly store:

• Sign up for a Shopify account and choose a plan that suits your needs.
• Pick a clean and appealing theme that highlights your eco-friendly mission.
• Add your products, complete with engaging descriptions and high-quality images that showcase their benefits.
• Set up payment options and shipping policies, ensuring they align with eco-friendly practices (like using recyclable packaging).

Marketing Your Eco-Friendly Store

Once your store is up and running, it’s time to spread the word! Here are some marketing strategies to consider:

• Utilize social media platforms to share your products and educate your audience about the importance of sustainability.
• Create content on your blog about eco-friendly living, offering tips and showcasing your products as solutions.
• Collaborate with eco-influencers to reach a wider audience.
• Consider running promotions for special events, like Earth Day, to attract eco-conscious customers.

Building a Community

An eco-friendly products store is more than just a business; it’s a chance to build a community of like-minded individuals. Engage with your customers by:

• Encouraging them to share their eco-friendly journeys on social media and tag your store.
• Offering incentives for repeat customers, such as discounts on their next purchase.
• Sharing your story and mission to inspire others to make sustainable choices.

Starting an eco-friendly products store not only gives you the chance to run a profitable business but also helps contribute to a healthier planet. With the right products, a user-friendly Shopify store, and effective marketing strategies, you can attract eco-conscious consumers who are eager to make sustainable choices. So, why wait? Dive into the world of eco-friendly entrepreneurship today!

Conclusion

Starting a business from home doesn’t have to be a daunting task or a huge financial risk. With these low-investment ideas, you can dive into the world of entrepreneurship without breaking the bank. Every successful business started with a single step, and your journey can begin today!

So, what are you waiting for? With Shopify’s user-friendly platform, you have everything you need to turn your ideas into reality. Take the leap, trust yourself, and embrace the adventure of being your own boss. Start your Shopify journey today and watch your dreams come to life!