11 bad business ideas to stay away from

Now that we got that out of the way, let’s take a look at the worst business ideas to avoid in 2025.

Non-proprietary SaaS

SaaS is one of the worst business ideas because it’s already over-saturated with such a low barrier of entry that anyone can build and deploy sub-par technology. With inflation tightening up everyone’s purse strings, with exceptions, of course, I believe that only new, unique, and proprietary technology will stand a chance.

Kirk Morales, Co-Founder of Persosa

eStores for other brands

I’d say the worst possible business you could start is an eCommerce business selling other brands’ products. 

Firstly, with eCommerce set to grow 129% this year according to Forbes, price competition for commoditized products will get tougher driving down margins to virtually nothing. 

Secondly, more and more brands are moving towards D2C selling and bypassing retailers completely. Nike this year announced that they would not only boycott Amazon but would stop supplying retailers within 2 years, a trend likely to be followed by other leading D2C brands. 

Finally, you won’t be able to compete with the big players with deep pockets that can afford to lose money on acquiring customers on the first sale and making it back on subsequent purchases meaning you won’t be able to compete on price.

Wesley Parker, Co-founder at Homesage

Pyramid Schemes

There are only a limited number of people in a certain community so eventually, they collapse. Plus, the only people who make a decent income are those at the top of the pyramid, leaving those at the bottom with scraps. 

The worst part, they’re often related to investment fraud and have already been banned in several countries.

Letitia James, The New York State Attorney General

Perishable food mail subscription

Abby Jenkins, Product Marketing Manager at Oracle NetSuite

ATM routes

Codie Sanchez, Founder of Contrarian Thinking and Private Equity Investor

Retail stores

Nearly 3200 US retail stores closed in 2023 alone – huge retailers like CVS, Bed, Bath & Beyond, Walgreens and many more. So imagine what could happen for small mom-and-pop stores. 

Rupal Agarwal, Co-Founder and CSO at Your Retail Coach

Pay-to-play social media platforms

Shirin Ghaffary, Senior Correspondent at Vox

Single-product subscription boxes

From a business perspective, managing shipping and logistics is complicated and expensive, and growth or scaling is extremely limited. There’s not much you can grow with only one product. 

From a consumer perspective, they’re already bombarded by subscription services left and right. They are also used to a set standard so they have high expectations. And retention could be difficult. Receiving the same product over and over every month could get quite boring. 

Silent music concerts

There are three key reasons why silent music concerts are a bad business idea: competition with traditional concerts, limited audience appeal, and audience interaction. There are very few people who would choose a silent music concert over a traditional one. It’s not restricting and it’s highly social. Plus, the costs for these concerts are huge and the return is very small compared to traditional concerts.

Internet cafe

Internet cafes have fallen out of favor as a business model due to a combination of factors that make them increasingly unprofitable and obsolete. The widespread availability of home internet connections and mobile data has drastically reduced the need for public internet access points. This declining demand, coupled with low-profit margins on internet services, makes it difficult for these businesses to generate sufficient revenue.

High overhead costs for rent, utilities, and equipment further erode profitability. The rapid pace of technological change necessitates frequent and expensive upgrades, while competition from establishments offering free Wi-Fi, such as libraries and coffee shops, draws away potential customers. Additionally, the business model suffers from limited repeat patronage, security challenges associated with public computer use, and potential regulatory hurdles in some jurisdictions.

4 signs that your business idea is bad

Maybe we have missed that particular idea that has popped in your mind , so you are still not sure whether it is a horrible business idea? Lets have a look at some common factors that can help you decide whether your on business idea is a bad one:

1. You’re not excited or passionate about it – consumers can sense this from a mile away. If you’re not excited about your business idea, why would anyone else be? Remember, this would become your everyday life and working on something that doesn’t excite you never ends well.
2. You’re not making any sales – this is the most obvious one. At the end of the day, the success of a business is measured by dollars. Make sure to test the idea and gather feedback before officially launching it. But if no one’s buying what you’re selling, shut it down.
3. Experienced entrepreneurs tell you it’s a bad idea or aren’t willing to help – feedback from experts is crucial when starting out. They’ve already done it and succeeded. While advice should be taken with a grain of salt, it’s important to listen to feedback.
4. Too small or non-existent market need – if this is the case, don’t even try to force your business idea. If your niche and target market are too small, you’ll eventually hit a ceiling and growth will stop fast. If there’s no market need, no one is going to buy it. Just move on to a better idea.

Conclusion

There you have it. We’re sorry if we broke some hearts and dreams but we hope we’ve armed you with information you find useful – as detailed market research is a key before even thinking about starting any business. These are definitely some of the worst business ideas, so make sure to stay away from these and avoid a catastrophe.

10 profitable spiritual business ideas

Here are nine spiritual business ideas that you can turn into a profitable business.

Acupuncturist

An acupuncturist provides health treatments involving the strategic placement of thin needles into specific body points to stimulate healing effects. This appeals to the growing acceptance of acupuncture therapy for reducing pain, and nausea, and addressing wellness concerns without medication side effects. An acupuncturist must complete extensive training in traditional Chinese medicine techniques plus understand anatomy to correctly target anatomical meridians and trigger restorative reactions.

As more scientific research confirms acupuncture’s efficacy for various conditions, being a licensed acupuncture practitioner lets one help patients holistically reduce acute to chronic issues while educating them about integrative solutions.

How much you can make: $50K – $200K annually
How much does it cost to start: $10K – $50K
How long does it take to build: 1-2 years

Yoga instructor

Yoga is a great way to improve your physical health, but it can also be used to improve your mental health and well-being. As a yoga instructor, you could offer group classes or private sessions focusing on relaxation and stress relief. You could also offer special classes designed to help people deal with specific issues like anxiety or depression.

There are many spiritual business ideas for yoga instructors. Some options include offering group classes, doing private instruction, or running a studio. Additionally, yoga instructors could create books, CDs, and DVDs to sell. Finally, many yoga instructors offer meditation and mindfulness workshops as well.

How much you can make: $30K – $100K annually
How much does it cost to start: $1K – $5K
How long does it take to build: 3-6 months

Online life coach

If you’re looking for an online spiritual business idea that you can start today, consider becoming an online life coach. Online life coaching is a great way to help people achieve their goals and improve their lives. There are a number of different types of online life coaches. Some coaches offer guidance on improving specific areas of your life, such as relationships, work, or finances. Other coaches provide general advice on how to live healthier or increase your productivity. 

How much you can make: $50K – $200K annually
How much does it cost to start: $1K – $5K
How long does it take to build: 3-6 months

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a centuries-old Chinese medical practice that uses fine needles to treat various health conditions. As an acupuncture therapist, you would be able to offer your services to the public. You could also offer your services as part of a health spa or wellness center. You could also offer your services as an add-on to other treatments, such as massage therapy or chiropractic care.

As an acupuncture therapist, you would be able to provide treatment for a variety of health conditions. Some of the most common treatments include pain relief, stress relief, and the remediation of chronic illnesses.

How much you can make: $50K – $200K annually
How much does it cost to start: $10K – $50K
How long does it take to build: 1-2 years

Religious podcaster

Religious podcasters serve a unique niche in the spiritual marketplace. As a religious podcaster, you would be able to create and share religious podcaster. Your podcasts could focus on a specific religion or topics related to spirituality. You could also offer advice and support to other religious podcasters.

As a religious podcaster, you could generate a lot of traffic to your website. In addition, your podcasts could be sold online via iTunes or other podcast platforms. Finally, religious podcasters often offer meditation and mindfulness workshops as well.

How much you can make: $10K – $100K annually
How much does it cost to start: $1K – $5K
How long does it take to build: 3-6 months

Holistic nutritionist

There is a growing trend of people looking to incorporate more holistic approaches into their lives. This includes looking at their diet and how it affects their overall well-being. A holistic nutritionist can help you with this. They will work with you to create a tailored plan that incorporates all aspects of your health and well-being. This can include advice on diet, supplements, lifestyle changes, and more.

How much you can make: $50K – $200K annually
How much does it cost to start: $5K – $20K
How long does it take to build: 6-12 months

Meditation coach

If you’re looking for a way to relax and de-stress, meditation may be the answer. There are many different types of meditation, which can help reduce stress and improve your mental health. A meditation coach will work their clients to create a tailored plan that incorporates all aspects of your health and well-being. This can include advice on meditation, mindfulness, and other forms of spiritual practice.

How much you can make: $30K – $100K annually
How much does it cost to start: $1K – $5K
How long does it take to build: 3-6 months

Massage therapist

Becoming a massage therapist is not as difficult as you might think. You will need to have a license from your state, and you will also need to pass an exam that tests your knowledge of massage techniques. You will also need at least two years of experience as a massage therapist before opening your own business.

How much you can make: $30K – $100K annually
How much does it cost to start: $5K – $20K
How long does it take to build: 6-12 months

Aromatherapist

Aromatherapy is the practice of using natural oils and plants to improve the health and well-being of people. As an aromatherapist, you would use these oils to treat patients holistically. This includes helping them to relax, reduce anxiety, and improve their moods. Using these oils in massage, inhalation, or topical application can help people feel better physically and emotionally.

If you’re interested in starting a spiritual business incorporating natural healing therapies, becoming an aromatherapist may be the right choice.

How much you can make: $30K – $100K annually
How much does it cost to start: $1K – $5K
How long does it take to build: 3-6 months

Tarot reading

If you’re looking for a unique spiritual business idea that you can start today, consider becoming a tarot card reader. Tarot reading is a popular spiritual practice that uses cards (typically Tarot cards) to see the future. As a tarot card reader, you would be able to offer your services to the public. You could also offer your services as part of a psychic reading service. In addition to that, you might provide your services as part of a therapeutic service. You could also offer your services as part of a metaphysical consultation.

How much you can make: $30K – $100K annually
How much does it cost to start: $1K – $5K
How long does it take to build: 3-6 months

Conclusion

Spirituality is becoming increasingly important for many people today. The spiritual product industry is estimated to be worth over $8 billion by 2031, indicating there is a growing demand for products and services that provide meaning and fulfillment.

11 self-employed business ideas that you can start easily

Have you been looking for a business idea that doesn’t require employees? Well, here are 11 profitable business ideas with no employees that you should start looking into

Web development

Virtual assistant

With the current economy in flux, many people are looking for ways to make money that don’t require them to leave their homes. One great way to do this is through the use of Virtual Assistants. Virtual Assistants are skilled professionals who provide services online without worrying about the overhead costs associated with having employees.

This means you can start a profitable business as a Virtual Assistant without spending a lot of money on training or equipment. In addition, businesses that use Virtual Assistants often find that they can save money by using contracted workers instead of full-time employees. So if you’re looking for a way to make extra money, consider starting a Virtual Assistant business.

How much you can make: $30K – $80K annually
How much does it cost to start: $500 – $2K
How long does it take to build: 1-3 months

Freelancing

Freelancing is a great way to make money without worrying about the overhead costs associated with having employees. This means you can start a profitable freelance business without spending much on training or equipment. In addition, companies that use freelancers often find that they can save money by using contracted workers instead of full-time employees. So if you’re looking for a way to make extra money, consider starting a freelance business.

Many types of freelance work are available, so it’s important to research the options carefully before starting your business. There are also many ways to monetize your skills as a freelancer, so it’s important to find the best strategy for you.

How much you can make: $30K – $100K annually
How much does it cost to start: $500 – $2K
How long does it take to build: 1-3 months

Podcasting

Podcasts are a great way to promote your business without any employees. You can create and distribute your podcast without paying anyone or spending money on production. This allows you to keep all the profits from your podcast, which can be a great way to build your brand and reach new customers.

You can also use podcasts to increase awareness of your business. Creating a podcast allows you to share your story with your customers and potential customers. This can help them to understand your business better and trust you more. Podcasts are also a great way to learn about new trends and techniques that can be used in your industry.

How much you can make: $10K – $100K annually
How much does it cost to start: $500 – $2K
How long does it take to build: 1-3 months

Business coach

A business coach can also help you troubleshoot your current business operations and make sure your profits are increasing. They can provide tips on pricing, marketing, and other crucial aspects of running a successful business. Consider hiring a business coach if you’re looking for a comprehensive solution that doesn’t require any upfront investment.

If you’re interested in starting a successful business on your own, look into business coaching as a great option. You’ll be able to work with a professional who will help you achieve your goals and be there to support you every step. With a little hard work and dedication, you could earn an income as a business coach in no time!

How much you can make: $50K – $150K annually
How much does it cost to start: $1K – $5K
How long does it take to build: 3-6 months

Online tutoring

Online tutoring is a growing industry, and there are many opportunities for those willing to invest time and effort into it. The first step in starting an online tutoring business is to create a user-friendly and easy-to-navigate website. The website should also have features that allow students to book appointments and track their progress. Having a strong branding strategy is also essential, so students know who you are and what you offer.

To attract students, it is important to offer high-quality services at affordable prices. You can charge a flat fee or hourly rate or submit a combination of both. You should also provide valuable resources, such as lesson plans and homework help tutorials, so students feel confident using your services.

How much you can make: $30K – $80K annually
How much does it cost to start: $500 – $2K
How long does it take to build: 1-3 months

Photography

Photography is a fun and profitable activity that can be done with or without employees. There are many ways to start a photography business on your own. You can either use your equipment or outsource some of the work to someone else. One way to make money from photography is to sell prints or digital files. You can also sell photographs through online galleries or create a photo book and sell copies of it. You could also create a portfolio website and offer prints and digital files for sale.

If you have any special skills or knowledge related to photography, you could offer consulting services to other businesses or individuals. This would involve helping them design their photography portfolios, teaching them about photography techniques, or providing guidance on how to market their photos.

How much you can make: $30K – $100K annually
How much does it cost to start: $1K – $5K
How long does it take to build: 3-6 months

Fitness instructor

One profitable business idea with no employees is to start a fitness instructor business. This business can be run from the comfort of your home, requiring very little investment. All you need is a good set of exercise equipment and some instruction. They can charge high rates for their services, and there is potential for a lot of income.

Additionally, fitness instructors can be a very flexible way to work. You can work as little or as much as you want and set your hours. This means that fitness instructors are an excellent option for people who have busy schedules.

How much you can make: $30K – $100K annually
How much does it cost to start: $1K – $5K
How long does it take to build: 3-6 months

Travel planner

If you are looking for business ideas with no employees consider starting a travel planner business. Travel planners can help people plan trips to all kinds of different locations, and this can be a very lucrative business. Travel planners can charge high rates for their services, and there is potential for a lot of income. 

There are many ways to make money with a travel planner. You could sell tickets directly to customers or through a travel agency. You could also offer tours or rental cars. Or you could run your own business and offer services as an independent travel planner.

How much you can make: $30K – $80K annually
How much does it cost to start: $500 – $2K
How long does it take to build: 1-3 months

Dropshipping

Dropshippers can sell products online – this means that they do not have to carry any inventory, and they do not have to pay any overhead costs. Dropshipping can be a very profitable business, and it requires very little investment. All you need is a good set of dropshipping tools and some instructions.

Dropshippers can charge high rates for their services, and there is potential for a lot of income. Additionally, dropshipping can be a very flexible way to work. You can work as little or as much as you want and set your own hours. This means that dropshipping is an excellent option for people who have a busy schedule. There are many ways to make money with a travel planner. You could sell tickets directly to customers or through a travel agency. You could also offer tours or rental cars. Or you could run your own business and offer services as an independent travel planner.

How much you can make: $30K – $100K annually
How much does it cost to start: $1K – $5K
How long does it take to build: 3-6 months

Personal chef

A Personal Chef is one of the most profitable business ideas with no employees. A Personal Chef cooks meals for individuals or couples in their homes, offices, or other locations. They cook from scratch and use only the freshest ingredients. This service is perfect for busy people who don’t have time to cook or for people who want to eat healthily but don’t have the time to prepare their meals.

How much you can make: $30K – $100K annually
How much does it cost to start: $1K – $5K
How long does it take to build: 3-6 months

Conclusion

The benefits of lower overhead costs, flexibility, and tapping into specialized skill sets on demand make employee-free business ideas enticing for many entrepreneurs. By leveraging technology and optimizing operations for automation, with some innovative thinking, the possibilities are endless for launching a thriving business without the need for employees.