Top 16 zero investment business ideas

Dropshipping

Dropshipping is a retail approach where store owners sell products without holding any inventory, so when customers buy something, the store purchases it from suppliers who deliver directly to the customer. Getting started is quite simple because it needs almost no money upfront, just a basic website and relationships with suppliers, though sellers should expect smaller profits per item but fewer overall expenses.

Online store owners focus on attracting customers and handling service issues, while their suppliers manage all the product storage and shipping details, which makes this idea perfect for anyone wanting to work from anywhere with a decent internet connection. Finding success often comes down to connecting with trustworthy suppliers, picking products people actually want, and creating smart ways to reach potential customers.

How much you can make: $50K–$300K/year
How much does it cost to start: $0–$500
How long does it take to build: 2–6 months

Freelance writer

Freelance writing is a flexible career path where individuals offer their writing skills to various clients on a contract basis, and they can create content like articles, blog posts, or marketing materials without committing to a single employer.

Starting requires minimal investment beyond a computer and internet connection, while writers can begin with smaller projects to build a portfolio before taking on higher-paying work. Writers set their own schedules and can often work from anywhere, which provides excellent work-life balance for those who manage their time effectively.

How much you can make: $30K–$120K/year
How much does it cost to start: $0–$200
How long does it take to build: 1–3 months

Social media management

Social media management is a service where individuals handle companies’ online presence across platforms, and they create engaging content while building brand awareness without needing specialized equipment. Starting requires virtually no investment beyond a computer and internet connection, while beginners can learn through free resources and practice.

Managers typically work remotely with flexible schedules, which allows them to serve multiple clients simultaneously. Success depends on staying updated with platform changes, understanding audience behavior, and creating systems that demonstrate clear value through measurable results to clients.

How much you can make: $40K–$150K/year
How much does it cost to start: $0–$300
How long does it take to build: 2–4 months

Blogging

Blogging is a content-based business where individuals create and publish articles on specific topics they’re passionate about, and they can earn money through advertising, affiliate marketing, or selling digital products without any significant startup costs. Starting requires just a computer, internet connection, and a small fee for website hosting, while beginners can focus on consistent posting to build an audience before monetization.

Bloggers work completely on their own terms and schedule, which provides tremendous freedom regarding when and where they create content. Growth typically happens gradually as search engines begin to recognize the site’s value, though income can be unpredictable until substantial traffic develops.

How much you can make: $20K–$200K/year
How much does it cost to start: $0–$100
How long does it take to build: 6–12 months

Graphic designing

Graphic designing is a creative service where individuals produce visual content for businesses and individuals, and they create logos, promotional materials, and digital assets without needing a formal studio or expensive equipment. Starting requires minimal investment beyond a computer with design software, while beginners can build portfolios through smaller projects or spec work before attracting higher-paying clients.

Designers typically work remotely with flexible hours, which allows them to take on projects from anywhere and balance personal commitments with deadlines. Income varies based on specialization and client type, though designers can steadily increase rates as their skills and reputation grow.

How much you can make: $30K–$120K/year
How much does it cost to start: $0–$300
How long does it take to build: 1–3 months

House or pet sitter

House or pet sitting is a service-based business where individuals care for homes and animals while their owners are away, and they can provide peace of mind through regular property checks, plant watering, pet care, and security monitoring without any startup investment. Getting started requires only reliable transportation and perhaps a background check, while beginners can build a reputation through friends and family referrals before expanding to a wider clientele.

Sitters enjoy a varied work environment and can often choose assignments that fit their schedule, which makes this ideal for those seeking supplemental income with minimal commitment. Earnings depend on location, services offered, and experience level, though many sitters find they can charge premium rates during holiday seasons or for specialized pet care.

How much you can make: $10K–$60K/year
How much does it cost to start: $0
How long does it take to build: 1 month

Virtual assistant

Virtual assistance is a remote support service where professionals handle administrative, technical, or creative tasks for busy entrepreneurs and companies, and they can manage email, schedule appointments, conduct research, or provide customer service without needing an office or expensive equipment.

Starting requires just a computer, reliable internet, and basic organizational skills, while newcomers can begin with simpler tasks before developing specialized services in areas like social media or bookkeeping. Assistants typically set their own hours and client load, which creates flexibility to work from anywhere while maintaining personal commitments.

How much you can make: $25K–$80K/year
How much does it cost to start: $0–$100
How long does it take to build: 1–2 months

Consultant

Consultancy is a knowledge-based service where professionals share their expertise with businesses facing specific challenges, and they can provide strategic advice, problem-solving, or implementation guidance without significant overhead costs. Starting requires deep knowledge in a particular field and some proof of past successes, while beginners might focus on smaller projects to build credibility and testimonials.

Consultants typically arrange their own schedules and client meetings, which allows them to work with multiple organizations simultaneously from virtually anywhere. Earnings reflect the consultant’s expertise level and the value they bring to clients, though building a consistent client pipeline takes time and strategic networking.

How much you can make: $50K–$300K/year
How much does it cost to start: $0–$500
How long does it take to build: 2–4 months

Dog walker

Dog walking is a pet care service where animal lovers exercise and provide companionship to dogs while their owners are at work or away, and they can build relationships with both pets and clients without any special qualifications or equipment beyond basic leashes and waste bags. Starting requires almost no investment, while beginners can begin with neighbors’ pets before expanding through word-of-mouth and local advertising.

Walkers set their own schedules and territories, which creates flexible working hours that can fit around other commitments or responsibilities. Income grows steadily as the client base expands, though weather conditions and seasonal changes may affect consistency.

How much you can make: $10K–$50K/year
How much does it cost to start: $0
How long does it take to build: 1–2 months

Influencer

Influencer marketing is a content creation business where people build engaged audiences around specific interests or lifestyles, and they can monetize their following through brand partnerships, sponsored content, or product promotions without needing expensive equipment to start.

Beginning requires just a smartphone, social media accounts, and a clear niche focus, while new influencers often start with micro-communities before attracting bigger brand deals. Content creators set their own publishing schedules and creative direction, which provides freedom to develop authentic relationships with followers while working from anywhere.

How much you can make: $0–$500K+/year
How much does it cost to start: $0–$200
How long does it take to build: 6–12 months

House cleaner

House cleaning is a practical service where cleaners transform messy, dirty spaces into sparkling, organized environments, and they can provide regular maintenance or deep cleaning services without expensive equipment beyond basic supplies.

Starting requires minimal investment for cleaning products and simple tools, while newcomers can begin with a few regular clients before expanding through referrals. Cleaners often create their own schedules and choose clients within reasonable travel distance, which offers flexibility to work around personal commitments or other part-time work.

How much you can make: $25K–$100K/year
How much does it cost to start: $0–$300
How long does it take to build: 1–2 months

Resume writer

Resume writing is a specialized service where experts create and optimize job application documents for clients seeking employment, and they can transform basic work histories into compelling professional narratives without expensive software or office space.

Starting requires only strong writing skills and an understanding of hiring processes, while newcomers can build portfolios by helping friends or offering discounted rates to initial clients. Writers typically work remotely on their own schedule, which provides flexibility to balance this business with other commitments or even a day job.

How much you can make: $15K–$70K/year
How much does it cost to start: $0
How long does it take to build: 1–2 months

Digital product reviewer on TikTok

Digital product reviewing on TikTok is a content creation business where creators test and evaluate software, apps, and online tools, and they share honest opinions through short, engaging videos without requiring expensive equipment beyond a smartphone.

Starting needs almost no investment except for access to the products being reviewed, while beginners can focus on free trials or affordable items before attracting sponsorships or partnerships. Reviewers work according to their own schedule and creative vision, which gives them the freedom to develop a unique style that resonates with specific audience interests.

How much you can make: $10K–$100K/year
How much does it cost to start: $0
How long does it take to build: 3–6 months

LinkedIn ghostwriter

LinkedIn ghostwriting is a specialized writing service where writers create professional profiles, posts, and articles on behalf of busy professionals, and they can help clients establish thought leadership and industry presence without revealing their behind-the-scenes role.

Starting requires strong writing skills and an understanding of professional networking dynamics, while new ghostwriters can begin with profile optimization before advancing to regular content creation. Writers work completely remotely on their own schedule, which provides flexibility to serve multiple clients across different industries simultaneously.

How much you can make: $0–$100K/year
How much does it cost to start: $0
How long does it take to build: 3–6 months

Prompt engineer for AI tools

Prompt engineering is a specialized technical service where experts design effective instructions for AI systems like chatbots and image generators, and they craft precise language that produces desired outputs without requiring expensive hardware or software licenses. Starting involves mainly understanding AI capabilities and limitations, while beginners can practice on freely available AI platforms before offering services professionally.

Engineers typically work remotely and can collaborate with clients worldwide, which creates location independence and schedule flexibility. Income potential has grown rapidly with AI adoption across industries, though rates vary based on expertise with specific AI models and an understanding of client needs.

How much you can make: $30K–$150K/year
How much does it cost to start: $0
How long does it take to build: 1–3 months

Linkedin profile optimizer

LinkedIn profile optimization is a specialized service where experts enhance professionals’ online presence on the platform, and they improve visibility, attractiveness to recruiters, and networking potential without requiring any physical inventory or office space.

Starting needs almost no investment beyond a computer and internet connection, while beginners can practice by upgrading their own profiles and those of willing friends before taking on paying clients. Optimizers usually work remotely and on their own schedule, which provides flexibility to serve clients across different industries and career levels.

How much you can make: $50K–$200K/year
How much does it cost to start: $0
How long does it take to build: 2–4 months

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for a side hustle or planning your escape from the corporate world, these zero investment business ideas prove that entrepreneurship remains accessible to anyone with drive, skills, and the courage to begin.

Why AI video editing tools are game-changers

Before moving further, let’s explore what makes AI video editing tools different from their more traditional competitors. The truth is that traditional editing can be a very tiring task that requires a lot of time, resources, and technical skills. However, AI makes things easier! AI tools make the process faster, visually improve your footage, and let you create a pro-level video in no time.

Getting started with your AI mobile video editor

So, how are you to get started on this wonderful journey of creating an AI mobile video editor?

Step 1: Set your goals

Before getting down to coding, consider the main idea of your video editor. Should it be focused on fun effects or just quick edits? Or maybe both? Identify your vision and don’t be afraid to dream big!

Step 2: Choose your platform

Once you’ve got the app idea in mind, ask yourself, “Am I aiming for iOS, Android, or both?” The answer to this question will affect the choice of tools and SDKs you’ll need.

Plus, you can explore cross-platform frameworks like React Native or Flutter. With these, you’ll be able to develop one codebase that can be launched on multiple platforms, saving you from the need to code twice. 

Step 3: Choose and integrate video editor SDK

Have you ever heard of SDKs? An SDK stands for software development kit. This kit gives you access to the necessary tools, libraries, and documentation to help you build the best app possible, saving you a lot of time and effort. So, picking the right video editor SDK is crucial for the whole development process. Look for the one with robust features, easy integration, and great performance.

Some popular options include Banuba’s video editor SDK, Meicam SDK, IMG.LY, etc. The choice is yours to make. Just study all options thoroughly to find and integrate your perfect one.

Step 4: Play around with AI features

Now that you’ve got your platform and SDK sorted, it’s time to unleash the power of AI! Actually, there are numerous AI features to consider, but here are some that have every chance to truly elevate your users’ experience:

• Automated editing: Using AI video editing tools, you can automatically edit your footage based on specific parameters. Want a highlight reel from your weekend camping trip? Just upload the clips, and the AI will piece together the best moments!
• Voice recognition: Imagine being able to command your video editor with just your voice. “Hey, Editor, add a slow-mo effect to that epic jump shot!” as easy as ABC!
• Smart soundtrack selection: Music is essential for any good video. With AI, your editor can analyze your footage and recommend the perfect soundtrack that matches the mood. No more awkward silences or mismatched beats!
• Face filters & AR effects: Want to turn yourself into a cute puppy or add sparkles to your friends’ faces? No problem! Just drag and drop the effects onto your video clips, and let the magic happen.

The beauty of these AI features is that they transform video editing from a technical chore into a creative playground accessible to everyone, regardless of experience level and by implementing these smart capabilities, you’ll be giving your users the superpowers they didn’t know they needed, and once they experience them, they’ll wonder how they ever edited videos without them.

Step 5: Test, test, and test again

Once you’ve integrated all these cool features, it’s time to put your AI mobile video editor to the test. You can gather some friends or family, give them your newly created masterpiece, and ask them to navigate through it. At this stage, any feedback is precious, as it gives you ideas about how to make the app even better. 

Step 6: Launch your app

After enhancing and perfecting your app, it’s time to show it to the world! Upload it to platforms like the App Store or Google Play Market, make announcements on social media, resort to influencers to spread the word even further… All in all, do your best to make everyone know about your hard work!

Always keep in mind that every product (no matter how great it is) starts with a small number of users. Don’t get upset if your app doesn’t get thousands of users immediately, take your time instead. And, of course, keep gathering feedback from your users to make all necessary enhancements based on their comments. Don’t forget to analyze your users’ behavior: pay attention to which features they love, which ones they find confusing, and any cool ideas they suggest.

Conclusion

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How franchise works

The franchise setup works like a business partnership with clear rules about who does what or even simpler, think of it as renting someone else’s successful business idea rather than creating your own from scratch. The franchisor has already figured out what works, and you’re paying them to share their secrets and let you use their name. 

The deal usually starts with a chunk of money upfront, anywhere from $10,000 for a small service franchise to over $1 million for a well-known restaurant chain. Then you’ll keep paying, usually a percentage of your sales, for as long as you run the business. What do you get? A business that’s ready to go, complete with brand recognition, tested products, marketing materials, and operational guidelines that tell you exactly how to run things. 

Core principles of franchise business model

Behind every successful franchise lie a few fundamental concepts that keep both franchisors and franchisees happy.  Franchisors handle the big-picture stuff like developing products, building the brand, and creating systems that can be replicated anywhere. Meanwhile, franchisees focus on local execution, for example, running daily operations, building customer relationships, and adapting to their specific market within the system’s guidelines. The model relies heavily on standardization, which explains all those thick operations manuals that spell out everything from recipe measurements to employee uniforms. 

Territorial protection usually comes standard, too, meaning the parent company won’t let another franchisee open right next door and cannibalize your business. Quality control stays firmly in the franchisor’s hands through regular inspections and performance reviews, ensuring nobody damages the brand everyone shares. While financial alignment ties it all together because when your location makes more money, so does the franchisor, creating a partnership where both sides have good reason to help each other succeed.

Building the right franchise business

Building a successful franchise business doesn’t happen by accident. It takes careful planning, research, and a realistic outlook about what you’re getting into. Here’s what you need to focus on:

• Assess your bankroll honestly: Most franchises require more capital than you initially expect
• Match the franchise culture with your personality: Some systems are rigid and corporate, others more relaxed
• Consider your life situation: Many franchises demand long hours and hands-on management, especially in the early years
• Look for franchisors with proven training programs: Good training correlates strongly with franchisee success rates
• Investigate growth potential in your territory: Market saturation can limit your business before it even starts
• Check the franchisor’s litigation history: Frequent lawsuits from franchisees often signal deeper problems
• Understand what marketing support really includes: National advertising might not drive customers to your specific location
• Verify what happens if things don’t work out: Termination clauses can be brutally one-sided in many franchise agreements
• Speak with franchisees who’ve left the system: They’ll tell you things that current owners and the franchisor won’t

Taking these steps won’t guarantee success, but they’ll dramatically improve your odds of building a franchise business that works for you rather than one that becomes an expensive lesson in what not to do next time.

Franchise business model vs. Traditional business model

Choosing between a franchise and starting your own business from scratch depends on your priorities, personality, and financial situation. So, here are the key differences you should know:

• Decision-making: Traditional business owners have complete control over all aspects, franchisees must follow established systems and rules
• Startup costs: Franchises typically require higher initial investment (franchise fees + setup costs); traditional businesses may cost less to launch but face more unpredictable expenses
• Brand recognition: Franchises offer instant name recognition; traditional businesses must build their reputation from zero
• Risk level: Traditional startups have higher failure rates, while franchises generally provide more stability through proven models
• Profit structure: Independent owners keep all profits; franchisees share revenue through ongoing royalty payments
• Support system: Franchises include training, marketing and operational support; traditional owners must find their own resources or learn through trial and error
• Growth potential: Traditional businesses have unlimited upside possibilities and franchises may have territory restrictions and profit caps
• Learning curve: Franchisees receive training to accelerate progress; independent owners typically face a steeper, costlier learning process

The best choice isn’t universal, it depends on whether you value creative freedom and unlimited opportunity more than systematic support and reduced risk of failure.

Conclusion

When you strip away all the details, franchise business models offer a middle ground between employment and traditional entrepreneurship. They’re not get-rich-quick schemes or guaranteed successes, but they do provide a clearer road with guardrails to keep you from veering off the cliff. If you’ve always wanted to run a business but feared starting completely from scratch, franchising might be your bridge between dream and reality. Just remember that even with a solid brand behind you, your success still depends on your commitment, business ethics, and ability to execute the system faithfully. Do your homework, talk to current franchisees, and understand the numbers completely, and you might find yourself joining the ranks of successful franchise owners who are glad they took the leap.

What is inclusive playground equipment?

Sensory-friendly playgrounds increase children’s sense of belonging by allowing them to participate in the same activities as their peers in the community. Since they engage through pretend play, offering spaces for kids with disabilities provides crucial resources for parents, teachers, and therapists to offer independent playtime. 

Consider this equipment for an inclusive playground:

• Ramps and transfer stations for children in wheelchairs
• Textured surfaces and musical instruments to cater to kids with sensory processing disorders
• Seatbelts or bars on swings and merry-go-rounds to strap children in and help with muscle control and stability
• Wider slides to accommodate a child and their caregiver
• Wheelchair-accessible swings so kids with mobility issues can get in and out on their own and enjoy time with their peers
• Nest swings for multiple children to play together and encourage inclusiveness
• Ground-level activity panels to incorporate the senses and allow children to easily access them without climbing

Although an inclusive playground design ensures children with special needs can access equipment, kids of all abilities can easily play together. Ramps make it easier for all children to climb, and younger ones can strap into a spinner and enjoy the fun alongside their older counterparts. Modern playground design considers all children, with or without disabilities, and makes the outing to a local play area fun and engaging. 

Where can I buy inclusive commercial playground equipment?

Buying the right equipment to meet the needs of all children in the neighboring community is complex. Fortunately, reputable suppliers and manufacturers of inclusive playground equipment offer consultations and can help you decide which pieces to buy. Many install the items for you to ensure they are safely secured and the layout is intuitive.

Here are the top companies that have commercial playground equipment for sale.

Little Tikes commercial

Little Tikes Commercial and Unlimited Play have two levels of inclusive play spaces. The Platinum level is fully inclusive, and the Gold level adds some inclusive features for those with smaller spaces or tighter budgets. 

The brand embraces public playground safety standards like the ASTM International certification, Consumer Product Safety Commission guidelines and Canadian Standard Association. It also creates playgrounds to help businesses meet Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance. 

Numerous business owners share their experience with the brand on the Little Tikes Commercial website. They point out the interactive play areas, with safety and inclusiveness at the center of each design. Little Tikes partners with charities, including Kids Around the World and Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation. It participates in charitable giving via other partnerships. 

The equipment the company offers includes sensory panels, accessible swings, ramps, and safety nets and harnesses.

Noah’s park and playgrounds

An in-house computer-assisted design team can work with your business to ensure you select the correct inclusive playground equipment to meet space needs and community desires. The organization also offers installation for peace of mind that the area is safe for local children. 

Products are IPEMA-tested and meet the standards of ASTM and CPSC. Customers consistently rate the company five out of five stars on its website, sharing appreciation for the custom work, how kind the team is and how much they love their new playgrounds. 

No charity partnerships were listed on the company’s website. However, it keeps a running list of potential grants customers can secure if they’re working on a tight budget. 

The company sells everything from springer toys to complete inclusive playground design. It also specializes in eco-friendly options. 

Pro playgrounds

Pro Playgrounds has serviced the recreation industry for 15 years. Its mission statement is to create play areas for kids of all disabilities, races and socioeconomic means. It offers both indoor and outdoor playgrounds alongside shade structures. 

The staff is made up of licensed general contractors and NPSI-certified playground safety inspectors. The company has over 1,000 projects under its belt, making it well-experienced in playground creation and installation. 

The brand has five out of five stars on Google Reviews. Customers say installation was excellent, the company was professional and it handled challenges well. 

Pro Playgrounds also offers a number of grant options, but it partners with organizations to ensure businesses and institutions can install ADA enhancements. It will guide customers through the application process. It sells commercial inclusive playground equipment and playground floors. 

Which businesses benefit the most from investing in inclusive playgrounds?

Installing a sensory-first, handicap-accessible play area at your company improves your brand image. It shows you have a commitment to inclusivity, and parents of children with disabilities will be more likely to do business with you and remain loyal. Offering an inclusive playground can attract new customers by giving you a unique selling point. 

Playgrounds combat sedentary lifestyles and improve the physical and mental well-being of children in the neighborhood. Parents who bring kids to the area also bring more foot traffic, which increases your business’s name recognition and keeps you at the front of people’s minds.

Some business types benefit more than others. Ones particularly well suited for inclusive playgrounds include:

• Schools and day care centers
• Family-friendly hotels and resorts
• Religious organizations
• Apartment complexes and close-knit neighborhoods
• Parks
• Restaurants and retail establishments

Adding an inclusive playground welcomes families from all walks of life. You’ll create a warm, welcoming atmosphere for the local community and build a sense of belonging and connection.

Factors to consider when choosing inclusive playground equipment

The ADA lists places subject to its regulations in 12 different categories, including those that are open to the public, such as restaurants, schools, theaters and other commercial facilities. When companies ensure the equipment meets the needs of children of all abilities, it will be easier to comply with ADA requirements. 

Companies should make sure their insurance is up to date and they prioritize safety features. Choose items that hold up to extreme weather and ongoing use. While the cost of installing accessible playground equipment can be prohibitive, businesses should get the best pieces possible within their means.

Government grants at the federal, state and local levels can help with some of the expenses. Companies can also reach out to private foundations, ask for other corporations to partner on the project or host fundraisers.

Conclusion

Inclusive playgrounds bring numerous benefits to businesses and communities. Creating a sense of belonging among neighbors while bringing more foot traffic to your vicinity offers advantages to local citizens and the company. You can buy inclusive commercial playground equipment, but knowing what you want to achieve and how to pay for it may be the key ingredients you’ve been missing.

Take the first step today by getting a quote for the playground of your dreams. With a little work and fundraising, you’ll have a thriving area local families can utilize for mental health and physical well-being.