17 Online Business Examples -- How to Unlock Your Potential

Aug 15, 2023

Many people know about the giant corporations that are winning online (you likely have a box from one of them in your home right now). You've probably heard reports of fancy Silicon Valley startups with nap pods, gourmet kitchens, and even a gourmet chef inside their offices.

But you don't need to appear on an episode or season of Shark Tank, win the lottery, or convince that angel investor invest in your vision and create your own company.

In this article we'll look at how the increasing accessibility of the market through platforms like allows ordinary people to earn money online. Anyone who has an entrepreneurial mindset and a dedication to consistent dedication can achieve success in creating their own side hustle or even an online full-time venture.

We'll also examine some of the top business concepts for online to help you in the next phase of your business. Let's get started.

The future is now. Will you take advantage of it?

Today, you can advertise and sell goods and services online without the need to learn how to code or enroll in a college for management of logistics. You can monetize your passions or skills without quitting your job, or risking your house.

That dream that is in your mind? You just need to grab the opportunity.

You might make millions. Perhaps you'll make a difference in your community. Maybe you'll enjoy the liberty of living with passion and provide the best living conditions to your family.

 homepage with the text, "the ecommerce platform that grows with you"

Leverage and WordPress

and WordPress provide a means to individuals from all walks of life to embark on entrepreneurial journeys.

So if financial resources are your obstacle but you've got the patience and drive, using allows users to accomplish almost anything.

The best online business ideas will turn your hobbies into money

There's no need to look up the web for ideas for your business. Take a look at what you're working on or look into your passions and interests. Maybe you sketch designs, make your own jewelry or edit videos for enjoyment. Or maybe you've got a cookbook of pasta recipes that your friends are always begging to try.

Why start online?

The online world isn't the same as a brick and mortar one. Instead of leasing space in a strip mall or a strip mall, you can make its own prime real estate on the internet.

You can cross geographic locations with ease and tap into additional specific markets and areas of interest that may not be large enough to sustain an entire physical company in one location. It's not necessary to pay for expensive television ads or pricey billboards to get your message across to the people you want.

Put your ideas out there, get feedback, and refine them over and over repeatedly -- and achieve everything without having to spend the whole amount.

Real-life online business examples -- who can succeed?

We'll take the time to explore a few examples of success stories to show the variety of individuals as well as organizations that have discovered entrepreneurs' opportunities through WordPress and .

Spoiler alert -- anyone is able to follow their dreams of starting their own internet business. Whether you have a few dollars or a several million, it's possible. Keep in mind, these online business ideas are just a slice of the options that are available. These examples show the variety of small-scale business owners that have achieved successes online.

Here are some examples of the types of people who have won :

People experiencing major life changes

Sometime, the most effective business concepts come from your own life experiences. How are you currently navigating your life and what problems do you wish would just go disappear? Are you a college student? Prospective first-time homebuyer? Expectant parent?

Ubuntu Baba website, featuring a woman wearing a baby carrier

The mother struggled to find a suitable baby carrier online, so decided to start an online business herself. She used to expand the operation of her at-home business to serve customers worldwide providing a smooth and easy shopping experience for customers. The business took off and she's not only discovered a profitable business however, one that serves her an objective while also reflecting her values.

It's because she saw an opportunity, and she took it. Sometimes, finding the top internet-based business concepts for your needs is just that straightforward.

People in unique situations or with specific needs

There are millions of people across the globe who are facing unique difficulties. If you consider yourself to be in that situation, or have a desire to help a community that could use more attention There is a chance to be found by selling online.

the colorful homepage of Thomas's Trendy socks

His business's success inspired hundreds of other people and promoted inclusiveness across the globe. If you've got online store ideas You too have the potential to make these ideas come to life!

Celebrities and influencers

Celebrities tapping into business is something that's been going on since time. There is a general consensus that everyone who is in Hollywood is labeling their own tequila. But others have used their celebrity to embrace private passions before the flashing lights and help others along the way.

Nick Offerman is a great example. You probably know him as the hyper-sensationalized American smart aleck on Parks and Rec, but he's also a world class woodworker who runs the Offerman Woodshop -- a collective of professionals with a focus on perfecting their craft and putting quality over quantity.

the Offerman Woodshop hompage with photos of the team

It's a true depiction of the unique character of Offerman and his love for high-end craftsmanship, and the community of people who have embraced their passion for craft as their full-time job.

Traditional business owners

There are many opportunities to consider business online isn't restricted to things that might be deemed quirky or off-the-beaten path. It's not necessary to come up with an innovative idea or discover an industry that's not yet tapped to find success. Sometimes, the greatest or most profitable idea is out there, and the efficiency provided by platforms like can help entrepreneurs get ahead of their competitors.

All-day items like soaps makeup, juices and air filters have been imaginatively promoted and served by . And incremental changes can have a significant impact on the customers. In the case of a subscription service, consumers can routinely receive replacements and never forget to check off items of their shopping list.

Combine the ease of use with additional advantages like donations to non-profit organizations or healthier ingredients or even a specific interest to turn something relatively boring into an exciting new venture.

Acoustical Solutions homepage with a photo of their wood wall panels

"Our objective was to buy an industrial manufacturing business. We were fortunate that we discovered this company which is principally a nationwide B2B distributor."

The company was purchased by the owner in 2014 and, at that time, it had about $10,000 of online sales per month. In the present, that number is more like $450,000.

Anyone with a desire to transform the world

Eat Grub is a thriving online enterprise founded by two people who are committed to changing the western views of insects. The founders recognized a rising demand for sustainable and alternative foods, so they established a company that sells edible insect-based products. They used to build their website, which allowed customers to efficiently manage their the inventory and provide the most seamless purchasing experience.

Eat Grub homepage with photos of their products

In many ways, Eat Grub's website is different than one you'd find in brick and mortar stores but with less expense and greater flexibility. The decision to open their online shop is a smart method of increasing profits through getting around the limitations of traditional businesses.

Inspire your creativity: 17 online business ideas

Now you know about possibilities and had a look at some of the instances. However, you're wondering, "How could I possibly generate income online?"

As with everything, the most effective ideas for online businesses begins with examining your current situation and skillset. Your skate passion may make you a handsome sum that you aren't aware of it. Maybe there's something related to the job you're currently working in -for example, content strategy consulting and web design, as well as copywriting that you can explore as a part-time job.

Below are a variety of internet-based business ideas to help you get your entrepreneurial juices flowing.

1. Dropshipping is the new frontier in dropshipping.

If you're not familiar with dropshipping, it's an aspect of ecommerce business which doesn't need you to manage inventory or fret about shipping logistics. The business model allows you to sell your products online with no physical stocking of your own products.

You simply source products and promote them to the appropriate customers. When someone places an order, a third party supplier fulfills the entire thing.

warehouse full of boxes

This is an excellent practice as well as a fantastic online business concept since you're not dependent on the risks and difficulties that come with developing new products, making or buying items, and controlling the inventory. You're able to put all your efforts into developing the right kind of dropshipping store, along with the marketing of your business to your customers.

2. Sell art online

Do not let fear of failure hold you from reaching the fullest potential of an artist! In its best form it's a blank page for creatives. Artists are able to showcase their talent and sell their artwork for sale to an international audience by creating their own online business.

shelves full of custom artwork

3. Find a job as a freelance copywriter or web designer, or even a developer

In the shadows of millions of shops there are many experts who help people transform their creative visions into a reality.

There's a whole WordPress and industry of professional writers, web designers, and programmers.

Developers can create WordPress extensions and plugins to offer the functionality store owners are always asking for. This requires up-front work and the ongoing commitment to maintain and support the product however it's an excellent option to earn recurring revenues that doesn't depend on going to work every single day at 9 am.

Web designers are able to create stunning aesthetics that set a store apart and keeps visitors on. Utilizing design knowledge, tools like extensions and WordPress plugins, as well as a fair amount of expertise in development, they can create the foundation for websites that are successful.

WooExperts database with a search bar at the top

Looking for an expert to build your business site of your dreams? Start Here. It is possible to filter the search results based on your exact requirements and trust that the company you select is approved by .

4. Start a DIY blog or publication

Did you know it's true that The Rolling Stone operates on WordPress? Actually, many famous magazines and brands run using the world's largest Content Management System (CMS).

RollingStone homepage showing recent articles

If you've got an undeniable passion for a subject as well as a talent for writing, you can create an online company using a blog to turn it into an income stream that is either full or part-time.

5. Self-publish a book (or three)

WordPress removes the roadblocks which hinder you from reaching worldwide with your written work. One of the main goals for WordPress is to open up publishing.

Your website can represent you as an author as well as help you promote your book that's sold at physical stores. But you could also use the site to market the book (physical or digital, if you want to reduce your initial expenses even more) directly to the readers, and then go through the self publishing option.

woman working on a computer and notebook

In all cases, you'll need to identify your audience and make sure you're promoting your novel. But if you have a story to tell and you're not required to wait on "permission" from a publisher. It's possible to write it yourself and, with some hard work, an excellent product, and a bit of luck, you can become a viral writer.

6. Sell custom jewelry

There's never been a more exciting time to design original jewelry or make fashionable clothing for your first steps as a business owner in a small scale. The online market is ripe with opportunity, and a great online business idea may include setting an online shop that is your own.

custom rings on someone's fingers

Imagine it as the ultimate booth at your local flea market. Whether you're making hand-crafted jewelry, customized apparel, or some other items online lets you connect to a global audience and build a brand around your creations.

7. Sell the merchandize of your club or team

Perhaps you have a brand that is established and want to sell your products better, just like New Zealand's national rugby team The All Blacks. They wanted to establish an online store to sell their products that matched their aesthetic and brand philosophy.

the All Blacks Shop website

However, you don't need join a professional sporting team to establish a flashy, effective online presence.

From teams for youth sports to social clubs for adults You can manage club membership programs, offer merchandise as well as publish club newsletters as well as updates to your calendar all via and WordPress. Make a distinctive, private site that acts as a central hub for everyone. You can even include forums or other social features that are open to everyone or restricted for members only.

8. Be an assistant virtual

There are countless busy professionals and entrepreneurs who are solely online and require assistance with administrative tasks including scheduling, as well as other organizational responsibilities. If you're adept in these areas it could become the lifesaver of someone.

woman working on her laptop and a notebook

You may even start with a single person before transforming into a firm with dozens of staff members serving clients across the globe!

9. Make the most of affiliate marketing

affiliate dashboard in

In order to be successful in affiliate marketing, you'll need be able to create web content that ranks well in search results that are popular. Additionally, you'll need to know how to implement lean marketing programs and gain (and retain) the trust of an audience that is willing to follow your suggestions.

It's a lot of work and takes time However, when you've reached success, you can generate profits all the time, regardless of whether you're at work or not.

10. Provide professional advice

man discussing something with a colleague in front of a laptop

Bypass the shortage of staff and locate competent remote workers from all over the world. Avoid the costly office space as well as the squanderful office furniture. Be flexible and adapt or contract as needed.

From one operator to huge corporations, there's lots of potential remaining in the online.

11. Become an influencer

Today, the desire to make an impact is reminiscent of trying to become famous as an athlete or actor. Everybody would like to have their shot. However, opportunities remain more open for becoming an influencer.

It's important to identify the right audience in which it is possible to be noticed and show your expertise however, it must be big enough to provide value to advertisers.

woman recording a baking video in front of a camera

Whether it's through the use of podcasting, blogging, or vlogging, or the creation of content on social media it is possible to build an online audience and partner with companies to market goods or products or.

It can assist you in monetizing your presence by integrating an ecommerce features into your web presence as an affiliate marketing, or by generating advertising revenue from a blog.

12. Film and edit video

Similar to copywriting or design, there's a huge need for skilled professionals in the video production and editing world. On the other hand, with the gadget you're on -- whether it's a phone or tablet you have a high possibility that you've watched a video within the last few minutes.

If you're talented to tell stories, cinematography or editing, consider offering video production or editing services via the web. In case you're beginning from scratch, it's also something you can pick up via online tutorials or courses.

person filming with a video camera

Then, with , you can showcase your portfolio and provide video services, or sell digital copies of your work.

13. Teach an online course

woman writing in a notebook in front of a video course

The ease and convenience of learning online have become a preferred choice to students who want an education that isn't part of traditional institutions.

Online courses provide convenience learners to learn at their own speed and in their own way. In addition, you're sharing your skills across the globe and earning profits while doing it. What's more rewarding?

14. Sell T-shirts

Everyone needs a shirt to wear, and while it's possible to find retail stores, tourist attractions, restaurants, and even hot sauce brands offering T-shirts, there's always room for new and exciting business ideas.

the T-Shirt Zone homepage with product photos

If you've got creative thoughts, determination, and a desire to improve, you can still make lots of money by selling T-shirts on the internet.

15. Develop online fitness and health programs

In the past few years the fitness sector has experienced a shift towards online offerings. The digital fitness program is one of the best internet-based business options since they're extremely convenient and allow users to access what gyms have to offer -- but in their home.

working out on a yoga mat in front of a computer

This is a highly competitive industry, but there are gaps -that is, if you are able to identify one, it can become very lucrative. It's also another industry that allows you to promote your business through your social media accounts and partner with brands that complement yours and connect with customers via low-cost, community-based initiatives.

provides the ideal opportunity to develop offerings from single digital download purchases to ongoing subscriptions. You can also add physical merch to your shop as the number of customers grows. If you are able to create a flexible business model and offering people a variety of product types and payment methods to earn an increase in -- and more steady income.

16. Voiceovers for sale

It's a rough ride however, it's an intriguing one. If you're blessed with a good voice and love narration, consider monetizing it via a business that deals with voiceovers. It will be awe-inspiring to see the number of brick-and-mortar as well as web-based businesses as well as content creators and individuals require voiceovers for commercials, videos, audiobooks, and more.

man recording voiceover in a studio

Like video editing, marketing consultancy, as well as other portfolio-related services, it provides the opportunity to show your voiceovers, provide various packages to purchase as well as manage bookings for clients. You can also host audio samples to let people get a feeling of what you sound like.

17. Sell music

Are you a gifted producer or musician? A way to make your music noticed is to sell it online using a tool like .

man recording music on a keyboard

On a single storefront, you could allow digital downloads of your songs and sell physical CDs. You can also sell merchandise, and even offer private online lessons. The options are endless!

Find your passions and follow your passions

One of the most important things to keep in mind about online business ideas is the fact that they offer a variety of possibilities that you could take advantage of them no whatever your unique skill or product is. Lean into your interests and where you have talent and enthusiasm.

Output website, with information about their Arcade product

If you're trying to get approval or permission from another person to pursue your online business idea, you run the chance of becoming stuck in a hold pattern.

The businesses that we talked about are just scratching the surface. There are many different online business concepts to explore. Have one? Go forth and try it. It's impossible to predict what's going to take place.

Marketing is a skill that can be mastered. web-based company idea

offers a vast library of tools, educational resources, as well as an range of freelancers and agents able to help with designing your dream website store.

But it doesn't stop there. also has a number of tools to assist you in learning how to attract new customers, increase the number of people who visit your shop as well as improve the efficiency of your operation and profits.

Monetizing your creativity, passion or talents or even your any other time

Monetizing your favorite hobby or personal passion for an online venture that is successful may feel strange, especially if it's a reflection of your artistic flair.

But you hear stories of individuals who set their own hours and lovingtheir work, who get up each day excited to go to work as it's their dream. Then you wonder if it could ever be you.

The ability to be paid for your passion that makes your heart tick faster -- is not just a fantasy. If you're unique or have a deep understanding of the subject there is ways to make it into a full-time earnings.

It may not happen overnight, and it doesn't need to. Join the millions of entrepreneurs online who are pursuing their own ideas for online businesses.

If you have just access to the Internet, you are able to build your store online without cost. Find the right partners. Locate tools. Get started with experimenting. Take pleasure in the process... You're about to find out just what a fulfilling and enjoyable life is.