7 Easy Side Hustles You Can Start With Less Than $100

By Melissa Houston Contributor Nov 29, 2024,06:00am EST

Starting a side hustle doesn’t require a lot of money upfront. In fact, many profitable ventures can be launched with minimal investment, making it an ideal way for aspiring entrepreneurs to dip their toes into business without taking on significant financial risk.

With creativity, determination, and strategic planning, you can transform small investments into consistent income streams while retaining the flexibility to scale over time. Whether it’s freelancing, reselling, or offering niche services, the opportunities are endless. And best of all, most require only a modest budget to get started.

Here are seven side hustle ideas you can start with less than $100, offering flexibility, scalability, and the potential to grow into something much bigger.

1. Freelance Writing or Editing

If you have a knack for words, freelance writing or editing could be the perfect fit. All you need is a reliable internet connection, basic writing skills, and a laptop or computer you likely already own.

• Startup Cost: $0-$50 (to create a simple portfolio website or purchase a grammar tool like Grammarly).
• How to Start: Join platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or pitch directly to blogs and businesses.

2. Virtual Assistant

Virtual assistants provide administrative support, from scheduling to email management. It’s a flexible option that allows you to work remotely and set your own hours.

• Startup Cost: $0-$50 (for tools like Canva or a project management app).
• How to Start: Advertise your services on LinkedIn or join VA-specific job boards.

3. Social Media Manager

Many small businesses need help managing their social media presence. You don’t need a huge budget to start and it’s a flexible job that allows you to work from anywhere and often pays well, especially as you build your expertise and results for clients.

• Startup Cost: $0-$50 (invest in basic graphic design software or an online course to refine your skills).
• How to Start: Offer your services to local businesses or reach out via Instagram and Facebook groups.

4. Tutoring or Online Teaching

Tutoring is an excellent side hustle because it allows you to leverage your knowledge in a subject you’re already proficient in to earn extra income. With minimal startup costs—just a computer, internet connection, and free platforms like Zoom or Google Meet—you can connect with students and help them achieve their academic goals.

• Startup Cost: $0-$30 (use free tools like Zoom or Google Meet to teach).
• How to Start: Register with tutoring platforms or promote your services locally.

5. Reselling Thrifted Items

Turn your thrift store finds into cash by reselling them online. This side hustle allows you to tap into trends, such as vintage fashion or rare collectibles, and it’s highly flexible—you can work at your own pace and reinvest profits to grow your inventory. Plus, it’s environmentally friendly, as you’re giving pre-loved items a second life.

• Startup Cost: $0-$100 (use the initial budget to buy inventory).
• How to Start: List items on eBay and Poshmark and reinvest your profits to scale.

6. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking

Animal lovers can earn extra income while caring for pets. This side hustle is highly flexible, allowing you to set your own schedule, whether it’s occasional pet sitting or daily walks.

• Startup Cost: $0-$25 (create flyers or a basic profile on platforms like Rover).
• How to Start: Start by offering your services to neighbors and friends, then expand through referrals.

7. House Cleaning

With just basic cleaning supplies and a little elbow grease, you can start earning money by helping busy homeowners or small businesses maintain tidy spaces.

• Startup Cost: $20-$50 (purchase cleaning supplies).
• How to Start: Advertise locally through community boards or social media groups.

Tips for Side Hustle Success

1. Start Small: Test the waters before investing significant time or money.
2. Leverage Free Tools: Many platforms and apps offer free versions that are perfect for beginners.
3. Focus on Your Strengths: Choose a side hustle that aligns with your skills or interests.
4. Build a Network: Use social media and networking events to find clients and grow your business.

The bottom line is that starting a side hustle doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive. With as little as $100, or even less, you can take the first steps toward financial freedom and create a venture that grows with you.

Story originally featured on Forbes.com

Melissa Houston

Follow me on LinkedIn. Check out my website or some of my other work here. 

Melissa Houston, CPA is the founder of the Fractional CFO Agency, the author of Cash Confident: An Entrepreneur’s Guide to Creating a Profitable Business and the founder of She Means Profit. As a Business Strategist for small business owners, Melissa helps women making mid-career shifts, to launch their dream businesses, and also guides established business owners to grow their businesses to more profitably.

The opinions expressed in this article are not intended to replace any professional or expert accounting and/or tax advice whatsoever.

Melissa Houston, CPA covers business and personal finance impacting women entrepreneurs. 

With her CPA designation and over 20 years of practical experience, Houston is widely regarded by her expertise in financial management. Houston shares her knowledge and experience with Forbes.com readers and has done so since August 2020.

Houston works with female tech founders as a Fractional CFO through the Fractional CFO Agency, which she founded.

Houston is the international selling author of Cash Confident: An Entrepreneur’s Guide to Creating a Profitable Business, founder of She Means Profit, international speaker, and covers small business finances. Houston has worked with hundreds of small business owners to help them increase profit and make more money in their businesses.

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