30 Startup Ideas for High School Students in 2025
If you’re interested in becoming an entrepreneur in the future, consider launching your own startup. Launching a startup while you are still in high school may sound challenging, but it can give you an early advantage. It teaches you leadership, creativity, and problem-solving in a way that classrooms often cannot. You also get work experience before college. Admissions officers look closely at initiative, and building something of your own that produces a product or service stands out. As a teenager, you are also in a good position to solve problems your peers face every day, which gives your ideas more relevance and a built-in audience.
You now have access to free AI tools, no-code platforms, youth-focused grants, and incubators built specifically for high schoolers, such as Young Founders Lab (YFL). These resources lower the cost of starting, making it possible to test, fail, and try again with minimal risk. Launching now means you can learn the basics of entrepreneurship early and set yourself up for bigger opportunities in college and beyond.
With that in mind, here are 30 startup ideas you can explore as a high school student in 2025!
30 Startup Ideas for High School Students in 2025
1. Eco-Friendly Packaging Solutions
You can start an eco-friendly packaging business where you design and make products like biodegradable boxes, compostable bags, or reusable wraps for local shops, cafes, and even small online sellers in your area. Many businesses are under pressure to cut plastic use, so if you give them simple and affordable alternatives, they are likely to switch. As a high school student, you’ll learn skills like product design, sales, and customer outreach.
Skills/tools needed: Basic manufacturing and materials knowledge, product design software, marketing, and sales skills
Initial costs (if any): Moderate; costs include sourcing sustainable materials and prototype creation
2. Personalized Digital Art Commissions
You can turn your art skills into a business by offering personalized digital art commissions, where you create custom portraits, logos, or social media graphics based on what clients need. Small businesses, content creators, and even friends looking for unique profile pictures often want visuals that stand out but don’t have the skills or time to make them themselves. You can start by setting up a simple page on Instagram or Etsy to showcase your work, take orders, and deliver files online.
Skills/tools needed: Digital art software (Procreate, Adobe Illustrator), client communication, social media marketing
Initial costs (if any): Low; may include software subscriptions and, optionally, a drawing tablet
3. Subscription-Based Study Guides
You can start a subscription-based study guide service where students pay monthly to access organized resources like subject-specific notes, practice tests, and study tips for classes such as math, science, or history. Many high schoolers struggle to find clear and reliable material, so if you create guides that are simple to follow and directly useful for exams, you’ll quickly find an audience. You can offer this as digital downloads through email or a website, or even build a small subscription box with printed notes if you want a physical product. Running this kind of business teaches you content creation, time management, and marketing.
Skills/tools needed: Subject expertise, writing and editing, website setup and maintenance
Initial costs (if any): Low; mainly website hosting and marketing expenses
4. Virtual Event Planning for Teens
You can start a virtual event planning service just for teens, where you organize and run online hangouts like birthday parties, trivia nights, gaming tournaments, or themed study sessions. Many students want fun ways to connect with friends without always meeting in person, so you can step in to handle the planning - making invites, setting up Zoom or Discord rooms, and choosing activities that keep everyone engaged.
Skills/tools needed: Event planning, video conferencing platforms, social media promotion
Initial costs (if any): Minimal; mainly promotional and software subscription fees
5. Upcycled Fashion Brand
You can launch an upcycled fashion brand where you take old clothes, thrift finds, or leftover fabrics and turn them into new pieces like tote bags, patched jeans, or custom jackets. Many people want affordable and sustainable options, so if you design items that feel fresh and useful, you’ll find buyers among eco-conscious teens and local shoppers. You can start small by selling through Instagram, Depop, or at school events, and grow as you build a collection.
Skills/tools needed: Sewing, fashion design, small business management
Initial costs (if any): Moderate; includes materials, sewing supplies, and marketing
6. Mobile Car Wash Service
You can start a mobile car wash service where you travel to customers’ homes or workplaces and clean their cars on-site using water-saving methods like spray bottles, eco-friendly soaps, or steam cleaners. Many people prefer the convenience of not having to drive to a car wash, and if you offer reliable service at a fair price, you can quickly build a base of regular clients. You only need basic supplies to get started, and you can promote your service through neighborhood groups, flyers, or social media.
Skills/tools/tools needed: Business operations, eco-friendly cleaning products, basic transport logistics
Initial costs (if any): Low to moderate; cleaning supplies, portable equipment, and transport costs
7. Customized 3D-Printed Accessories
You can start a customized 3D-printed accessories business where you design and create items like phone cases, jewelry, or keychains that are tailored to what each customer wants. With a 3D printer and basic modeling software, you can make products that feel unique and personal, which is something many people look for when buying gifts or everyday accessories. You can begin by taking simple orders from friends or classmates, then expand by setting up an Etsy shop or selling at local markets.
Skills/tools needed: 3D modeling software (TinkerCAD, Blender), 3D printer operation, e-commerce platforms
Initial costs (if any): Moderate to high; initial investment in a 3D printer and printing materials
8. Language Tutoring Service
You can start a language tutoring service where you teach students through video calls and focus on things like grammar practice, conversational skills, or test preparation, depending on what they need. If you’re bilingual or fluent in a second language, you can turn that into a way to help classmates, younger students, or even adults who want to learn at their own pace. You can use Zoom or Google Meet and create a simple schedule that works around school.
Skills/tools needed: Language proficiency, teaching and communication, video conferencing tools
Initial costs (if any): Minimal; internet access and platform subscriptions if needed
9. Homemade Healthy Snacks
A homemade healthy snacks business is a simple way to turn your interest in cooking into something profitable. You can make granola bars, energy bites, or dried fruit mixes in small batches and sell them at school events, farmers’ markets, or through online orders. Since many people look for quick but healthier snack options, clear labeling of ingredients and neat packaging will help your products stand out. Starting from your kitchen keeps costs low, and as more people buy, you can experiment with new flavors or bundle packs.
Skills/tools needed: Cooking and food safety knowledge, packaging design, sales, and marketing
Initial costs (if any): Low to moderate; ingredients, packaging supplies, and any required permits
10. Social Media Management for Local Businesses
Managing social media for local businesses is a service many small shops, cafes, and startups are willing to pay for, since they often don’t have time or skills to do it themselves. You could take charge of their Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok accounts, post photos or short videos, write captions, and use simple tools to track engagement and growth. Starting with one or two businesses in your neighborhood helps you build trust and a small portfolio, and as you gain results, you can pitch your services to more clients.
Skills/tools needed: Social media platforms (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok), content creation, analytics tools
Initial costs (if any): Low; mostly free or affordable software and tools
11. AI-Powered Homework Reminder
An AI-powered homework reminder app could be a useful project where you build a tool that tracks assignments and sends students timely reminders or motivational nudges based on their schedules and study habits. Even a simple version can start with features like inputting homework deadlines and getting push notifications, and later you can add smarter options like AI-generated study tips or personalized routines. Many students struggle to stay organized, so offering an easy-to-use app could gain quick interest among classmates or even schools.
Skills/tools needed: Basic AI/ML, mobile or web app development, notification APIs
Initial costs (if any): Minimal; free or low-cost development tools and hosting platforms
12. AI-Driven Mood Tracker for Teens
An AI-driven mood tracker for teens can be built as a simple app where users log how they feel each day, and the system gives back tailored suggestions like breathing exercises, journaling prompts, or short wellness tips. Over time, the app can spot patterns in mood changes and gently recommend healthier routines, helping students understand themselves better.
Skills/tools needed: NLP, app development, basics of psychology
Initial costs (if any): Minimal; accessible AI libraries and app builders
13. Sustainable Urban Gardening Kits
A sustainable urban gardening kit business lets you put together starter packs for people who live in apartments or small spaces but still want to grow their plants. Each kit could include recycled containers, soil, and easy-to-grow native seeds like herbs or vegetables that don’t need much space. You can sell them at local markets, through school fairs, or online to families and students who want a simple way to bring greenery into city living. Starting small, you could hand-assemble the kits at home and even add simple instruction cards to make them beginner-friendly.
Skills/tools needed: Horticulture knowledge, product design, marketing
Initial costs (if any): Moderate; sourcing materials and packaging
14. Customized Eco-Friendly Stationery
Customized eco-friendly stationery is a business where you create and sell items like notebooks, planners, or pens using recycled or sustainable materials, with options for buyers to personalize designs with their names, colors, or themes. Many students and small businesses prefer stationery that is both practical and environmentally responsible, so offering products that look unique while reducing waste can set you apart. You can start by sourcing recycled paper or biodegradable pens, then design covers or layouts that appeal to classmates, teachers, or local shops.
Skills/tools needed: Graphic design, product sourcing, online sales
Initial costs (if any): Moderate; eco-material procurement and production costs
15. Mobile Phone Sanitizing Service
A mobile phone sanitizing service lets you bring UV light sanitizing directly to schools, offices, or homes, helping people keep their devices clean without them having to go anywhere. You could set up short appointments or small events where you sanitize multiple phones at once, highlighting both hygiene and convenience. Starting this business requires a portable UV device and a basic schedule for bookings, and you can promote your service through social media or local community groups.
Skills/tools needed: Basic electronics, marketing, and customer scheduling
Initial costs (if any): Moderate; UV sanitizing equipment and transport
16. Virtual Art Gallery
Build a virtual art gallery that allows teen artists worldwide to showcase their work, host online exhibitions, and sell pieces through the platform. You can organize themed shows and feature new artists regularly, promoting the gallery via social media or school networks. This startup helps you learn web design, community management, and online marketing while supporting young artists.
Skills/tools needed: Web development, digital marketing, content curation
Initial costs (if any): Low; web hosting and platform setup
17. Personalized Fitness Bands
Personalized fitness bands let you create custom-branded wristbands, headbands, or even apparel for local sports teams, clubs, or school groups, giving them a way to show team spirit while staying active. You could start by offering simple designs with school colors or logos, and take orders online or at local events. Producing small batches at home or through a local print shop keeps startup costs low while you test demand.
Skills/tools needed: Product design, sourcing, marketing
Initial costs (if any): Moderate; production and inventory costs
18. Online Language Exchange Platform
Build an online language exchange platform where teens are paired to practice languages through video calls or chat, while learning about each other’s cultures. You can design a simple matching system and set up moderation tools to keep interactions safe. Running this startup develops web development, community management, and tech skills while giving teens a practical way to improve language skills globally.
Skills/tools needed: Web development, communication tools, UX/UI design
Initial costs (if any): Low; hosting and development expenses
19. Upcycled Furniture Business
Start an upcycled furniture business by taking old furniture or recycled materials and turning them into refurbished or new pieces like chairs, tables, or shelves. You can sell them locally through online marketplaces, school events, or neighborhood fairs, highlighting the eco-friendly aspect to attract buyers. Starting small allows you to experiment with designs and materials while keeping costs low.
Skills/tools needed: Woodworking, design, sales
Initial costs (if any): Moderate; tools, materials, workspace
20. Pet Walking and Care Service
Start a pet walking and care service where you help busy families by walking dogs, feeding pets, or handling basic care when they are away. You only need minimal supplies like leashes or treats, and you can begin with neighbors or relatives before expanding through word of mouth or flyers.
Skills/tools needed: Animal care, communication, time management
Initial costs (if any): Minimal; marketing and basic supplies
21. Specialty Coffee or Tea Pop-Up Stand
Create a specialty coffee or tea pop-up stand that serves unique blends, focusing on organic or locally sourced flavors. You can set up at school events, weekend markets, or seasonal festivals, using basic equipment and permits to get started. This business helps you practice customer service, food prep, and marketing while introducing people to drinks they can’t find at typical cafes.
Skills/tools needed: Food preparation, customer service, marketing
Initial costs (if any): Moderate; supplies, permits, equipment
22. Digital Resume & Portfolio Builder
Build a digital resume and portfolio service where you design clean, professional resumes and online portfolios for students applying to college, internships, or part-time jobs. You can use simple web design tools and templates to make each project look unique, and charge for either one-time setups or ongoing updates.
Skills/tools needed: Web development, graphic design, client communication
Initial costs (if any): Low; hosting and software tools
23. Local History Podcast
Start a local history podcast where you share stories about landmarks, cultural events, or notable figures from your town or region. With just a microphone, free editing software, and some research, you can produce episodes that engage both classmates and local listeners.
Skills/tools needed: Audio recording/editing, scripting, research
Initial costs (if any): Minimal; microphone and editing software
24. Custom Phone Case Design
Create a custom phone case business by designing cases with original artwork, quotes, or photos and selling them through print-on-demand services. You don’t need to handle inventory, just upload designs and take orders through platforms like Etsy or Redbubble.
Skills/tools needed: Graphic design, online sales, marketing
Initial costs (if any): Low; design software and printing costs
25. Mobile Tech Repair Service
Build a mobile tech repair service where you fix phones, tablets, and laptops for people in your community at affordable prices. You can offer basic services like screen replacements, battery swaps, or software troubleshooting, and advertise through local groups or school networks. Running this business develops hands-on technical skills and customer service while solving everyday problems that many people face.
Skills/tools needed: Electronics repair, customer service
Initial costs (if any): Moderate; tools and spare parts
26. Healthy Meal Prep Delivery
Start a healthy meal prep delivery business where you cook nutritious meals or snacks in advance and deliver them to students or local families who want convenient options. You can design weekly menus, prepare balanced portions, and package them neatly for easy pickup or delivery. Beginning with a few customers keeps costs manageable while you test recipes and improve efficiency.
Skills/tools needed: Cooking, food safety, delivery logistics
Initial costs (if any): Moderate; ingredients and packaging
27. Virtual Study Buddy App
Create a virtual study buddy app that pairs students based on subjects, schedules, and study styles so they can study together online. The app could include shared timers, progress tracking, or chat features to keep sessions productive. You can start small with a matching system and expand with extra tools as more users join.
Skills/tools needed: App development, matchmaking algorithms, UX/UI
Initial costs (if any): Low; software tools and hosting
28. Handmade Jewelry Business
Build a handmade jewelry business where you design earrings, bracelets, or necklaces using materials like beads, wire, or clay, and sell them online or at local markets. You can begin with small collections and promote them through Instagram or school events to reach your first customers. As demand grows, you can experiment with custom designs or themed collections.
Skills/tools needed: Jewelry making, sales, and marketing
Initial costs (if any): Low to moderate; materials and tools
29. Subscription Box for Teens
Start a subscription box service that delivers monthly themed packages filled with items like self-care products, art supplies, or STEM kits tailored to teen interests. You can curate affordable products, add personal touches like handwritten notes, and handle shipping through local couriers. Launching with a small test group helps you refine themes and pricing.
Skills/tools needed: Product sourcing, logistics, marketing
Initial costs (if any): Moderate; inventory and shipping
30. Personalized Digital Planners
Create personalized digital planners that you sell as downloadable files or apps, with features like goal setting, habit trackers, and custom layouts. You can design templates that fit students' needs for school or personal use and promote them through social media or platforms like Etsy. The startup requires only design tools and basic distribution channels, making it easy to scale once you’ve built a few templates.
Skills/tools needed: Graphic design, app development
Initial costs (if any): Low; software and distribution
Krishnapriya, or KP, is the Head of Partnerships at the YFL and an LSE graduate. She is super passionate about the environment (especially nonhumans with 3+ limbs) and considers walking her dogs as the most important part of her day!