30 Low-Cost Business Ideas for High School Students (Under $100)

Starting a business in high school might sound ambitious, but it is one of the most practical ways to learn by doing. Once you try to launch a venture, you realize how much is involved in taking an idea from paper to practice, from handling money to making plans and adjusting when things change. This experience lets you step into roles that high schoolers rarely have, like leading, managing, and problem-solving in real situations. Colleges notice this because it shows you are willing to move beyond routine schoolwork and take practical steps on your own. If you’re planning to apply to top colleges, that effort can set your application apart.

Why work on a startup in high school?

High school is one of the best times to try because you can start with very little. Many business ideas today can be launched with under $100. You do not need big loans, offices, or expensive equipment. All you need is a simple idea, a willingness to test it, and the patience to keep working on it. You also have the advantage of knowing what problems teenagers face. That perspective alone can give you useful and relevant business ideas.

P.S. Starting with low-cost business ideas makes sense because they are easier to test. You are not risking thousands of dollars. Instead, you get to learn and practice with very little investment, which makes the experience open to many students.

Why work on a startup now?

There has never been an easier time to experiment with business ideas than right now. Tools that used to cost a lot of money are now free or cheap. With AI apps, no-code builders, and online design platforms, you can create websites, logos, or apps without hiring anyone. There are also incubators (like Young Founders Lab) , grants, and mentorship opportunities that help teenagers try out their ideas. 

The cost of starting something has also gone down. You can try, fail, and adjust without spending much money. By the time you enter college, you will already have tested ideas, made mistakes, and figured out what it feels like to run something on your own. That kind of experience sets you apart.

To help you begin, here are 30 business ideas for high school students you can start with less than $100!

30 Low-Cost Business Ideas for High School Students (Under $100)

1. Tutoring Younger Students

If you’re strong in subjects like math, science, or English, tutoring can be a rewarding business idea. Start by helping middle schoolers or even classmates who need extra support. You can promote your services through local Facebook groups, school notice boards, or by word-of-mouth referrals. This is ideal for students who enjoy teaching and want to reinforce their own subject knowledge while earning.

Skills/tools needed – Subject knowledge, patience, communication skills, and optional Zoom/Google Meet for online sessions.

Initial costs (if any) – $0–$50 (basic stationery, online advertising)

2. Social Media Management

Small local businesses often lack the time or expertise to manage their Instagram or Facebook pages. As a student, you can step in by creating content, posting regularly, and engaging with your target audience. Start with one or two local shops or cafes and build a portfolio. Best for creative students who love social media trends and have an eye for design.

Skills/tools needed – Social media know-how, Canva/CapCut, scheduling tools like Buffer (free tiers available)

Initial costs (if any) – $10–$70 (mainly for Canva Pro or small ad boosts).

3. Pet Sitting and Dog Walking

Many pet owners look for trustworthy help to take care of their pets when they’re busy or traveling. Offering pet sitting or daily dog walking can be a great option if you love animals. You can start small in your neighborhood and expand by referrals. This idea is most suitable for responsible students who enjoy spending time with pets.

Skills/tools needed – Reliability, basic pet care knowledge, and time management.

Initial costs (if any) – $0–$40 (leashes, poop bags, flyers).

4. Handmade Jewelry or Crafts

With minimal supplies, you can create beaded jewelry, friendship bracelets, or handmade crafts and sell them on Instagram, Etsy, or at local fairs. It’s a fun way to turn creativity into income while learning how to showcase products online. This idea also helps you build early experience in branding, customer engagement, and basic e-commerce. Best for students who love DIY projects and enjoy expressing themselves through art.

Skills/tools needed – Creativity, basic jewelry-making kit, and social media for promotion.

Initial costs (if any) – $30–$80 (beads, wires, packaging).

5. Content Creation (YouTube/Blogging)

Starting a blog or YouTube channel around a niche like gaming, study tips, or fashion can be a long-term project that builds influence and income. Monetization might take time, but it’s a fantastic skill-building idea that develops storytelling, video editing, and consistency. Best for students willing to play the long game and grow an audience.

Skills/tools needed – Writing or video editing, basic SEO, Canva, and free video editing apps.

Initial costs (if any) – $0–$100 (domain + hosting for blog, or microphone/ring light for video).

6. Custom T-Shirt Printing

Design custom t-shirts with witty slogans, school spirit themes, or niche fandom references using print-on-demand services like Teespring or Redbubble. With this business, you don’t need to handle inventory or shipping. Your sole focus can be on the designs and marketing. This is a great way to blend creativity with entrepreneurship while building a portfolio of designs online. Perfect for students who enjoy experimenting with digital art and want to see their designs worn by others.

Skills/tools needed – Graphic design basics, Canva/Illustrator, online marketplace accounts.

Initial costs (if any) – $20–$60 (design software, sample shirts).

7. Lawn Care & Gardening Services

From mowing lawns to raking leaves or planting flower beds, basic yard care can be turned into a profitable local business. Homeowners often prefer affordable help from reliable teens in the neighborhood. This hands-on idea also builds responsibility and time management skills. A great pick for those who don’t mind getting their hands dirty and prefer physical work to screen time.

Skills/tools needed – Basic gardening tools, reliability, and time management.

Initial costs (if any) – $0–$80 (fuel, simple gardening tools, flyers).

8. Resume & College Application Help

Strong writers can monetize their skills by helping peers with resumes, personal statements, or college application essays. Many students look for guidance but don’t want to hire expensive consultants. This side hustle sharpens your own writing while offering support to others preparing for their future. Well-suited for detail-oriented students who enjoy coaching others through important milestones.

Skills/tools needed – Writing/editing, Google Docs/Word, attention to detail.

Initial costs (if any) – $0–$30 (templates, minimal online marketing).

9. Photography Services

Use your phone or camera to offer affordable photoshoots for birthdays, family portraits, or school events. Free or low-cost editing apps can elevate your shots, and word-of-mouth can quickly bring referrals. Over time, you can even branch into product photography for small businesses. Ideal for students who see the world through a creative lens and want to turn their hobby into income.

Skills/tools needed – Photography basics, editing apps like Lightroom or Snapseed.

Initial costs (if any) – $0–$100 (tripod, ring light, editing app subscriptions).

10. Snack & Beverage Stand

Selling homemade cookies, lemonade, or quick snacks at local events or in your neighborhood can be simple yet profitable. You’ll gain real-world lessons in pricing, presentation, and customer interaction while experimenting with recipes. Best for students who love being in the kitchen and enjoy interacting with people face-to-face.

Skills/tools needed – Basic cooking/baking skills, food safety, and marketing.

Initial costs (if any) – $40–$90 (ingredients, packaging, signage).

11. Digital Art Commissions

If you’re skilled at digital drawing or illustration, you can offer commissioned artwork for avatars, posters, or social media content. Platforms like Instagram or DeviantArt can help you showcase your portfolio, while free tools like Krita or Procreate Pocket make creating art affordable. Over time, you can branch into selling prints or stickers. This path works best for artistic students who want to monetize their talent while building a professional portfolio.

Skills/tools needed – Digital drawing skills, Procreate/Photoshop/Krita, social media presence.

Initial costs (if any) – $30–$100 (drawing tablet, premium apps).

12. Personalized Stationery & Stickers

Custom stickers, planners, or stationery items are always in demand among students and hobbyists. You can start small with printable sticker sheets using a home printer and expand into selling themed stationery bundles. Online platforms like Etsy or local art fairs are great marketplaces. A fun choice for students with a love for design and organization, who enjoy bringing small joys to everyday life.

Skills/tools needed – Basic design software, printer, paper/cutting tools.

Initial costs (if any) – $40–$90 (printer ink, sticker paper, packaging).

13. Babysitting

Parents often need trustworthy babysitters, especially for evenings or weekends. Babysitting teaches responsibility, patience, and crisis management while offering steady pay for flexible hours. If you enjoy working with kids, this can be a natural fit, and you can expand into offering homework help or fun activities for an extra edge. Great for caring and dependable students who are good at keeping younger kids engaged.

Skills/tools needed – Patience, child-care basics, first-aid knowledge (optional).

Initial costs (if any) – $0–$30 (basic first-aid course or babysitting certification if desired).

14. Car Washing Service

With a bucket, soap, and some microfiber cloth, you can set up a car washing service in your neighborhood. Offer affordable pricing compared to commercial car washes and add extras like vacuuming interiors to stand out. It’s a simple but effective way to learn customer service and earn quickly. Perfect for students who don’t mind manual work and want to earn while being active outdoors.

Skills/tools needed – Cleaning supplies, attention to detail, and reliability.

Initial costs (if any) – $20–$60 (soap, sponges, microfiber towels).

15. Tech Support for Seniors

Older adults often struggle with phones, apps, or setting up devices. You can offer affordable “tech helper” sessions in your community, teaching them how to use WhatsApp, email, or online payments. This business not only earns money but also builds patience and communication skills. Best suited to students who are tech-savvy and enjoy explaining technology in simple terms.

Skills/tools needed – Basic tech knowledge, communication skills, and patience.

Initial costs (if any) – $0–$40 (flyers, simple ad boosts).

16. Greeting Cards & Calligraphy

Handmade cards, calligraphy notes, or personalized letters can be sold for occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or festivals. Many people value the personal touch of handwritten art over mass-produced cards. You can also promote your work around holidays or wedding seasons for extra demand. A wonderful fit for students with neat handwriting, a flair for aesthetics, and a love for traditional crafts.

Skills/tools needed – Calligraphy pens, creativity, and card-making supplies.

Initial costs (if any) – $20–$70 (pens, cardstock, inks).

17. YouTube Shorts & TikTok Editing

Many small creators want to grow on TikTok or YouTube Shorts but struggle with editing. If you’re good at cutting clips, adding captions, and syncing music, you can charge for quick video edits. As your skills grow, you can move into full-scale content editing for businesses. Great for students who spend time on social platforms and already know what kind of content performs well.

Skills/tools needed – Editing tools like CapCut, InShot, or Premiere Rush.

Initial costs (if any) – $0–$50 (tripod, optional premium app).

18. House Cleaning Help

Offer light cleaning services such as dusting, vacuuming, or organizing rooms. Busy families often need extra help, and this can be arranged after school or on weekends. It’s straightforward, reliable work that teaches responsibility and respect for people’s homes. A strong option for students who prefer flexible weekend jobs and want to make a steady income without a complicated setup.

Skills/tools needed – Cleaning basics, attention to detail, reliability.

Initial costs (if any) – $10–$40 (cleaning supplies, gloves).

19. Thrift Flipping (Clothes or Books)

Buy gently used clothes, shoes, or books at thrift stores or garage sales and resell them online for a profit. Platforms like Depop, Poshmark, or local marketplaces make this easy. The key is to curate items that have a unique appeal. This idea is also eco-friendly and trendy among Gen Z. Perfect for students with a sharp eye for bargains and a taste for style or curation.

Skills/tools needed – Thrifting knowledge, photography for listings, basic sales skills.

Initial costs (if any) – $30–$100 (initial thrift purchases, packaging).

20. Music Lessons

If you play an instrument like guitar, piano, or violin, you can teach beginners in your neighborhood or online. Even short 30-minute lessons can add up to a solid income while improving your own mastery. This builds confidence, patience, and presentation skills alongside money. Well-suited for musically inclined students who want to share their passion while strengthening their craft.

Skills/tools needed – Musical ability, patience, and optional Zoom/Google Meet setup.

Initial costs (if any) – $0–$50 (sheet music, online ads, teaching aids).

21. Baking & Cake Orders

If you love baking, you can take small orders for cupcakes, cookies, or birthday cakes in your neighborhood. Start with simple items and advertise through friends and family before expanding online. Not only is this a money-maker, but it also gives you practice in time management and food presentation. Best for students who enjoy experimenting in the kitchen and want to turn their passion for baking into a small enterprise.

Skills/tools needed – Baking skills, packaging, and basic marketing.

Initial costs (if any) – $40–$90 (ingredients, packaging, basic baking tools).

22. Podcasting

Launching a podcast on topics like school life, gaming, or personal growth is an affordable way to share your voice and build an audience. Monetization may take time, but it develops skills in public speaking, editing, and consistency. With free hosting platforms, you only need a decent mic to get started. Perfect for students who enjoy storytelling and want to build confidence speaking to an audience.

Skills/tools needed – Communication, editing tools like Audacity, and a microphone.

Initial costs (if any) – $0–$80 (mic, hosting, editing software).

23. Candle Making

Homemade candles are always in demand as thoughtful gifts and cozy home décor. With simple supplies like wax, wicks, and essential oils, you can craft candles in unique shapes, colors, and scents. Selling them online or at local fairs lets you experiment with branding and presentation, whereas creative packaging makes a big difference. This idea is especially appealing to students who enjoy hands-on DIY projects and love making products that bring warmth and calm into people’s spaces.

Skills/tools needed – Candle-making kit, creativity, packaging.

Initial costs (if any) – $30–$80 (wax, oils, jars, packaging).

24. Fitness Coaching for Beginners

If you’re into fitness or sports, you can offer coaching sessions to younger students or even lead beginner workout routines in your community. This builds leadership skills while helping others develop healthy habits. Even basic knowledge of stretching, running drills, or bodyweight workouts can be enough to get started. Best for students passionate about health and sports who want to inspire others to stay active.

Skills/tools needed – Fitness knowledge, communication, consistency.

Initial costs (if any) – $0–$40 (basic equipment like skipping ropes, mats).

25. Language Tutoring

If you’re bilingual or strong in a foreign language taught at school (like French, Spanish, or Mandarin), you can teach beginners. Many parents seek affordable tutoring outside formal classes. It also sharpens your own fluency while creating income. Ideal for students who enjoy languages and want to share cultural knowledge along with practical skills.

Skills/tools needed – Language fluency, teaching ability, and online platforms.

Initial costs (if any) – $0–$30 (advertising, basic learning resources).

26. Handmade Soaps & Skincare

Natural soaps, lip balms, and scrubs can be made with simple ingredients like shea butter, oils, and molds. These products have a growing demand as people prefer handmade, chemical-free alternatives. It’s also a way to explore chemistry in practice. Ideal for students who like mixing science with creativity and want to experiment with personal care products.

Skills/tools needed – Soap-making supplies, creativity, safe handling of ingredients.

Initial costs (if any) – $40–$90 (base oils, molds, packaging).

27. Graphic Design Services

From posters and flyers to logos and social media graphics, small businesses and school clubs are always looking for affordable design help. With tools like Canva, Photoshop, or Illustrator, you can deliver professional-looking work without needing a big setup. Each project you take on helps build a portfolio that can later lead to freelance opportunities. This idea is great for students with a sharp visual sense who want to turn creativity into practical, marketable skills.

Skills/tools needed – Canva/Photoshop/Illustrator, creativity, and time management.

Initial costs (if any) – $0–$70 (design software, ad boosts).

28. Errand Running & Delivery Help

Busy families or elderly neighbors often need help with grocery runs, picking up packages, or small tasks. Offering reliable errand services locally is simple but highly valued. It’s flexible and builds responsibility while fitting into your school schedule. A good fit for dependable students who don’t mind small tasks and like helping their community.

Skills/tools needed – Organization, time management, reliability.

Initial costs (if any) – $0–$20 (bicycle or transport costs, flyers).

29. Virtual Assistant for Small Businesses

Many entrepreneurs need help with simple admin tasks like data entry, email replies, or scheduling. You can take on these jobs remotely with just a laptop and basic software. This idea builds professional skills that look great on resumes. Best for organized students who are comfortable working online and want a taste of real-world business tasks.

Skills/tools needed – Computer literacy, Excel/Google Workspace, and communication.

Initial costs (if any) – $0–$50 (Wi-Fi, basic tools).

30. Event Planning Help

Birthdays, school events, or community gatherings often need someone to coordinate decorations, playlists, or logistics. You can start by helping family and friends and gradually take on bigger gigs. It’s also a fun way to develop organizational and leadership skills. Great for students who enjoy planning, multitasking, and seeing their creative vision come to life in real events.

Skills/tools needed – Organization, creativity, and people skills.

Initial costs (if any) – $20–$70 (decor supplies, printing flyers).

One more option - Young Founders Lab

If you want more than just an idea and are serious about turning it into a real startup, you can check out the Young Founders Lab. It is an incubator program created by Harvard entrepreneurs where high school students work on building revenue-generating startups that solve real-world problems. You get guidance from mentors who have experience at companies like Google, Microsoft, and X, and you learn how to grow your idea step by step.

If you’re ready to scale your business idea beyond the basics, this program could be a strong place to start. You can access the application link here!