100+ Small Business Ideas for High School Students

TL;DR

You'll find 106 businesses on this page across six categories, from online freelance work and pet care to tutoring, reselling, and event services. Each lists its startup cost, weekly hours, and whether it runs online or locally, so you can compare service and product ideas side by side. You can use it in any grade from 9 to 12, and 61 of the ideas start at $0, so you don't need savings to begin. When you want to grow one into a startup, Young Founders Lab pairs you with a mentor to work toward a Demo Day pitch in front of investors.

Most small businesses a high schooler can start this month need a skill you already have, a phone, and under $100. This list covers 106 of them, grouped into six types, so you can jump to the kind of work that fits your schedule, your neighborhood, and how much you want to spend.

Running even a tiny business teaches you things a class rarely does: how to price your time, how to find a first customer, and what to change when something does not sell. Each idea below lists the skills it takes, a typical startup cost, the weekly time it needs, and whether it runs locally or online.

How do you choose the right small business as a high school student?

You should pick your idea by looking at the skills you have, the time you can spare, and how much money you can use for funding.

Start with a skill you already have: If you already edit videos, bake, or ace chemistry, your first business can use that skill on day one rather than after weeks of practice. A familiar skill also makes pricing easier, since you know roughly how long the work takes you.

Match the business to your schedule: Time commitments on this list range from about 30 minutes a day for house sitting during a family's trip to full days for dog boarding in summer. Check each idea against your sports season, exams, and family commitments before you commit to an idea.

Find the customer before you spend money: Ask a few neighbors, parents, or local owners whether they would pay for your idea, and at what price. The U.S. Small Business Administration frames market research as a way to reduce risk while a business is still only an idea, which is exactly where you are. For more on where to look, read about finding your first customers.

Look for a gap, not a crowd: A smaller niche can beat a popular one. Reptile sitting and pet-friendly garden consulting, for example, face far less local competition than dog walking.

Service or product, online or local: which business type suits you?

Business type	How it works	Upfront cost	Main trade-off	Examples
Service	You trade your time and skill for money, and get paid as soon as you finish the job	Close to nothing	Your income stops whenever you stop working	Tutoring, dog walking, tech support
Product	You buy materials or inventory, then sell what you make or source	Higher, since you pay before you earn anything	You need cash and planning before your first sale	Jewelry, refinished furniture, resold sneakers
Online	You sell to customers well beyond your neighborhood, with no car needed	Usually low	You'll need a portfolio to build trust with strangers	Video editing, design, digital templates
Local	You find customers through word of mouth from people who already know you	Usually low	Your market is limited to how far you can travel	Lawn care, car washing, babysitting

How much does a small business cost to start, and what can you earn?

61 of the 106 ideas on this list can start at $0, and the most expensive start at around $300 to $700. Earnings depend on your prices, your hours, and how many customers come back.

Startup costs are lower than you might think: Most ideas here rely on tools you already own, such as a phone, a laptop, or family yard equipment. The higher-cost ideas are mostly equipment-heavy ones like drones, DJ setups, and photo booths, where renting gear first keeps your risk small. If budget is your main filter, start with these business ideas under $100.

Repeat customers drive your income: A weekly dog-walking route, a monthly social media client, or a regular aquarium cleaning plan earns more over a school year than one-off jobs. When you set prices, think about how to turn a first customer into a standing booking.

Price your time, not just your materials: Handmade goods and custom design work take hours, so a price that only covers supplies can leave you working for almost nothing. Track how long each order takes, then adjust using this guide on how to price your products.

Plan for taxes once you earn more: Under IRS guidance for the self-employed, you generally need to file a federal tax return once your net self-employment earnings reach $400 in a year. Keep receipts and records from your first sale so filing is simple.

How can you start a small business in high school?

You can start a small business in high school by testing one idea with one paying customer, then adding structure once that first sale shows people want what you offer. When you're ready for the full process, follow this step-by-step guide to starting a small business as a teen.

Test with one customer first: Offer your service to a neighbor or family friend at a fair price and ask for honest feedback. One completed job teaches you more about pricing and time than a week of planning.

Bring a parent or guardian in early: Payment apps, online store accounts, and client agreements usually need an adult involved if you are under 18. Asking at the start avoids frozen accounts later, and you can read more about starting a business under 18.

Check permits before you scale: According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, licensing and permit requirements vary depending on the type of business you are operating, where it's located, and what government rules apply. Food sales, home-based businesses, and anything with equipment are the most common places these rules come up.

Protect your school hours: Set fixed business hours and turn down work that clashes with exams. A smaller business you can sustain beats a bigger one you burn out on.

Get a mentor when you want to grow: If you want to turn a small business into a startup with a tested business model and a pitch, Young Founders Lab pairs you with mentors from firms including Harvard Business School, McKinsey, Google, and Microsoft over several weeks of live workshops, ending in a Demo Day pitch to investors and founders.

How we chose these business ideas

Every idea on this list had to be something a high school student can start legally, with skills you can build quickly and a starting cost most families can cover.

• Startup cost: Each entry gives a typical range for starting small, not a quote, so you can compare ideas on the same footing.

• Weekly time commitment: Hours are sized around a school week, with seasonal ideas marked so you know when demand peaks.

• Where it runs: Each idea is labeled local, online, or both, so you can filter by whether you have transport.

• Skills and tools: Each entry lists what you need before your first customer, with no assumption of prior business experience.

Section	Top ideas	Startup cost	Best for
Online, tech & freelance services	Social media management, short-form video editing, website design for local businesses, copywriting, UGC creator	$0 to $200	Students without a car who want to sell a skill from a laptop or phone
Pet business ideas	Pet sitting and dog walking, dog daycare and home boarding, pet photography, pet care subscription boxes, homemade pet treats	$0 to $250	Animal lovers who want repeat customers and steady weekly bookings
Home, yard & neighborhood services	Lawn, yard and snow care, car washing and detailing, babysitting, house cleaning and organizing, pressure washing	$0 to $400	Students who want the quickest route to a first paying customer on their own street
Tutoring, lessons & coaching	Academic tutoring, coding lessons for kids, music lessons, youth sports coaching, standardized test prep	$0 to $300	Students who are strong in a subject, instrument, or sport and want to turn it into hourly income
Handmade, food & reselling	Print-on-demand merchandise, thrift and vintage reselling, handmade jewelry, homemade baked goods, furniture flipping	$0 to $400	Students who would rather sell a product than their time, from designers and crafters to treasure hunters
Creative, photography & event services	Photography services, event planning, DJ for small events, photo booth rental, drone photography	$0 to $700	Students who want seasonal, event-driven work around parties, graduations, and school dances

Online, Tech & Freelance Services

These 23 businesses run from a laptop or phone and sell a skill rather than a product. They suit students without a car, and most can start this week with free tools.

1. Social Media Management for Local Businesses

Skills/tools needed: Canva, Instagram and TikTok, a scheduling tool like Buffer
Startup cost: $0 to $20
Time commitment: 3 to 6 hours a week per client
Where it runs: Online, with local clients

Plenty of cafes, salons, and shops post rarely because nobody on staff has time. You plan their posts, write captions, and keep their pages active, usually for a flat monthly fee per business. Starting with one or two nearby owners gives you results you can show the next client.

Who it's best for: A student who already understands what gets attention on short-form platforms and is comfortable pitching an adult business owner face to face.

2. Tech Support and Device Setup

Skills/tools needed: Patience, general troubleshooting, familiarity with phones, laptops, and smart-home devices
Startup cost: $0
Time commitment: 2 to 5 hours a week, often weekends
Where it runs: Local, in clients' homes, or remote via screen sharing

Older neighbors and busy families pay for someone patient to set up a new phone, fix a printer, or connect a smart speaker. Word of mouth does most of the marketing, since one happy client tends to tell three friends. You can add fitness-tracker setup or photo organization as extra services.

Who it's best for: A calm explainer who enjoys fixing small problems and does not mind repeating the same step three times.

3. Short-Form Video Editing

Skills/tools needed: CapCut or Premiere Pro, a sense of pacing and trends
Startup cost: $0 to $30
Time commitment: 4 to 8 hours a week
Where it runs: Online

Creators and small businesses record long videos and need them cut into Reels, Shorts, and TikToks. You trim, caption, and pace each clip so the first seconds hold attention. Monthly packages of a set number of clips give you steadier income than one-off jobs.

Who it's best for: A student who already edits their own videos for fun and can hit a creator's posting deadline every week.

4. Website Design for Local Businesses

Skills/tools needed: Wix, Squarespace, or WordPress, basic layout sense
Startup cost: $0 to $30
Time commitment: 5 to 10 hours per site
Where it runs: Online, with local clients

Many small restaurants and service providers still have no site, or one that breaks on a phone. You build clean pages with hours, services, and contact details using drag-and-drop tools, no coding required. Charging for setup plus a small monthly update fee keeps clients coming back.

Who it's best for: A detail-oriented student who likes visual design more than writing code and can explain choices to a non-technical owner.

5. Content Repurposing Service

Skills/tools needed: Writing, Canva, knowledge of LinkedIn, Instagram, and X formats
Startup cost: $0
Time commitment: 3 to 6 hours a week per client
Where it runs: Online

Podcasters and bloggers produce one long piece and rarely have time to reshape it. You turn each episode or article into posts, carousels, and quote graphics for other platforms. This business-to-business service often becomes a recurring monthly contract.

Who it's best for: A strong summarizer who can pull the three best points from an hour of content quickly.

6. Graphics for Streamers and YouTubers

Skills/tools needed: Photoshop or Canva, an understanding of gaming and creator culture
Startup cost: $0 to $20
Time commitment: 2 to 6 hours a week
Where it runs: Online

New streamers want overlays, emotes, banners, and thumbnails that make a channel look professional. You design these assets to match a creator's style and deliver files ready to upload. Fast turnaround matters most, since creators who post often need thumbnails on short notice.

Who it's best for: A student who watches a lot of streams or YouTube and already notices which thumbnails make them click.

7. UGC Creator for Brands

Skills/tools needed: A smartphone, basic lighting, storytelling on camera
Startup cost: $0 to $40 (a ring light helps)
Time commitment: 3 to 6 hours a week
Where it runs: Online

Brands pay creators for authentic-looking product videos they can use in ads, and you do not need a large following to do it. You build a small portfolio by filming products you already own, then pitch brands directly. Each video trains your skills in hooks, scripting, and editing.

Who it's best for: A student comfortable on camera who would rather make content for brands than grow a personal audience.

8. Copywriting and Content Writing

Skills/tools needed: Clear writing, Google Docs, basic SEO
Startup cost: $0
Time commitment: 3 to 8 hours a week
Where it runs: Online

Small businesses need blog posts, product descriptions, captions, and newsletter copy, and many will pay a student with good samples. You start by writing a few mock pieces, then pitch local businesses or freelance platforms. Writing that sells is a skill you can charge more for as you improve.

Who it's best for: A student who gets good grades on essays and can adapt their voice to sound like someone else's brand.

9. Resume and LinkedIn Profile Writing

Skills/tools needed: Writing, Canva or Google Docs templates, attention to formatting
Startup cost: $0
Time commitment: 1 to 2 hours per client
Where it runs: Online or local

Classmates applying for jobs and internships often struggle to describe their experience. You turn scattered activities into a clean one-page resume and a matching LinkedIn profile. Busy seasons are late winter and spring, when summer job applications open.

Who it's best for: A student who is good at asking questions and turning someone's rambling answer into one strong bullet point.

10. Mobile Tech Repair

Skills/tools needed: Repair kits, online repair guides, steady hands
Startup cost: $50 to $200 (tools and spare parts)
Time commitment: 3 to 6 hours a week
Where it runs: Local

Screen replacements, battery swaps, and virus cleanups are expensive at repair shops. You learn common fixes from tutorials, start with family devices, and charge less than a store. Always get the owner's written okay before opening a device, since mistakes can void warranties.

Who it's best for: A student who has already taken apart their own gadgets and enjoys hands-on precision work.

11. Freelance Graphic Design

Skills/tools needed: Canva, Figma, or Illustrator, a small portfolio
Startup cost: $0 to $20
Time commitment: 3 to 8 hours a week
Where it runs: Online or local

Clubs, local businesses, and event organizers need logos, flyers, and social graphics. You start with school clubs to build a portfolio, then take paid work. Packaging logo, colors, and templates into a starter kit lets you charge more per client.

Who it's best for: A student with a good visual eye who can take feedback on a design without taking it personally.

12. Virtual Assistant

Skills/tools needed: Google Workspace, Trello or Notion, organization
Startup cost: $0
Time commitment: 4 to 10 hours a week
Where it runs: Online

Small business owners hand off email sorting, scheduling, research, and data entry to someone reliable. You work remotely, often in set weekly hours that fit around school. Check local age and work rules before taking on clients, since some tasks count as employment.

Who it's best for: A highly organized student who likes checklists and replies to messages quickly.

13. Podcast Editing

Skills/tools needed: Audacity or Descript, good headphones
Startup cost: $0 to $50
Time commitment: 2 to 4 hours per episode
Where it runs: Online

Podcasters need noise removed, ums cut, and intros and music added before each episode goes live. Weekly shows give you predictable recurring work. You can add show notes or short audio clips for social media as upsells.

Who it's best for: A patient listener with a good ear who does not mind working through long recordings.

14. Voiceover Services

Skills/tools needed: A clear speaking voice, a quiet space, a decent USB microphone
Startup cost: $0 to $60
Time commitment: 2 to 5 hours a week
Where it runs: Online

Small creators and businesses need narration for videos, ads, and explainers. You record short demo clips in different tones and share them on freelance platforms or directly with clients. A quiet closet lined with clothes works as a starter recording booth.

Who it's best for: A student with drama, debate, or choir experience who is comfortable hearing their own recorded voice.

15. Event Invitation Design

Skills/tools needed: Canva, typography, print setup basics
Startup cost: $0 to $20
Time commitment: 1 to 3 hours per order
Where it runs: Online or local

Families planning birthdays, graduations, and showers want invitations that match a theme. You design digital or printable cards and offer a few matching extras like menus or thank-you notes. Themed template collections let you fill repeat orders faster.

Who it's best for: A student who loves stationery and party themes and can work to a tight date.

16. Presentation Design

Skills/tools needed: Google Slides, PowerPoint, or Canva, visual storytelling
Startup cost: $0
Time commitment: 2 to 5 hours per deck
Where it runs: Online

Students pitching business ideas, clubs presenting to sponsors, and small businesses all need slides that look polished. You restructure content and design clean layouts. Showing a before-and-after slide is the quickest way to win a client.

Who it's best for: A student who is the one friends ask to fix their group project slides.

17. YouTube Channel Management

Skills/tools needed: YouTube Studio, basic SEO, thumbnail tools
Startup cost: $0
Time commitment: 4 to 8 hours a week per channel
Where it runs: Online

Creators who make good videos often neglect titles, descriptions, uploads, and comments. You handle the back end so they can focus on filming, tracking views and retention to show your impact. Ongoing monthly management gives you steady income.

Who it's best for: A student who enjoys analytics dashboards as much as the videos themselves.

18. Photo Editing and Retouching

Skills/tools needed: Lightroom, Photoshop, or Snapseed
Startup cost: $0 to $15 a month
Time commitment: 3 to 6 hours a week
Where it runs: Online

Photographers often outsource color correction and batch edits after big shoots. You build a consistent editing style and offer fast turnaround. Your own preset packs can become a second product to sell.

Who it's best for: A student with a sharp eye for color who can work through hundreds of photos without losing consistency.

19. Scriptwriting for Videos

Skills/tools needed: Writing, an understanding of hooks and pacing
Startup cost: $0
Time commitment: 2 to 5 hours a week
Where it runs: Online

Creators know what they want to say but struggle to structure it. You write scripts for Reels, YouTube videos, and short ads with a strong opening line and a clear call to action. Published videos made from your scripts become your portfolio.

Who it's best for: A storyteller who studies why certain videos hold attention and can write in someone else's voice.

20. Digital Scrapbooking

Skills/tools needed: Canva or Photoshop, layout design
Startup cost: $0
Time commitment: 2 to 4 hours per project
Where it runs: Online

Families have thousands of phone photos and few ways to turn them into keepsakes. You design digital scrapbooks for birthdays, graduations, and anniversaries, with captions and themed layouts. Graduation season brings the most orders.

Who it's best for: A sentimental, organized student who enjoys arranging photos into a story.

21. Basic Animation

Skills/tools needed: Canva, Animaker, or Adobe Express animation tools
Startup cost: $0 to $20
Time commitment: 3 to 6 hours per video
Where it runs: Online

Small businesses and educators want short animated explainers and social clips. Beginner-friendly tools let you produce motion graphics without advanced software. Packages of several short clips make pricing simple for clients.

Who it's best for: A student who likes both drawing and editing and has patience for frame-by-frame detail.

22. E-book Design and Formatting

Skills/tools needed: Canva, Google Docs, Kindle and PDF formatting basics
Startup cost: $0
Time commitment: 3 to 8 hours per book
Where it runs: Online

Independent writers and small businesses create guides and books but need clean layouts before publishing. You handle fonts, spacing, images, and export formats. Fewer freelancers offer this than general design, which makes it easier to stand out.

Who it's best for: A student who notices typos and uneven spacing that other people miss.

23. Translation Services

Skills/tools needed: Fluency in two or more languages, Google Docs, Grammarly
Startup cost: $0
Time commitment: 2 to 5 hours a week
Where it runs: Online or local

Students, families, and small businesses need short documents, captions, and flyers translated accurately. You price by word or page and avoid legal or medical documents, which need certified translators. Local community groups are a good first source of clients.

Who it's best for: A bilingual student who switches between languages at home and wants to use that skill for income.

Pet Business Ideas

Pet owners pay reliably and rebook often, which makes these 20 ideas some of the fastest ways to build repeat customers. Most need little more than time, trust, and a few supplies.

24. Pet Sitting and Dog Walking

Skills/tools needed: Reliability, basic animal handling, a leash and waste bags
Startup cost: $0 to $20
Time commitment: 3 to 10 hours a week
Where it runs: Local

Busy and traveling owners need walks, feeding, and check-ins while they are away. Recurring weekly walk packages give you predictable income around school. Specializing in cats or in vacation coverage helps you stand out from other sitters.

Who it's best for: A dependable student who lives in a dog-heavy neighborhood and can commit to the same times every week.

25. Pet Grooming and Mobile Pet Washing

Skills/tools needed: Brushing and bathing technique, a portable tub, pet-safe shampoo
Startup cost: $50 to $150
Time commitment: 3 to 6 hours a week
Where it runs: Local, at clients' homes

Groomers often have long waitlists, and many owners would rather not drive a nervous dog across town. You bring baths and brush-outs to the driveway, starting with basic maintenance rather than haircuts. Shadowing a professional groomer first builds skill and confidence.

Who it's best for: A student who stays calm with wriggly animals and does not mind getting wet.

26. Homemade Pet Treats

Skills/tools needed: Baking, pet-safe recipes, simple packaging
Startup cost: $30 to $60
Time commitment: 2 to 4 hours a week in batches
Where it runs: Local markets and online orders

Dog and cat treats made from a few safe ingredients sell well at farmers markets and to neighbors. Always avoid ingredients that are toxic to pets, such as chocolate, grapes, and xylitol, and list every ingredient on the label. Check your state's rules on selling pet food before scaling up.

Who it's best for: A student who already bakes and wants a product that can be made on weekends.

27. Pet Training Assistance

Skills/tools needed: Basic obedience methods, patience, treats and a clicker
Startup cost: $0 to $30
Time commitment: 2 to 5 hours a week
Where it runs: Local

First-time owners often need help teaching sit, stay, and come. You practice with family and friends' dogs, then offer short weekly sessions using positive reinforcement. Leave aggression cases to certified trainers.

Who it's best for: A student who has trained their own dog and enjoys coaching people as much as animals.

28. Pet Party Planning

Skills/tools needed: Event planning, decorating, pet-safe snack knowledge
Startup cost: $30 to $80
Time commitment: 3 to 5 hours per party
Where it runs: Local

Pet birthdays and adoption anniversaries are a growing celebration niche. You plan themed decorations, games for pets and people, and treat bags. Photos from each party become your best marketing on social media.

Who it's best for: A creative planner who loves both parties and animals and can manage a noisy room.

29. Custom Pet Portraits

Skills/tools needed: Drawing or digital art, Procreate or paints
Startup cost: $0 to $50
Time commitment: 2 to 6 hours per portrait
Where it runs: Online

Owners send a photo and you create a hand-drawn or digital portrait of their pet. Gift seasons like the winter holidays drive most orders. Offering prints, stickers, or phone wallpapers from the same artwork adds extra sales.

Who it's best for: An artist who can capture a specific animal's personality, not just a generic dog.

30. Handmade Pet Accessories

Skills/tools needed: Crochet, sewing, embroidery, or painting
Startup cost: $20 to $60
Time commitment: 3 to 6 hours a week
Where it runs: Online and local markets

Collars, bandanas, bow ties, costumes, and personalized leashes all sell as handmade items. Customization with names or colors lets you charge more than store-bought versions. Halloween is the peak season for pet costumes.

Who it's best for: A crafter who already sews or crochets and wants a product line that is easy to photograph.

31. Aquarium Setup and Maintenance

Skills/tools needed: Fishkeeping experience, water-testing kits
Startup cost: $20 to $50
Time commitment: 2 to 4 hours a week
Where it runs: Local

New fish owners need help choosing and setting up tanks, and existing owners dread cleaning them. You offer initial setup plus a monthly cleaning plan that turns one-time customers into regulars.

Who it's best for: A student who keeps fish at home and understands water chemistry.

32. Homemade Pet Toys

Skills/tools needed: Crafting with rope, cotton, felt, or untreated wood
Startup cost: $20 to $50
Time commitment: 2 to 4 hours a week
Where it runs: Online and local markets

Many owners want durable, plastic-free toys for their pets. You design simple, sturdy toys and sell them with an eco-friendly angle. Test every design for choking hazards before selling it.

Who it's best for: A hands-on maker who cares about sustainability and has a pet to test products on.

33. Reptile and Exotic Pet Sitting

Skills/tools needed: Experience with reptiles, birds, or small mammals
Startup cost: $0
Time commitment: 2 to 5 hours a week
Where it runs: Local

Most pet sitters will not handle snakes, lizards, or birds, so owners struggle to find cover when they travel. This niche has very little competition. You follow each owner's feeding and heat-lamp instructions exactly.

Who it's best for: A student who owns an exotic pet and is confident with specialized care routines.

34. Pet Care Subscription Boxes

Skills/tools needed: Product sourcing, packaging, a simple online store
Startup cost: $100 to $250
Time commitment: 4 to 8 hours a month
Where it runs: Online, local delivery or shipping

Owners subscribe to monthly boxes of treats, toys, and care products chosen for their pet. A short survey lets you tailor each box. Recurring subscriptions are the easiest pet business to scale.

Who it's best for: An organized student interested in e-commerce who can manage inventory and shipping on schedule.

35. Bird Feeder Installation and Refilling

Skills/tools needed: Basic tools, ladder safety, birdseed knowledge
Startup cost: $30 to $80
Time commitment: 2 to 4 hours a week
Where it runs: Local

Bird-watching neighbors, especially older ones, want feeders installed, cleaned, and kept full. You offer setup plus a recurring refill route. It is low-cost, quiet, outdoor work.

Who it's best for: A nature lover in a suburban area with lots of gardens and older homeowners.

36. Pet Care Blog

Skills/tools needed: Writing, a free blogging platform, basic SEO
Startup cost: $0 to $50
Time commitment: 2 to 4 hours a week
Where it runs: Online

A blog on training, care routines, and product reviews can earn through affiliate links and sponsorships over time. Expect months of consistent posting before income arrives. Writing about one species or breed helps you rank faster.

Who it's best for: A patient writer with deep knowledge of one kind of pet who is happy to play a long game.

37. Pet Taxi

Skills/tools needed: A driver's license (or a parent driver), crates, scheduling
Startup cost: $30 to $100
Time commitment: 3 to 6 hours a week
Where it runs: Local

Working owners cannot always get pets to vet visits, groomers, or daycare. You handle transport, care, and communication along the way. Check insurance coverage with your family before driving clients' animals.

Who it's best for: An older student with a license and a flexible afternoon schedule.

38. Pet Social Media Management

Skills/tools needed: Instagram and TikTok, photo and video editing
Startup cost: $0
Time commitment: 2 to 5 hours a week per client
Where it runs: Online

Pet accounts and local pet businesses like groomers and shops need regular content. You shoot, edit, and post to grow their following. Local pet businesses often become monthly retainer clients.

Who it's best for: A student who already follows pet influencers and knows what makes animal content shareable.

39. Dog Daycare and Home Boarding

Skills/tools needed: A safe, fenced space, animal care experience, a parent's approval
Startup cost: $50 to $150
Time commitment: Full days, best in summer
Where it runs: Local, at your home

Working owners pay for daytime care, and travelers pay for overnight stays in a calm home instead of a crowded kennel. Start with one or two dogs at a time, and check local rules and insurance before boarding.

Who it's best for: A student with a yard, a supportive household, and a summer schedule that is wide open.

40. Pet Photography

Skills/tools needed: A good camera or phone, patience, editing apps
Startup cost: $0 to $100
Time commitment: 2 to 5 hours per shoot
Where it runs: Local

Pets are hard to photograph well, which is exactly why owners pay for it. You offer portrait sessions, birthday shoots, and coverage at adoption events or dog shows. Squeaky toys and treats are your most important equipment.

Who it's best for: A photographer who stays patient through 200 shots to get one perfect frame.

41. Natural Pet Shampoo and Paw Balm

Skills/tools needed: Ingredient research, small-batch production, labeling
Startup cost: $50 to $120
Time commitment: 3 to 5 hours a week
Where it runs: Online and local markets

Owners increasingly look for gentle, non-toxic grooming products. You research pet-safe ingredients and make shampoos and balms in small batches. Check your state's labeling rules for pet care products before selling.

Who it's best for: A science-minded student who enjoys researching ingredients and testing formulas carefully.

42. Pet-Friendly Garden Consulting

Skills/tools needed: Knowledge of plants toxic to pets, research skills
Startup cost: $0
Time commitment: 1 to 2 hours per consult
Where it runs: Local

Many common plants, such as lilies and sago palms, are dangerous to pets. You walk new pet owners through their yard, flag risky plants, and suggest safe replacements. Almost no one offers this service locally.

Who it's best for: A student who gardens and likes giving practical, research-backed advice.

43. Pet Loss Memorial Products

Skills/tools needed: Crafting or art, empathy, custom-order communication
Startup cost: $30 to $80
Time commitment: 2 to 4 hours per order
Where it runs: Online and local

Grieving owners want keepsakes like painted stones, framed portraits, or paw-print memory boxes. This niche needs gentle, respectful communication as much as craft skill. Partnering with local vets can bring referrals.

Who it's best for: A compassionate maker who can handle emotional conversations with care.

Home, Yard & Neighborhood Services

These 19 services sell to the people on your street. They are the quickest route to a first paying customer, and several peak in summer or winter when families need extra hands.

44. Lawn, Yard, and Snow Care

Skills/tools needed: Family mower or rake, shovels, time management
Startup cost: $0 to $50 if using family equipment
Time commitment: 3 to 8 hours a week, seasonal
Where it runs: Local

Mowing in summer, leaves in fall, and snow in winter give you a year-round rotation with the same clients. Lock in weekly customers before each season starts so you are not hunting for work mid-season. Always follow mower safety rules and get a parent's okay on equipment.

Who it's best for: A student who likes physical outdoor work and wants the same few clients all year.

45. Car Washing and Detailing

Skills/tools needed: Buckets, microfiber towels, a vacuum, eco-friendly soap
Startup cost: $50 to $120
Time commitment: 1 to 2 hours per car
Where it runs: Local, in clients' driveways

People like clean cars but hate waiting at a car wash. You come to them and offer tiers from a basic wash to full interior detailing. Before-and-after photos are the best way to justify premium pricing.

Who it's best for: A detail-obsessed student who does not mind hard work on a weekend morning.

46. House Cleaning and Organizing

Skills/tools needed: Cleaning supplies, organizing systems, attention to detail
Startup cost: $20 to $60
Time commitment: 2 to 4 hours per job
Where it runs: Local

Busy families pay for help cleaning rooms, clearing out garages, or organizing closets and pantries. Organizing projects often pay more than routine cleaning, and before-and-after photos sell the next job.

Who it's best for: A student who finds decluttering satisfying and works well without supervision.

47. Errands and Personal Shopping

Skills/tools needed: Reliability, a bike or car, a phone for coordination
Startup cost: $0 to $20
Time commitment: 2 to 6 hours a week
Where it runs: Local

Older neighbors and busy parents need groceries picked up, packages mailed, and prescriptions collected. A bike-only local route works if you do not drive yet. Clear receipts and quick texts build the trust that keeps clients coming back.

Who it's best for: A well-organized student who answers messages fast and knows their neighborhood well.

48. Holiday Decorating Setup and Takedown

Skills/tools needed: Ladder safety, an eye for design, a helper
Startup cost: $0 to $30
Time commitment: 3 to 5 hours per house, seasonal
Where it runs: Local

Homeowners love lit-up houses but dread climbing ladders in the cold. You charge a flat fee to install lights and yard decorations, then another to take them down. Book takedown at the same time as setup to double each job.

Who it's best for: A student comfortable with heights who wants a short, intense winter business.

49. Garden Weeding and Plant Care

Skills/tools needed: Basic gardening knowledge, gloves, a trowel
Startup cost: $10 to $30
Time commitment: 2 to 5 hours a week
Where it runs: Local

Many families let gardens go in summer heat. You offer weekly weeding, watering, and deadheading visits. Recurring weekly visits turn a few neighbors into a steady summer income.

Who it's best for: A student who enjoys plants and quiet, solo outdoor work.

50. Pool Cleaning and Check-Ins

Skills/tools needed: Skimmers, water-testing kits, basic chemical knowledge
Startup cost: $30 to $80
Time commitment: 1 hour per pool visit
Where it runs: Local

Skimming, vacuuming, and testing chemicals is a chore many pool owners gladly outsource. Pool work often pays more per hour than lawn care. Learn chemical safety carefully and let adults handle any strong chemicals.

Who it's best for: A careful student in a neighborhood with lots of backyard pools.

51. Pressure Washing Driveways and Patios

Skills/tools needed: A rented or borrowed pressure washer, safety goggles
Startup cost: $50 to $100 in rentals
Time commitment: 2 to 4 hours per job
Where it runs: Local

Driveways, decks, and patios show dramatic before-and-after results, which makes this easy to sell door to door. One Saturday can cover several houses on the same street. Learn safe pressure settings to avoid damaging wood or siding.

Who it's best for: A student who likes visible results and can safely handle loud, powerful equipment.

52. House and Plant Sitting for Travelers

Skills/tools needed: Reliability, a checklist, a nearby location
Startup cost: $0
Time commitment: 30 minutes a day during trips
Where it runs: Local

Traveling families need mail collected, plants watered, lawns mowed, and houses made to look lived-in. Bundling house, plant, and pet checks into one service raises the price of each visit.

Who it's best for: A trustworthy student whose neighbors already know them and their family.

53. Meal Prep for Busy Families

Skills/tools needed: Cooking, food safety, weekly planning
Startup cost: $30 to $80
Time commitment: 4 to 6 hours a week
Where it runs: Local

Working parents pay for simple, ready-to-heat meals or organized grocery runs. You plan a short weekly menu, cook in batches, and deliver or offer pickup. Check your state's home food rules before selling cooked meals.

Who it's best for: A confident home cook who can follow food safety rules without shortcuts.

54. Beach and Lake Gear Rental

Skills/tools needed: Kayaks, paddleboards, or beach chairs, a booking system
Startup cost: $100 to $400 (family gear lowers this)
Time commitment: Weekends in summer
Where it runs: Local, near water

Visitors often want gear for a day without buying it. You rent out equipment near a busy beach or lake. This business only exists in summer, so a family with gear already has a head start.

Who it's best for: A student who lives near a tourist beach or lake and already owns water gear.

55. Local Walking or Bike Tour Guide

Skills/tools needed: Local history knowledge, public speaking, a route plan
Startup cost: $0 to $30
Time commitment: 2 to 4 hours per tour
Where it runs: Local

Visitors want a local's view of their town. You research landmarks and stories and run small group walks or rides. A single well-planned route can be repeated all summer.

Who it's best for: A talkative history buff in a town with steady summer visitors.

56. Vacation Rental Turnover Cleaning

Skills/tools needed: Fast, thorough cleaning, a checklist, reliable scheduling
Startup cost: $30 to $60
Time commitment: 2 to 3 hours per turnover
Where it runs: Local

Short-term rental hosts need spotless turnovers between guests, often on tight same-day windows. Hosts who find a reliable cleaner tend to book them all season. Team up with a friend to handle larger homes.

Who it's best for: A fast, reliable worker in an area with lots of short-term rentals.

57. Babysitting

Skills/tools needed: Childcare experience, CPR and first aid training, activity ideas
Startup cost: $0 to $100 for a CPR and first aid course
Time commitment: 3 to 10 hours a week
Where it runs: Local

Parents always need trusted sitters for evenings, weekends, and school breaks. A certification course from a group like the Red Cross makes parents far more comfortable hiring you. Referrals between families will grow your schedule quickly.

Who it's best for: A patient, responsible student who genuinely enjoys spending time with young kids.

58. Moving and Hauling Help

Skills/tools needed: Strength, teamwork, a family truck or trailer (optional)
Startup cost: $0 to $40 (dollies, straps)
Time commitment: 3 to 6 hours per job
Where it runs: Local

Families moving house, college students moving out, and neighbors clearing yard waste all need extra hands. Working as a pair or small crew makes bigger jobs possible and safer.

Who it's best for: A physically strong student with a couple of friends who can work as a team.

59. Holiday Gift Wrapping

Skills/tools needed: Neat wrapping, ribbons and paper, time management
Startup cost: $30 to $60
Time commitment: Busy for 3 to 4 weeks in December
Where it runs: Local, or a stand near local shops

Busy shoppers pay to hand off wrapping during the holiday rush. You offer home pickup or set up near local stores with permission. Themed wrapping styles let you charge more per gift.

Who it's best for: A tidy, crafty student who wants a short, festive seasonal business.

60. Bike Repair and Tune-Ups

Skills/tools needed: A bike tool kit, repair tutorials, a pump
Startup cost: $40 to $100
Time commitment: 2 to 5 hours a week
Where it runs: Local

Flat tires, slipping chains, and squeaky brakes are simple fixes that many riders avoid. You offer basic tune-ups for neighbors and classmates. Spring is the busiest season, when bikes come out of garages.

Who it's best for: A student who already maintains their own bike and enjoys mechanical problem-solving.

61. Native Plant Landscaping

Skills/tools needed: Knowledge of local native plants, gardening tools
Startup cost: $20 to $60
Time commitment: 3 to 6 hours per project
Where it runs: Local

More homeowners want low-water yards that support bees and birds. You help plan and plant native gardens in place of high-maintenance lawn. Local extension offices publish free native plant lists you can build your recommendations on.

Who it's best for: An environmentally minded student who enjoys planning and digging in equal measure.

62. Home Workout Equipment Rental

Skills/tools needed: Durable equipment like dumbbells, bands, and mats, a booking form
Startup cost: $100 to $250
Time commitment: 1 to 3 hours a week
Where it runs: Local

Some people want to try home workouts without buying gear. You rent out equipment weekly or monthly, earning repeat income from a one-time purchase. Cleaning every item between rentals keeps customers trusting you.

Who it's best for: A fitness-minded student who is organized about tracking what is rented and to whom.

Tutoring, Lessons & Coaching Businesses

If you are strong at a subject, instrument, sport, or skill, these 16 businesses turn it into hourly income. Younger students and their parents are the main customers, and most sessions run after school or on weekends.

63. Academic Tutoring

Skills/tools needed: Subject strength, patience, Zoom or an in-person space
Startup cost: $0 to $20
Time commitment: 2 to 8 hours a week
Where it runs: Local or online

Parents regularly look for tutors who can explain homework in a way their kids relate to. You tutor students a few grades younger in subjects you have aced, one-on-one or in small groups. Recruiting a few classmates to form a tutoring co-op lets you cover more subjects and take more clients. Our guide on how to start a tutoring business as a student walks through niche, pricing, and first clients.

Who it's best for: A student with top grades in one or two subjects who enjoys explaining things more than one way.

64. Coding Lessons for Kids

Skills/tools needed: Scratch, Python basics, a laptop
Startup cost: $0
Time commitment: 2 to 5 hours a week
Where it runs: Local or online

Parents see coding as a future skill and want someone who makes it fun. You teach beginners through games and small projects, or run a small group coding camp during school breaks. You only need to be a few steps ahead of your students.

Who it's best for: A student who codes as a hobby and can keep an eight-year-old engaged for an hour.

65. Youth Sports Coaching

Skills/tools needed: Skill in a sport, drills, basic equipment
Startup cost: $0 to $50
Time commitment: 2 to 6 hours a week
Where it runs: Local

Team practices focus on the group, so parents pay for one-on-one work on shooting, batting, or footwork. You run private or small-group sessions at a local park or court. Summer camps and clinics often need extra junior coaches too.

Who it's best for: A varsity-level athlete who enjoys mentoring younger players.

66. Music Lessons

Skills/tools needed: Instrument or voice proficiency, lesson plans
Startup cost: $0 to $30
Time commitment: 2 to 6 hours a week
Where it runs: Local or online

Many families want to test whether a child likes an instrument before paying for a professional teacher. Your lower rate makes you the natural first step. You can teach from home, at a student's house, or over video.

Who it's best for: A student with several years of lessons behind them who can break a song into simple steps.

67. Language Tutoring and Conversation Practice

Skills/tools needed: Fluency in a second language, conversation prompts
Startup cost: $0
Time commitment: 2 to 5 hours a week
Where it runs: Local or online

Learners often struggle most with speaking confidently. You offer grammar help, test prep, or relaxed conversation sessions for younger students and adult beginners. Conversation practice needs no formal curriculum, which makes it easy to start.

Who it's best for: A bilingual student who is patient with mistakes and enjoys casual conversation.

68. Fitness Classes and Coaching

Skills/tools needed: Fitness knowledge, workout plans, a park or video platform
Startup cost: $0 to $40
Time commitment: 2 to 6 hours a week
Where it runs: Local or online

Beginner bootcamps, dance cardio, and simple workout plans appeal to classmates and families who want structure. Keep sessions to general fitness and leave injury treatment or diet advice to certified professionals. Group classes let you earn from several people at once.

Who it's best for: A student who works out consistently and can motivate others without pushing them past safe limits.

69. Day Camps and Mini-Camps for Younger Kids

Skills/tools needed: Activity planning, first aid training, a backyard or park
Startup cost: $50 to $150
Time commitment: A few mornings a week in summer
Where it runs: Local

Working parents need childcare during school breaks. You run a small weekly camp around games, art, music, or science. Keep the group small, and get parents' written permission and emergency contacts before the first day.

Who it's best for: An organized, high-energy student who has babysat or worked at a camp before.

70. Driving Test Prep Coaching

Skills/tools needed: A recently passed permit and road test, the state driver handbook
Startup cost: $0
Time commitment: 1 to 3 hours a week
Where it runs: Local or online

Younger teens studying for their permit exam want tips from someone who just passed. You run quiz sessions on the written test and share road test advice. This is test prep only, with actual driving practice left to licensed adults.

Who it's best for: A newly licensed student who remembers exactly which questions tripped them up.

71. Swim Lessons

Skills/tools needed: Strong swimming, lifeguard or water safety certification, pool access
Startup cost: $50 to $300 for certification
Time commitment: 3 to 8 hours a week in summer
Where it runs: Local

Once pools open, demand for private and small-group lessons for young kids spikes. A lifeguard or water safety instructor certification is essential before teaching. Families with home pools are ideal first clients.

Who it's best for: A certified swimmer who is calm, safety-focused, and good with nervous young kids.

72. Standardized Test Prep Coaching

Skills/tools needed: Strong recent SAT or ACT scores, practice materials
Startup cost: $0 to $40
Time commitment: 2 to 6 hours a week
Where it runs: Local or online

Students want prep from someone who just took the test and remembers what worked. You coach strategy, timing, and weak sections using official practice tests. Your own score report is your strongest credential.

Who it's best for: A high scorer who can diagnose why a student keeps missing the same question type.

73. Art Lessons for Kids

Skills/tools needed: Drawing or painting skills, basic supplies
Startup cost: $30 to $80
Time commitment: 2 to 4 hours a week
Where it runs: Local

Younger kids love hands-on art classes, and parents like screen-free activities. You teach drawing, painting, or crafts, and a small end-of-term showcase gives families a reason to re-enroll.

Who it's best for: An artistic student who enjoys messy, creative afternoons with children.

74. Chess Coaching

Skills/tools needed: Competitive chess experience, boards, online platforms
Startup cost: $0 to $30
Time commitment: 2 to 4 hours a week
Where it runs: Local or online

Beginners and intermediate players want structured lessons on openings, tactics, and endgames. You coach one-on-one or run small group sessions. Online platforms make it easy to review games together remotely.

Who it's best for: A rated or tournament player who can explain the reasoning behind a move.

75. Public Speaking and Debate Coaching

Skills/tools needed: Debate or speech competition experience, practice prompts
Startup cost: $0
Time commitment: 2 to 4 hours a week
Where it runs: Local or online

Middle schoolers joining debate or preparing for presentations want practice and feedback. You run mock rounds, argument drills, and speech critiques. Beginner workshops before competition season fill up fastest.

Who it's best for: A seasoned debater who gives specific, encouraging feedback.

76. Essay and Writing Coaching

Skills/tools needed: Strong writing and editing skills, shared documents
Startup cost: $0
Time commitment: 2 to 5 hours a week
Where it runs: Online or local

Students want help structuring essays, stories, and application writing without having someone else write it for them. You coach through outlines, drafts, and revision rounds. Always coach rather than write, which keeps the work honestly the student's own.

Who it's best for: A strong writer who can improve someone's draft while keeping their voice intact.

77. Yoga, Stretching, and Mobility Classes

Skills/tools needed: Yoga or stretching practice, mats, calm instruction
Startup cost: $0 to $50
Time commitment: 2 to 4 hours a week
Where it runs: Local or online

Beginner yoga, meditation, and mobility sessions appeal to stressed students and athletes wanting better recovery. Partnering with a certified instructor adds credibility and keeps advanced poses safe. Park sessions and video classes both work.

Who it's best for: A student with a steady practice who has a calm, encouraging teaching voice.

78. Reading Mentorship for Younger Students

Skills/tools needed: Strong reading skills, age-appropriate books, patience
Startup cost: $0 to $30
Time commitment: 2 to 4 hours a week
Where it runs: Local or online

Parents of early readers want structured practice and a role model who makes books fun. You run weekly sessions with simple goal tracking and reading challenges. Libraries and community centers are good places to recruit families.

Who it's best for: A book lover who is patient with slow, stumbling readers.

Handmade, Food & Reselling Businesses

These 14 businesses sell a physical or digital product rather than your hours. Margins come from your design, your sourcing, or your eye for underpriced items.

79. Print-on-Demand Merchandise

Skills/tools needed: Graphic design, Printful or Redbubble, Canva
Startup cost: $0 to $30
Time commitment: 2 to 5 hours a week
Where it runs: Online

You design t-shirts, hoodies, stickers, and mugs, and the platform prints and ships each order. You never hold inventory, so the only risk is your time. Custom merch for school clubs and teams is a reliable first market.

Who it's best for: A designer who wants to sell products without handling shipping.

80. Digital Templates and Planners

Skills/tools needed: Notion, Canva, or Google Sheets, Etsy or Gumroad
Startup cost: $0 to $15
Time commitment: 3 to 6 hours per template
Where it runs: Online

Study planners, habit trackers, Notion dashboards, and phone wallpapers sell as downloads. Once a template is made, you can sell it again and again. Designing tools you use yourself gives you the best product ideas.

Who it's best for: A productivity fan who already builds systems to organize their own schoolwork.

81. Digital Art and Illustration Commissions

Skills/tools needed: Procreate, Illustrator, or IbisPaint, a portfolio page
Startup cost: $0 to $100 (tablet optional)
Time commitment: 2 to 6 hours per piece
Where it runs: Online

Clients pay for custom portraits, logos, book covers, and profile art. You showcase work on Instagram and take orders by message or form. Clear pricing tiers by complexity prevent endless revision requests.

Who it's best for: An artist with a distinctive style who can deliver consistently on deadline.

82. Thrift and Vintage Reselling

Skills/tools needed: Fashion sense, product photography, Depop, Poshmark, or eBay
Startup cost: $30 to $100 for first inventory
Time commitment: 3 to 6 hours a week
Where it runs: Online, with local sourcing

You hunt thrift stores and garage sales for underpriced clothes, vintage pieces, and home goods, then resell them online. Good photos and honest descriptions often decide the sale. Reinvest early profits into better inventory.

Who it's best for: A student who loves the treasure hunt and knows which brands and styles resell well.

83. Sneaker Reselling

Skills/tools needed: Market knowledge, release calendars, resale apps
Startup cost: $150 to $400 per pair
Time commitment: 2 to 5 hours a week
Where it runs: Online

Limited releases can resell for well above retail to collectors who missed the drop. This carries real risk, since prices can fall and fakes circulate, so start small and verify authenticity carefully.

Who it's best for: A student already deep in sneaker culture who tracks prices and drops closely.

84. Handmade Jewelry

Skills/tools needed: Beading, wire, or clay techniques, Etsy or craft fairs
Startup cost: $30 to $80
Time commitment: 3 to 6 hours a week
Where it runs: Online and local markets

Because materials are cheap, your profit comes from design. You sell earrings, bracelets, and necklaces to friends, at school events, and online. Small themed collections make your brand easier to recognize.

Who it's best for: A crafter with a personal style who likes making small, detailed pieces.

85. Furniture Flipping and Upcycling

Skills/tools needed: Sanding, painting, basic repair, workspace access
Startup cost: $40 to $150
Time commitment: 4 to 8 hours per piece
Where it runs: Local

Free or cheap furniture from online marketplaces can sell for much more after refinishing. You need garage or yard space and ventilation for paint and stain. One good dresser flip can fund the next three.

Who it's best for: A hands-on student with access to tools and space who enjoys slow, visible projects.

86. Used Sports Equipment Resale

Skills/tools needed: Knowledge of gear sizes and brands, cleaning supplies
Startup cost: $30 to $100
Time commitment: 2 to 4 hours a week
Where it runs: Local and online

Kids outgrow cleats, bats, and pads fast, and new gear is expensive. You buy used equipment at garage sales, clean it, and resell to families. Timing sales before each sports season moves inventory fastest.

Who it's best for: An athlete who knows exactly what gear younger players need each season.

87. Homemade Baked Goods and Snacks

Skills/tools needed: Baking, food safety, labeling
Startup cost: $30 to $80
Time commitment: 3 to 6 hours a week
Where it runs: Local markets, school events, preorders

Cookies, brownies, granola bars, and energy bites sell well at farmers' markets and through preorders. Most states have cottage food laws that set what you can sell from a home kitchen, so check yours first. Clear ingredient labels matter for allergies. For a full walkthrough, see how to start a baking business as a teenager.

Who it's best for: A dependable baker who can produce the same quality every batch.

88. Handmade Goods and Crochet

Skills/tools needed: Crochet, knitting, sewing, or other crafts
Startup cost: $20 to $60
Time commitment: 3 to 8 hours a week
Where it runs: Online and local markets

Crochet tops, knit hats, tote bags, and small decor pieces have steady demand on Etsy and at craft fairs. Price for your time, not just materials, since handmade work takes hours.

Who it's best for: A crafter who already makes things for fun and wants to test whether strangers will buy them.

89. Summer Snack Stand or Treat Cart

Skills/tools needed: A table or cart, a cooler, simple food prep
Startup cost: $50 to $150
Time commitment: Weekends and hot afternoons
Where it runs: Local

Lemonade, shaved ice, and popsicles sell fast near parks, pools, and events. Location matters more than the product, so set up where foot traffic already is, with permission. Check local permit rules.

Who it's best for: A social student who enjoys chatting with customers and wants a summer-only project.

90. Used Electronics Reselling

Skills/tools needed: Device testing, basic refurbishing, resale platforms
Startup cost: $50 to $200
Time commitment: 2 to 5 hours a week
Where it runs: Online and local

Old phones, headphones, and gaming gear can be cleaned, tested, and resold for a profit. Always wipe data and verify devices are not stolen before reselling.

Who it's best for: A tech-savvy student who can quickly tell a working device from a broken one.

91. Sports Cards and Collectibles

Skills/tools needed: Market knowledge, price-tracking apps, card sleeves
Startup cost: $50 to $200
Time commitment: 2 to 4 hours a week
Where it runs: Online and local card shows

Trading cards, comics, and collectibles can be bought low at garage sales and sold to collectors. Prices swing with player performance and hype, so treat it like careful trading, not a sure thing.

Who it's best for: A collector who already follows card values and enjoys the research.

92. Secondhand Book Sales

Skills/tools needed: Book knowledge, online listing apps
Startup cost: $20 to $60
Time commitment: 2 to 4 hours a week
Where it runs: Online and local

Used textbooks and popular series often sell for more online than they cost at library sales. Textbooks at the start of each semester are the most reliable sellers.

Who it's best for: A reader who spots bargains at library sales and likes organized listings.

Creative, Photography & Event Services

Parties, graduations, school dances, and local events all need people who make them look and feel good. These 14 businesses cluster around busy seasons, so plan ahead for spring and the winter holidays.

93. Event Setup and Cleanup Crew

Skills/tools needed: Stamina, teamwork, punctuality
Startup cost: $0
Time commitment: 3 to 6 hours per event
Where it runs: Local

Hosts want to enjoy their own parties, graduations, and reunions, not stack chairs. You set up tables and decor, serve, and handle cleanup afterward. Teaming up with a friend lets you take on larger events like weddings.

Who it's best for: A hardworking student who is happy to stay late and work behind the scenes.

94. Photography Services

Skills/tools needed: A good camera or recent phone, Lightroom, a portfolio
Startup cost: $0 to $500 depending on gear
Time commitment: 3 to 8 hours per shoot including edits
Where it runs: Local

Senior portraits, graduations, prom, sports games, product shots, and family events all need affordable photographers. Graduation season gives you a built-in customer base every year. Start with friends and school events, then raise rates as your portfolio grows.

Who it's best for: A student with a good eye who is comfortable directing people in front of the camera.

95. Event Planning

Skills/tools needed: Organization, vendor coordination, budgeting, Canva
Startup cost: $0 to $30
Time commitment: 5 to 15 hours per event
Where it runs: Local

Families and school groups need help planning birthdays, showers, fundraisers, and dances. You manage the timeline, vendors, and details so the host can relax. Starting with small gatherings builds the references you need for bigger events.

Who it's best for: A natural organizer who stays calm when three things go wrong at once.

96. Mural Painting

Skills/tools needed: Painting skills, design sketches, outdoor-safe paints
Startup cost: $50 to $150
Time commitment: Several days per mural
Where it runs: Local

Cafes, small shops, schools, and families commission murals to brighten walls. A portfolio of smaller painted pieces helps you win your first wall. Always get written permission from the property owner.

Who it's best for: A confident painter who can scale a sketch up to a full wall.

97. Birthday Party Entertainer and Helper

Skills/tools needed: Games, crafts, energy, working well with kids
Startup cost: $20 to $60
Time commitment: 2 to 4 hours per party
Where it runs: Local

Parents hosting kids' parties pay for someone to run games and keep things fun. Themed party packages make booking easy and let you charge per party rather than per hour.

Who it's best for: An outgoing, playful student who can hold a room of excited eight-year-olds.

98. Backyard Movie Night Setup

Skills/tools needed: A projector, screen, speakers, setup skills
Startup cost: $150 to $400
Time commitment: 3 to 4 hours per event
Where it runs: Local

Outdoor movie nights are popular for birthdays and summer gatherings. You bring the gear, set up, and take it all down. A rented projector keeps early costs low until demand is proven.

Who it's best for: A student comfortable with AV equipment who likes summer evening work.

99. Virtual Event Planning

Skills/tools needed: Zoom or Discord, event design, promotion
Startup cost: $0 to $20
Time commitment: 3 to 6 hours per event
Where it runs: Online

Clubs, families, and friend groups host online trivia nights, game tournaments, and workshops. You plan the format, manage invites, and run the event live. Moderating chat and keeping energy up is most of the job.

Who it's best for: A student who hosts online game nights already and enjoys being the organizer.

100. Drone Photography and Video

Skills/tools needed: A camera drone, piloting practice, editing software
Startup cost: $300 to $700
Time commitment: 2 to 5 hours per job
Where it runs: Local

Real estate listings and events want aerial shots. In the United States, paid drone work requires an FAA Part 107 certificate, available from age 16. Learn local flight rules before your first job.

Who it's best for: A licensed-age student who already flies drones and wants to get certified.

101. Face Painting

Skills/tools needed: Cosmetic-grade face paints, brushes, a steady hand
Startup cost: $40 to $100
Time commitment: 2 to 4 hours per event
Where it runs: Local

Birthday parties, fairs, and community events regularly book face painters. Use only skin-safe cosmetic paints, and keep a design board so kids can pick quickly.

Who it's best for: An artistic student who works quickly under pressure with a line of kids waiting.

102. DJ for Small Events

Skills/tools needed: A DJ controller, speakers, a music library
Startup cost: $150 to $500
Time commitment: 3 to 5 hours per event
Where it runs: Local

Birthday parties, school events, and small gatherings need someone to read the room and keep people dancing. Licensed streaming or DJ services keep your music use legal at paid events.

Who it's best for: A music lover who already mixes and enjoys being the energy of a party.

103. Photo Booth Rental

Skills/tools needed: A camera or tablet booth setup, props, a backdrop
Startup cost: $150 to $400
Time commitment: 3 to 5 hours per event
Where it runs: Local

Photo booths are a crowd favorite at parties, dances, and graduations. You rent the setup and staff it during the event. Instant digital sharing is a feature guests now expect.

Who it's best for: A tech-comfortable student who enjoys working a crowd at events.

104. Event and Balloon Decorating

Skills/tools needed: Balloon arches, decor design, teamwork
Startup cost: $50 to $150
Time commitment: 2 to 5 hours per event
Where it runs: Local

School dances, fundraisers, and parties need balloon arches and themed decor. Instagram-ready setups are your best advertising, since guests share photos.

Who it's best for: A student with an eye for color and layout who likes building things quickly.

105. Costume and Prop Rental

Skills/tools needed: A collection of costumes or props, cleaning, tracking
Startup cost: $50 to $200
Time commitment: 1 to 3 hours a week, peaking in October
Where it runs: Local

Halloween, school plays, and themed parties create demand for costumes people only need once. Renting beats buying for your customers, and each item earns more than once.

Who it's best for: A theater kid with a closet of costumes and good organizational habits.

106. Youth Sports Tournament Organizer

Skills/tools needed: Scheduling, logistics, venue coordination
Startup cost: $0 to $50
Time commitment: 10 to 20 hours per tournament
Where it runs: Local

Small tournaments, relay races, and obstacle challenges earn through entry fees and local sponsors. You handle brackets, scheduling, and venues. Running one event well makes the next one easier to sponsor.

Who it's best for: A sports-loving student with leadership experience who likes managing many moving parts.

If you find yourself wanting to take a small business further, Young Founders Lab helps high school students turn ideas into startups through live workshops on building an MVP, validating your market, and modeling your finances. You can work one-on-one with a mentor from firms like Harvard Business School, McKinsey, Google, and Microsoft, or build with a small team. The program ends with a Demo Day pitch to investors and founders.

Frequently asked questions: small business ideas for high school students

1. What business can I start as a 14-year-old?

At 14, you can start most service businesses that run on your skills and time, like pet sitting, tutoring younger kids, yard work, or babysitting. Low-cost product ideas also work well at this age, such as handmade jewelry, crochet goods, or digital templates you sell online. Pick something your neighbors or family friends already need, so your first customer is easy to find. You'll usually need a parent or guardian to help with payment apps or online store accounts.

2. Can a 16-year-old start their own business?

Yes, a 16-year-old can start and run their own business, though rules on contracts, accounts, and registration vary by state. In practice, a parent or guardian often co-signs anything that involves a contract or a payment account until you turn 18. Turning 16 also opens up a few ideas, like paid drone photography. Check your state's rules before you register a business name.

3. How do you market a small business as a high school student?

Start with word of mouth, since your first customers will most likely be people who already know you or your family. Ask every happy customer for a referral, and post before-and-after photos or finished work on social media to show what you do. Flyers in your neighborhood and a simple portfolio page help when you're ready to reach strangers. Keep your prices and contact details easy to find everywhere you post. For a fuller playbook, see how to market a high school business.

4. Where can high school students get funding for a small business?

Most high school students fund a small business from their own savings, early earnings, or family support rather than outside investors. You may not need funding at all, as 61 of the ideas on this list can start at $0. Once you're earning, reinvesting early profits into better tools or inventory is the most common way to grow. You can compare more ways to fund a business in high school as your plans get bigger. If you want to compete for prize money in business plan competitions with cash prizes, Young Founders Lab's Pitch Competition Prep track helps you get ready.

5. Can you start a small business with friends in high school?

Yes, starting with friends lets you take on bigger jobs and cover more subjects or services than you could alone. Several ideas on this list work best as a team, such as a tutoring co-op, a moving crew, or an event setup crew. Before you take your first job, agree in writing on how you'll split money, who does what, and what happens if someone wants to leave. A clear agreement early keeps the business from damaging the friendship.