In today’s entrepreneurial landscape, women are making remarkable achievements as business owners. With 42% of all U.S. businesses owned by women and an astounding 114% growth in women-owned businesses over the last two decades,
Moreover, about half of all startups in the U.S. are founded by women,
If that is not enough to get you started I think you are definitely missing something, So To Fill that up
In this blog, we’ve rounded up six killer business ideas for women at home that are perfect for those women looking to become their own boss from the comfort of home.
These side hustles aren’t just flexible – they’re tapping into some seriously hot markets right now. Whether you want to get creative with your Design skills or tap into the huge demand for childcare services, these business ideas have been crushing it in 2024.
1. Earn Money as a Freelance illustrator
Being a freelance illustrator means you create art and visuals for clients like companies, authors, or designers. As a freelancer, you work for yourself and can take on different illustration project gigs.
Quote from linearity.io
Potential Earnings
On average, freelance illustrators earn around $45,000 per year. But with more experience and bigger clients, you can make even more money. The most successful illustrators may charge higher rates.
Skills Needed
- Drawing and sketching abilities
- Using digital illustration software
- Creativity to bring ideas to life visually
- Communication skills to understand client needs
- Time management to meet deadlines
How to Get Started, a small overview: (Proper resources to learn from are mentioned below)-
Get the right education or skillset workshop (courses) to develop your skills in less time
While formal education isn’t always required, taking courses or getting a degree in illustration, graphic design, or art can really enhance your skills.
Explore art schools, universities, online platforms, workshops, and tutorials to continually improve your techniques.
A completely impressive portfolio buildup and improvement with time.
Compile your best illustration work that showcases your range of styles and abilities. Include diverse pieces that demonstrate your skills with different subject matter.
Use an online platform like Upwork to create a portfolio and showcase your illustrations. it’s very important and you will learn these steps in courses but if u skip buying courses learn through YouTube and keep improving your portfolio.
Join professional organizations and networks. (online) and meet people in community gatherings if possible
Become a member of illustrators’ associations, societies, or online groups. Join LinkedIn and Facebook groups for your illustration field or location. This provides access to valuable resources, networking opportunities, and industry insights.
Attend events, join local art communities, and engage on social media to connect with other illustrators. Connect with writers, designers, and others who may need an illustrator for collaborations. (networking gets you to opportunities where you can’t it the truth you will learn in your financial journey).
Now Next is to Develop your niche and specialize. (go narrow)
- Research and choose a specific illustration niche or industry to focus on, such as children’s books, product design, or editorial illustrations.
- Having a targeted niche helps you build a portfolio tailored to your desired clients.
Get comfortable with self-promotion and selling.
Learn strategies for promoting (you need it I promise if you have a great skill set. selling isn’t hard the only problem will be the right presentation. That’s why your portfolio buildup is super important.)
Use your work and services through those community meetings, groups, maybe a YouTube channel showcasing your skill etc etc…. Yes easier said than done but it’s the last step that will get you more and more clients to work with.
Resources to learn from:
If you really like the idea of this business I suggest you to checkout-
This blog on how to become a freelance illustrator by Upwork.
More importantly, check out this YouTube channel JGV Illustrations,
and here is the specific video on How to Start on Upwork as a Freelance Illustrator and Make Money.
Pro Tip:
- Specialize in a style or industry (like children’s books or product design)
- Explain the full value you provide beyond just the artwork
- Ask satisfied clients for testimonials to build your reputation
2. Thrive as a Virtual Assistant
Virtual assisting is the perfect remote side hustle – you provide administrative support to businesses and entrepreneurs from the comfort of your own home. As a VA, you’ll handle tasks like email management, schedule coordination, data entry, social media management, and there is a lot more in it.
Quote from Forbes
The best part about VA is its Very low startup costs all you need is an online portfolio website of yours so people can see your work when you start getting gigs and you can choose your own working hours to fit your lifestyle as well.
Potential Earnings: $50+/hour is common for virtual assistants, with rates climbing over $100/hour for specialized services as you gain experience.
Basic Skills Needed: Technical requirements are just a computer and internet access. Key skills are communication, time management, self-discipline, and the ability to learn your clients’ systems/tools. Although your specific va job could have specific requirements that you will need to learn to specialize in it.
for example, let’s say you choose social media management then the specialization in that will be to learn and adapt to trend changes in social media platforms what type of format people are loving right now?
writing, editing the post/videos, learning ad campaigns to increase the reach of your client, and in the end, whatever increases their account engagement- likes, followers, etc. you get the point!
Here’s how to get started step by step:
The first step is taking some training courses to learn the ropes – online platforms like Udemy, Alison, IAAP, and VANA offer excellent VA courses and resources. Or if you can pay some premium you should check The VA foundation course, taught by Gina Horkey (no affiliate it’s a good course.)
Next, determine what kinds of tasks you can realistically handle by browsing VA job listings and other professionals’ profiles on LinkedIn or fiverr, like we took the example of social media manager you will need to Create a skills-based resume highlighting your relevant experience/expertise in social media management and this applies to any field that you will choose.
When it comes to pricing, you just guessed it right– research typical rates for your skillset on freelancer job boards and “top VA” listings. Start with affordable prices while you build experience, then increase as you gain more clients and positive reviews. (nothing too fancy about it).
To find those first clients, create an online portfolio website (WordPress is a very good option) showcasing your best work samples. Then start proactively applying for VA gigs. You can find clients for your virtual assistant business on freelance job boards like Upwork and PeoplePerHour.
The beauty of this business is the ability to learn, specialize, and optimize as you go. Pay attention to the clients, tasks, and industries you most enjoy and lean into your strengths over time.
If you really like this business idea I recommend you go through these articles to get a full idea of this virtual assistant business:
1. Guide by Coursera how-to-become-a-virtual-assistant with how you get paid properly explained.
2. A list of websites that offer beginner-friendly VA services.
Quick Tips:
- Start affordable to build reviews, then raise rates
- Specialize and optimize services based on what you enjoy
- Always communicate quickly and stay organized
- Don’t overcommit!!! imp.
3. Retail Arbitrage on Amazon FBA
Retail arbitrage is about buying products cheaply at retail stores and reselling them for a profit online. Combine it with Amazon’s FBA (Fulfilled by Amazon) program, and you have a powerful side hustle!
What you have to do: As an Amazon seller, you purchase discounted merchandise from stores like Walmart, Target or drug stores. You then ship those products in bulk to Amazon’s warehouses. When items sell on Amazon, the company handles packing, shipping and customer service for you.
Here us a quote from Junglescout.
Potential Earnings: Retail arbitrage profits depend on sourcing skills and selling volume, but $500 – $5,000+ per month is very achievable for diligent sellers. The most successful hit $25,000+ monthly.
Ofcourse it involves more to earn profit for and lets discuss it right away,
How to Get Started:
1. Sign up for an Amazon seller account and opt for the FBA (Fulfilled by Amazon) program. Upgrading to the $39.99/month Professional seller account is recommended if you plan on selling more than 40 items per month. you can upgrade later as well,
Download a scanning app like Scoutify from Inventory Lab. This allows you to quickly scan barcodes at stores and see the product’s selling price, fees, sales rank, competition, and potential profits on Amazon. (this tool is a must).
2. Main Part: Scout retail stores for deeply discounted clearance items that sell well on Amazon. Focus on stores like Walmart, Target, Ross, TJ Maxx, Big Lots, etc. Look for products with a high sales rank and low competition from other Amazon sellers. You can use the app mentioned above.
When you find a promising item, scan it with your app. Make sure the potential profit after Amazon’s FBA fees makes it worthwhile based on your minimum target (e.g. you should look for $3-5 profit per item).
3. Buy all available stock of any item that meets your profit criteria. Don’t just get one or two – go big on no-brainer deals.
At home, log into your Amazon seller account and create a new FBA shipping plan. Amazon will provide box sizing requirements and shipping labels.
Properly label and package your inventory per Amazon’s requirements. Box everything up securely.
Ship all your boxed inventory to Amazon’s warehouse using a carrier like UPS or FedEx.
Once received, Amazon will provide storage, pick, pack, and ship your items as they sell on the website. Just create new product listings with competitive pricing.
Resources from which you can learn more:
1. Use this details guide on retail arbitrage from Spencer owner of Niche Pursuit he tried Amazon FBA and his guide will definitely help you.
2. And is retail arbitrage on FBA profitable by yoursellingguide.com author just answers that “profitability” better than I can so do check it out if you like this business idea.
This video also explains it well-
Pro Tips:
- Focus on quickly turning over inventory rather than huge margins per item.
- Specialize in brands/products you understand to spot good deals
- Track sales data over time to optimize your sourcing strategy
- Reinvest profits into more inventory to rapidly scale.
4. Start a Small Candle Making Business
If you look around home beautification is more than just a trend, People are obsessed about home decor and that passion is not going anywhere, now if you start a candle-making business, your handcrafted candles fit in the sweet spot of home decor.
Home fragrance is big business, with the candle industry projected to reach $13.38 billion by 2028. That’s 13.38 billion reasons to start your candle business.
What the Hustle Involves: As a candle maker, you’ll be responsible for every aspect of these 3 important things business plan on consumer persona, practical aspects for production, and the legal side.
let’s start with a business plan:
Starting a candle business begins with finding your unique angle. Are you passionate about eco-friendly soy candles, or do you see yourself crafting luxury scents for specific customers? Perhaps you’re drawn to the growing trend of aromatherapy
TIP: You can align your brand with current market demands. social media is a great place to find that, Pinterest and TikTok more specifically, for now for example Think vegan, eco-friendly, organic, or even zodiac-themed candles. The sky’s the limit!
and Instagram-worthy decorative pieces are a must in any case, So Whatever your vision, there’s likely a market for it.
Before you start melting wax, take time to research your target audience and competitors. Create a solid business plan that outlines your product line, and marketing strategy.
The practical aspect of production: Only Focus on Sourcing high-quality materials from reputable suppliers – your wax, wicks, fragrances, and containers will make or break your product. Don’t skimp on quality; customers can tell the difference. As you perfect your craft and focus on achieving consistent burn times and balanced scent profiles, it all starts small.
The legal side of things can’t be ignored. ensure you’re complying with all relevant regulations. This might seem daunting, but it’s crucial for long-term success.
Most places require you to have a license to run a business. It might cost around $75, but prices can vary. here is a blog on license information do check it out.
Seller’s Permit: You might need this to sell your candles. Sometimes it’s free but check in your area.
Business Insurance: It’s a good idea to get insurance. It might cost about $50 a month. This protects you if something goes wrong.
Now don’t panic you don’t have to do all things in a day and later on with time things happen smoothly you can hire people as well and you will cherish yourself.
Now let me just give you a,
small business plan for beginners in steps:
1. Research the Market the best place is to Look at other candle businesses and see what scents, containers, and price points they offer. This will help you understand your competition and find gaps in the market for your unique candles. Don’t forget the important tip I mentioned before!!
2. To start, you will need about $1,500 to $3,000. This pays for supplies and business stuff. You’ll need to test different waxes and smells first. This testing part costs about $700-$800.
For making candles, you need wax, jars, smells, wicks, and labels. Start with 6 smells and 36 jars. You will also need tools like a scale, thermometer, and pouring pitcher.
3. Find a spot in your home to make and store candles. Shelves help keep things tidy. Labels are important to make your candles look nice. Good boxes help candles arrive safely.
You can sell on Etsy or make your own website. the main point will be to drive traffic to your Etsy store or website i recommend you to go with the Pinterest and FB ads model to do that, don’t try SEO. Create an Account on both social media platforms I’m sure if you look out for basic tutorials on YouTube you will get good enough knowledge to drive traffic to your store within 6 to 8 months all that matters is consistent posting and if you have a budget growth with ads, both platform provide a pretty cheap ad to reward ratio,
Don’t forget to Take good pictures of your candles. You could also sell at local stores or craft fairs. it’s a business to start online but later on look for local stores as well, Going to local events can help you sell more.
Candles sell best in fall and winter. Make other things to sell in spring and summer. Keep learning about candles and listen to what customers say.
Potential Earnings: Retail prices for candles can range from $1.99 for a votive to $35 for a large pillar or jar, with premium candles potentially selling for $200 or more.
Skills Needed: The most important skills will be creating a good business product and driving traffic to your store. The rest of everything is just an add-on. focus only on getting more traffic from Pinterest and FB after creating a decent good product.
Resources to get started:
1. Start with how to start a candle business blog by Upflip. They also have a YouTube channel which you can check from the same blog.
2. For how to grow Pinterest I have two resources using this YouTube channel: Anastasia blogger you can simply binge-watch this channel and more importantly follow this Tony Hill guy on x(Twitter) consuming their content you will learn great advice on Pinterest growth. you won’t need a second thought I promise you that!
3. For Facebook I recommend you go through Jesse Cunningham’s FB marketing playlist he has also mentioned his free course which you should watch for FB ads management no BS straight to the point!
More Tips:
- Offer customization options like personalized labels for events like weddings and parties.
- Sell through multiple channels – your own website, Etsy, and local boutiques.
- Study successful candle brands to understand effective branding and marketing strategies.
- Stay up-to-date on popular scent and vessel trends through social media,
5. Open Your Own Daycare
Being the mom whose house all the neighborhood kids flock to for playdates? Turning that into an actual business is possible and profitable! Opening an in-home daycare is the perfect way to put your nurturing skills to work,
You can offer your daycare services locally to mothers who have children of a similar age. now the important thing to mention here is whether to opt in with a degree or without a degree. because if you choose the route without a degree you definitely need prior experience with children,
if not an online degree is the best option available but it comes with a cost $$$ and a 2-year time you can definitely can offer childcare service and pursue your degree side by side.
Quote from childrencaredesign.
How to Get Started just a small overview resources to learn from mentioned below:
- Get Educated – While experience with kids is a must, formal childcare training boosts your credentials. Consider a degree or certification program in early childhood education (ECE) to learn developmentally appropriate practices. if that seems expensive here is a list of most affordable ece online degrees available right now.
- Get Licensed – Contact your state’s licensing agency to understand the specific regulations around operating a home daycare. This will likely involve inspections, background checks, training, and adhering to staff-to-child ratios.
- Create Your Business Blueprint – Outline your vision including the ages you’ll serve, operating hours, educational philosophies, and any specialties like infant care or after-school programs. Decide whether you’ll hire employees.
- Get Financially Prepped – Estimate your startup costs for licensing, supplies, insurance, and any home renovations required.According to small business website bizfluent.com, the average startup cost for a daycare center is $10,000 to $50,000. Ofcourse it depends weather from home or a different facility you will use. Explore funding options like grants, loans, and tax deductions for home businesses.
- Make It Official – Register your business, get liability insurance, prepare a childcare contract, and draft a fee schedule factoring in snacks, supplies, and your desired income.
- Build Your Space – Childproof your home with safety gear, development-boosting toys, and areas for activities, meals, and naps. Allow room for creative play!
- Market Your Services – Spread the word through a website, social media, community postings, and networking. Offer a free week to build your initial client base.
Potential Earnings:
Profits can range from $25,000 for a small solo home daycare to over $200,000 for larger operations. Rates average $200-$350 weekly per child.
Skills Needed
- Infinite patience and a nurturing nature.
- Knowledge of childhood development stages (ece degree will help here).
- Strong communication with children and parents.
Resources to get started:
Now if you really like this business model I would strongly recommend you to take the Early Childhood Education (ECE) Degree, you can check out the list of affordable ECE degrees I mentioned above here.
and here are some blogs that super amazingly explain this business model definitely give them a read before thinking for that ECE degree,
1. A Complete step-by-step walkthrough guide by childcareaware.org it’s 51 pages so you’ve got everything covered.
2. A right way to start a daycare business with no money. By niche pursuit.
Tips for Success
- Research your local competition’s rates and offerings, then find a niche like after-hours or weekend care.
- Develop a specialty like infant care, STEM learning, or an educational philosophy to set yourself apart.
- Create a safe, cheerful environment and nurturing routines to keep kids engaged and happy.
- Stay on top of licensing renewals and continuing education requirements.
6. Start a Profitable Home Baking Business
Turning your talent for baking into a home-based cake business could be the perfect way to make some serious dough (I mean money😅).
but it’s a tricky one a business I would only recommend to someone who is really into baking and definitely, this business model in 2024 is a little more demanding than the other businesses mentioned here.
and it is recommended to join a bakery first then starting from your own business in bakery the learning curve will be much easier. and you can’t just go in there and join one, you will need training that will give you an edge to get accepted at a bakery.
And i recommend you go by this link which is a culinary art school diploma by Escoffiers in bakery and pastry online. and the offering is just enough for someone who seriously wants to start and no I’m not getting any commission to promote them!
because as an owner you have to understand you will not be only making those cakes you gotta sell them too…..and the bakery business will be a bonus you won’t regret you will learn a lot about selling.
Alright, So let’s look give you a little prospective on what you will be doing in this business Think about it – people are always celebrating something, whether it’s weddings, baby showers, birthdays, or retirement parties. And what do all those events need? An amazing, Instagram-worthy cake! as an home baker your job will be create that lovely cake for peoples special moments!!
Quote from forbes:
How to Get Started just a small overview, resources to learn from are mentioned below:
I know this blog is all about business models from home!! and just above i told you about joining a bakery see, I’m not sugarcoating anything the competition is high. you will definitely require a course or a professional training. networking is required and the time it will take to start without prior experience anyone can get impatient. but if working from home is your utmost priority i totally understand that.
to get profitable in the bakery business at the beginning especially. i want you to have a look on what it requires–
- Understand legal requirements: Check your state and local laws about operating a “cottage food” business from home. You may need licenses, inspections, or certifications. Typically, you can only sell non-perishable baked goods directly to consumers.
- Create a business plan: Decide what types of baked goods you’ll offer cookies, cake, or both? , and who your target customers are. Establish a business name, get licenses/permits, and set up accounts.
- Obtain equipment and supplies: At a minimum, you’ll need basic baking equipment like mixers, pans, spatulas, plus ingredients. and I guess if you considering this business you already have those.
- Master recipes and techniques: Refine recipes for your signature baked goods. An education like Escoffier’s online Baking & Pastry Arts program can teach professional methods if you are not confident on starting a baking business
- Build your portfolio: Take high-quality photos its important to showcase your best baked goods to use for marketing. I highly recommend using at least an iPhone or a professional camera if possible. Get family/friends to provide testimonials on the website that you need in the next step,
- Promote your business: Create a website, social media presence, and relationships with local businesses. Advertise through flyers, samples, loyalty programs, etc. (promotion is not a big deal you can just start from social media platforms like Interest and FB especially using FB ads).
Potential Earnings
Earnings can vary widely based on location, product pricing, and sales volume. On average, home bakers can make $45,000-$60,000 per year with an established customer base. Top bakers may earn over $100,000.
Resources to get started:
Cake making is a skill, and when we want to convert that skill into a business, we have to think a lot more than cake right? So I did some digging and I found a blog on how to start a bakery business.
here is a checklist of proper career foundation in bakery. by again Escoffier.
Here is a good YouTube channel if you are finding one:
Tips for Success
- Establish consistent pricing using profit calculators to ensure you’re compensated fairly use this blog to learn more about pricing.
- Focus on a niche like wedding cakes, custom orders, or specialty dietary baked goods.
- Start small and build your reputation before expanding product lines.
- Network with other homebakers and join professional associations.
