The first step in starting a business is ensuring there’s a demand. If no one needs what you’re selling, you won’t be in business very long. With that in mind, let’s look at five business ideas that solve everyday problems that many Americans face.
Note: Most of these business ideas have lower start-up costs. However, if you need funds to get started, consider taking out a business loan.
1. Meal prep and delivery service for special diets
Nearly 33 million Americans have some sort of food allergy. Cooking and prepping meals can be a challenge, especially for families with young children or who are caring for elderly relatives. You could help solve this problem by preparing and delivering meals that meet dietary restrictions, such as dairy-free, nut-free, gluten-free, or any combination of those restrictions.
Many states have cottage food laws that make it easier to start this type of business from your home. Or, you could rent a kitchen from a restaurant that is only open at dinner and prep meals in the mornings.
2. Home and outdoor decorating services
As the end of the year rolls around, home and outdoor decorating services are likely to be in high demand. A business that sets up outdoor holiday displays and takes them down at the end of the season could help people enjoy the holiday season without having to spend a whole weekend setting up decorations!
These services could be especially beneficial for families, older neighbors, or those who simply don’t have the time to decorate their home or yard. Starting the business before Halloween could give you a steady stream of customers who need help for Halloween, Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, and New Year’s.
Why a Business Credit Card Could Transform Your Small Business
These business credit cards that offer a convenient and efficient way to separate personal and business expenses, simplifying accounting and tax reporting.
Additionally, business cards can provide valuable perks such as rewards points, cashback, and expense tracking tools, enhancing financial management and the potential to help save money in the long run.
3. Freelance administrative support
Nearly half of U.S. workers freelance in some capacity. However, many freelancers and solopreneurs struggle with administrative tasks like invoicing, scheduling, or bookkeeping.
You could solve that issue by offering virtual administrative support for freelancers and small businesses who need help budgeting and managing day-to-day tasks. Using tools like customer relationship management software or document management platforms, you could likely streamline your process, making it easier to manage multiple clients and work remotely.
4. Waste reduction consulting for small businesses
As more large brands look for ways to reduce their plastic usage and overall waste, small businesses may be left behind. Offering a consulting service where you help smaller businesses reduce their waste could solve that challenge — and help the environment.
You could market your business by offering resources and information to help businesses take the first steps, then review their current practices and find more opportunities for them to reduce waste.
5. Personal finance coaching for millennials
According to the TIAA’s 2023 Institute-GFLEC Personal Finance Index, the average millennial can only answer 45% of basic financial literacy questions correctly. As a result, they may struggle with budgeting, investing, and saving for their future.
Starting a business that solves this problem could be profitable and help people. For example, you might offer advice, financial literacy resources, and tips for reaching their financial goals. Some coaches, like Tori Dunlap, write books, publish blogs, and host a podcast. You could go smaller by hosting paid webinars, offering one-on-one coaching, or starting a webinar.
These business ideas not only solve everyday challenges, but also have the potential to create a profitable business that helps people. By addressing common problems, you can tap into a market need and create sustainable business growth.
