102 Business Ideas for Teen Entrepreneurs

Starting a business as a teen can be exciting and rewarding. In this article, you’ll find 102 business ideas for teen entrepreneurs that fit busy school lives. These ideas need little money to start and help you learn skills like marketing and money management. Many teens have turned hobbies into cash, like selling crafts online or walking dogs in the neighborhood. According to a 2023 Junior Achievement survey, 60% of teens want to start their own business someday. This shows more young people are eager to try entrepreneurship. We’ll cover ideas in categories like services, creative work, tech, and more. Each idea includes steps to get started, costs, and tips for success.

Why Start a Business as a Teen?

Teens have great chances to start businesses. You have energy, fresh ideas, and time after school. Starting early builds skills for the future. It can also earn extra money for college or fun things.

Benefits of Teen Entrepreneurship

• Learn real skills: Handle money, talk to customers, and solve problems.
• Be independent: Earn your own cash without a boss.
• Fit around school: Many ideas need just a few hours a week.
• Low risk: Start small with little money lost if it doesn’t work.

Stats show teen businesses grow fast. A Gallup poll found that 42% of young people aged 13-19 have thought about starting a venture. Success stories inspire, like Moziah Bridges who started a bow tie business at age 9 and appeared on Shark Tank.

How to Choose the Right Idea

Pick an idea that matches your interests. Love animals? Try pet sitting. Good at tech? Build apps. Think about your skills, time, and location. Start small to test it out.

Steps to Launch Your Business

1. Pick your idea: Choose from the list below.
2. Plan it: Write down costs, who your customers are, and how to market.
3. Get tools: Buy cheap supplies or use free apps.
4. Market it: Use social media or tell friends.
5. Track progress: Keep notes on what works.

Legal tips: Check local rules. Some places need permits for selling food. If under 18, get parent help for bank accounts.

102 Business Ideas for Teen Entrepreneurs

Here are 102 business ideas for teen entrepreneurs, grouped by type. Each has a short description, startup cost estimate (low: under $100, medium: $100-500, high: over $500), time to start, and tips. Costs are rough and can vary.

Service-Based Ideas (1-30)

These involve helping people with tasks. They’re easy to start locally.

1. Tutoring in math: Help younger kids with homework. Startup cost: low. Time to start: 1 week. Tip: Advertise on school bulletin boards.
2. Language lessons: Teach Spanish or French online. Startup cost: low. Time: 2 weeks. Tip: Use Zoom for sessions.
3. Babysitting service: Watch kids after school. Startup cost: low. Time: immediate. Tip: Get CPR certified for trust.
4. Pet sitting: Care for pets while owners travel. Startup cost: low. Time: 1 week. Tip: Start with neighbors’ dogs.
5. Dog walking: Walk dogs daily. Startup cost: low. Time: immediate. Tip: Offer packages for multiple walks.
6. Lawn mowing: Cut grass in summer. Startup cost: medium (mower). Time: 1 week. Tip: Borrow tools first.
7. Gardening help: Plant flowers or weed yards. Startup cost: low. Time: immediate. Tip: Learn basic plant care online.
8. Car washing: Clean cars at home. Startup cost: low (buckets, soap). Time: 1 day. Tip: Charge extra for inside cleaning.
9. House cleaning: Tidy homes weekly. Startup cost: low. Time: 1 week. Tip: Use eco-friendly products.
10. Errand running: Shop or pick up items for busy people. Startup cost: low. Time: immediate. Tip: Use a bike for local runs.
11. Elderly assistance: Help seniors with tech or shopping. Startup cost: low. Time: 1 week. Tip: Build trust with references.
12. Bike repair: Fix flat tires or chains. Startup cost: medium (tools). Time: 2 weeks. Tip: Watch YouTube tutorials.
13. Snow shoveling: Clear driveways in winter. Startup cost: low (shovel). Time: seasonal. Tip: Advertise before storms.
14. Pool cleaning: Skim leaves and check chemicals. Startup cost: medium. Time: 1 week. Tip: Get training if needed.
15. Window washing: Clean home windows. Startup cost: low. Time: 1 day. Tip: Use squeegees for streak-free results.
16. Handyman tasks: Fix small things like shelves. Startup cost: medium. Time: 2 weeks. Tip: Start with easy jobs.
17. Event setup: Help set up parties. Startup cost: low. Time: immediate. Tip: Partner with local planners.
18. Trash removal: Haul away junk. Startup cost: low. Time: 1 week. Tip: Rent a truck if needed.
19. Furniture moving: Help move items locally. Startup cost: low. Time: immediate. Tip: Team up with friends.
20. Laundry service: Wash clothes for others. Startup cost: low. Time: 1 week. Tip: Use home machines first.
21. Meal prep: Make simple meals. Startup cost: medium (ingredients). Time: 2 weeks. Tip: Focus on healthy options.
22. Grocery delivery: Shop and deliver food. Startup cost: low. Time: immediate. Tip: Use apps like Instacart for ideas.
23. Tech support: Fix phone or computer issues. Startup cost: low. Time: 1 week. Tip: Specialize in one device.
24. Home organizing: Sort closets or garages. Startup cost: low. Time: immediate. Tip: Take before-after photos.
25. Painting fences: Paint outdoor structures. Startup cost: medium. Time: 1 week. Tip: Choose weather-proof paint.
26. Leaf raking: Clear yards in fall. Startup cost: low. Time: seasonal. Tip: Bag leaves for compost.
27. Pressure washing: Clean sidewalks. Startup cost: high (machine). Time: 2 weeks. Tip: Rent equipment first.
28. Tutoring in science: Help with experiments. Startup cost: low. Time: 1 week. Tip: Use free online resources.
29. Music lessons: Teach guitar basics. Startup cost: low. Time: 2 weeks. Tip: Record demo videos.
30. Fitness coaching: Lead simple workouts. Startup cost: low. Time: 1 week. Tip: Focus on bodyweight exercises.

Creative Ideas (31-50)

Turn hobbies into money. Sell handmade items or art.

31. Handmade jewelry: Make and sell bracelets. Startup cost: medium (beads). Time: 1 week. Tip: Sell on Etsy.
32. Custom T-shirts: Design and print shirts. Startup cost: medium (printer). Time: 2 weeks. Tip: Use print-on-demand services.
33. Photography services: Take photos for events. Startup cost: medium (camera). Time: 1 month. Tip: Build a portfolio online.
34. Graphic design: Create logos. Startup cost: low (software free trials). Time: 2 weeks. Tip: Use Canva to start.
35. Baking cookies: Sell homemade treats. Startup cost: medium. Time: 1 week. Tip: Check food laws.
36. Candle making: Craft scented candles. Startup cost: medium. Time: 2 weeks. Tip: Experiment with scents.
37. Soap crafting: Make natural soaps. Startup cost: medium. Time: 1 week. Tip: Package nicely for gifts.
38. Knitting scarves: Sell winter wear. Startup cost: low. Time: immediate. Tip: Use social media for sales.
39. Painting art: Create canvases. Startup cost: medium. Time: 1 week. Tip: Join local art fairs.
40. Woodworking toys: Build simple items. Startup cost: medium. Time: 2 weeks. Tip: Safety first with tools.
41. Digital art: Sell prints online. Startup cost: low. Time: 1 week. Tip: Use free drawing apps.
42. Custom stickers: Design and print. Startup cost: medium. Time: 1 week. Tip: Target school friends.
43. Pottery mugs: Make clay items. Startup cost: high (kiln access). Time: 1 month. Tip: Take classes first.
44. Sewing clothes: Alter or make outfits. Startup cost: medium. Time: 2 weeks. Tip: Start with repairs.
45. Calligraphy cards: Write fancy greetings. Startup cost: low. Time: 1 week. Tip: Sell for holidays.
46. Bead keychains: Craft accessories. Startup cost: low. Time: immediate. Tip: Bulk buy supplies.
47. Origami decor: Fold paper art. Startup cost: low. Time: 1 day. Tip: Teach workshops too.
48. Tie-dye shirts: Color fabrics. Startup cost: low. Time: 1 week. Tip: Host parties for fun.
49. Scrapbooking: Make memory books. Startup cost: medium. Time: 1 week. Tip: Offer personalization.
50. Flower arranging: Create bouquets. Startup cost: medium. Time: 1 week. Tip: Source from gardens.

Tech and Online Ideas (51-70)

Use the internet for global reach. Low overhead.

51. Blog writing: Share tips on hobbies. Startup cost: low. Time: 1 week. Tip: Monetize with ads.
52. YouTube channel: Make videos on games. Startup cost: low. Time: 2 weeks. Tip: Edit with free software.
53. App development: Build simple tools. Startup cost: low. Time: 1 month. Tip: Learn coding online. For more on app devs, check Mobile App Developers.
54. Social media management: Run accounts for locals. Startup cost: low. Time: 1 week. Tip: Schedule posts.
55. Ecommerce store: Sell dropship items. Startup cost: medium. Time: 2 weeks. Tip: Use Shopify free trial.
56. Affiliate marketing: Promote products. Startup cost: low. Time: 1 week. Tip: Build a website.
57. Online tutoring: Teach via video. Startup cost: low. Time: immediate. Tip: Specialize in one subject.
58. Freelance writing: Write articles. Startup cost: low. Time: 1 week. Tip: Join Upwork.
59. Virtual assistant: Help with emails. Startup cost: low. Time: immediate. Tip: Organize tasks.
60. Podcast hosting: Talk about teen life. Startup cost: low. Time: 2 weeks. Tip: Use free hosting.
61. Web design: Build simple sites. Startup cost: low. Time: 1 month. Tip: Use Wix templates. See more at Wix business ideas for teens.
62. Game streaming: Play on Twitch. Startup cost: medium. Time: 1 week. Tip: Engage viewers.
63. Stock photography: Sell your photos. Startup cost: low. Time: immediate. Tip: Upload to sites like Shutterstock.
64. Email newsletters: Share news. Startup cost: low. Time: 1 week. Tip: Use Mailchimp free.
65. Dropshipping clothes: Sell without stock. Startup cost: medium. Time: 2 weeks. Tip: Choose niches.
66. SEO consulting: Help sites rank. Startup cost: low. Time: 1 month. Tip: Learn basics first. Explore SEO for Business Growth.
67. Coding lessons: Teach programming. Startup cost: low. Time: 2 weeks. Tip: Use Scratch for beginners.
68. Influencer marketing: Promote brands. Startup cost: low. Time: ongoing. Tip: Grow followers.
69. NFT creation: Make digital art. Startup cost: low. Time: 1 week. Tip: Use free tools.
70. Online surveys site: But wait, better: Create review blogs. Startup cost: low. Time: 1 week. Tip: Honest opinions.

Reselling and Retail Ideas (71-85)

Buy low, sell high. Easy with online platforms.

71. Thrift flipping: Resell clothes. Startup cost: medium. Time: 1 week. Tip: Clean items well.
72. Book reselling: Sell used books. Startup cost: low. Time: immediate. Tip: Use Amazon.
73. Toy flipping: Buy and sell LEGO. Startup cost: medium. Time: 1 week. Tip: Check trends.
74. Vintage items: Sell old gadgets. Startup cost: medium. Time: 2 weeks. Tip: eBay listings.
75. Sports cards: Trade collectibles. Startup cost: low. Time: immediate. Tip: Join communities.
76. Sneaker reselling: Flip popular shoes. Startup cost: high. Time: 1 week. Tip: Use apps like StockX.
77. Comic books: Sell rare editions. Startup cost: medium. Time: 1 month. Tip: Protect with sleeves.
78. Antique jewelry: Find and sell. Startup cost: medium. Time: 2 weeks. Tip: Authenticate items.
79. Electronics flip: Repair and sell. Startup cost: medium. Time: 1 week. Tip: Test everything.
80. Furniture upcycle: Paint and resell. Startup cost: medium. Time: 2 weeks. Tip: Craigslist sourcing.
81. Art prints: Copy and sell. Wait, original: Print posters. Startup cost: low. Time: 1 week. Tip: Frame options.
82. Plant reselling: Grow and sell. Startup cost: low. Time: 1 month. Tip: Easy care plants.
83. Beauty products: Resell makeup. Startup cost: medium. Time: 1 week. Tip: Sample first.
84. Home decor flip: Update items. Startup cost: medium. Time: 2 weeks. Tip: Trendy styles.
85. Bike parts: Sell used components. Startup cost: low. Time: immediate. Tip: Local bike shops.

Seasonal and Niche Ideas (86-102)

Fit specific times or interests.

86. Holiday decorating: Set up lights. Startup cost: medium. Time: seasonal. Tip: Store supplies.
87. Summer camp help: Assist programs. Startup cost: low. Time: summer. Tip: Get references.
88. Halloween costumes: Make and sell. Startup cost: medium. Time: fall. Tip: Unique designs.
89. Gift wrapping: Wrap presents. Startup cost: low. Time: holidays. Tip: Add bows.
90. Valentine cards: Create custom. Startup cost: low. Time: February. Tip: Personal messages.
91. Easter baskets: Assemble treats. Startup cost: medium. Time: spring. Tip: Theme them.
92. Back-to-school supplies: Sell organizers. Startup cost: low. Time: August. Tip: Bundle items.
93. Wedding favors: Make small gifts. Startup cost: medium. Time: year-round. Tip: Network with planners.
94. Birthday party planning: Organize events. Startup cost: low. Time: 1 week. Tip: Themes for kids.
95. Eco-friendly products: Sell reusable items. Startup cost: medium. Time: 2 weeks. Tip: Green marketing.
96. Sports coaching: Teach soccer basics. Startup cost: low. Time: 1 week. Tip: Group sessions.
97. Dance lessons: Lead classes. Startup cost: low. Time: 2 weeks. Tip: Rent space if needed.
98. Cooking classes: Teach simple recipes. Startup cost: medium. Time: 1 month. Tip: Online options.
99. Book club hosting: Lead discussions. Startup cost: low. Time: immediate. Tip: Charge fees.
100. Drone photography: Capture aerial shots. Startup cost: high. Time: 1 month. Tip: Get licensed.
101. Recycling service: Collect cans. Startup cost: low. Time: immediate. Tip: Partner with centers.
102. Custom phone cases: Design and sell. Startup cost: medium. Time: 1 week. Tip: Use trends.

These 102 business ideas for teen entrepreneurs offer variety. Pick one that excites you. Many need under $100 to start, per Starter Story insights where teens earn up to $1.6K/month reselling toys.

Tips for Success in Teen Business

Stay organized. Use apps like Trello for tasks. Market on Instagram or TikTok where teens hang out. Track money with simple spreadsheets. Ask for feedback to improve.

Common Challenges and Solutions

• Time management: Set schedules. Solution: Work weekends.
• Money issues: Start free. Solution: Save allowance.
• Marketing: Build online presence. Solution: Free social accounts.

A 2024 Intuit study shows teen businesses grew 15% yearly, thanks to online tools.

FAQs About 102 Business Ideas for Teen Entrepreneurs

Can teens really start businesses?

Yes, with parent help for legal stuff.

What are good ideas for 11-15 year olds?

Simple ones like pet sitting or crafting.

How to balance school and business?

Work a few hours weekly.

Are there online ideas?

Yes, like blogging or dropshipping.

Need money to start?

Many are low-cost under $100.

Conclusion

In summary, these 102 business ideas for teen entrepreneurs give you options to start small and grow big. From services to tech, find what fits your passion. Teens like you have succeeded, earning independence and skills. For more stories, see Starter Story’s business ideas for teens or ChooseFI Foundation’s opt-in for young entrepreneurs. What business idea will you try first?

References

1. Starter Story – Provides real success stories and detailed teen business data. Audience: Aspiring entrepreneurs seeking inspiration and metrics like revenue ($1.6K/month examples).
2. ChooseFI Foundation – Opt-in resource for 102 ideas aimed at 10-18 year olds. Audience: Parents and young kids starting home-based ventures.
3. Wix Blog – Lists 19 ideas with tips for teens. Audience: Beginners wanting easy online startups, focusing on low-risk options.