Marami kang idea pang-negosyo, pero kulang sa budget?
Don’t worry! You can start a business online even if you have little to zero money to use as capital. All you need is an entrepreneurial mindset, hard work, patience and creativity.
For this article, we want to guide micro business owners and individuals aspiring to start their own ventures by providing practical insights into launching a profitable and sustainable business without capital.
Our first advise: keep your day job while starting the business
So, let’s say that you have the right mindset, your mind is bustling with innovative ideas and is dedicated to making your business work – but how sure are you that your business will immediately succeed and generate ROI?
Our first piece of advice is to keep your current job while getting into your new business. This ensures financial stability while your business is in its infancy.
Doing business always comes with some amount of risk, so exercise due diligence and only invest what you can afford to lose.
10 best online business to start with little money
Of course, you can’t really start a business with no money, but there are available resources for aspiring entrepreneurs in every industry, like these Government Programs for Micro-Businesses and SMEs.
But to start you off, here are 10 of the best online businesses in the Philippines that won’t require a large capital:
1. Sell products online through dropshipping
Dropshipping allows entrepreneurs to sell products without holding inventory. Essentially, as a dropshipping business, your role involves serving as the bridge between the supplier and customer.
Operating as a virtual storefront, your responsibility is to receive customer orders and process payments, while the supplier will directly deliver the product to the customer.
Here’s how you can find Dropshipping Suppliers in the Philippines.
2. Sell goods online on consignment
Approach local businesses or consignment platforms to sell your products without needing to pay anything right away. This model also enables you to generate revenue before investing in inventory.
The practice of selling goods on consignment involves sending merchandise to a dealer who will remit payments to you for the sold items.
through dropshipping and selling on consignment.
On the other hand, you can sell products on consignment basis. Find businesses with distributorship program and you can sell their items using your social media or online shop.
3. Print-on-demand services
Print-on-demand services create custom merchandise, from shirts to mugs and other accessories or memorabilia.
For low-budget entrepreneurs, entering the print-on-demand business is straightforward. Begin with market research to identify trends and target audiences. Choose a user-friendly, cost-free platform, avoiding upfront costs. Use affordable design tools, like Canva, for easy-to-execute product designs.
4. Sell handcrafted goods
Leverage your artistry, creativity and entrepreneurial skills in crafting unique, hand-made products. Some examples of handicrafts that you can create at home and sell online include:
- Candles or soaps
- Jewelry, bracelets and accessories
- Woven products
- Art prints, stickers or paintings
- Jars, vases, sculptures and figurines
Platforms like Etsy provide a marketplace for independent creators, requiring minimal initial investment.
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5. Do affiliate marketing
Partner with companies to earn commissions by promoting their products or services through affiliate marketing. Your income is generated through commissions earned when a customer clicks on your affiliate link and completes a purchase.
Here’s a complete guide on how to do affiliate marketing in the Philippines.
6. Become a digital nomad
Offering online services and becoming a digital nomad allows you to work remotely, reducing the need for physical infrastructure and expenses.
Here’s a list of the most in-demand online jobs you can do as a digital nomad:
- Digital marketing
- Website development and design
- Blogging and copywriting
- Graphic design
- Video production and editing
- Virtual assistance
7. Provide online tutorials
Similar to becoming a digital nomad, you can also share your expertise by creating online tutorials. Platforms like YouTube or Skillshare allow you to teach a skill or provide valuable information. Monetize your tutorials through ads, sponsorships, or subscription models.
8. Declutter preloved items
Convert unused items into cash by decluttering your home. Platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or even Instagram provide opportunities to sell preloved items, generating initial capital for your business and building a revolving fund.
These are the Best Platforms to Sell Second Hand Items.
9. Sell home-cooked meals
Turn your culinary skills into a business by selling freshly prepared meals. While not a “zero capital” business, this model will only require you to invest in resources such as food ingredients, packaging, some kitchenware that you already have at home and other utilities.
Use local social media groups to reach potential customers interested in the type of food or cuisine you specialize in.
and won’t need a big capital.
10. Become a content creator
Create content, build an online presence for your brand and leverage your personality or expertise to become a social media influencer on platforms like TikTok, YouTube, Instagram or Facebook.
Monetize your influence through sponsored content, social media ads and affiliate marketing.
5 steps on how to start a business with little to no money
Once you’ve decided on your business idea, how do you get started? Here’s a basic five-step guide so you can turn your zero-capital business into reality:
1. Design a business plan
Develop a clear business plan outlining your objectives, target audience, and strategies. A well-thought-out plan will guide your efforts and help secure long-term success.
Here are the essential elements of a well-written business plan:
- Company description
- Business model
- Market research
- Products and services
- Marketing strategy
- Logistics and operations
- Financial plan
2. Build your brand and business
Establish a unique and memorable brand identity that resonates with your target audience.
Choose a compelling and relevant business name, design an eye-catching and appealing logo, and craft a value proposition that makes your business hard to say “no” to.
All you need (to start a business) is an entrepreneurial mindset, hard work, patience and creativity.
3. Promote your business through social media
Utilize the power of social media to create awareness for your business. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube offer cost-effective marketing strategies.
Social media allows businesses to create entertaining or relatable content that can go viral, create engagement and build your followers.
4. Look for funding
Explore various funding options, such as microloans from banks or government lending programs, and crowdfunding or grants, to inject capital into your business as it grows.
Many organizations support small businesses via financial assistance, so participate in business-oriented communities, engage with fellow entrepreneurs and join groups that promote your industry.
5. Create a marketing strategy for scaling up
As your business gains traction, invest in a cost-effective marketing strategy to scale up operations. Consider digital marketing, collaborative partnerships and other advertising tactics to reach a broader audience.
Build a community around your business by listening to feedback from your customers.
a successful entrepreneur!
DON’T LET A SMALL CAPITAL get in the way of starting your dream business. Work on your passion, create a strong strategy and keep learning to achieve success and sustain your business.
Ninja Van is here to help optimize your business for growth. Explore customized shipping and logistics solutions tailored to your business needs today.
Discover what Ninja Van can do for your small business!
More helpful tips to start your dream business:
What is A Merchandising Business and How To Start One?
7 Online Business Ideas You Can Start with PH100K
Best Practices for Ecommerce Sellers
