Gone are the days when one had to wait for hours to give a test or interview and get selected for a job. The era of standing unnoticed has changed. The intervention of technology has helped millions to earn an income from the comfort of their homes. The Internet has ensured that there is a huge platform for new businesses — big or small. All one needs is a little bit of hard work and dedication to set up an online business.
Starting a small business enables one to manage capital effectively and can also be the key to getting on track to financial success. It can bring tremendous opportunity to a corporate employee adding on an alternative source of income, whereas a student can earn more than just his pocket money and a house wife can get an avenue to showcase her talent and become a homepreneur. It's a good idea to spend your spare time to take up entrepreneurship as it allows you to do something you enjoy and sets up a potential long-term revenue stream.
Here are five summer businesses you can try setting up in less than Rs1,300 per month.
lOnline bakerpreneur: Do people love your cup cakes or wait eagerly for the next time you are baking that red velvet cakeIJ Then, this is your opportunity to start a home-baking business on the side. You can either start by using the power of word of mouth or simply create signature items and get started through your own website. Baking skills are constantly evolving. Make sure you stay updated because it is good to keep your dessert menu looking innovative to keep customers excited.
lAccessory designer: Who doesn't love jewellery and accessoriesIJ If you are someone who has always had an eye for detailed work and come endowed with a lot of patience, creating homemade jewellery is your way to becoming an entrepreneur. Not only will you have the opportunity to sell them through local gift shops, craft fairs, or exhibitions, you can also approach sites that can create a website for your jewellery brand.
lHandmade gift boxes: Birthdays, weddings, festivals, the season of gifting is never-ending. If you are someone who loves to think out-of-the-box when it comes to creating DIY gift wraps and boxes, here is your next online business idea. People nowadays are ready to shell out big bucks for getting customised gift boxes or favours for their weddings, birthday parties, etc. Put your products on display either at exhibitions and fairs or simply get a website created.
lPottery business: last year, ceramics was one of the top home trends, which gave rise to pottery mania, making it a viable business opportunity for those who have a knack for creating beautiful and creative pieces from clay. You don't have to be an artist or even have any pottery experience. All you need is a pottery kick wheel, tools, a ceramic kiln and a space to keep your artwork cool and dry before you glaze and fire them and there's your next business.
lHandmade soaps and shampoo: There is no rocket science behind creating beautiful and fragrant soaps and shampoos at home. Today everyone is giving a nod to organic and homemade soaps and cosmetics. As a consequence, the demand for such products is escalating. There can’t be an easier way to tap this demand than making these products at home and selling them online. The requisite equipment is easily available and making these products is almost child's play, not to mention a lot of fun.
There are many more business ideas out there that are waiting to be discovered. Before you embark on your new side-business, don't be limited to a certain opportunity. Follow your imagination and be creative.
The writer is Anurag Avula, CEO & Founder, Shopmatic