17 Online Business Examples -The Secret to Unlocking Your Potential

Aug 15, 2023

The majority of people have heard about the mega corporations winning online (you probably have a package from them sitting on your front porch today). You've probably heard reports of fancy Silicon Valley startups with nap pods and gourmet chefs inside their offices.

You don't have to appear on an episode of Shark Tank, win the lottery, or convince the angel investors to fund your dreams and launch your own company.

In this post we'll look at how the increasing accessibility of the market through platforms like makes it possible for everyday people to make money through the internet. Anyone with an entrepreneurial spirit and the determination to put in consistent effort can be successful in establishing their own side hustle or even an online full-time venture.

We'll also look at some of the most effective business concepts for online to help you in you on your next venture. Let's get started.

The future is here. Do you want to profit from it?

Presently, you are able to advertise and sell goods and services online without the requirement to study codes or attend a school to learn about logistics. Your passions, interests, skills, and talents without quitting your job, or taking a risk with your home.

The dream that is that is in your mind? All you have to do is reach for the opportunity.

Perhaps you'll make millions. Perhaps you'll make a difference in your community. Or, perhaps you'll simply gain the freedom to live with passion and provide the best living conditions for your family.

 homepage with the text, "the ecommerce platform that grows with you"

Leverage and WordPress

and WordPress provide a means to individuals from every walk of life to start their own entrepreneurial ventures.

So if financial resources are your barrier, but you have the time and energy, this program will allow users to accomplish almost anything.

Online business concepts that are successful can turn hobbies into income

There's no need to search the web for ideas for your business. Look at what you're currently doing, or research your interests as well as hobbies. You might sketch out ideas, design jewellery, or even edit video clips for amusement. Or maybe you've got a collection of pasta recipes that friends are always begging for.

Why start an online business?

The online world isn't the same as a brick and mortar one. However, instead of renting space in a strip mall the business you run can build the prime online real estate.

You can cross geographic locations effortlessly and tap even more specific markets and areas of interest that may not be large enough to support an entire physical company in one location. You don't have to spend a lot of money on television ads or pricey billboards to get your message across to the people you want.

Share your thoughts with the world Get feedback and improve them again and repeatedly -- and achieve everything without having to spend the whole amount.

Real-life online business examples -Who can be successful?

Let's take a moment to explore a few successful stories that illustrate the variety of individuals as well as organizations that have discovered entrepreneurs' opportunities through WordPress and .

It's a fact that anyone can follow their dream of starting their own web-based company. No matter if you've only got only a few bucks or few million, it's absolutely possible. Keep in mind, these online business ideas are just a slice of the options that are available. These stories demonstrate the array of small business owners who have found entrepreneurial results on the internet.

Here are some instances of how people are winning :

People experiencing major life changes

Sometime, the most effective business concepts originate from your personal experience. Which is your present stage of life and what problems do you wish would just go away? Are you a college student? A potential first-time homebuyer? Expectant parent?

Ubuntu Baba website, featuring a woman wearing a baby carrier

It was a struggle to locate a suitable baby carrier online, so decided to start her own online business. She used to expand the operations of her home-based firm to service customers from all over the world by providing an easy and enjoyable shopping experience for consumers. The business took off and she's not only created a successful business but one that gives her an objective while also reflecting her values.

The point is that she saw an opportunity, and she seized it. Sometimes, finding the best online business ideas for yourself is as easy as that.

People in unique situations or having specific requirements

There are millions of people across the globe who are facing particular problems. If you believe that you could have been in the same situation or you have a heart to help a community who could benefit from more attention and attention, you have a possibility to make a profit by selling on the internet.

the colorful homepage of Thomas's Trendy socks

His business's success inspired hundreds of other people and promoted inclusiveness across the globe. If you're thinking of launching an your own ideas for online stores, you too can make your ideas a reality!

Influencers and celebrities

Celebrities tapping into business is a tale as old as time. The majority of people in Hollywood is labeling their own tequila. However, some have utilized their celebrity to embrace personal passions that existed before the flashing lights, and have helped others in the process.

Nick Offerman is a great example. You probably know him as the hyper-sensationalized American smart aleck on Parks and Rec, but he's also a world class woodworker who runs the Offerman Woodshop -- a collective of professionals with a focus on perfecting their craft and putting quality over quantity.

the Offerman Woodshop hompage with photos of the team

The result is an authentic representation of Offerman's unique personality, his passion for quality craft, and the group of people who have embraced their passion as their full-time job.

Traditional business owners

There are many opportunities to consider online business ideas isn't limited to ideas that are deemed quirky or off-the-beaten path. You don't have to think up a brilliant invention or find an untapped market in order to find success. Sometimes, the greatest or most lucrative idea already is in place, and the effectiveness that a platform can provide allows entrepreneurs to leap over their competition.

Everyday products like soaps, makeup, juices and air filters have all been creatively marketed and served through . Small changes could make a big difference to the customers. As an example, with a subscription-based model, customers can routinely receive replacements and forever check items off from their list of items to buy.

Combine the ease of use with additional advantages like donations to non-profit organizations or healthier ingredients or an interest in a particular area to turn what is usually boring into a new and exciting venture.

Acoustical Solutions homepage with a photo of their wood wall panels

"Our objective was to buy an industrial manufacturing firm. Fortunately, instead, we came across this business, that is mostly a B2B distribution company."

He purchased the company in 2014 and, at that time, it had about $10,000 of monthly sales on the internet. Today, the figure is closer to 450,000.

Anybody who has a passion to transform the world

Eat Grub is a thriving online business built by two individuals who are committed to changing the western beliefs about insects. They recognized the growing demand for more sustainable and natural food options, and therefore started a business that sold edible insect-based products. They developed their online store, enabling them to easily manage the inventory and provide an effortless shopping experience.

Eat Grub homepage with photos of their products

In many ways, Grub's store on the internet is like the one you'd see at a brick and mortar store, except there's less overhead as well as more flexibility. Setting up their shop online is a smart way to increase profits by eliminating the shortcomings of many traditional enterprises.

Spark your imagination Ideas for online businesses: 17

Now you know about the potential of this and have had a look at some of the instances. You're thinking, "How could I possibly generate income online?"

Just like everything else, the most effective internet-based business concepts begin by examining your current position and the skills you have. Your skate passion could have a lot of value that you aren't aware of that it. Or maybe there's something adjacent to your job responsibilitieslike the consulting of content strategy consultants and web design, as well as copywriting -- that you could explore as a part-time job.

Below are a variety of web-based business models that are designed to get your entrepreneurial juices flowing.

1. Dropshipping is the new frontier in dropshipping.

If you're new to dropshipping, it's an aspect of online business that doesn't require you to manage inventory or fret about shipping logistics. The business model allows you to market online, with no physical stocking of the products you sell.

It is easy to source goods and market them to the right audiences. If someone makes an order, a third-party supplier fulfills the entire thing.

warehouse full of boxes

This is an excellent practice and great online business idea because you're not reliant on the challenges and risks that come with developing products, manufacturing or buying items, and managing stock. You're able to put all of your energy towards creating the best possible dropshipping shop, as well as the marketing of your business to your customers.

2. Art online for sale

Do not let fear of failure hold you from reaching your full potential as an artist! In its best form it's a blank page for creatives. Artists are able to showcase their talent and market their work in front of a worldwide audience through creating their own online business.

shelves full of custom artwork

3. You can become a freelance copywriter, web designer or even a developer

Behind the millions of stores, there are thousands of experts who help people transform their creative visions into a possibility.

There's an entire WordPress and industry made up of expert copywriters, web designers and developers.

Developers can develop WordPress extensions or plugins that give the features stores owners always ask for. This will require upfront effort and regular investment in order to keep and improve the functionality of the plugin, but it's a great option to earn recurring revenues that isn't dependent on you going to work every single day at 9 am.

Web designers can create an appealing aesthetic that makes the store apart, and also keeps visitors on. With their design skills, the use of applications like extensions or WordPress plugins, and often a fair amount of development skills, they create the foundation for websites that are successful.

WooExperts database with a search bar at the top

Are you looking for an expert who can help you build the website of your dreams? Start Here. You are able to filter your search by your precise specifications and ensure that the business you pick is approved by .

4. Start a DIY blog or publication

Did you know the fact that The Rolling Stone operates on WordPress? In reality, a lot of famous brands and publications run on the most well-known content management system (CMS).

RollingStone homepage showing recent articles

If you have an unquenchable passion for a subject as well as a talent for writing, you can create an online company using a blog to turn it into an income stream that is either full or part-time.

5. Self-publish a book (or three)

WordPress removes the roadblocks which prevent you from entering worldwide with your written work. One of the main goals of WordPress is to open up publishing.

Your site could be a representation of the author's name and assist in promoting the book you've written that's available in physical shops. You could also opt the site to market copies (physical or digital copies, if you want to lower your startup cost even more) directly to readers or go down the self-publishing option.

woman working on a computer and notebook

As always, you'll need to identify your audience and make sure you're promoting your work. But if you have something to say it's not necessary to wait on "permission" from a publisher. You can do it yourself and, with some hard work, an excellent product and a little bit lucky, you can be a popular author.

6. Sell custom jewelry

There's never been an ideal time to design original jewelry or make elegant clothing and get going as a business owner in a small scale. The internet market is full with opportunities, and a great online business idea may be setting up your own shop.

custom rings on someone's fingers

Think of it as the ultimate booth in your neighborhood flea market. When you're crafting handmade jewelry, custom apparel, or some other items Internet allows you to connect with the world's population and develop the brand of your products.

7. You can sell the merchandize of your club or team

Perhaps you have an established brand and are looking to promote your brand more efficiently, like the New Zealand national squad, The All Blacks. They wanted to establish an online store to sell their products that matched the aesthetics and philosophy of their brand.

the All Blacks Shop website

But you don't have to work for a professional sporting team to establish a flashy, effective web presence.

From sports clubs for kids to adult social clubs and even adult social clubs, you are able to run clubs for membership, sell merchandise, and post club publications as well as calendar updates through and WordPress. Create a unique, proprietary presence that serves as a central hub for all. You can even include forums as well as other aspects of social media that are available to the public or closed to members only.

8. You can become an assistant virtual

There are many working professionals and entrepreneurs that work exclusively online and need assistance with administrative tasks including scheduling, as well as other administrative responsibilities. If you're skilled in these areas, you could be an invaluable resource for a person.

woman working on her laptop and a notebook

Perhaps you'll start out as a one-person operation before transforming into a business with hundreds of staff members serving clients across the globe!

9. Tap the potential of affiliate marketing

affiliate dashboard in

For success in affiliate marketing, it is necessary to be successful in creating material that is highly ranked in search results that are popular. You'll also need to learn how to implement lean marketing programs and gain (and maintain) the trust of an audience that is willing to follow your suggestions.

It's a lot of work and takes time however, once you've achieved success, you can generate profits all the time, regardless of whether you're at work or not.

10. Provide professional advice

man discussing something with a colleague in front of a laptop

Bypass the shortage of staff and locate qualified remote employees from around the world. Get rid of the cost-effective office space as well as the squanderful office equipment. Remain nimble and scale or contract as needed.

From one operator to huge corporations, there's a lot of possibilities still available on the market.

11. Become an influencer

Today, the desire to be a celebrity can be compared to trying to be a famous athlete or actor. Everybody would like to have their shot. But there are still a lot larger to becoming a influencer.

The key is to locate a niche audience where you can be noticed and show your expertise however, it must be big enough to provide value for advertisers.

woman recording a baking video in front of a camera

If it's via the use of podcasting, blogging, or vlogging, or creating content for social media You can create an online audience and partner with companies to market goods or services.

It can assist you in monetizing your influence by integrating ecommerce features into your web presence as an affiliate marketing or earning ad revenues from blogs.

12. Film and edit video

As with copywriting or design, there's high demand for expertise in the video editing and production world. In the end, no matter what gadget you're on -regardless of whether it's a smartphone, tablet, or laptop -- there's a strong possibility that you've watched a video in the past few minutes.

If you're gifted for storytelling, cinematography, or editing, consider offering editing and video production services online. In case you're beginning at the beginning, it's possible to learn by taking online classes or tutorials.

person filming with a video camera

Then, with , you can showcase your portfolio and even offer video-related packages and even offer digital downloads of your works.

13. Teach an online course

woman writing in a notebook in front of a video course

The ease and convenience of online learning has been a major draw to students who want an education that isn't part of traditional schools.

The online classes are convenient students to build their skills at their own speed and on their own time. Plus, you're sharing your skills across the globe and earning cash while you do it. What could be better?

14. Sell T-shirts

Everybody needs a shirt wear, and while you may see retail stores and tourist spots, restaurants as well as hot sauce companies selling shirts but there's always room to develop other creative business concepts.

the T-Shirt Zone homepage with product photos

If you have creative ideas with determination and desire to improve, you can still make enough money from selling T-shirts online.

15. Develop online fitness and health programs

Over the last few years, the fitness industry has seen a significant change towards online-based offerings. The digital fitness program is one of the best idea for online businesses since they're extremely convenient and users can access what gyms have to offer however, they can do it in their own living rooms.

working out on a yoga mat in front of a computer

It's a crowded market but there are gaps -which if you identify one, it can be very profitable. It's also another industry which you could promote yourself via your social media profiles or partner with other brands and connect with customers via inexpensive, local initiatives.

offers the perfect opportunity to create offerings from one-time digital download purchases to ongoing subscriptions. Additionally, you can add physical merch to your online store when your customer base increases. Through embracing a flexible company approach and providing customers with a variety of product types and payment methods, you can generate greater -- and stable -- revenue.

16. Sell voiceover work

Here's a curveball however, it's an intriguing one. If you've got a nice voice and love your narration, you might consider making money via a business that deals with voiceovers. You'll be amazed by the number of brick-and-mortar as well as web-based businesses as well as content creators and individuals require voiceovers for commercials, videos as well as audiobooks.

man recording voiceover in a studio

Similar to video editing, marketing consulting, or other portfolio services, offers the opportunity to show the voiceovers you have recorded, present several packages available for purchase and manage client bookings. It also allows you to host your own recordings so that people can experience the sound of your voice sounds like.

17. Music sales

Are you a gifted music producer or musician? A way to make your music heard is to sell it online by using tools such as .

man recording music on a keyboard

In a single online storefront you could allow digital downloads of your music and sell physical CDs. You can also sell merchandise, and even teach private lessons online. There are a myriad of options!

Understand your niche interests and pursue it

The most important thing to consider about online business ideas is that there's such a variety of possibilities -- and you can benefit from them regardless of matter how unique your skill or product is. Lean into your interests and areas where you've got talent and passion.

Output website, with information about their Arcade product

If you're seeking the approval of an individual to pursue your online business idea there is a chance of becoming trapped in a holding pattern.

The businesses that we talked about today barely scratch the top of the iceberg. There are many additional online business opportunities to be explored. Have you got one? Try it out. You never know what's gonna take place.

Enhance your marketing skills by enhancing your online business idea

It has an extensive collection of educational tools, resources, as well as an range of freelancers and agents capable of helping with the creation of your perfect, unique online store.

But it doesn't stop there. also has a number of resources to help you learn how to attract new customers, increase the number of people who visit your shop and increase your efficiency and profits.

Profiting from your passion, creativity abilities, skills, or the time you spend

The idea of monetizing your favourite hobby or personal passion for the sake of a profitable online business could be a bit odd, especially if it's a reflection of your artistic flair.

However, you've heard stories about individuals who set their own hours and enjoyingtheir jobs, people who rise each morning looking forward to going to work because it's their dreams. You wonder if that is ever you.

Making it possible to be an income for what you love and what you love to do -- is not just an idea. If you're a unique person or have a deep knowledge of a subject you can find ways to make it into a full-time income.

This may not be a quick process but it does not have to. Join the thousands of entrepreneurs online who are pursuing their own ideas for online businesses.

Just an internet connection, you are able to start building your online store at no cost. Find your partners. Discover the tools. Start experimenting. Begin to enjoy the adventure... you're about to find out just what a fulfilling and enjoyable life is.