5 Ideas to Start a Side Business with Less Than $100

Wouldn’t it be nice to earn some extra cash? It’s safe to say that everyone would enjoy an additional stream of income. But where do you even begin? You may be wondering to yourself, “How do I start a side business?”

Well, first thing’s first— know that you’ll have to put in extra time and effort. So, don’t quit your day job just yet. However, with some hard work, long hours, and dedication, you may be able to start a side business to help your financial situation.

If you need some extra income, you may consider starting a side hustle to bring in more money. Here are 5 ideas to start a side business with less than $100. 

1. Perform Smartphone Screen Repairs

Almost everyone you know has a smartphone these days. From youngsters to elderly folks, these high-tech gadgets are in everyone’s hands. And with so many smartphones out there, you’ll find plenty of cracked screens, too.

You may be able to start a side business replacing cracked smartphone screens. First, you’ll need proper training. Luckily, there are a host of how-to videos out there for every type of screen you can imagine. Then, find a tool kit on the Internet for less than $100.

You’ll certainly want to make sure you’ve mastered this task before you take a chance repairing someone’s smartphone screen. Have some old phones lying around? Practice on those first. Take them apart, then put them back together to make sure everything remains in working order. As always, practice makes perfect.

2. Become a Technology Teacher

Like we just mentioned, high-tech gadgets are everywhere. Yet, not everyone knows how to use them, especially older generations. If you’ve ever got stuck teaching Granny how to check her text messages, you’ll understand this idea all too well.

But what if you turned this into a side business? There are lots of people — both young and old — who could benefit from a better understanding of how technology works. You could start with the basics like:

• How to use smartphones
• How to create an email address
• How to check and send emails
• Using and searching the Internet

There are also countless households who could use help setting up their phones and tablets, computers, Wi-Fi, smart televisions, smart home systems, and so much more. While this may seem simple, it may just be a smart way to start up a side business.

3. Get Social Media Savvy

The social media space is booming. Businesses small and large, along with individuals and influencers are all trying to harness the power of social media. These free platforms include Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, just to name a few. And they bring an opportunity for businesses to rake in big bucks.

There are lots and lots of resources out there to help you learn all you can about how social media works. Once you understand these platforms, you can connect with local businesses to help them promote their products and services. This knowledge is in high demand.

There are a few certification programs that cost less than $100, too. These courses will help to jumpstart your social media side business.

4. Try After-School Tutoring

Knowledge is power. So, sharing some of that brainpower with others might just lead to a successful side business under $100. If you’re skilled in a particular subject, you may be able to tutor students after school.

Or, if you’re bi-lingual, you can teach others a new language. This can also be done in a group setting, too, if you’re able to round up enough participants. Also, perhaps you can try translation services as well.

5. Start a Delivery Service

You may be surprised to discover how many folks would pay for delivery services. This could cover grocery shopping and delivery for elderly neighbors. Or, perhaps transporting people from one place to another.

Personal shoppers can acquire multiple clients and sometimes even partner up with businesses as well. Also, if you own a truck, you may be able to start a moving business as well.

Find more business ideas here to help establish a steady side income.

How to Secure a Successful Side Business

Do Your Research

Before you dive head-first into your new side business venture, make sure to perform plenty of research. See what’s in demand in your area. In order to have a successful small business, you need to make sure you’ve got enough customers to support you.

Also, take the time to master your skillset. Learn as much as you possibly can about your new endeavor. Whether it’s hours of YouTube videos, online training courses, or books covering the subject matter, make sure you study the topics at hand.

Spread the Word

You’ll need to do your very best to spread the word about your side hustle far and wide. This may include creating a website and social media pages for your new business. After each new job, make sure to collect positive reviews from satisfied customers, too.

Remember, word-of-mouth referrals are the most effective forms of marketing.

Discover Local Resources

Your city or town may have programs in place to help you get started with your new side business. These may include workshops, business counseling, and planning sessions.

Also, turn to your community for help. Reach out to your local Chamber of Commerce. Also, join local Facebook groups for small businesses. At the end of the day, you’ll want to do as much networking as you possibly can.

Need Cash?

Check Into Cash is here to offer a boost. As always, you're welcome to spend your funds however you wish.

Try an Installment Loan

If you need a lump sum of cash, you may be eligible for an Installment Loan from Check Into Cash.

These typically offer longer term loans, and you can pay it back over a longer period of time with bi-weekly or monthly payments over terms ranging a few weeks to a few months.

Payday Loans from Check Into Cash

If you’ve already got a job, you may be able to get an advance on your paycheck with a Payday Loan from Check Into Cash.

These loans are quick gap loans to help pay for unexpected expenses. Applying is easy. Plus, these small-dollar loans can get you where you need to be.

Not all consumers may qualify for loan products noted above; certain restrictions apply.  All products and services not available in all states or stores.  Rules, fees and limits apply.  See store for details.

 California:  In California, deferred deposit loans are provided in accordance with the Department of Financial Innovation pursuant to California Deferred Deposit Transaction Law, Cal. Fin. Code §23000 et seq.