37 One-Person Business Ideas You Haven’t Considered [But Should]

Have you ever noticed how the most successful solopreneurs make their businesses look effortless? The truth is, building a profitable business as a one-person company requires strategy, not just luck.

Whether you want to generate significant income through passive revenue streams or leverage your existing skills, the perfect business idea is waiting for you.

Let me show you the best one-person business ideas you can start today.

What Makes a Great One-Person Business?

Before diving into specific ideas, let's understand what makes a one-person business successful:

• Low startup costs that don't require business loans
• Scalable operations that can grow without needing to hire employees
• Clear separation between personal and business finances
• Flexible schedule that balances personal and professional lives
• Targeted marketing that reaches your ideal audience efficiently

The most profitable business ideas for solopreneurs allow you to be your own boss while creating systems that let you work smarter, not harder.

What Are The Best One-Person Business Ideas?

Choosing the right one-person business idea is about matching your passion with a smart business structure.

1. Create Online Courses

Turning your expertise into an online course creates one of the most scalable, profitable one-person business models you can start with just your social media presence.

The key differentiator now isn't just having good content but building a community around your courses.

Start by identifying what you consistently teach on your blog or YouTube channel, then package that knowledge into structured modules.

If you have a crazy amount of engagement on social media platforms, I would prefer to build an online course business through YouTube.

AI marketing tools can now help with everything from generating course outlines to creating personalized follow-up emails for students.

The most successful course creators I've seen aren't just selling information. They're selling transformation through accountability and connection.

Plus, with platforms like Kajabi and Skool handling the technical side, you can focus on what you do best, which is teaching.

You can watch this video where I explain how you can create online courses with AI, from the marketing strategy to building the outlines. 

2. Build A Personal Brand

Personal branding has become one of the most powerful business ideas for solopreneurs.

You can attract clients, speaking opportunities, and partnerships by positioning yourself as an authority in your field.

Start by creating a personal website that showcases your expertise and establishes your unique voice.

Consistently share valuable content through blog posts, podcasts, or videos to build trust with your target audience.

Remember to separate your personal and professional lives appropriately while still being authentic.

A strong personal brand can open doors to multiple revenue streams, from consulting to product sales.

3. Build AI Apps

Creating AI applications has become a viable option for entrepreneurs without extensive technical backgrounds.

Modern platforms allow you to develop modern tools that solve specific problems for clearly defined audiences.

Focus on addressing particular pain points in industries you understand.

For example, you might create an AI tool that helps real estate agents generate property descriptions or an application that analyzes customer feedback for small business owners.

The most successful AI app developers identify specific challenges where automation provides clear value.

Start with a subscription model that provides ongoing revenue while continuously refining your product based on user feedback.

You no longer need a big team since you can use Zapier and Make.com to help you build your AI app. This is one of the best ways to make money using AI and your own ideas.

4. Vibe Marketing

Creating authentic, personality-driven marketing campaigns has become a specialized service where one-person businesses can excel.

Unlike traditional agencies, vibe marketers focus on capturing a brand's unique energy and cultural relevance.

This business works well for creative individuals who understand cultural trends and can translate brand values into compelling content.

You'll help clients define their distinctive voice and create consistent experiences across all touchpoints.

Develop your recognizable approach and showcase it through your own website and social media. 

Successful vibe marketers often work with a small roster of aligned clients, creating deeper and more authentic partnerships.

5. Create AI Agents

Developing AI agents that perform specific tasks offers significant opportunities for vibe coders

These AI agents can handle customer service, data analysis, content creation, and numerous other functions.

Success in this space comes from creating agents that excel at specific tasks rather than attempting to build all-purpose assistants.

For example, you might develop an agent who generates podcast show notes or assists real estate agents with property research.

Most businesses in this category use subscription models for standardized agents or custom development fees for specialized solutions.

Many successful creators combine both approaches to serve different market segments.

6. Become A Ghostwriter

Ghostwriting is a solid business idea that leverages your writing skills while helping others share their expertise.

Think about it. Most founders and CEOs don't have the time to write content, but they need it to build a brand and pipeline.

You can easily step in and take care of all their content marketing.

You'll create content:

• books
• articles
• speeches

This business requires strong writing abilities, research skills, and the capacity to capture another person's voice.

Successful ghostwriters specialize in particular industries or content types, such as business memoirs or technical books.

Build your business by creating a portfolio of your own writing, gathering testimonials (even anonymous ones that respect confidentiality), and networking with potential clients who have expertise but lack writing skills.

7. Build A YouTube Channel

Creating a YouTube channel represents one of the most scalable one-person business ideas with multiple revenue streams.

While building an audience takes time, established creators can generate income through advertising, sponsorships, merchandise, and related products.

Success requires identifying a content niche that balances your interests with audience demand.

Whether you're teaching skills, reviewing products, or entertaining viewers, consistency and quality are essential for growth.

Invest in decent equipment and editing software, but remember that value and personality matter more than perfect production.

Many successful YouTube entrepreneurs start with weekly content in a specific niche, then expand their topics and frequency as their audience grows.

8. Social Media Marketing

Social media management is a great one-person business as companies recognize the importance of a consistent, strategic online presence.

This business model works well for those who understand platform algorithms, content creation, and audience engagement.

Differentiate yourself by specializing in particular platforms or industries. For example, you might focus exclusively on Instagram for retail businesses or LinkedIn for B2B companies.

This specialization allows you to develop deep expertise and charge premium rates.

Create service packages that include content creation, scheduling, community management, and performance reporting.

Successful social media marketers start with a few local business owners as clients, then expand through referrals and demonstrated results.

9. Sell AI Writing Services

Selling an AI writing service offers a huge opportunity for solopreneurs who can integrate LLMs into their content creation processes to deliver high-quality, brand-aligned content.

This isn't just about reselling AI outputs but adding human expertise and what search engines want to see.

Position yourself as a content strategist who uses AI to increase efficiency while maintaining quality.

Develop workflows combining AI generation with human editing, fact-checking, and refinement to create cost-effective content that outperforms purely AI-generated and traditional content.

Offer tiered service packages based on content complexity and volume.

Many successful AI writing tools create industry-specific solutions, such as product descriptions for eCommerce businesses or research-backed blog content for professional services firms.

10. Start An AI Ad Agency

Traditional advertising agencies often struggle with the technical aspects of modern digital marketing. By combining AI tools with advertising, you can create a specialized agency that delivers better results more efficiently.

Focus on using AI for audience targeting, ad creative testing, performance prediction, and campaign optimization. This approach allows you to manage more campaigns with better results than traditional methods.

You can build case studies demonstrating your ability to improve key metrics like cost per acquisition or return on ad spend.

Many successful AI ad agencies work on performance-based models where they share in the results they generate, aligning their incentives with client success.

You can even use AI tools for UGC ads and not even have the client do much work upfront.

11. Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing is perfect for solopreneurs with minimal startup costs and no customer management.

Focus on niches where you have genuine interest or expertise, as this authenticity will show in your content.

Once you have your niche, you want to find products you can promote that solve a real problem.

You can find many affiliate networks that provide high commission rates and contact their managing partners to get an idea of your potential earnings.

Then you can build your business through SEO-optimized content, email marketing, and strategic use of social media platforms.

Many successful affiliate marketers diversify across multiple products and companies while developing their own digital products as additional revenue streams.

12. Start A Blog

Blogging is undoubtedly one of the top one-person business ideas. It offers the freedom to express your thoughts on your own website and share valuable blogging tips with your audience.

The key is selecting a niche with commercial potential where you can provide unique value.

Research keywords and topics with decent search volume but moderate competition, and create comprehensive content that truly serves the reader's needs.

Focus on building an email list from day one, as this owned audience becomes your most valuable asset.

Many successful bloggers combine multiple revenue streams while gradually developing their own products based on audience needs and interests.

13. Business Consulting

Business consulting lets you leverage your industry expertise to help other companies solve problems and achieve goals.

This high-value service can command premium rates while offering flexibility and intellectual stimulation.

Define your consulting niche based on your expertise and the problems you're best equipped to solve.

Whether you specialize in operations, marketing, finance, or another area, clarity about your value proposition is essential.

Create structured offerings that range from one-time assessments to ongoing advisory relationships.

Successful consultants combine project work with retainer arrangements to create stable income while maintaining variety.

14. Online Dating Consultant

If you're good at giving dating advice and understand the nuances of relationships, becoming an Online Dating Consultant could be your ticket to a profitable one-person business.

In this role, you're a consultant and a trusted confidant, helping people navigate the often confusing world of online dating.

By offering personalized advice and strategies, you can build a loyal customer base that relies on your expertise to find love and meaningful connections.

I recently found a solopreneur doing this offer, and her name is Kamilla from DatingBoss.com. She offers a free newsletter where she gives dating advice and has an online course and ebook where she takes her leads through a sales funnel.

This is the perfect example of what I would do to get more clients on my own. 

This business idea taps into a growing market, promising financial rewards and the satisfaction of making a real difference in people's lives.

Plus, it's a great way to use your interpersonal skills and insights to create a thriving, heart-centered business.

15. Newsletter Business

Starting a Newsletter Business is a fantastic way to run your own business, whether you fly solo or collaborate with a business partner.

Platforms like Beehiiv make writing and sending engaging newsletters easy, opening up avenues to monetize your content through sponsorships using tools like Passion Froot or Beehiiv's native platform.

This solo business idea isn't just about sharing your thoughts; it's a strategic move to build an audience and create a steady income stream.

Start by building an audience with free content, then introduce paid tiers with premium offerings.

Many successful newsletter creators combine subscription revenue with complementary income streams like consulting, speaking, or related products.

Need inspiration? Look at Hayden Bowles, who offers valuable insights on starting a newsletter business, demonstrating how this model can turn your passion for writing and connecting with an audience into a profitable venture.

16. Sell AI Chatbots

AI chatbots have become increasingly valuable as businesses seek to improve customer service while controlling costs.

Creating and implementing these conversational agents represents an opportunity for technically inclined entrepreneurs.

Focus on developing chatbots for specific industries or use cases rather than trying to create universal solutions.

This AI business allows you to build deeper expertise and more effective products.

Offer both template-based options for smaller clients and custom development for larger organizations.

Successful chatbot developers generate recurring revenue through implementation fees, monthly maintenance, and ongoing optimization services.

17. Start A Life Coaching Business

Life coaching has become a significant industry as people seek guidance in navigating personal and professional challenges.

As a one-person business, coaching offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact while enjoying location and schedule flexibility.

Differentiate yourself by focusing on a specific client type or life challenge.

Whether you specialize in career transitions, relationship coaching, or productivity, this focus helps you develop deeper expertise and more effective methodologies.

Invest in relevant certifications and create a structured coaching program that delivers measurable results.

A lot of coaches combine one-on-one sessions with group programs or digital products to serve clients at different prices while maximizing their impact and income.

18. Credit Repair Business

With many consumers struggling with credit issues, a credit repair business offers the opportunity to provide valuable services while generating sustainable income.

This business helps clients improve their credit scores by addressing inaccuracies and developing better financial habits.

Success requires understanding credit reporting laws (particularly the Fair Credit Reporting Act), developing systematic processes for disputing errors, and creating educational resources that help clients maintain good credit.

Offer tiered service packages based on client needs and situation complexity.

Many credit repair businesses combine one-time services with ongoing monitoring and education programs that create recurring revenue while providing continued value to clients.

19. Freelance Writing Business

Content remains essential for business marketing, creating consistent demand for skilled writers. A freelance writing business offers flexibility and creative satisfaction while requiring minimal startup investment.

Stand out by specializing in particular industries or content types.

Whether you focus on technical documentation, SEO-optimized blog posts, or email sequences, this specialization allows you to develop expertise that commands premium rates.

Create a portfolio demonstrating your capabilities and results, and develop systems for managing client relationships and projects efficiently.

Freelance writers gradually transition from hourly or per-word pricing to value-based project fees that better reflect their contribution to client success.

20. Manage Email Marketing

Despite the proliferation of communication channels, email marketing remains one of the most effective ways for businesses to nurture relationships and drive sales.

Managing these programs requires specialized knowledge that many companies lack internally.

Position yourself as an email marketing specialist who understands list building, segmentation, automation, and analytics.

Develop expertise with popular platforms like Beehiiv, Kit, or ActiveCampaign to provide technical implementation alongside strategic guidance.

Create service packages that include campaign development, automation setup, and performance optimization.

There are email marketing managers who combine retainer arrangements for ongoing support with project-based work for specific campaigns or system setups.

21. Coffee Shop

Opening a coffee shop could be a perfect fit for those considering small businesses or one-person business ideas.

Think smaller scale, like a coffee cart or a mobile coffee shop. This concept is ideal for aspiring business owners who want to keep operations simple yet effective.

Being a business owner of a mobile coffee shop offers flexibility, allows for a personal connection with your customers, and taps into the ever-popular coffee culture.

It's not just about selling coffee; it's about creating an experience and a community around your unique brand.

This approach to a coffee business minimizes overhead costs while maximizing the opportunity to connect with coffee lovers wherever you go.

22. Become A Bookkeeper

Bookkeeping represents an essential service that many small businesses struggle to manage effectively.

With relatively low barriers to entry and consistent demand, this field offers opportunities for detail-oriented individuals to build stable one-person businesses.

Differentiate yourself by specializing in particular industries or accounting systems. This focus lets you understand specific financial patterns and requirements while streamlining your processes.

Offer tiered service packages based on business size and complexity, and consider developing expertise in related areas like payroll or tax preparation.

Successful bookkeepers build practices with monthly retainer clients while using technology to serve more businesses efficiently.

23. Build Directories

Online directories connecting buyers with relevant providers remain viable business models in specialized niches.

You can build a valuable platform by creating a curated resource that saves users time and helps them make better decisions.

Success requires identifying underserved markets where existing solutions are inadequate. Research potential niches by examining search volume, competition, and commercial intent to ensure sufficient demand.

Generate revenue through listing fees, premium placements, or affiliate relationships with listed businesses.

Once they establish their platform and audience, many successful directory owners expand into related content and services.

24. Build A Paid Community

As people seek connection and specialized knowledge, paid communities have become a powerful business model.

These spaces bring together people with shared interests or goals, providing value through curated resources, expert access, and peer support.

Focus on serving a specific audience with clear needs and a willingness to pay for solutions. Whether you support entrepreneurs, creative professionals, or hobbyists, clarity about your community's purpose is essential.

Structure your community with consistent content, engaging discussions, and valuable resources that members can't easily find elsewhere.

Community builders combine membership fees with complementary offerings like courses, events, or services that address member needs.

25. Become A Personal Chef

A personal chef business offers creative fulfillment and schedule flexibility for those with culinary skills.

This service appeals to busy professionals, families with dietary restrictions, and those who enjoy quality meals without restaurant prices or home cooking effort.

Differentiate yourself by focusing on particular cuisines, dietary approaches, or service models.

Whether you specialize in weekly meal prep, special occasion dinners, or cooking classes, this clarity helps you attract ideal clients.

Develop standardized menus and pricing while allowing for customization based on client preferences and needs. Personal chefs combine regular clients with special events and cooking instruction to create diverse income streams.

26. Paid CPA Marketing

CPA (Cost-per-Action) marketing involves promoting offers in which you earn commissions when users complete specific actions, such as signing up, making purchases, or requesting information.

This performance-based model can be amazing for those who understand traffic generation and conversion optimization.

It requires identifying profitable offers with reasonable competition and developing effective promotion strategies. Research potential niches and offers thoroughly before investing significant time or resources.

Focus on building assets like email lists, content sites, or social media accounts you control, rather than relying solely on paid advertising.

CPA marketers diversify across multiple offers and traffic sources while continuously developing systems to test and optimize campaigns.

27. Funnel Builder

As businesses recognize the importance of structured customer journeys, demand has grown for specialists who can create effective marketing and sales funnels.

This technical yet creative role combines strategy, design, copywriting, and analytics.

Position yourself as a conversion specialist who understands both the psychology of purchasing decisions and the technical implementation of effective funnels.

Develop expertise with popular platforms like ClickFunnels, GHL, or custom WordPress solutions. It's even better if you've built your own website and have provided digital marketing services.

Create service packages that include strategy, design, implementation, and optimization.

Funnel builders combine project-based work with ongoing optimization services that tie compensation to performance improvements.

28. Podcasting

Podcasting offers a powerful platform for building authority and connecting with audiences.

While monetization typically takes time, established podcasts can generate income through sponsorships, listener support, and related products or services.

Success requires identifying a specific audience and content approach that fills a gap in the current landscape. Research existing shows in your area of interest to understand what's working and where opportunities exist.

Invest in decent audio equipment and develop a consistent production schedule and format.

Podcasters use their shows as platforms to build relationships with guests and listeners that lead to business opportunities beyond direct podcast revenue.

29. Dog Grooming Business

For animal lovers, a dog grooming business combines passion with practical skills.

With consistent demand and the potential for loyal, repeat clients, this service-based business can provide stable income and personal satisfaction.

Differentiate yourself through specialization in particular breeds, grooming styles, or service approaches. Whether you focus on show dogs, anxiety-friendly grooming, or mobile services, this clarity helps attract ideal clients.

Invest in quality equipment and develop efficient processes that maintain high standards while maximizing the number of pets you can serve.

Dog groomers can expand their services to include training tips, specialty products, or pet photography.

30. Graphic Designer

Graphic design is a highly sought-after skill, perfect for those looking to delve into creative solo business ideas.

Whether for online and local advertising design or content marketing, your skills as a graphic designer are invaluable. To streamline your workflow and enhance your designs, consider using AI image generators like Canva.

These tools simplify the design process and help you maintain a high standard of creativity and professionalism.

As a graphic designer, you can offer unique solutions to businesses and individuals, helping them convey their message visually in a world where visual content is king.

31. Dog Walking

Dog walking is one of those one-person business ideas that's enjoyable and incredibly rewarding.

This could be the perfect fit if you love animals and enjoy being outdoors. It's a business that allows you to combine your passion for pets with the opportunity to be your own boss.

Dog walking services are always in demand, especially in busy urban areas where pet owners struggle to find the time for their furry friends.

You can sign up and join a platform like Rover and start your independent business.

32. Video Editing

As a one-business company in video editing, leveraging AI video editing tools can be a game-changer.

These tools streamline the editing process, allowing you to deliver high-quality work efficiently. Social media platforms are your best bet to get clients.

Showcase your skills and portfolio on Instagram, LinkedIn, or YouTube platforms to attract diverse clients.

This business idea is ideal for those who don't mind working longer ideas and keeping up with trending video assets.

33. House And Commercial Cleaning

Starting house cleaning services is a great business idea for those who want to work alone and prefer a hands-on approach.

This industry offers the potential to build a loyal client base, and attending industry events can help expand your network and knowledge.

House and commercial cleaning services are always in demand, providing a stable income and the satisfaction of visibly transforming spaces.

Whether you specialize in residential or commercial properties, this business allows for flexibility in scheduling and client selection, making it an ideal venture for solo entrepreneurs.

34. Online Language Tutoring

Launching an online language tutoring business allows you to work remotely and reach students worldwide.

This business model is perfect for language enthusiasts who want to share their knowledge while maintaining flexibility in their schedule.

You can pair this with online courses, offering structured learning paths and personalized tutoring sessions.

This approach not only diversifies your income but also enhances the learning experience for your students.

It's a rewarding and scalable business idea, ideal for those passionate about education and language instruction.

35. UGC Creator

Becoming a UGC (User Generated Content) Creator is a dynamic way to create engaging content and establish yourself as a social media influencer.

This role involves crafting authentic and relatable content that resonates with audiences on various platforms.

Leveraging influencer marketing platforms for UGC can help you connect with brands, opening up opportunities for collaborations and sponsorships.

It’s a creative and rewarding field, ideal for those with a flair for storytelling and a good understanding of social media trends.

You can use trend-spotting tools to help you promote products before they go viral.

36. Pinterest Manager

As a Pinterest Manager, you can offer services as a virtual assistant, focusing on creating organic pins that stand out.

This solopreneurship idea involves design and strategic planning to maximize engagement and reach on Pinterest.

You can create simple pins on Pinterest by reviewing what's working in your niche market. For example, since I am in the online business niche, I create pins that look like this:

Offering this specialized service caters to businesses and bloggers looking to enhance their online presence on this visually driven platform. 

As a one-business service, it allows for creativity, marketing acumen, and a deep understanding of Pinterest's unique ecosystem, making it a lucrative and fulfilling career path.

37. Resume Writing Service

Launching a resume-writing business can be rewarding, especially if you use an AI resume writer to enhance your services.

This technology can help you create impactful resumes more efficiently, allowing you to serve more clients.

The key to success in this field is to find clients who value a professionally crafted resume, such as job seekers aiming for competitive roles or career advancements.

With the right marketing and quality service, your resume-writing career can become a go-to resource for job seekers.

Can Anyone Start A One-Person Business Idea?

Yes, anyone can start a one-person business and make money as a complete beginner.

The key is to choose the right business structure and develop a solid business plan. It's essential to select a niche and understand your target market thoroughly.

A one-person business can thrive with these elements, allowing personal and professional growth.

Whether offering a service, selling products, or leveraging your expertise, the possibilities are endless for those willing to take the entrepreneurial leap.

How To Choose The Right One-Person Business Idea

With so many options, how do you select the best business idea for your situation? Consider these factors:

1. Assess Your Skills and Interests

The most sustainable businesses align with your existing strengths and passions. What are you naturally good at?

What do you enjoy doing even when it's challenging? The intersection of your skills and interests often reveals promising business opportunities.

2. Evaluate Market Demand

Even the most passionate entrepreneur needs customers willing to pay. Research whether there's sufficient demand for your proposed products or services.

Look at competition, search trends, and industry reports to gauge market potential.

3. Consider Your Lifestyle Goals

Different business models require different time commitments and work patterns. Be honest about how you want your business to fit into your life.

Do you need location independence? Flexible hours? Minimal client interaction? Choose a business structure that supports your desired lifestyle.

4. Calculate Startup Requirements

Assess what you'll need to launch your business, including:

• Financial investment (equipment, software, inventory)
• Time to become profitable
• Licenses or certifications
• Physical space requirements

The right business idea should be feasible within your current constraints or have a clear path to overcoming them.

Final Thoughts

Remember that building a profitable business takes time.

Focus on your ability to deliver exceptional service to your first clients or customers, and use their feedback to refine your offerings.

As you grow, continuously evaluate whether to expand your services, raise your prices, or develop new products to increase your income.

With dedication and strategic planning, a one-person business can provide financial independence and the freedom to work on your own terms.

The right business structure, combined with your unique talents, can create a sustainable enterprise supporting your personal and professional goals.

Your one-person business journey begins with a single step. Which of these ideas will you try first?