14 Great business ideas for 2024
Starting a new business can be very exciting but also very daunting. You chance of success will be higher if you select a field that you know and understand. It may take some research to really understand the opportunity and market dynamics which you should do before you get started.
There are a number of different businesses you could start in the food sector and if you start small, you won’t need a lot of money to start.
Food Products
You could buy various finished food products and sell them to corporate offices and other shops that wish to sell them. Some examples would be baked goods such as vetkoek, biscuits, koeksisters, rusks and biscuits.
Corporate catering
Corporate catering is also a low cost good option where you can prepare and deliver delicious healthy lunches and snacks for business parks and offices.
Food production
You could make food and sell it. Baking is again a good option from birthday cakes to breads for local restaurants. You could also sell your food from established businesses that already have a Food Handler’s license.
There are several business ideas you can start if you own a computer and the start-up costs are low.
eCommerce website
South Africans are becoming a lot more comfortable with online purchasing. You could set up a virtual store and sell anything you want to. From specialised goods to generalised commodities there is practically no limit to what you can sell. Look for a gap in the market and find a supplier from whom you can purchase the goods wholesale. It is also important to have a reliable and cost effective courier partner.
Computer Business Center
Many people have computers but not everyone is good at using them and may need help in doing more advanced or complicated tasks. If you are good with your computer and can use a most conventional software and programmes well, you could offer services such as typing (projects for students, CVs for job applicants) designing letterheads, basic logos or pamphlets and fliers; creating presentations in powerpoint as well as many other services.
Computer Consultant
If you are good with solving computer problems you could offer your service to people who need it. Whilst the start-up costs would be low it will require some marketing to get your name and service known. You could start with pamphlets and fliers in your neighbourhood with your prices, estimated time for each service and contact details.
Virtual administrative assistant
Many people are very busy these days and just don’t time to attend to everything they need to. Administrative assistants can play a very vital role for someone who is just not able to keep on top of their tasks or doesn’t enjoy doing them. A virtual administrative assistant can provide a wide variety of services including typing, research, bill payments, scheduling appointments and many other administrative services. And the start-up costs are very low.
Many people need help in their home or domestic lives and there are a number of business ideas that can be started in this sector.
Dressmaker/Tailor
Many people nowadays don’t know the basics of sewing. If you are good with a needle and thread you could start a business doing small repairs to garments. You could offer button sewing on services, hems, alterations etc. If you are interested in designing and making clothing, you could offer matric farewell dresses which are in high demand. To start this business, you would need a basic sewing machine and if you could afford it, an overlocker would be very useful for hems and seams. You could advertise your services at local high schools with fliers or perhaps even in their school publications.
Professional Organizer
If you are good at clearing out clutter and organising items in a home you can offer this service to others who just can’t get it done. Many people don’t have the time or energy to keep their houses clutter free which creates an opportunity to use this kind of service. There is usually the added bonus of donating items to deserving charities.
Mobile pet grooming
People love their pets and will spend money caring for and pampering them. If you are a pet lover this business could be for you. Many pets feel anxious in professional grooming environments. What would be better that having their grooming done in their own home. It also keeps your overheads costs right down as you don’t need to buy or rent premises for a grooming parlour. Your hours are more flexible, and the added bonus is that you use the pet owners’ water. The start-up and running costs for this business are very low.
Pet Sitting
Pet sitters are people who take care of other people pets during their absence. This could be for a short period like in a day; or a longer period, like during the holidays or during a business trip. You would need to be sure that you and can take proper care of pets.
Garden and Landscaping Service
If you love the outdoors and have green fingers then a garden and landscaping business is a great opportunity is for you. You can start in your local community by maintaining lawns, pruning shrubs, weeding and fertilizing. This will be your ‘shop window’ for people to see what you can do.
Freelance Writing
If you have a talent for creative writing and copywriting it might be a good idea to consider outsourcing your talents to companies that would require them such as news outlets, publishing houses, blogs, advertising agencies etc. The biggest benefit is that there a very low if any start-up costs and you have the freedom to take on a little or as much work as you choose to.
Handyman Business
Many people need odd jobs done around their homes or offices that they feel are too small to call in a professional. If you are good with your hands practically minded, can solve problems and are good at doing repairs this could be a great business for you.