Key Takeaways:
- Starting your own business as a single mom offers flexibility and financial independence.
- Research, plan, and understand the risks before launching your business.
- Identify your target market and tailor your products or services to meet their needs.
- Leverage your skills, passions, and expertise to stand out in a competitive market and attract customers.
Did you know that more and more single moms are going into business for themselves as a way to become financially independent?
The significant facts don’t need to be said. Single moms run one in three women-owned businesses in the U.S., and a recent survey by GoDaddy found that more than half (69%) of single-mom entrepreneurs want to own a small, mid-size, or corporate business, which is more than owners without children.
Welcome to “Mompreneurs Rise:32 Profitable Business Ideas for Single Moms in 2023.” In this article, we’ll look at thirty two profitable business ideas that are just right for single moms.
Get ready to start a journey to help you become a successful entrepreneur. Your skills and determination can pave the way to a better future.
Why Should You Consider Starting Your Own Business as a Single Mom?
It can be rewarding and empowering for a single mom to start her own business. Here are some reasons to think about this choice:
- Flexibility: As a business owner, you can set your hours and work from home, which gives you more flexibility in caring for your children. This can be especially important if you have young children or if your children have special needs.
- Financial Independence: Becoming your own boss allows you to earn more money than in a traditional job. This can help you provide a better life for your family and give you more financial security.
- Personal Fulfillment: Starting your own business can be an enriching experience. You can use your skills and talents to create something you are passionate about. This can give you a sense of accomplishment and pride, and it can also be a great way to set a positive example for your children.
However, it’s essential to research, plan, and understand the risks before starting a business.
Here is a list of the best business ideas for single moms that you should consider:
1. Fashion Designing or Tailoring
Fashion designing or tailoring is an excellent choice for creative single moms interested in fashion. This job lets you let out your inner fashion designer and make unique clothes. With the demand for custom-made clothing and unique designs rising, you can find your niche and meet various fashion needs.
Fashion design and tailoring are great jobs for single moms because they give them much freedom. You can work around your schedule and meet business and family obligations. As you improve at what you do and people notice your designs, the business could become a creative outlet and a way to make money.
3. Freelance Writing Business
Due to the growing need for content in many industries, freelance writing is an excellent business for single moms in 2023. Businesses need skilled writers to help them get their message across in blog posts, articles, and social media. As a freelancer, you can focus on different areas, giving you more chances to find work and make a good living.
If you love writing and are good at giving helpful advice, you can use these skills professionally through freelance writing. Working from home is a good option for a single mom because it allows her to balance her work and personal life. You can build a strong portfolio with hard work and consistency that gets you higher-paying freelance writing jobs. This makes freelance writing not only a rewarding hobby but also a lucrative one.
3. Dog Daycare
Dogs can get bored, just like people, but not all pet owners have the time to give their pets the attention they need. Because of this, many dog owners send their dogs to daycare instead of leaving them at home alone. Dogs can stay active and busy in a daycare setting so they don’t get bored or stagnant. If you like dogs and want to start a business, you could open a dog daycare.
The U.S. pet daycare market was valued at USD 1.12 billion in 2021 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate from 2022 to 2030. If you have space, like a house, you can capitalize on this growing industry by establishing a pet daycare business. Registering your business and researching the services offered by other dog daycares are vital steps to ensure that your facility meets industry standards and pet owners’ expectations. You can tap into the lucrative pet daycare market and create a successful venture by providing a safe and nurturing environment for pets.
4. Pet Care Services
If you like animals, a business that helps people care for their pets might be a good fit for you. You could offer services like pet sitting, walking dogs, cleaning after pets, grooming, and more. You could also grow your business by selling things for pets.
Before starting your business, you must ensure you have all the licenses and permits you need to operate legally.
5. Sell Your Graphic Design Services
Selling your graphic design skills as a stay-at-home mom can be an excellent way to make extra money. But it’s a good idea to learn about running a business from home as much as possible.
To be a successful graphic designer, you must meet your client’s needs and provide good service. If you want to get more work, having a personal website to show off your creative designs can be very helpful. This platform can also be used to connect with possible customers.
6. Work From Home As A Virtual Assistant
If you’re considering a career as a virtual assistant, it’s essential to identify and develop marketable skills in this field. Many clients seek virtual assistants because they need help with various tasks or don’t have the time to do them themselves.
These tasks range widely from managing an e-commerce store and administrative services to translation services and customer service management. Acquiring such skills can make you a valuable asset to potential clients.
One of the key advantages of working as a virtual assistant is the ability to create your schedule, giving you plenty of time to spend with your children. While you don’t need to master all tasks, it’s crucial to have a good understanding of what you offer and be able to present these services to prospective clients effectively.
7. Start An Online Cooking School
You might want to start an online cooking school if you love cooking and teaching. You can help students learn by walking them through easy recipes and giving them lists of things they must do before cooking.
You can help them cook more at home by sharing your culinary skills and techniques. With passion and practical instruction, this can be a rewarding and profitable business.
8. Start an E-commerce Business
Many big-time online sellers started by selling in small amounts. Before starting your business, you must decide what products you will sell. This business model is perfect if you like to be creative or make things by hand.
You could create and sell handmade things like earrings or home decor and sell them under your brand. You could also look for books for kids or other items to sell online. Another option is a dropshipping model, which requires a small upfront investment and eliminates the need to store inventory and fill orders. Each of these ways can help you build a successful e-commerce business in its path.
9. Photography Business
Do you want to become a photographer and love capturing beautiful moments? The US photography industry is worth $11 billion and is expected to grow steadily over the next few years. This makes it a great time to start a business in this field. You can create a photography business that lets you work from home and make a good living while making exciting pictures.
Finding your niche in photography is an important step. You could take pictures of people, fashion, social events, journalism, famous people, travel, nature, or wildlife.
Assuming you already have a professional-grade camera, you need good editing software and a well-designed website to show off your work, list your prices, and explain what you do. This business can lead to a successful career if you are good at photography and work hard at it.
10. Start a Kid’s Clothing Store Online
People today shop a lot, which is an excellent chance for businesses that cater to children’s needs. If you are a single mom good at knitting or crocheting, you could sell clothes and accessories you made yourself.
If you know how to sew, you can use patterns you can find online to make clothes for kids. If you don’t want to keep a physical inventory, you could also import kids’ clothes or run a dropshipping service.
As you start this journey, consider what unique design ideas you can offer and what morals you want your business to stand for. Your brand can stand out in the crowded online market with these things.
11. Day Care Business
Are you passionate about spending time with children? Consider starting your childcare service, which can be a great way to help busy families who need someone to watch their kids while they work. Also, this business lets you give your children something to do while they are at school.
To start a daycare service, you must get a daycare license, which usually means taking a two-year course in childcare. It’s best to pick a spot in a residential area without much competition. This will help your business stand out.
Starting a childcare service does require a more considerable initial investment because you will need to buy things like toys, art supplies, chairs, cribs, and other essentials.
12. Tutoring Business
Do you know a lot about a particular subject? You might be good at math, learn a lot about science, or be crazy about language and writing. Even if you don’t know much about a particular subject but are good with kids, now is a great time to start a teaching business.
During the pandemic, the tutoring business took a hit. Still, many teachers are using online lessons, and the industry is expected to grow steadily.
To achieve success in the tutoring business, you must have an internet connection and marketing materials so; you can start running a teaching business from home, helping kids learn and make a good living at the same time.
13. Start a Home-Bakery Business
Baking has great potential, especially if you want to start a bakery business from home. Why? Well, it gives stay-at-home moms a chance to make extra money and allows you to be your boss.
You can provide cake services for parties or events within your community or collaborate with a local bakery, offering your cakes as part of their menu. If the bakers appreciate the quality of your baked goods, you might even consider offering baking classes or eventually opening your own bakery in the neighborhood.
14. Craft Business
If your favorite hobby at home involves creating something, why not turn it into a business? It can bring in much money, especially since the pandemic started. During this time, the crafts industry has grown a lot because people who are stuck at home for long periods are looking for ways to be creative or unique things to buy.
Global market statistics show that Etsy, the most extensive online marketplace for arts and crafts, made more than twice as much money in 2020 as it did the year before. This means that now is an excellent time to start your craft business, give people great products, and ride the success wave.
If you start your own craft business, you can be your own boss and work from home whenever convenient. You can sell your creations online, which lets your creativity shine and lets you reach customers worldwide. But it’s essential to choose a niche for your products and ensure you have a good internet connection.
Your craft business can sell various things, from handmade blankets and clay jewelry to embroidered handkerchiefs and knitted hats. No matter what you decide to make, take the time to look into what’s already on the market and find a way to make your creations stand out. Building a strong brand for your craft business to do well would be best.
15. Catering Busines
Catering offers excellent business options to single mothers. You could work as a perfect caterer if your culinary talents are outstanding. Taking the correct route makes it an efficient and profitable idea.
If you want your catering or food business to succeed, you must prepare delicious dishes for your customers. The cooking process requires several people. You must buy cooking equipment, dishware, cooking accessories, and napkin supplies.
Cost cuts such as renting cooking equipment or appliances will help to reduce startup costs. Before starting, you must also determine your area of expertise.
16. Web Design Business
If a company wants to be taken seriously in today’s digital world, it must have a website. Although there are likely legitimate businesses that do not have websites, it is strongly recommended that you create a presence online. The growing number of new companies that require websites has helped propel the web design industry into a thriving $40 billion market in recent years. This presents a beautiful opportunity to prepare for a prosperous web design future strategically.
Before entering the field, consider getting a relevant education through one of the many online learning platforms or affordable certification programs universities offer. It is essential to construct a robust online portfolio to demonstrate your skills and earn the trust of potential customers. You can pave the way to becoming a successful web designer by using social media marketing strategies that are both effective and impressive to your clients.
17. Interior Design Business
The interior design industry has been steadily expanding and is now estimated to be worth $17 billion in the United States. This growth can be attributed to the widespread pursuit of cozy and welcoming homes. This presents an excellent opportunity to launch a business in interior design and assist clients in creating spaces with a genuine sense of belonging. The current pandemic situation has further increased the need for such services, which has led to an increase in demand.
Starting an interior design business does not require a significant initial investment, and it is simple to conduct business from the convenience of one’s own home when one is not out on client visits. To become an interior designer, however, you must put in more effort than simply snapping your fingers. This is an essential point to keep in mind.
Obtaining a degree is not required, but it may be advantageous to do so. It is necessary to have a solid sense of style and an understanding of ideas such as feng shui. In addition, providing yourself with high-quality design tools and developing a website that exudes professionalism is necessary.
18. Bookkeeping Business
If you have a knack for numbers and enjoy working with financial data, starting a bookkeeping business can be an excellent opportunity for you. It allows you to leverage your skills and provide valuable services to clients needing bookkeeping support.
You can enhance your skills by enrolling in online courses on platforms like Udemy or other similar learning services.
To stay connected and expand your network, engage with friends and join bookkeeping-related groups on platforms like Facebook. Additionally, consider utilizing bookkeeping software specifically designed for business use. These tools can streamline your operations and contribute to the success of your bookkeeping business.
19. Laundry Business
Another excellent business opportunity for single moms is the laundry business. Washing clothes and ensuring they are correctly cleaned can be a time-consuming and dirty task. That’s why the laundry industry has become a billion-dollar trade in the United States, as people constantly need clean clothes. By starting a laundry business, you provide a valuable service and the opportunity to secure a steady income.
To get started, you must invest significantly in purchasing the necessary equipment and leasing a suitable space in a high-traffic area. This ensures that your laundry business attracts a steady stream of customers. As you watch the funds roll in, you can also enjoy the flexibility of managing your business while keeping an eye on your mobile phone.
20. Gift Basket Business
A gift basket business offers a great opportunity to deliver thoughtful gifts directly to people’s homes or workplaces. With a well-executed plan, you can keep your business thriving throughout the year.
To start a gift basket business, you must identify your target market and establish effective selling channels. Registering your business is also a crucial step. A solid business plan can expand your reach and connect with more potential customers.
Creating and selling unique gift baskets can be a profitable venture. Utilize easily accessible local resources to craft distinctive gift boxes. Running the business from home saves you on rental costs and maximizes your earnings.
To increase your chances of generating sales, focus on crafting gift baskets that stand out from the competition. By offering unique and carefully curated products, you can capture customers’ attention seeking exceptional gifts for their loved ones.
21. Makeup Business
The popularity of makeup has continued to rise, with a 2017 poll revealing that four out of ten Americans under 60 wear makeup daily. This number is likely even higher now, as more men embrace makeup, even if it’s a touch of concealer or foundation. The influence of K-pop idols may have played a role in inspiring this trend.
If you have been considering starting a home-based business selling makeup, now is a reasonable time. This type of work can be enjoyable and rewarding. Not only will you have the chance to earn money, but you will also help your clients enhance their appearance and boost their self-confidence.
When creating your line of makeup products, it is crucial to adhere to the rules set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These regulations ensure that the makeup on the market is safe and maintains consistent labeling. Your products must comply with the ingredient labeling rules specified by the FDA.
One of the simplest ways to begin a makeup business is by selling well-known brands online. Your makeup business can thrive and succeed with careful planning and effective marketing strategies.
22. Start an at-home Beauty Parlor
If you possess talent and expertise in beauty salon services, you can leverage those skills and start your own business. Not only can this venture be financially rewarding, but you also have the potential to expand and grow by acquiring new leads through word-of-mouth or referrals from friends. As your business flourishes, you can consider renting larger spaces and hiring additional employees to meet the increasing demand.
While the beauty parlor industry may appear competitive, it should not deter you from pursuing your entrepreneurial aspirations. With careful planning, effective marketing strategies, and a commitment to providing exceptional services, you can carve out your place in the market and thrive amidst the competition. Embrace the opportunity to contribute to the ever-evolving beauty industry and make a name for yourself in the realm of beauty salon services.
23. Become a College Prep Consultant
Becoming a College Prep Consultant can be rewarding, especially if you have experience with crucial tasks such as college applications and admissions management. By starting a consulting business, you can utilize your knowledge and expertise to assist students in navigating the college admissions process, making it easier for them to secure a spot in their desired institutions. Your role as a consultant will enable you to guide individuals towards obtaining a valuable education.
As a College Prep Consultant, you can provide valuable services such as helping students with application strategies, essay writing, interview preparation, and selecting the right colleges for their goals and aspirations. By leveraging your expertise, you can significantly impact their educational journey and empower them to achieve their academic dreams.
24. Start A Small Business Selling Jewelry Online
If you’re contemplating starting a small business selling jewelry online, it’s essential to determine the type of jewelry you plan to create and sell. Different types of jewelry require specific tools and techniques, so it’s essential to refine your processes for optimal efficiency.
Selling jewelry online gives you a broad customer reach and allows for marketing opportunities through various online platforms. You can also consider partnering with local shops to showcase your jewelry and expand your customer base.
Focus on building an attractive and user-friendly website or online store to succeed in your online jewelry business. Utilize effective marketing strategies such as social media promotion, email campaigns, and collaborations with influencers or bloggers to generate interest and drive sales. Remember, simplicity and clarity in your messaging can go a long way in engaging potential customers and encouraging them to purchase your jewelry.
25. Start a Gift Shop
Starting a gift shop, online or offline, provides women diverse gift options. Stand out by including personalized items that cater to your target customers’ unique tastes and preferences. This customized approach enhances the shopping experience and fosters customer loyalty. Offering quick home delivery and accepting online cash payments further adds convenience, ensuring a successful and customer-centric gift shop business.
26. Sell Your Photography To Stock Image Websites
If you have a knack for photography, one business idea for single moms is to generate revenue by selling pictures on stock photography sites. By leveraging your photography skills, you can upload your images to these platforms and earn money through direct sales or royalties when others download and utilize your photographs. This offers a fantastic opportunity to monetize your passion for photography and establish a passive income stream.
27. Start Your Own Resume Writing Business
Starting your own resume writing business is an excellent idea, especially if you have received numerous resume applications and possess the expertise to help others craft a compelling resume. By leveraging your knowledge and skills, you can assist individuals in perfecting their resumes and increasing their chances of securing job opportunities. To ensure success, identify your target market and reach out to them through online platforms they frequent. You can attract clients and build a thriving business by positioning yourself as a professional resume writer.
28. Content Marketing Service
If you are passionate about creating engaging social media content, starting a content marketing services business can be a promising venture. This business idea involves offering written services to business owners who aim to establish and maintain a solid online presence.
As a content marketing service provider, you can assist businesses in crafting compelling and relevant content for their websites, blogs, and social media platforms. This can include creating captivating articles, blog posts, social media captions, and other forms of written content to attract and engage their target audience.
By leveraging your expertise in content creation and understanding of digital marketing strategies, you can help businesses enhance their online visibility and drive audience engagement. With the increasing importance of quality content in the digital landscape, this business can offer great potential for growth and success.
29. Yoga Business
Embarking on a yoga business venture can be exciting and fulfilling. To start a successful yoga business, there are five key steps you can follow:
- Conceptualize your business idea: Define your unique offering, whether specialized yoga classes, a particular teaching style, or a niche target market.
- Create a business plan: Outline your goals, strategies, target audience, and marketing approach. A well-thought-out plan will guide your business and help you stay focused.
- Secure funding: Explore options for financing your yoga business, such as personal savings, loans, or seeking investors. Determine the financial resources needed to cover equipment, marketing, and operating costs.
- Find a suitable location and acquire equipment: Choose a spot for your yoga studio or set up a dedicated space in your home. Acquire the necessary equipment, such as yoga mats, props, and audiovisual systems, to create a welcoming environment for your clients.
- Launch with impact: Create a buzz around your business by offering introductory deals, hosting special events, and implementing effective marketing strategies. Develop a pricing structure that aligns with your value and considers offering clients daily or weekly fee options.
With the growing popularity of exercise and wellness, the yoga industry presents a favorable market opportunity. Following these steps gives you the best chance of success as you embark on your yoga business journey.
30. Party Planning
Are you passionate about fun and ready to dive into party planning? The demand for big parties and events is rising as the pandemic ends. The US party and event planning industry is valued at over $3 billion. It continues to grow as people eagerly plan long-awaited celebrations such as graduations, weddings, birthdays, and more. If you have the enthusiasm and know-how to create memorable experiences, starting your own party-planning business can be lucrative in this thriving market.
Running your business from home can help keep costs low, allowing you to maximize your profits. Charging a percentage, typically around 15-20%, of the event’s budget can be a fair pricing structure. The initial challenge lies in acquiring your first few clients. Developing an appealing website and implementing a robust marketing and advertising strategy is crucial to attracting potential clients and showcasing your expertise.
By offering exceptional services and creating unforgettable events, you can establish a strong reputation in the industry and gain momentum in your party planning business. Embrace this opportunity to bring joy and excitement to people’s lives while earning a significant income.
31. Become a Wedding Planner
Are you ready for fun? As the plague ends, big parties are starting up again. The US party and event planning business is worth more than $3 billion and is growing as more and more people plan the big parties they’ve been putting off for so long: graduation parties, weddings, bachelor and bachelorette parties, birthday parties, and much more. If you’re prepared and know how to have fun, you could start your own party-planning business and make a lot of money off of this trend.
To keep costs down, you can run your business from home with little money and charge 15–20 percent of the event’s budget. The hardest part will be getting your first few clients. You’ll probably need to make an attractive website and start a strong marketing and advertising effort.
To enjoy your future success, you might want to start throwing parties for yourself once you can give your first customers excellent service and events they’ll never forget.
32. Grocery Delivery
Grocery delivery is an excellent business idea for single moms seeking entrepreneurial opportunities. The demand for online grocery shopping has surged since the pandemic, with online food delivery sales experiencing significant growth of nearly 30%. Starting a grocery delivery service allows single moms to leverage their flexibility and time management skills while offering convenience to busy individuals and families. By providing personalized shopping experiences and ensuring efficient logistics and reliable customer service, a grocery delivery business can build a loyal customer base and generate a steady income.
Running a grocery delivery service offers the flexibility to balance work and personal life, making it an ideal choice for single moms. With the ongoing trend of online grocery shopping, this business venture capitalizes on a growing market and provides a valuable service by saving customers time and effort. As more people opt for the convenience of grocery delivery, single moms can seize this opportunity to establish a successful business that offers flexibility, independence, and the potential for financial stability.
The journey may have challenges. But you got this!
Starting your own business as a single mom can be a fulfilling and empowering journey. With a wide range of business ideas, you can leverage your skills, passions, and flexibility to create a successful venture.
Whether it’s fashion designing, freelance writing, dog daycare, or any other business mentioned in this article, remember to research, plan, and understand the risks involved. With determination and hard work, you can build a thriving business and create a better future for yourself and your family.
So go ahead, single moms, unleash your entrepreneurial spirit, and embrace the possibilities that lie ahead. Your skills, dedication, and resilience are your greatest assets.
