Being a teenager does not mean you have to wait to become an entrepreneur. As society grows, more and more teenagers are creating businesses amidst school, extracurriculars, and other commitments. Thanks to new digital platforms and resources, running your own small business has never been easier. Depending on your interests, there is a business idea that can suit your interests.
Gen Z is the best generation to thrive as a young entrepreneur. Gen Z has grown up with social media, various digital learning platforms, and smart phones. Many of us already contain the skills needed to create content, establish digital communities, and share ideas online.
These key skills can be applied instantly to start a small business. You do not need a large workspace. All you need is an idea, time, and the drive to start!
Here are some practical small business ideas that any teenager can begin today!
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Get notified of top trending articles like this one every week! (we won't spam you)1. Coaching and Tutoring
If you are a driven and successful student in any field, you have the potential to gain money from your strengths. Tutoring younger students or classmates is one of the most stable and efficient businesses for teens. You can offer services in math, science, writing, or reading.
If you recently prepared for the SAT, ACT, or AP tests, you can lead others through the same process. You can also offer services in a particular hobby, such as dance, art, or music.
You can tutor virtually on zoom, face-to-face, or even sell helpful study material through trusted educational websites. For academic tutoring, many parents even prefer to employ younger tutors who are familiar with current curriculums and test formats.
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2. Reselling and Thrift Flipping
If you have a passion for shopping and enjoy fashion, reselling or thrift flipping is for you. You can visit thrift stores and resell trendy items on platforms such as Depop and Poshmark. Many teens often personalize things by painting, cropping, or sewing designs onto clothes to make them more personalized.This is a low-capital venture (a business you can start with little money) with many creative possibilities.
It teaches people photography, branding, and pricing techniques as well as sustainability. You can start off small with some equipment and grow as you gain experience!
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3. Tech Support and Digital Services
Though Gen Z is very proficient with technology, there are many business owners and members of the community who still need assistance. Freelance your services (be your own boss and get paid to do engaging projects) in graphic design, website development, social media management, or video editing, using free tools like CapCut, Canva, or Wix.
You can create social media posts, create flyers, help a nearby business create an online shop, or practice email marketing. These tasks build a useful portfolio and can help lead you into real-world business practices. 
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4. Handmake Creative Products
If you love to exercise creativity and work with your hands, creating a small business selling handmade crafts is the way to go. Candles, soaps, bracelets, stickers, keychains, and paintings are some of the best-selling products. Sell them on Instagram, Etsy, or at a local craft fair.To distinguish your business, focus on packaging, photography, and customer service.
You can also use recycled items or do custom orders. This type of business allows you to make money from a hobby into something successful.
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5. Content Creation and Social Media
It is normal that most of Gen Z is efficient with creating and posting content on TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram. If you enjoy filming, editing, or dicussing a specific hobby, a content brand is a smart idea for you. Pick one specific niche that you are comfortable with. It can be study hacks, fashion, health, reading, music, or reviews.
Over time, you can make money from your content by collaborating with brands, incorporating commission links, or developing digital products. Personal branding requires consistency and authenticity, but it is rewarding if you have the motivation!
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6. Pet Services
If you love spending time with animals, pet services are a simple and trustworthy way of earning money. Most homes need help with walking dogs, sitting for pets, or caring for pets while they are at work or vacation. Start with offering your service to family neighbors and friends, then grow using flyers or posting community bulletin boards.
Pet sitting services build trust and responsibility, and they can be adjusted based on your school or work schedule. You can also offer pet photography or crafting projects for pets for extra money.
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Getting Started
You do not need a full business plan to get started. Focus on starting small, testing your concept, and growing from there. Here are five essential steps to begin your business:
1. Choose a business idea that you are skilled and interested in.
2. Decide where and how you will be offering your product or service.
3. Create an attractive business name, logo, and description using free tools like Canva.
4. Start marketing and advertising through social media, friends and family, and flyers.
5. Set goals and track your progress.
Always remain organized with your time, particularly if you are managing school and business. Schedule your business operations in a planner or calendar so that you can still do your homework and your commitments.
Skills You Will Build
It is impressive to own a small business as a teenager, and it teaches you important skills for life. You will learn to work with people, think critically, budget and plan. These skills are useful for college, for future employment, and for your own personal development.Starting a business can also help you discover what you enjoy doing and what you are most suited for. You may discover that you enjoy working with people, designing, teaching others, or solving problems.
Start Today
You do not need to wait until you're in college or an adult to start your entrepreneurial journey. A number of teenagers are proving us that it is possible to start small businesses using simple equipment, a set of realistic goals, and determination to take that first step. If you need extra money, wish to add something to your resume, or pursue something you love, then starting a business is one of the most rewarding things you can do.
Choose something you care about. Start with what you already know. Make something authentic and be proud of what you have created. Your business can be a reflection of who you are and where you are going as a Gen Z CEO.
