January 6th, 2023 | By: Ryan RutanCMO | Tags: Strategy
It is difficult to predict the specific types of startups that will be most successful in 2023, as the success of a startup can depend on a variety of factors such as market demand, competition, and the unique value proposition of the business.
However, here are 20 business ideas to start the brainstorming process:
Virtual events, such as conferences, trade shows, and workshops, have become increasingly popular in recent years due to the rise of remote work and the convenience of participating in events online. A virtual events platform could be a successful startup business model for a number of reasons:
There is a growing demand for virtual events as more organizations look for ways to host events online. A platform that makes it easy for organizations to plan and execute virtual events could be in high demand.
A virtual events platform could differentiate itself by offering a range of features and services that cater to the needs of event organizers and attendees. These could include customizable event pages, live streaming capabilities, interactive features such as Q& sessions or networking opportunities, and analytics to measure the success of the event.
Building a virtual events platform could require expertise in areas such as web development, event planning, and digital marketing.
A virtual events platform could be a promising online business idea for those who are passionate about event planning.
Some additional considerations for a virtual events platform include:
A virtual events platform will likely need to be able to integrate with other systems, such as payment processing systems and marketing automation tools.
Creating a seamless and intuitive user experience for both event organizers and attendees will be important for attracting and retaining users. This may include features like easy event setup, custom branding options, and live event support.
Building a strong marketing and sales strategy will be important for attracting and retaining event organizers and attendees to the platform. This may include building a website and social media presence, as well as developing partnerships and conducting sales and marketing activities.
Providing excellent customer service will be important for retaining event organizers and attendees and building a loyal customer base. This may include answering customer inquiries and handling any issues that may arise.
Ensuring the security of the platform and protecting the sensitive information of event organizers and attendees will be critical for the success of the business. This may include implementing security measures such as encryption and secure servers.
As more people look to upskill and learn new things online, an online education platform that offers online courses, workshops, and other learning opportunities could be one of many great online business ideas for a number of reasons:
There is a growing demand for online education as more people look to upskill and learn new things online. A platform that makes it easy for people to access a wide range of educational content could be in high demand.
An online education platform could differentiate itself by offering a range of unique and high-quality courses and workshops, as well as features such as personalized learning plans and interactive elements like live Q&A sessions or group projects.
Building an online education platform could require expertise in areas such as curriculum development, instructional design, and digital marketing. Having a background in education or a related field could be beneficial, but it may also be possible to hire or bring on team members with the necessary skills.
An online education platform could be a promising startup idea for those who are passionate about education and have the skills and resources to build and grow a successful business. As always it's important to thoroughly research the market and evaluate the potential demand for such a platform before embarking on this venture.
With the pandemic and other stressors affecting people's mental health, a platform that provides mental health services, such as therapy or coaching, could be a valuable resource.
A mental health platform that provides therapy or coaching services could be a successful startup business model for a number of reasons:
There is a growing demand for mental health services, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and other stressors that have affected people's mental well-being. A platform that makes it easy for people to access mental health support could be in high demand.
A mental health platform could differentiate itself by offering a range of services, such as therapy, coaching, or support groups, as well as features like personalized treatment plans or flexible scheduling options.
Building a mental health platform could require expertise in areas such as mental health care, technology, and digital marketing.
Overall, a mental health platform could be a promising startup idea for those who are passionate about mental health and have the skills and resources to build and grow a successful business. Once again, important to thoroughly research the market and evaluate the potential demand for such a platform before embarking on this venture.
With a growing interest in plant-based diets, a plant-based food delivery service that specializes in delivering healthy, plant-based meals to customers' doors could be a successful business idea for a number of reasons:
There is a growing interest in plant-based diets, and a service that makes it easy for people to access healthy, plant-based meals could be in high demand.
A plant-based food delivery service could differentiate itself by offering a wide range of menu options, including meals that cater to specific dietary restrictions or preferences, as well as features like customizable meal plans or nutrition coaching.
Building a plant-based food delivery service could require expertise in areas such as food production, logistics, and digital marketing.
Overall, a plant-based food delivery service could be a promising startup idea for those who are passionate about healthy eating and have the skills and resources to build and grow their own business. It's important to thoroughly research the market and evaluate the potential demand for such a service before embarking on this venture.
As concern about the environment continues to grow, a company that provides renewable energy solutions, such as solar panels or wind turbines, could be well-positioned for success.
A company that provides renewable energy solutions, such as solar panels or wind turbines, could be a successful small business idea for a number of reasons:
There is a growing awareness of the importance of renewable energy and a desire to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. A company that provides renewable energy solutions could be in high demand.
A renewable energy company could differentiate itself by offering a range of products and services, such as solar panel installations, wind turbine installations, or energy efficiency consulting. The company could also differentiate itself by offering competitive pricing or financing options.
Building a renewable energy company could require expertise in areas such as engineering, project management, and sales.
Overall, a renewable energy company could be a promising startup idea for those who are passionate about sustainability and have the skills and resources to build and grow a successful business. It's important to thoroughly research the market and evaluate the potential demand for such a company before embarking on this venture.
A service that helps people create personalized nutrition plans based on their unique needs and goals could be a great business idea for a number of reasons:
There is a growing target market in personalized health and wellness, and a service that helps people create tailored nutrition plans could be in high demand.
A personalized nutrition plan service could differentiate itself by offering a range of services, such as one-on-one consultations with nutritionists or dietitians, online courses or workshops, or personalized meal plans. The service could also differentiate itself by offering support and accountability, such as regular check-ins or progress tracking.
Building a personalized nutrition plan service could require expertise in areas such as nutrition, health coaching, and marketing.
Overall, a personalized nutrition plan service could be a promising startup idea for those who are passionate about health and wellness and have the skills and resources to build and grow a successful business. It's important to thoroughly research the market and evaluate the potential demand for such a service before embarking on this venture.
With gyms closed, operating at limited capacity in some areas, or simply because more people are working from home, a service that rents out home workout equipment, such as treadmills and weights, could be popular.
A service that rents out home workout equipment, such as treadmills and weights, could be a successful startup for a number of reasons:
With gyms closed or operating at limited capacity in some areas due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there may be a demand for alternative ways to exercise at home. A service that rents out home workout equipment could be in high demand.
A home workout equipment rental service could differentiate itself by offering a wide range of equipment options, as well as features like flexible rental periods, delivery and setup services, and maintenance support.
Building a home workout equipment rental service could require expertise in areas such as logistics, customer service, and marketing.
Overall, a home workout equipment rental service could be a promising startup idea for those who are passionate about fitness.
A service that helps people design and decorate their homes remotely could be in demand, as more people are spending time at home due to the pandemic.
A virtual interior design service that can do this remotely could be a successful startup for a number of reasons:
With more people spending time at home due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there may be a demand for services that help people make their living spaces more functional and aesthetically pleasing. A virtual interior design service could be in high demand.
A virtual interior design service could differentiate itself by offering a range of services, such as consultations with interior designers, virtual design plans, and virtual shopping services. The service could also differentiate itself by offering personalized design plans that cater to the specific needs and preferences of clients.
Building a virtual interior design service could require expertise in areas such as interior design, project management, and marketing.
Overall, a virtual interior design service could be a promising startup idea for those who are passionate about interior design and have the skills and resources to build and grow a successful business. It's important to thoroughly research the market and evaluate the potential demand for such a service before embarking on this venture.
A virtual home organization service that helps people declutter and organize their living spaces remotely could be a successful startup for a number of reasons:
With more people spending time at home due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there may be a demand for services that help people make the most of their living spaces and create a more organized and functional environment. A virtual home organization service could be in high demand.
A virtual home organization service could differentiate itself by offering a range of services, such as virtual consultations with professional organizers, virtual organization plans, and virtual shopping services. The service could also differentiate itself by offering personalized organization plans that cater to the specific needs and preferences of clients.
Building a virtual home organization service could require expertise in areas such as organization, project management, and marketing.
Overall, a virtual home organization service could be a promising startup idea for those who are passionate about home organization and have the skills and resources to build and grow their own business. It's important to thoroughly research the market and evaluate the potential demand for such a service before embarking on this venture.
A virtual language learning service that helps people learn new languages online could be a successful startup for a number of reasons:
There is a growing demand for language learning services, particularly as more people look to improve their language skills for personal or professional reasons. A virtual language learning service could be in high demand.
A virtual language learning service could differentiate itself by offering a range of language options, as well as features like personalized learning plans, interactive elements like live conversation practice, or access to native speakers.
Building a virtual language learning service could require expertise in areas such as language teaching, instructional design, and marketing.
Overall, a virtual language learning service could be a promising startup idea for those who are passionate about language education and have the skills and resources to build and grow a business. Don't forget, it is important to thoroughly research the market and evaluate the potential demand for such a service before embarking on this venture.
A virtual personal styling service that helps people create and curate their personal style remotely could be a successful startup for a number of reasons:
There is a growing demand for personal styling services, particularly as more people look to improve their appearance and make the most of their wardrobe. A virtual personal styling service could be in high demand.
A virtual personal styling service could differentiate itself by offering a range of services, such as virtual consultations with stylists, virtual styling plans, and virtual shopping services. The service could also differentiate itself by offering personalized styling plans that cater to the specific needs and preferences of clients.
Building a virtual personal styling service could require expertise in areas such as fashion, styling, and marketing.
Overall, a virtual personal styling service could be a promising startup idea for those who are passionate about fashion and have the skills and resources to build and grow a small business. It's important to thoroughly research the market and evaluate the potential demand for such a service before embarking on this venture.
A subscription-based meal kit service that delivers pre-portioned ingredients and recipes to customers, while not a new business idea, could be a successful small business idea for a number of reasons:
There is a growing demand for meal delivery services, particularly as more people look for convenient and healthy meal options. A subscription-based meal kit service could be in high demand.
A subscription-based meal kit service could differentiate itself by offering a range of meal options, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or low-carb options. The service could also differentiate itself by offering personalized meal plans that cater to the specific dietary needs and preferences of customers.
Building a subscription-based meal kit service could require expertise in areas such as cooking, recipe development, and marketing — but you can always hire experts if you don't have the chops.
Some additional considerations for a subscription-based meal kit service include:
Logistics: A meal kit service will need to have a reliable and efficient system in place for sourcing ingredients, preparing and packaging the meals, and delivering them to customers.
Quality control: Ensuring the quality and safety of the ingredients and meals is essential for customer satisfaction and the success of the business.
Customer service: Providing excellent customer service will be important for retaining customers and building a loyal customer base. This may include answering customer inquiries and handling any issues that may arise.
Marketing and branding: Developing a strong marketing and branding strategy will be important for attracting and retaining customers. This may include building a website and social media presence, as well as developing a unique and appealing brand identity.
A cleaning business that offers personalized cleaning services, such as house cleaning, office cleaning, and laundry and ironing, could be a successful startup for a number of reasons:
There is a growing demand for cleaning services, as more people look for help with maintaining their homes and offices. A personalized cleaning business could be in high demand.
A personalized cleaning service business could differentiate itself by offering a range of services, such as specialized cleaning for particular areas or surfaces, and by offering personalized cleaning plans that cater to the specific needs and preferences of clients.
Building a personalized cleaning business could require expertise in areas such as cleaning techniques, customer service, and marketing.
A personalized cleaning business could be one of the best small business ideas for those who are passionate about cleaning and have the skills and resources to build and grow a small business. It's important to thoroughly research the market and evaluate the potential demand for such a service before embarking on this venture.
Some additional considerations for a personalized cleaning business include:
Developing a range of cleaning services that meet the needs and preferences of clients will be important for attracting and retaining customers. This may include offering specialized cleaning for particular areas or surfaces and offering customized cleaning plans.
Building a strong client base will be important for the business's success. This may involve developing a marketing and sales strategy to attract new clients and retaining existing ones through excellent service and follow-up and of course having your own website.
Providing excellent customer service will be important for retaining clients and building a loyal customer base. This may include answering client inquiries and handling any issues that may arise.
Developing a strong marketing and branding strategy will be important for attracting and retaining clients. This may include building a website and social media presence, as well as developing a unique and appealing brand identity.
Ensuring that the business has a reliable and efficient system in place for scheduling, managing clients, and delivering services will be important for the success of the business. This may include using software tools to manage scheduling and client information.
A virtual event planning service that helps people plan and execute events remotely could be a successful startup for a number of reasons:
There is a growing demand for event planning services, particularly as more people look to host events online or remotely due to the COVID-19 pandemic. A virtual event planning service could be in high demand.
A service for planning virtual events could differentiate itself by offering a range of services to large or small businesses, such as virtual consultations with event planners, virtual event plans, and virtual event management. The service could also differentiate itself by offering personalized event plans that cater to the specific needs and preferences of the target audience.
Building a planning service for virtual events could require expertise in areas such as event planning, and digital marketing.
Overall, planning virtual events could be one of several profitable business ideas for those who are passionate about event planning and want to take their skills into the online business ideas world.
An online tutoring platform that connects students with tutors for academic support could be a successful startup for a number of reasons:
There is a growing demand for online tutoring services, particularly as more people look for convenient and flexible ways to receive academic support. An online tutoring platform could be in high demand.
An online tutoring platform could differentiate itself by offering a range of subjects and academic levels, as well as features like personalized lesson plans and flexible scheduling. The platform could also differentiate itself by offering a variety of tutors with diverse backgrounds and expertise.
Building an online tutoring platform could require expertise in areas such as education, project management, and marketing.
An online tutoring platform could be ideal for those who are passionate about education and are looking for startup business ideas.
Some additional considerations for an online tutoring platform include:
An online tutoring platform will need to have a system in place for recruiting and vetting tutors to ensure that they have the necessary expertise and qualifications to provide high-quality tutoring services.
Providing training and support for tutors may be necessary to ensure that they are able to effectively support students and provide a positive tutoring experience.
Providing excellent customer service will be important for retaining customers and building a loyal customer base. This may include answering customer inquiries and handling any issues that may arise.
An online tutoring platform will need to have a reliable and user-friendly platform in place for connecting tutors and students, as well as tools for communication and collaboration.
A business that offers health and wellness retreats could be a successful startup for a number of reasons:
There is a growing demand for health and wellness retreats, as more people look for ways to prioritize their physical and mental health. A business that offers health and wellness retreats could be in high demand.
A health and wellness retreat business could differentiate itself by offering a range of retreat options, such as yoga retreats, meditation retreats, or fitness retreats. The business could also differentiate itself by offering personalized retreat plans that cater to the specific needs and preferences of clients.
Building a health and wellness retreat business could require expertise in areas such as health and wellness, event planning, and marketing.
Overall, a health and wellness retreat business could be a promising startup idea for those who are passionate about health and wellness and have the skills and resources to build and grow a profitable business. It's important to thoroughly research the market and evaluate the potential demand for such a service before embarking on this venture.
Some additional considerations for a health and wellness retreat business include:
Choosing the right location for the retreats will be important for creating a positive and relaxing experience for guests. Factors to consider may include proximity to outdoor activities and attractions, as well as the availability of amenities and accommodations.
Developing a range of programming options for the retreats, such as yoga classes, meditation sessions, and fitness activities, will be important for attracting and retaining guests.
Providing comfortable and welcoming accommodations for guests will be important for creating a positive retreat experience. This may include options like private rooms, shared rooms, or tents, depending on the style of retreat being offered.
A virtual reality gaming platform that offers a range of immersive gaming experiences could be a successful startup for a number of reasons:
There is a growing demand for virtual reality gaming, as more people look for innovative and immersive gaming experiences. A virtual reality gaming platform could be in high demand.
A virtual reality gaming platform could differentiate itself by offering a range of virtual reality gaming options, such as action, adventure, or puzzle games. The platform could also differentiate itself by offering unique and innovative virtual reality gaming experiences that are not available elsewhere.
Building a virtual reality gaming platform could require expertise in areas such as gaming, software development, and marketing.
Overall, a virtual reality gaming platform could be a promising business idea for those who are passionate about gaming and have the skills and resources to build and grow a profitable business. It's important to thoroughly research the market and evaluate the potential demand for such a service before embarking on this venture.
Some additional considerations for a virtual reality gaming platform include:
Virtual reality gaming requires specialized hardware, such as VR headsets, controllers, and sensors. Ensuring that the platform is compatible with a range of hardware devices and that users have the necessary equipment to access the platform will be important for attracting and retaining users.
Developing a range of high-quality games for the platform will be important for attracting and retaining users. This may require working with game developers or building an in-house game development team.
Creating a seamless and intuitive user experience for the platform will be important for attracting and retaining users. This may include features like easy game navigation, social features, and customer support.
A business that produces artisanal food and beverage products, such as craft beer, artisanal cheese, or specialty condiments, could be a successful startup for a number of reasons:
There is a growing demand for artisanal food and beverage products, as more people look for high-quality and unique products. A business that produces artisanal food and beverage products could be in high demand.
An artisanal food and beverage producer could differentiate itself by offering a range of unique and high-quality products, such as craft beer made with locally-sourced ingredients or artisanal cheese made using traditional techniques. The business could also differentiate itself by offering personalized products or custom flavor options.
Building an artisanal food and beverage producer business could require expertise in areas such as food production, marketing, and sales.
Overall, an artisanal food and beverage producer business could be a promising startup idea for those who are passionate about food and have the skills and resources to build and grow a successful business. It's important to thoroughly research the market and evaluate the potential demand for such products before embarking on this venture.
Some additional considerations for an artisanal food and beverage producer business include:
Developing a range of high-quality and unique products will be important for attracting and retaining customers. This may require experimenting with different ingredients and techniques, as well as conducting market research to understand consumer preferences.
Having a reliable and efficient system in place for producing and distributing the products will be important for the success of the business. This may include sourcing ingredients, developing production processes, and building relationships with suppliers and distributors.
Developing a strong brand identity and packaging design will be important for attracting and retaining customers. This may include creating a unique logo, packaging design, and brand messaging.
A business that offers personalized financial planning services could be a successful startup for a number of reasons:
There is a growing demand for financial planning services, as more people look for help managing their money and achieving their financial goals. A personalized financial planning service could be in high demand.
A personalized financial planning service could differentiate itself by offering a range of services, such as budgeting and debt management, investment planning, and retirement planning. The service could also differentiate itself by offering personalized financial plans that cater to the specific needs and preferences of clients.
Building a personalized financial planning service could require expertise in areas such as finance, accounting, and marketing.
Starting a personalized financial planning service may require a significant amount of time and financial investment, particularly in the early stages of the business. It may be necessary to secure funding or have access to personal financial resources to get the business off the ground.
Overall, a personalized financial planning service could be a promising startup idea for those who are passionate about finance and have the skills and resources to build and grow a successful business. It's important to thoroughly research the market and evaluate the potential demand for such a service before embarking on this venture.
Some additional considerations for a personalized financial planning service include:
Depending on the location and type of financial planning services being offered, it may be necessary to obtain certain certifications or licenses in order to operate legally.
Building a strong client base is crucial for the business's success. If you don't have clients or customers, you don't have a business. Period.
This may involve developing a marketing and sales strategy to attract new clients and retaining existing ones through excellent service and follow-up
An e-commerce platform that offers a wide variety of products and makes it easy for customers to find and purchase items online could be successful. Some potential niches for an e-commerce platform could include sustainable or eco-friendly products, unique or hard-to-find items, or specialized products for a particular hobby or interest.
An eCommerce platform that enables businesses to sell their products online could be a successful startup for a number of reasons:
There is a growing demand for eCommerce platforms, as more people shop online and more businesses look for ways to sell their products online. An eCommerce platform could be in high demand.
An eCommerce platform could differentiate itself by offering a range of features and services, such as customizable storefronts, marketing tools, and payment processing options. The platform could also differentiate itself by offering a unique selection of products or catering to a specific niche market.
Building an eCommerce platform could require expertise in areas such as web development, project management, and marketing.
Starting an eCommerce platform may require a significant amount of time and financial investment, particularly in the early stages of the business. It may be necessary to secure funding or have access to personal financial resources to get the business off the ground.
Overall, an eCommerce platform could be a promising startup idea for those who are passionate about eCommerce and have the skills and resources to build and grow a successful business. It's important to thoroughly research the market and evaluate the potential demand for such a platform before embarking on this venture.
Some additional considerations for an eCommerce platform include the following:
An eCommerce platform will likely need to be able to integrate with other systems, such as inventory management systems, payment processing systems, and shipping and fulfillment systems.
Creating a seamless and intuitive user experience for both businesses and consumers using the platform will be important for attracting and retaining users. This may include features like easy navigation, customer support, and mobile compatibility.
In addition to these startup ideas, it's worth noting that starting a successful startup often requires a combination of a strong business idea, a well-executed plan, and the ability to adapt to changing market conditions. It's important to do thorough research and market analysis before starting any business and to be prepared to pivot or make changes as needed.
Here are a few things to consider when evaluating whether a startup idea is right for you:
Passion: Starting a startup can be a demanding and challenging process, so it's important to choose an idea that you are truly passionate about. This can help you stay motivated and committed to your business even when faced with obstacles.
Market demand: It's important to research the market and determine whether there is a demand for your product or service. This can help you gauge the potential for success and determine whether your idea is viable.
Unique value proposition: Consider what makes your product or service unique and valuable to customers. This can help you differentiate your business from competitors and identify potential growth opportunities.
Skills and experience: Consider your own skills and experience and how they can contribute to the success of your startup. While it's not necessary to have all the skills needed to start a business, it can be helpful to have some foundational knowledge or expertise in your field.
Resources: Consider the resources you have available, such as funding, time, and support, and how they can help you bring your startup idea to fruition. It's important to be realistic about what you can achieve with the resources you have available.
Starting a startup can be a rewarding and challenging experience, but it's not for everyone. Here are a few things to consider when deciding whether starting a startup is right for you:
Risk tolerance: Starting a startup can involve a significant level of risk, as there is no guarantee of success. It's important to consider whether you are comfortable with this level of risk and whether you are willing to take on the challenges that come with starting a business.
Time commitment: Starting a startup often requires a significant amount of time and effort, as you will be responsible for building and growing your business from the ground up. It's important to consider whether you have the time and energy to devote to this process.
Financial stability: Starting a business can be expensive, and it may take some time before your business becomes profitable. It's important to consider whether you have the financial stability and resources to weather this period of investment.
Goals and values: Consider your personal goals and values and how starting a business aligns with them. Do you want to be your own boss? Do you want to create a product or service that makes a positive impact on the world?
Expertise and experience: While it's not necessary to have all the skills and expertise needed to start a business, it can be helpful to have some foundational knowledge or experience in your field. Consider your own skills and experience and how they can contribute to the success of your startup.
Ultimately, the decision to start a startup is a personal one that should be based on your own goals, values, and interests. It's important to thoroughly evaluate your idea and consider whether it aligns with your goals and passions and whether you have the resources and expertise to make it a success.
Founding Partner @ Startups.com platform | Clarity.fm, Launchrock, Fundable, Zirtual, and Co-Host of The Startup Therapy Podcast. Ryan has 15 years of experience as a Founder, Advisor, Mentor, and Investor — the quintessential startup guerrilla. He works with 100's of the best startups every year on everything from ideation, idea validation, early marketing traction, customer acquisition to fundraising, scaling, and operations.
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