Quick Summary
Are you exploring side business ideas in India? Whether you’re seeking the best side business to supplement your income or looking for small side business opportunities, this guide is tailored for you. Discover new side business ideas that align with your skills and interests, including options like side business ideas for ladies. From easy money side hustles to more substantial ventures, we cover a range of possibilities. Learn how to balance a make money side hustle alongside your job, leveraging digital platforms and local networks to maximize your earnings.
A side business refers to a venture pursued alongside a full-time job, often operated from the comfort of one’s home. Starting a side business from home offers flexibility, convenience, and the potential to earn extra income.
In India, numerous small side business ideas can be explored, such as online tutoring, freelance writing, graphic design services, handmade crafts, home baking, or drop shipping. These options require low investment and can be managed outside of regular working hours. With the right planning and dedication, side business ideas can provide financial stability and even grow into a successful enterprise while maintaining your job.
Whether you’re a student, a working professional, or a homemaker, there’s a business idea waiting for you to tap into. In this blog, we’ve curated some of the best and most feasible side business ideas you can start with minimal investment and flexible hours.
Watch the video below for a quick overview of these ideas before diving into the details!
Provide administrative support to busy professionals by offering virtual assistant services. You can assist with tasks like email management, scheduling, research, and document preparation, helping clients stay organized and focused.
Create an online store and sell products that align with your interests or niche. Whether it’s handmade crafts, clothing, or unique merchandise, showcase your offerings and reach customers across India.
Nikita from Jaipur – Handmade Jewellery Business on Instagram
Nikita learned how to earn money from Instagram in India by turning her passion for DIY jewellery into a brand, “Trinkets by Nik.” Using reels, stories, and customer reviews to build trust, she generates ₹25,000–₹30,000/month a great example of small-scale business ideas for women in India.
Help others achieve their fitness goals as a personal fitness trainer. Offer personalized workout plans and guidance, either in-person or through virtual sessions, and inspire a healthier lifestyle.
Riya from Pune – Online Fitness Coaching for Working Women via Zoom
Riya, an HR professional from Pune, turned her passion into a profitable side hustle by offering online fitness coaching for busy working women in India. She completed a weekend certification course and began training clients virtually through Zoom. By sharing client transformations on Instagram and offering flexible morning and evening slots, she now earns ₹25,000–₹35,000/month. This is among the best side business ideas for fitness enthusiasts targeting the remote work lifestyle.
Utilize your language skills by offering language tutoring services. Teach languages like English, French, Spanish, or regional through personalized lessons, catering to individuals or small groups.
Put your design skills to work by offering graphic design services. Create logos, marketing materials, social media graphics, and website designs for businesses looking to enhance their visual identity.
Start a home baking business with these daily income business ideas. Offer custom cakes, cupcakes, and treats to delight customers and earn money every day!
Rohan from Pune – Home-Baked Cakes for Custom Orders via Instagram
Rohan, a software engineer by profession, started a home-based baking business in India to channel his passion for desserts. He began with weekend baking and soon opened an Instagram page showcasing his custom cakes. Using niche hashtags like #customcakesPune and #egglessbakerIndia, he attracted steady local orders. Rohan now earns around ₹25,000/month from cakes for birthdays, anniversaries, and corporate events. It’s one of the most rewarding side business ideas for men with baking skills.
Capture memorable moments as a freelance photographer. Specialize in areas like events, portraits, landscapes, or product photography, and showcase your talent through a portfolio.
Leverage your social media presence to become a niche influencer. Partner with brands, create engaging content, and share product reviews to boost your influence and income.
Lead virtual fitness classes in various disciplines, such as yoga, dance, or HIIT workouts. Conduct live sessions or offer pre-recorded videos catering to individuals seeking convenient and effective workouts.
Begin by understanding makeup techniques, skin types, and different products. You can start with online tutorials, makeup blogs, or YouTube channels. It’s one of the best side business ideas for ladies.
Remember, when starting with new side business ideas, it’s important to consider your interests, skills, and market demand. Tailor your approach to stand out and provide value to your customers while enjoying the entrepreneurship journey.
Utilize your writing skills to provide professional content Writing services for businesses and individuals.
Share your expertise in a particular subject by offering personalized tutoring sessions to students.
Create and sell unique, handmade soaps using natural ingredients, catering to eco-conscious customers.
Start a YouTube channel and create engaging video content around your passion or expertise.
Divya from Bengaluru – Monetised YouTube Shorts Channel in Hindi
Divya wanted to earn money online without investment in India and started posting personal finance Shorts on YouTube. With growing subscribers and monetisation enabled, she earns ₹20,000–₹40,000/month proving YouTube is a powerful tool for side income in India.
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Provide convenient car washing and detailing services either at clients’ locations or through a mobile setup.
Offer professional pet grooming services, providing a range of grooming treatments for furry companions.
Capture precious moments at weddings, parties, and other events, delivering high-quality photographs to clients.
Offer tailoring and alteration services, specializing in customized clothing and garment repairs.
Music teaching offers flexible hours and fulfilling work, tapping into your passion for music.While not extremely lucrative, it’s a great way to earn a steady side income.
These side hustle ideas require low initial investment and offer opportunities for growth and profitability. While the income potential mentioned is approximate, it can vary based on market demand, competition, and individual efforts.
| S.No. | Side Business Ideas | Description | Income Potential | Time Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Online Course Creator | Create and sell online courses on various topics of expertise. | Varies (Rs. 100s to 1000s) | Flexible |
| 2 | Social Media Consultant | Provide social media management and strategy guidance to businesses. | Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 50,000+ | 2-4 hours per day |
| 3 | eBook Author | Write and self-publish eBooks on subjects of interest. | Varies (Rs. 1000s to lakhs) | Flexible |
| 4 | Home-Based Daycare | Offer daycare services for children within a home setting. | Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 30,000+ | Full-time weekdays |
| 5 | Virtual Event Planner | Organize and coordinate virtual events like webinars or conferences. | Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 1,00,000+ | Varies |
| 6 | Etsy Store Owner | Sell handmade crafts or unique products through an online store. | Varies (Rs. 1000s to lakhs) | 2-4 hours per day |
| 7 | Online Fitness Instructor | Conduct virtual fitness classes or personalized training sessions. | Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 50,000+ | 2-4 hours per day |
| 8 | Professional Organizer | Help individuals declutter and organize their spaces. | Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 40,000+ | Flexible |
| 9 | Online Reseller | Purchase and resell products online for a profit. | Varies (Rs. 1000s to lakhs) | 2-4 hours per day |
| 10 | Mobile App Developer | Develop and monetize mobile applications. | Varies (Rs. 1000s to lakhs) | Flexible |
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Start a home-based venture by cultivating microgreens such as mustard, radish, or basil in shallow trays. These miniature greens are nutrient-rich, quick to grow (ready in 7–14 days), and have a growing market in urban areas. Ideal for health-conscious consumers and restaurant supply.
Use your tech skills to offer device repair services for smartphones, laptops, or home electronics. With increasing reliance on gadgets, there’s consistent demand for affordable and reliable tech support either from home or as a doorstep service.
These best side hustles to make money are suitable for various individuals in India who are looking to start a small side business from home with low investment. Whether you’re a student, a working professional, a homemaker, or someone seeking a side business while having a job, these ideas can help you generate additional income and explore your entrepreneurial spirit.
Let’s explore who can benefit from these side business ideas:
If you’re a student looking to earn extra money while managing your studies, these easy money side hustles can provide the flexibility you need. Consider options like online tutoring, content writing, or starting a YouTube channel from the comfort of your home.
As a working professional, you can leverage your skills and expertise to start with many small side business ideas. Whether you have a 9-to-5 job or work in shifts, these side business ideas, such as social media consulting or freelancing, can be pursued during your free time.
If you’re a homemaker looking to contribute to your family’s income, these make money side hustle ideas offer flexible opportunities. Explore options like home-based daycare, handmade soap making, or online reselling to make the most of your skills and available time.
If you’re currently looking for a job, these side business ideas can serve as a means to generate income while you search for employment. Develop your skills in areas such as content writing, social media management, or starting an Etsy store to enhance your resume.
These side business ideas are specifically designed for those with limited capital to invest. With low startup costs, you can pursue ideas like tutoring, car wash service, pet grooming, or home garden nursery without breaking the bank.
By considering these side business ideas, you can create additional income streams and explore your entrepreneurial potential. Start your journey today and embrace the opportunities that align with your interests, skills, and time availability.
Starting a side business from home in India is a fantastic way to earn extra income while doing something you love. With plenty of new side business ideas and easy money side hustles available, you can find the best side business that fits your skills and lifestyle. Whether you want a small side business or are looking for side business ideas for ladies, there are many options to explore. Thanks to social media and e-commerce, reaching customers is easier than ever. So why wait? Start your make money side hustle today and take the first step toward your entrepreneurial journey!
Ignite your career potential with our curated Career Advice section, designed to empower your journey in the dynamic world of side businesses.
The best side business to start depends on your skills and interests. Some popular options include freelance writing, graphic design, e-commerce, tutoring, and consulting. These businesses offer flexibility and can be started with minimal investment.
With just ₹50,000, you can explore small business ideas like starting a tiffin service, food stall, or home bakery. You could also try online gigs like affiliate marketing or content writing, or even launch a photography or handmade craft venture.
There are numerous ways to earn extra income through side businesses. If you own a car or bike, consider joining food delivery or cab driving services. Online ventures like affiliate marketing, blogging, graphic design, and illustration can also be profitable, though they may require some time to develop your skills.
Looking for a side hustle? Experts recommend these 9 profitable, evergreen gigs: participating in focus groups, dog sitting, tutoring, crafting, affiliate marketing, transcribing audio, making deliveries, and selling merchandise. These side businesses are in demand and offer flexible earning potential.
The best side income depends on your skills and available time. Popular options include gig economy jobs like ride-sharing or food delivery, freelancing in areas such as writing or graphic design, and investing in stocks or real estate for passive income.
Top 10 Business Ideas Under ₹1 Lakh:
1. Incense Stick (Agarbatti) Making
2. Eco-Friendly Jute Bags
3. 4. Home-Based Bakery
5. Spice Mixes and Masala Blends
6. Fashion Jewellery Making
7. Customized Phone Covers
8. T-Shirt Printing Business
9. Small-Scale Event Planning
10. Candle Making
11. Handmade Soap and Skincare Products
There are plenty of ways to earn extra income on the side. You could freelance online, drive for ride-sharing or delivery apps, sell things online, or offer services like pet-sitting, babysitting, or tutoring. If you’re creative, try blogging, podcasting, or selling handmade or digital products. You can even rent out a spare room or your vehicle to make some passive income.
Based on industry trends and demographics, service-based and essential needs businesses tend to have the highest success rates. These include things like rental properties, self-storage units, laundromats, senior care services, and even digital services like IT support or content creation all of which offer steady demand and long-term growth potential.
Authored by, Samiksha Samra
Digital Content Writer
Samiksha is a writer with a passion for sharing ideas and a knack for detail. She loves turning concepts into meaningful, engaging content. With a strong background in research and content strategy, she crafts clear, easy-to-understand narratives that resonate with readers. Her curiosity drives her to explore new subjects, ensuring every piece she creates is both insightful and impactful.
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Chegg India does not ask for money to offer any opportunity with the company. We request you to be vigilant before sharing your personal and financial information with any third party. Beware of fraudulent activities claiming affiliation with our company and promising monetary rewards or benefits. Chegg India shall not be responsible for any losses resulting from such activities.
