38 Creative and Profitable Business Ideas for Teenagers

It’s never too early to become an entrepreneur! I remember back in the day a six-year-old go-getter selling lemonade down on the corner. Today’s teenagers could get into a variety of business types, from babysitting to grocery delivery, errand running to personal shopping, candle making to gift baskets, even social media and tutoring. 

Hopefully you or your teen will be able to commit enough time and energy to their new business to achieve success without falling behind on their school work! 

Check out our list of business ideas for teens below.

1. Lawn Care

Teenagers have been mowing the lawn for ages, so why not make a business out of it? Teenagers can start a lawn care business by purchasing or borrowing necessary equipment like a lawn mower, trimmer, and leaf blower.

They can offer services like mowing, weed pulling, and yard cleanups. It’s a good idea for teens because it requires low startup costs and it’s an evergreen service needed in all neighborhoods.

2. Tutoring

Teenagers can capitalize on their strong subjects by offering tutoring services to peers or younger students. They can advertise through school networks, community centers, or online platforms.

Tutoring is a great business idea because it allows teens to practice their knowledge, teaching skills, and interpersonal communication.

3. Freelance Writing

For teens who excel in writing, freelance writing can be a fruitful business. They can write blog posts, articles, or creative stories for clients online. It’s a good business because it allows flexibility and can be conducted entirely from home.

4. Pet Sitting

Teens who love animals can start a pet sitting business. They can watch pets when owners are away, providing feeding, walks, and playtime. This business is great for teens because it has minimal startup costs and allows them to spend time with animals.

5. Babysitting

Much like mowing lawns, babysitting is right up teenagers’ ally. It’s also a chance to make good money while making a real difference — helping out families in need and shaping and caring for young minds.

Teens can start babysitting businesses in their neighborhoods or through trusted online platforms. Babysitting helps develop responsibility and child care skills, and it’s a service always in demand.

6. Photography

Teenagers with a passion for photography can turn this hobby into a business, offering services for events, portraits, or product shots. It’s a great idea for teens because it fosters creativity, technical skills, and allows them to build a portfolio.

7. Printing Business

A printing business involves producing custom prints for t-shirts, mugs, posters, etc. Here are different printing business ideas. Teens can start this business with a decent printer and design software. This business promotes creativity and can be run from home with an online storefront.

8. Graphic Design

Teens with a knack for visual aesthetics can start a graphic design business, creating logos, social media graphics, or website designs for clients. It’s a valuable skill set with a wide array of potential clients and can be done remotely.

9. Cleaning Service

A cleaning service business involves providing cleaning services to homes or offices. Teens can start by cleaning for neighbors and expand from there. This business is great for teaching hard work and responsibility, and services are always in demand.

10. Social Media Management

What teenager these days isn’t a master of social media? Social media-savvy teens can offer to manage social media accounts for local businesses. This business is great because it offers valuable digital marketing skills and has the potential for a lot of growth.

11. T-shirt Printing

Teens can start a t-shirt printing business using print-on-demand services to create custom designs. It’s a good idea because it allows for creative expression and has a wide market, especially among their peers.

12. Greeting Card Making

Teens can leverage their artistic skills to design and sell handmade greeting cards. This business is perfect for nurturing creativity and can be sold in local shops or online.

13. Craft Business

Crafting businesses can encompass a range of handmade goods like jewelry, soap, candles, etc. It’s a great business for teens as it develops creative skills and there’s a big market for unique, handmade items that they can sell on Etsy or other platforms.

14. Hand Car Wash

A hand car wash business requires minimal equipment and can start in a local neighborhood. It’s a great idea for teens as it teaches the value of hard work and provides a much-appreciated service.

15. Gift Wrapping

A gift wrapping business can be started with a small investment in wrapping materials. Teens can offer unique and creative wrapping services during the holiday season or for special occasions, providing a niche service.

16. Video Game Company

Tech-savvy teens can create their own video games or apps. While it requires some coding skills, it’s an excellent way to turn a passion into a business and is a rapidly growing industry.

17. Dance Studio

Teens with dancing skills can offer dance lessons to kids in their community. They can start by offering private lessons and later rent a space for group classes. This business is great for promoting physical fitness and creativity.

18. Online Resale

Teens can start an online resale business by sourcing low-cost items from thrift stores, garage sales, or clearance aisles and selling them for a profit online. It’s a great way to learn about e-commerce and budgeting.

19. Karaoke Bar

While it may require a larger upfront investment and a suitable location, teenagers could start a mini karaoke bar at local events or parties. This idea suits outgoing teens with a knack for entertainment and provides a unique service.

20. Errand Running

An errand running business involves doing grocery shopping, post office runs, etc., for those who don’t have the time or ability. It’s a great way for teens to earn money while helping their community.

21. Photo Booth

With a camera, backdrop, and props, teens can offer a photo booth service for parties or events. It’s a fun business that promotes creativity and interpersonal skills, and it’s a hit at parties.

22. Dog Treat

Teens can start making and selling homemade dog treats. This is great for animal-loving teens and requires minimal startup costs. Plus, there’s a growing market for organic, homemade pet products.

23. Grocery Delivery

Especially in today’s times, a grocery delivery service is in demand. Teens can offer this service to elderly neighbors or busy parents, helping them shop and delivering groceries to their doorsteps.

24. Laundry Business

A laundry service for busy professionals or elderly community members can be a profitable business for teens. It requires minimal investment and provides a service that’s always in demand.

25. Paint Party

Teens can host paint parties for children’s birthdays or adult socials, providing canvases, paint, and guidance. It’s a great business that encourages creativity and enjoyment.

26. Candle Making

Teens can make and sell homemade candles. With a small upfront investment in wax, wicks, and scent oils, they can create a variety of scented candles to sell online or at local markets.

27. Podcast

For teens who have a unique perspective or a specific interest, starting a podcast can be a great idea. It provides a platform to express ideas and opinions and can be monetized through sponsorships or donations.

28. YouTube Channel

A YouTube channel can be about any topic of interest – gaming, makeup tutorials, product reviews, etc. It’s a great way to build a following and can be monetized through ads, sponsorships, and merchandise.

29. Dog Grooming

For animal lovers, a dog grooming business can be a rewarding venture. Teens can start by learning basic grooming skills and offer services to local pet owners, making pets look their best.

30. Blog

Teens can start a blog about a topic they are passionate about. Blogs can generate income through ads, sponsored posts, or affiliate marketing, and are a great way to share knowledge and hone writing skills.

31. Calligraphy

A calligraphy business involves creating beautiful hand-written text for invitations, signage, or art. This is great for artistic teens and provides a unique and niche service.

32. Dog Daycare

Teens can provide a dog daycare service, taking care of dogs while owners are at work or away. It’s a great business for animal lovers and provides a much-needed service for pet owners.

33. Snow Removal

A snow removal business is great for teens during the winter months. They can offer to shovel driveways and sidewalks in their neighborhood, providing a service that is often in high demand.

34. Computer Repair

Tech-savvy teens can offer a computer repair service, fixing common issues or providing upgrades. It’s a great way to utilize tech skills and provide a valuable service.

35. Flower Business

Teens with a green thumb can start a flower business, growing and selling their own flowers. It can be started with a small garden and provides a beautiful product that’s always in demand.

36. Gift Basket

A gift basket service involves curating and creating themed gift baskets for various occasions. It’s a creative business idea and allows for a lot of customization, making each basket unique.

37. Dog Walking

A dog walking business requires minimal startup costs and is great for teens who love animals. It provides a service for busy pet owners and is a healthy, outdoor activity.

38. Party Decorating

Teens with a creative flair can offer a party decorating service, providing themed decorations for birthdays, baby showers, etc. Here are some profitable party business ideas. It’s a fun business idea that lets teens express their creativity while providing a valuable service.

Things to Consider When Starting a Business as a Teenager

Starting a business as a teenager can be a valuable learning experience and a source of income. However, there are several important considerations to keep in mind:

Legal Age Requirements

Depending on the location, there may be age restrictions on owning a business. In some cases, teens might need an adult to officially register the business, sign contracts, or oversee financial transactions.

Startup Capital

It’s crucial to assess how much money is needed to start a business and where this funding will come from. Some businesses can be started with minimal costs, while others require significant upfront investment.

Business Plan

It’s essential to have a clear business plan outlining target market, how to attract customers, and projected income and expenses. This plan should be continually updated as business evolves.

Education

Maintaining a balance between education and business is crucial. School should remain a priority, so it’s important to manage both commitments without one negatively affecting the other.

Support

Teens should seek support from adults, whether that’s parents, teachers, or mentors. Their guidance can be invaluable in navigating the challenges of starting a business.

Marketing

Understanding how to market business is crucial. This can range from traditional methods like flyers and word of mouth, to digital marketing on social media or through a website.

Time Management

Running a business can be time-consuming. Good time management skills will be vital to ensure a balance between schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and social life.

Skills and Knowledge

Depending on the business type, teens may need to acquire specific skills or knowledge. This might involve online research, attending workshops, or even taking courses.

Perseverance

Most businesses do not become profitable overnight. It’s important to stay motivated and determined, even when faced with challenges or setbacks.

Risk Assessment

Understanding the risks associated with a business is important. This includes financial risk, the risk of failure, and ensuring the safety of any employees or customers.