31 Unique Business Ideas to Set Yourself Apart

Some business ideas are uniquely appealing, which makes their offerings very attractive to consumers. Mobility scooters are very much needed these days, while VR is becoming increasingly widespread and affordable. Urban farms have gotten bigger as humanity goes green, and Bitcoin may be the future of money.  

These and more are included in this list of unique business ideas, which provide future entrepreneurs the chance to do something exciting and potentially world-changing while making a good living. 

Keep reading to begin your entrepreneurial journey.

1. Mobility Scooters

Unfortunately, many Americans need mobility scooters due to permanent or temporary disabilities or issues. These personal transporters come in many shapes and sizes — foldable, portable, travel scooters, three-wheelers, four-wheelers, and more. Starting a business with mobility scooters will undoubtedly prove lucrative, as this industry is worth about $6 billion globally, and it’s on the rise. You could sell these transporters online or in a physical store, rent them, or even repair them.

If you’re interested in exploring this niche, our interview with Cameron Heinz and Lenny Tim will explain a lot about selling and renting mobility scooters, respectively.

2. Litter Picking for Commercial Properties

Commercial properties receive a lot of foot traffic every day, so regular cleaning and trash removal will always be in demand. Starting a business in this industry may not appeal to everyone, but it’s very simple (albeit with a lot of legwork). Local commercial areas, such as office complexes, shopping centers, parking lots, and industrial sites can be your battlefield, while broom and trashcan can be your weapons. You also have plenty of ways to fulfill these duties — event cleaning, graffiti removal, and contractual litter picking are just some ways to make money in this industry.

We’ve had the pleasure of interviewing Brian Winch, the man who created Cleanlots — the simplest business in America, and you can pick up a thing or two from him.

3. Virtual Team Building Events

Whether in-person or online, team building is crucial for any team to reach its full potential and prosper. The recent pandemic has ushered in a massive shift towards all things virtual, and team-building events aren’t an exception. Technology has made it possible to organize everything from virtual petting zoos to spine-chilling escape rooms — often at a much more affordable price.

Michael Alexis has created many unforgettable team-building experiences for various businesses. Our interview with him is bound to inspire your future venture.

4. Hemp (CBD) Business

Now that hemp cultivation and sales are legal in the US, how about starting a hemp business? Hemp, or Cannabis sativa, belongs to the same species as marijuana, which is illegal. Hemp is grown specifically for its fiber and seeds, which are used for industrial and medicinal purposes.

The industrial hemp market in the US is valued at more than $8 billion, and you can grab a piece, but it’s important to get a license and abide by federal and state regulations. For hemp to be legal, its tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content must be less than 0.3% by weight. It also contains cannabidiol (CBD), which is an essential component of medical marijuana.

Our interviews with Jacob Tannenbaum, Matthieu Fortin, and Tyler Browne offer more insights into different aspects of this lucrative venture, so check them out.

5. Themed Handmade Body Care Products

Do you have a passion for helping people feel their best? If so, starting a body care business could be the perfect opportunity for you. Body scrubs, bath bombs, lotions — there’s a customer for everything, especially if your products follow a theme. You can start a business by developing your own product line and selling it online or through direct sales outlets. Knowing your target market well will increase your chances of success. Just be aware of any copyright and trademark infringements.

Have you ever imagined there was a self-care brand focused on gamers? Well, D20 Alchemy does just that, and we’ve interviewed the owners, Carl & Liz Carnagey.

6. Small House Interior Design

Tiny houses are fascinating. The concept has been around since the 70s, yet it’s only recently that it became highly popular because more people are opting to downsize, declutter, and live simply. That, however, doesn’t mean your home can’t be welcoming and comfortable, regardless of its size. It’s no surprise that the US $25 billion interior design industry is seeing strong and steady growth. It doesn’t require much investment, and you can run your business from home when you’re not off visiting clients, that is.

In our Entrepreneur Spotlight Series, we’ve also spoken to Sarah Bronstein, who is a great mind focused on sustainability and minimalism, and she shares her approach to decorating small spaces.

7. Cryptocurrency Taxation

With Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies surging in value, many people are setting up trading businesses. Bitcoin, the dominant player in the cryptocurrency market, has a massive market capitalization that has been growing steadily since 2013. The majority of Bitcoin ATMs are in the US, but no single bank or institution controls this network. Moreover, many people are not quite sure how their Bitcoin is taxed — and here’s an opportunity for you.

Carl Gärdsell has created special software for crypto taxation, and our interview with him will shed light on the intricacies of this industry. Who knows, you may even get a similar idea!

8. Caravanning Blog

Living out of a caravan isn’t an easy feat, and a lot of people think it requires giving up on a lot of things. However, this lifestyle is a pure joy for many adventurers, and they have found a way to make a living out of it through writing a blog for like-minded individuals. While it may not always be possible to have stable WiFi living this way, blogging about your caravan or RV life is sure to never be boring. Engaging with an audience can also lead to monetization opportunities through sponsorships, affiliate marketing, and partnerships with RV-related brands.

If you want to find out more about the ins and outs of this niche, Emma Todd shared a treasure trove of advice.

9. Outdoor Adventures Card Deck

Nowadays, we’re all chronically stuck to our chairs and would benefit from some form of outdoor activity. Unfortunately, we often can’t come up with great and exciting ideas that will keep us occupied for a long period of time (and let’s face it — hitting the treadmill or running laps around the park sometimes just ain’t it). Fortunately, however, there are ways to explore your city/area for free or for little money, and a card deck with a bunch of adventure ideas and places to visit could be just the thing to build a business on.

Through her 52-card The GO Deck, Deanna Ratnikova has made it possible for everyone to explore the urban outdoors of San Diego, one week/card at a time! Could you do the same for your city?

10. Portable Storm Shelters

Many states in the US and worldwide suffer greatly when tornados and hurricanes hit. In those seasons, portable storm shelters could mean the difference between home and homeless, life and death, safe and in danger. These structures are specifically designed to provide protection during severe weather events and can be easily transported and set up. If you’ve got a knack for engineering, a sense of empathy, and a will to help others, this might be the idea for your future venture.

Read our interview with David Pressler, who has created tornado-proof portable SafeDomes, which have served as shelters for many in times of natural disasters.

11. Virtual Reality (VR)

VR experiences are revolutionizing entertainment centers worldwide. They offer immersive, interactive adventures that transport players to fantastical realms, from thrilling game action to serene exploration. As VR technology advances, it’s becoming more affordable, and it draws in parents and kids alike.

There are so many facets of this niche, from creating and licensing VR content to providing VR hardware and software solutions for venues. Additionally, there’s potential in offering VR experiences tailored for specific demographics (e.g., educational purposes).

For further insights, check out our interview with Dennis Voronin of Anvio VR.

12. Concealed Carry Fashion

Concealed carry fashion combines functionality and style. It offers discreet ways to carry firearms and other self-defense items while looking awesome. For many, especially women, it provides a sense of security without compromising personal style.

This niche market presents lucrative opportunities for entrepreneurs to cater to the growing demand for stylish yet practical concealed carry options — garments, accessories, and specialized bags. Entrepreneurs can innovate with fabrics, designs, and technologies to meet both safety requirements and fashion preferences.

Sandi Olson, founder of Lock & Load Boutique was kind enough to give us a glimpse into her journey in creating personalized concealed carry fashion solutions, so check that interview out!

13. Coupon Business

We love a good deal, and we know you do, too! You’ve probably seen coupons in magazines and are familiar with those crazy realities where people compete to lower their prices as much as possible. Well, online coupon businesses are somewhat similar. They aggregate discounts and deals from various retailers, making it easy peasy for consumers to find the best prices when shopping online.

If you’d rather save than splurge (and help others do so), why not start a coupon site? You could go for an innovative platform or niche-specific site or even include additional benefits, such as cashback.
Don’t know how? No worries. Andrei Vasilescu has masterminded an international coupon platform, and our interview with him is a great place to start familiarizing yourself with the industry.

14. Nutritious Pet Food

Nutritious human-grade food for pets typically includes lean proteins like chicken, turkey, or fish, along with vegetables and grains such as sweet potatoes, green beans, carrots, and brown rice. Avoid ingredients like fillers, by-products, artificial additives, and ingredients harmful to pets, like onions, garlic, and chocolate.

Opportunities in this niche include creating premium pet food brands, offering customized meal plans and pet consultancy, starting a pet food delivery service, or cooking up innovative treats and supplements.

We’ve had an interesting and inspiring chat with Kim Hehir, who co-founded Brutus Broth, inspired by her sister’s dog Brutus’s long, healthy life on homemade bone broths.

15. Specialized AI Tool

Specialized AI tools are tailored to specific industries and tasks, offering unique functionalities beyond generic AI applications. For instance, AI in healthcare can assist in diagnosing diseases by analyzing medical images, while AI in finance can detect fraudulent transactions in real time. If you have a knack for problem-solving and some technical prowess, you can make a mark in this developing industry.

Discover more in our interviews with Nadia Fischer on Witty, the pioneering tool for increasing diversity in talent attraction, and Ken Hubbell on his breakthroughs in edtech.

16. Unique Sports Accessories

These span various niches, including high-tech wearables, personalized gear, and specialized equipment. Examples include smart insoles that track athletic performance, custom mouthguards with built-in sensors, and compression wear that enhances muscle recovery.

In many cases, these accessories are the brainchild of people who have experienced issues with their sports equipment, so you should start with yourself — What is something you need but haven’t found elsewhere?

Grip Spritz is a great example of such a solution. This spray originated from a golfer’s struggle with regripping golf clubs but has now found use in other sports as well. Feel free to read our interview with Matthew Olen, the CMO of this brand.

17. (Urban) Mushroom Farm

Mushroom farms are gaining popularity as they provide fresh, locally-grown mushrooms with minimal environmental impact. The global mushroom market was valued at $67.6 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $116.8 billion by 2032, driven by increased demand for healthy, sustainable food options. Mushrooms are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and they offer numerous health benefits, such as boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation.

Business opportunities in mushroom farming include supplying restaurants and grocery stores, creating value-added products like mushroom jerky and supplements, and offering agritourism experiences. The low space requirements and scalability make it an attractive venture for urban entrepreneurs.

We have chatted with several (urban) mushroom farm owners, including Solomon Ibragimov, John Staniszewski, Lorian and John Roethlein, Keri Hissim, and Robin Moore. Our interviews with them offer plenty of behind-the-scenes insights into the industry.

18. Workplace Conflict Resolution

According to the Global Human Capital Report from CPP Inc., 85% of employees experience conflict to some degree, and it’s estimated that unresolved conflict costs US companies about $359 billion annually in paid hours. That’s a lot!

Workplace conflict resolution involves addressing and resolving disputes among employees to maintain a harmonious work environment. This can include mediation, arbitration, and other conflict management techniques.

You could provide training, workshops, and consulting services or even develop technological solutions, such as software that monitors, reports, and resolves conflicts.

Read the story of Nance Schick, who explains how her personal struggles led to her niche specialization in workplace conflict resolution.

19. Personal Laundry Service

Clothing is one of the basic necessities, and the clothes will always get dirty. However, many people don’t have time to do their laundry (or just hate doing it). This is where a personal laundry service could step in, offering convenient, professional washing, drying, and folding of clothes. Business opportunities in this niche include mobile app-based services, wash-and-fold, eco-friendly practices, and various subscription models.

One example of innovation in this field is Poplin, a platform founded by Mort Fertel that connects customers with local laundry providers for efficient services. To learn more, look at our interview with him.

20. Well-Being Alert System for Singles

This niche market focuses on safety and health monitoring solutions for individuals living alone. The U.S. Census Bureau reports that 28% of all households consist of one person only, and the aging population and increased awareness of safety for solo dwellers are driving demand for well-being alert systems. For people who live on their own, safety and health monitoring solutions can literally mean the difference between life and death.

If you wish to help this growing problem, think about developing user-friendly apps or smart home technology, and offering subscription-based monitoring services. You’ll get inspired by our chat with Rob van den Akker, founder of TheLifeSigns. This email-based service notifies friends when a solo-living individual becomes incapacitated and has gained traction in the Netherlands.

21. Kids’ Furniture

Furniture designed specifically for children offers several benefits, such as safety features, ergonomic designs tailored to small bodies, and vibrant aesthetics that stimulate creativity and learning.

Will you specialize in offering furniture made from eco-friendly materials, customizable designs that appeal to modern parenting trends, convertible or multifunctional pieces, age-specific items, or innovative features that enhance functionality and safety? There are plenty of ways you could succeed in this industry.

Take an example from Chris Roepe, who founded Figgy Play during the pandemic due to a lack of play couch options that were durable enough to withstand even big kids jumping on them all day.

22. Weight Loss & Emotional Eating Coaching

Did you know that more than 50% of the world’s population is currently trying to lose weight? In the US, four out of 10 people are obese, and the reasons for that go from hormonal and side effects of taking certain medicines to bingeing and emotional eating. Those excess pounds affect health, self-image, and overall quality of life, so many people start diets they never succeed at or opt for other kinds of unhealthy and unsustainable weight loss.

What if you could be the answer to their prayers? Maybe you have gone through the same issues, successfully overcame them, and now you have the wisdom to share. You could start a weight loss and emotional eating coaching business that helps individuals manage their weight by addressing both physical and emotional aspects of eating, going beyond traditional dieting and exercise plans.

Just look at Leslie Chen, who struggled herself, and now she has a thriving business teaching people to follow her example.

23. Pet Accessories

The pet accessories market is booming, driven by rising pet ownership and the humanization of pets. American Pet Products (APPA) National Pet Owners Survey reports that almost 87 million US citizens have pets. Thus, offering unique, bespoke items in this niche can attract a broad and loyal customer base. Products that promote pet health, eco-friendly stuff, reflective gear, ergonomic equipment, and smart and travel-friendly accessories are just a few examples of sought-after items. 

Inspired by his four-legged friend Thunder, Devin Kelly created DOGPAK, which is “the only ultralight, waterproof, reflective, and ergonomic K9 backpack on the market.” DOGPAK is a standout product designed for adventurous pet owners who seek the best for their pets, and our interview with Devin is sure to spark your imagination.

24. Composting Toilets

Composting toilets are eco-friendly alternatives to traditional flush toilets, designed to treat human waste through aerobic decomposition, producing nutrient-rich compost that can be used as fertilizer. These toilets have significant environmental benefits — reduced water usage, nutrient recycling, decreased waste volume, and cost savings on water bills and commercial fertilizers. They are versatile and can be installed in various settings (residential homes, recreational vehicles, boats, tiny homes, public parks, campsites, and disaster relief situations where traditional plumbing is unavailable).

You could develop and sell innovative models catering to different needs and budgets, offer installation and maintenance services, provide educational workshops and training, process and sell the compost produced as organic fertilizer (if the regulations allow it), and form partnerships with sustainable living communities.

If you’re interested in the topic, why not take a look at our interview with Richard Peter, the CEO of CompoCloset?

25. Medical Tags

Individuals with medical conditions (chronic illnesses, diabetes, epilepsy, allergies, etc.) that might require immediate attention in emergencies often wear medical tags with crucial information about their condition. This information can guide EMTs and other first responders in delivering the correct treatment promptly, potentially preventing life-threatening complications or even saving lives. There is a variety of medical tag forms — bracelets, necklaces, keychains, etc.

Uniquely designed medical tags can help reduce the stigma often associated with wearing medical identification. This is especially true for children who may feel self-conscious or different because of their medical needs. Having a tag that is personalized and stylish can make a huge difference. These tags can be customized with fun designs, colors, and characters that children love, transforming a potentially stigmatizing item into something they are proud to wear.

The demand for medical tags is rising with the growing awareness of various medical conditions and the importance of rapid response in emergencies. If you’re creative, you could come up with customizable, cool, fashionable, and durable medical tags in the form of wristbands, necklaces, and even smart tags that can store detailed medical histories accessible through smartphones.

We had the opportunity to interview brilliant Misty Dupree, who creates fun and eye-catching medical bag tags. Her experience and vision offer valuable perspectives on how combining functionality with design can make a meaningful impact.

26. RV Park

RV parks are thriving hubs of travel and community, reflecting a growing trend for flexible, immersive experiences. Over 15,000 RV parks in the US (as of 2023) cater to diverse demographics and provide amenities and a secure environment while enabling spontaneous travel.

This niche offers potential for innovation in eco-friendly camping, luxury resorts, and tech-enhanced services. Investing in RV parks can be lucrative, offering steady revenue from site rentals, amenities, guided tours, and additional services.

Explore our interview with Jason Kaplan, owner of Sunshine Mile RV Park in Tucson, who shares his experiences in transforming a campground into a thriving RV community.

27. Haunted Attraction

Haunted attractions for Halloween have become a significant part of the holiday celebration. The haunted attraction industry in the United States alone attracts millions of visitors and generates over $300 million annually.

From haunted houses with intricate, spine-chilling decor and professional actors to haunted hayrides and corn mazes that take advantage of the natural eerie ambiance of the outdoors, these attractions use various techniques to evoke fear and excitement. High-quality makeup, costumes, animatronics, sound effects, and lighting all play crucial roles in creating a believable and terrifying experience for thrill-seekers.

Entrepreneurs can tap into this lucrative market by creating haunted attractions, partnering with existing venues, or offering specialized services such as set design, makeup, and special effects consulting. Haunted attractions can diversify their offerings by hosting special events, escape rooms, or themed parties throughout the year to maintain interest and profitability beyond the Halloween season.

To immerse yourself in the haunted attraction industry, check out our interviews with Chris Stafford, the CEO of Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group, the world’s largest Halloween-themed entertainment company, and Shane Downs, the Scare Master(mind) behind Murder House, Tampa.

28. COO Mentoring

The COO is the architect of the company’s operational framework, and their responsibilities often encompass day-to-day operations, driving efficiency, and ensuring the company’s strategic goals are met with precision. The relationship between the COO and the CEO is the very foundation of a company’s leadership structure. When the CEO and COO are in sync, the organization thrives and seizes opportunities with precision.

The role of COO is becoming increasingly recognized, and you could jump on the train by offering tailored courses, workshops, mentorship programs, and consulting services. Pursuing education and courses tailored for COOs offers numerous benefits. These programs equip aspiring and current COOs with the necessary skills  — from mastering strategic management to honing leadership abilities. 

To delve deeper into the transformative role of COOs and their symbiotic relationship with CEOs, we invite you to explore our interview with Cameron Herold, the founder of COO Alliance and the host of the Second In Command podcast.

29. Sustainable Events

Sustainable event planning is an innovative approach to organizing gatherings that prioritize environmental responsibility and social consciousness. Event organizers can integrate eco-friendly practices (e.g., reducing waste and using renewable energy sources) to significantly minimize their events’ ecological footprint. The benefits? Well, aside from the obvious environmental friendliness, this enhances the reputation of the event and the organizers and establishes them as a go-to for consumers who demand greener choices. Plus, sustainable practices often lead to cost savings in the long run.

Considering that the party and event planning industry as a whole is worth almost $7 billion in the US, the sustainable event planning niche is ripe with potential. There is a growing demand for consultants who specialize in green event strategies, as well as for suppliers of eco-friendly products and services. Event planners can also capitalize on this trend by offering unique experiences that highlight sustainability (carbon-neutral conferences are a great example). 

To delve deeper into the world of sustainable event planning, we invite you to explore our interview with Dominic Richards of Zentive Agency.

30. Custom Label Printing Business

In the label printing business, creativity meets functionality. Labels not only convey essential information like ingredients or instructions but also often make products stand out on crowded shelves.

The industry is worth $7.13 billion in the US, and there’s a niche for every scale of operation, from small artisanal producers to multinational corporations. Entrepreneurs can carve out niches in eco-friendly labels, smart labels with NFC technology, or even specialized labels for sectors like pharmaceuticals or cosmetics.

If you’re curious about diving deeper into this industry, Michael Nova offers firsthand insights from the forefront of label printing innovation. He also speaks a lot about his artistic journey in other industries, so the interview is definitely worth a read.

31. Medical Insurance Advocacy

It’s estimated that about half of Americans have healthcare debt. Well, they could be perfect clients for medical insurance advocacy. This niche business thrives on bridging the gap between patients and insurance companies as it offers invaluable support during times of medical need. For patients, it means having a knowledgeable ally who can decipher insurance jargon, challenge claim denials, and negotiate fair settlements. On the business side, medical insurance advocacy presents a lucrative opportunity in a growing market driven by increasing healthcare costs and complexities.  

Entrepreneurs can specialize in aspects like elder care advocacy, specialized medical conditions, claim denial and appeal management, healthcare cost negotiation, disability advocacy, etc., and they can also scale operations through digital platforms and telehealth services.

Read our exclusive interview with Adria Gross to discover how this niche promises financial viability and empowers individuals to confidently take on the healthcare insurance challenge.