Starting a side business in India is like planting a sapling; it may seem small at first, but with consistent effort, it can grow into a flourishing tree. Whether you’re a working professional looking for extra income, a homemaker with untapped potential, or a student with big dreams, a side hustle can help you achieve financial freedom and personal satisfaction. The best part? India’s diverse economy and evolving digital landscape make it the perfect time to dive in.
Here’s a list of 20 exciting side business ideas you can start in India. Whether you have a little capital or none at all, there’s something for everyone.
20 Best Side Business Ideas
Tiffin Service
Tiffin service is one of the best side businesses in India. In cities bustling with students and working professionals, a tiffin service is always in demand. If you can cook delicious homemade meals, this is a goldmine waiting for you.
- Investment: ₹10,000–₹30,000 (for utensils, packaging, and ingredients)
- Example: A homemaker in Mumbai earns ₹50,000 monthly delivering fresh meals to office-goers.
Freelance Content Writing
If you’ve got a way with words, freelance content writing is one of the easiest and most lucrative side hustles. Businesses always need writers for blogs, websites, and social media.
- Investment: A laptop and internet connection (₹30,000–₹50,000 if you don’t already own one).
- Example: Platforms like Upwork or Fiverr can help you land your first gig.
Online Tutoring
With education going digital, online tutoring is a booming business. You must have seen the success of platforms like Byju’s, Vedantu, and even YouTube.Whether you’re great at math, science, or even languages, there’s always someone willing to pay for your expertise.
- Investment: ₹0–₹10,000 (for a good webcam or mic, if needed).
- Example: Byju’s and Vedantu are platforms where teachers earn substantial incomes part-time.
Handmade Craft Business
Turn your creativity into cash by selling handmade items like jewelry, candles, or personalized gifts. Indians love unique and personalized products, especially for festivals and weddings. The “Made in India” tag is a big selling point!
- Investment: ₹5,000–₹20,000 (for raw materials).
- Example: Selling on Etsy or Instagram can connect you with a global audience.
Social Media Management
If you’re always on Instagram or Facebook and know how to grow a following, why not manage accounts for small businesses? It’s a skill-based gig that’s in high demand right now.
- Investment: ₹0–₹5,000 (for tools like Canva or scheduling apps).
- Example: Many small businesses pay ₹10,000–₹30,000 per month for basic social media services.
Photography and Videography
Got an eye for capturing perfect moments? Invest in a decent camera and start offering photography services. Whether it’s wedding photography, portraits, or even stock photography, this side hustle lets you combine creativity with income.
- Investment: ₹50,000–₹1,00,000 (if you need a camera and lens).
- Example: Photographers charge ₹5,000–₹50,000 per event depending on experience.
Event Planning
Are you the go-to person for organizing birthday parties or family functions? Turn that talent into a side business. Event planning, even on a small scale, is in demand. From intimate weddings to corporate meet-ups, there’s no shortage of opportunities.
- Investment: ₹10,000–₹30,000 (for decorations and marketing).
- Example: A college student in Delhi runs an event business and earns ₹1,00,000 during wedding season.
Blogging or Vlogging
Do you love writing? Blogging can be a fantastic way to share your thoughts while making money. Start a blog about something you’re passionate about—travel, cooking, tech, or even personal finance. Once you’ve built an audience, monetize your blog through ads, affiliate marketing, or sponsored posts. The best part? It requires minimal investment and can grow into a full-fledged business over time.
- Investment: ₹0–₹20,000 (for a domain, hosting, or a basic camera).
- Example: Top Indian bloggers earn lakhs per month through ads and sponsorships.
Reselling Products Online
The rise of Instagram businesses is insane! Curate trendy fashion, handmade products, or even thrift items and sell them on Instagram. Engage your audience with catchy captions, stories, and reels to keep the buzz alive. Platforms like Meesho and GlowRoad also allows you to resell products without holding inventory.
- Investment: ₹0 (you only need a smartphone).
- Example: A homemaker in Bangalore earns ₹25,000 monthly reselling sarees online.
Fitness Trainer or Yoga Instructor
Health is wealth, and people are realizing it now more than ever. If you’re a fitness enthusiast or certified yoga trainer, conduct classes online or offline. Even a few clients can give you a steady side income while keeping you fit too!
- Investment: ₹10,000–₹50,000 (for certifications and basic equipment).
- Example: Conduct group yoga sessions in a park or online via Zoom.
Homemade Snacks and Sweets Business
Love cooking? Turn your kitchen into a side business! You can start with small snacks and sweets catering for small gatherings, or selling specialty items like cakes, pickles, or snacks. Apps like Swiggy’s Cloud Kitchen program can help you reach a wider audience.
- Investment: ₹5,000–₹15,000 (for ingredients and packaging).
- Example: A homemaker in Gujarat earns ₹40,000 monthly selling festive sweets.
Affiliate Marketing
If you have a blog, YouTube channel, or even a strong social media presence, affiliate marketing can be a game-changer. Promote products or services and earn a commission for every sale made through your referral link. Amazon Associates, Flipkart Affiliate, and ShareASale are great platforms to start with.
- Investment: ₹0–₹5,000 (to create a website or run ads).
- Example: Amazon Associates is a great starting point for affiliate marketers.
Pet Sitting or Dog Walking
Are you an animal lover? Pet sitting or grooming is a niche yet growing business idea in urban areas. Many pet owners look for trustworthy people to care for their furry friends while they’re away. Offer pet-sitting or dog-walking services to busy pet parents.
- Investment: ₹0–₹1,000 (for marketing or accessories like leashes).
- Example: UrbanClap offers pet-sitting gigs where you can earn up to ₹1,000 a day.
Customized T-Shirt Printing
People love personalized apparel for events, teams, or gifts. T-shirt printing can be a rewarding venture. Use platforms like Printful to make your ideas come to life.
- Investment: ₹50,000–₹1,00,000 (for a heat press machine and stock).
- Example: Small print shops earn steady income during festival and corporate seasons.
Drop Servicing
A twist on dropshipping, here you sell services like graphic design or writing without actually doing the work. Hire freelancers to complete the tasks for less than you charge.
- Investment: ₹0–₹10,000 (for a website and tools).
- Example: Entrepreneurs earn ₹50,000+ monthly outsourcing work from Fiverr to local freelancers.
Graphic Designing
If you’re skilled in Photoshop or Canva, graphic designing is a high-demand field.
- Investment: ₹0–₹10,000 (for software or courses if needed).
- Example: Design logos, banners, or social media posts for businesses and earn per project.
Home Baking
Who doesn’t love freshly baked cookies or cakes? Start a home bakery to serve your neighborhood or take online orders.
- Investment: ₹10,000–₹30,000 (for an oven and supplies).
- Example: A Bangalore-based baker earns ₹60,000 monthly selling custom cakes.
Mobile Phone Repairs
With nearly everyone owning a smartphone, the demand for mobile repair services is ever-growing. If you have a knack for fixing gadgets, this can be a profitable side gig. You could even specialize in specific brands to stand out.
- Investment: ₹10,000–₹20,000 (for tools and basic training).
- Example: Mobile repair shops in small towns earn ₹40,000–₹80,000 monthly.
Digital Marketing Agency
With businesses going digital, offering services like SEO, email marketing, or Google Ads can be extremely profitable.
- Investment: ₹10,000–₹30,000 (for tools and certifications).
- Example: Small agencies earn upwards of ₹1,00,000 monthly by managing just 3–5 clients.
Urban Gardening Consultant
As more people embrace eco-friendly living, urban gardening is a growing trend. Guide others on setting up terrace gardens or growing vegetables at home.
- Investment: ₹5,000–₹20,000 (for tools and initial marketing).
- Example: Consultants charge ₹5,000–₹25,000 for setting up small gardens.
Conclusion
Starting a side business in India doesn’t require a fortune, just passion, and persistence. Each idea we explored is unique and caters to different skill sets and budgets. The key is to pick something you genuinely enjoy, so it feels less like work and more like a journey.
Remember, the best businesses are built on solving problems or fulfilling needs. So, take the plunge, experiment, and watch your side hustle transform into a potential full-time gig!
FAQs
How do I choose the right side business for me?
Identify your skills, interests, and the time you can dedicate. Research market demand and start with low investment ideas to minimize risks.
How much time does a side business typically require?
It varies. Some ideas, like freelancing, need 10–15 hours a week, while others, like blogging, can demand more time initially but offer flexibility later.
Are side businesses profitable in India?
Absolutely! With the right approach, many side businesses can earn ₹20,000–₹1,00,000+ monthly.
Can I manage a side business along with a full-time job?
Yes, but prioritize time management. Start small, automate tasks, and set realistic goals.
Do I need to register my side business?
For small-scale ventures, registration isn’t mandatory. However, as you grow, consider registering for legal and tax benefits.
