Small-Business Ideas for Teens

Introduction

Teens can turn time, skills, and creativity into real-world experience and extra cash with small-business ideas that fit a busy school schedule. The options below emphasize low upfront costs, flexibility, and beginner-friendly steps.

Why teen-friendly businesses work

Flexible hours, low upfront costs, and opportunities to learn basic business skills like planning, marketing, and customer service.

Low-cost service ideas

Babysitting and pet care

Starting small with family and friends is a great way to build trust. Offer to watch younger kids or walk dogs, and consider a simple safety plan and parental permission. Set clear rates and boundaries, and be reliable.

Lawn care and snow removal

Seasonal work can fit around school: mowing lawns in warm months, raking leaves in fall, shoveling snow in winter. Basic tools and good customer communication go a long way.

House cleaning and organizing

Offer to clean, declutter, or tidy shared spaces for neighbors or family friends. Bring a checklist and ask for feedback to improve.

Tech help for neighbors

Help with smartphones, tablets, or setting up email and accounts. Emphasize privacy and safety; never access someone else’s locks or passwords without explicit permission.

Tutoring and music lessons

If you excel at a subject or instrument, offer 1:1 tutoring or beginner lessons after school. Keep sessions short and focused to fit your schedule.

Quick-start checklist

• Identify your strongest skills and interests
• Talk to a parent or guardian about safety and permission
• Set simple, clear rates and a basic schedule
• Create a short flyer or post for your community
• Track income and learn basic money habits

Retail and reselling ideas

Thrift flips

Find low-cost items at thrift stores or garage sales and resell them online or to friends. Start with a small stock to test what sells.

Handmade crafts

Create items like bracelets, keychains, or customized gear. Sell at school events, fairs, or with parental permission online.

School supplies resale

Stock popular school items (planners, stationery) to classmates or through a local social media group.

Getting set up safely

Work with a parent to set up payments and deliveries. Use simple, trackable records for expenses and earnings.

Digital and online ideas

Freelance writing and editing

Offer to write or edit school newsletters, resumes, or school-year projects for peers. Build a simple portfolio and set fair rates.

Social media support for local businesses

Help small local shops with posts, replies, and basic content ideas—under supervision.

Digital products and templates

Create templates, planners, or checklists you can sell online. Use platforms that allow teen accounts with parental consent.

Content creation and small channels

If you’re interested in video or blogging, keep it small and focus on your hobby or school life while respecting platform rules for age.

Getting started: steps for teens

Step 1: pick an idea

Choose something you enjoy and can do consistently around school and activities.

Step 2: set goals and schedule

Define a realistic goal (e.g., earn $50 a month) and block a weekly time slot.

Step 3: talk to a parent or guardian

Get permission and agree on safety rules, payments, and sharing responsibilities.

Step 4: set up the basics

Create a simple pricing plan, a way to collect payments (cash, checks, or parent-approved apps), and a simple marketing plan.

Step 5: start small and grow

Pilot your idea for a month, collect feedback, and adjust.

Tips for success

Build a simple brand

Use a clear name, consistent messaging, and reliable service ethics.

Focus on customer service

Be prompt, polite, and do what you say you will do.

Stay safe and responsible

Work in public places, keep guardian informed, and never handle sensitive information without permission.

Manage money and time

Save a portion of earnings, track expenses, and learn to balance school and business.

Seek feedback and adjust

Ask customers what they liked and what could improve.