People no longer want to retire at 60 and after that spend the rest of their lives counting on their failures and lost opportunities, solely depending on pensions. For this reason, several people are now interested in activities that directly feed the passions that make life worthwhile. While the career market remains a conventional way of earning a living in the 21st century, it is proving ineffective for some constraints that override its convenience. Are you one of the persons considering a venture instead of a full-time job? What are some of the most lucrative small business ideas in South Africa? Read on!
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Source: UGC
We live in an incredible era mushrooming with business opportunities that require minimal investment. Most of these businesses are not only cheap to start but will let you work from the comfort of your home. So, what are the most successful small business ideas? South Africa is now ripe for cutting edge investments at low startup costs. Most interesting is that some businesses will only require a set of vocational skills and an internet connection. Let us now concentrate on some of the highest paying small business opportunities that you can start right away and achieve your lifelong dreams.
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75 best small business ideas in South Africa 2019
What are the best business ideas? It is challenging to settle down on the most profitable business opportunity when there are thousands of suitable alternatives. As such, the list of small businesses in South Africa provided below should help you make an informed decision in your entrepreneurial prospects.
1. Virtual or personal assistant
Providing professional assistant services both online and offline is a well-paying business opportunity for an individual with unique skills in particular areas of interest. However, less prevalent in the country, these jobs attract high paying clients ranging from small business to corporates. Unlike their counterparts, virtual assistants enjoy much freedom in getting to decide on factors such as clients, working hours, and hourly pay rates. Start the venture by setting up your online profile and search for potential clients through common services such as Upwork.com.
2. Hairdressing services
With a salon or hair cutting experience, you can launch this business opportunity for a financial breakthrough. Consult with the local authority for state requirement compliance. You can as well establish yourself as a makeup artist or even start a massage parlor. If you cannot afford to rent a place, you can be mobile in providing these services.
3. Interior designer
The desire for comfort and luxury drives homeowners and business merchants to decorate their homes such as to share their vision statement. Start by finding out what clients want and compare it with what you can afford to offer based on your skills and financial ability. You should be passionate and well versed in this line of business.
4. Electronics repair services
Repairing electronics is a well-paying service that feeds several South Africans. The business is rapidly becoming necessary as technology continues to expand in computing, phone, camera, television, and speakers among other electronics.
5. Social media consultancy
Social media is not only changing the way we interact but conduct commercial activities as well. Almost every South African is an active user of prominent social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and WhatsApp among others. You can take advantage of the ever-growing online community by establishing your brand as a social media influencer. If you do not have the right skills to start this venture, you can look out and complete professional courses offered by Google and other affiliates concerning the niche. The possibility of this business opportunity is limitless and will undoubtedly earn you highly. There are social media management tools already available in the market to make your work accessible and more comfortable.
6. Tutoring services
Tutoring services for both children and adults are always on demand. There are many clients in South Africa looking to study the second language or need experts in a particular subject of study. Tutoring is convenient because you can do it at people’s homes and any other convenient setup for that matter at a reasonable fee.
7. Grocery delivery services
The service is high on demand by individual customers and big supermarkets. It is an interesting business to pick up since some people are too busy to run all the errands, and such will become some of your happiest customers. Even more interesting, you can couple the business with other well-paying opportunities in the delivery line.
8. Gardening and lawn care
Both gardening and lawn mowing are highly rewarding businesses which run throughout the year, earning you good returns. Besides, you can carry out concurrent business in herb farming, raking, and snow removal when lawn mowing or gardening are not at their peak. The business is highly dynamic and suitable for both rural and urban setups, only taking up little space.
9. Developing chatbots
It is interesting how much technology has influenced modern day commercial activities. Let us check the facts; a decade ago businesses needed websites following which the need for portable phone apps took over. Apparently, every company needs a way to engage live customers through instant messaging platforms. If you own relevant skills in AI and chatbots, why not sell your skills for lucrative pay? You can also learn to utilize free design tools to harness the opportunity while it is still ripe.
10. Marketing services
With some skills and knowledge in marketing, you can start a well-paying business. The high entrepreneurial competition calls for intricate marketing skills to stand out in the market. If you feel you are eligible to help organizations market their services and products, then hit the road with a digital marketing agency. Besides influencer marketing, there are boundless opportunities you can start with as you build your brand. If you are skilled in search engine optimization, then this is a business niche for you.
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11. Affiliate marketing
This business is not only easy to start but also easy to run. Affiliate marketing entails promoting company services and products at a commission. Start by selecting a product which you like and then start pushing it for a profit. It is arguably more accessible to start an affiliate marketing business if you have a website. Have a means of proving your success through statistics if you can persuade potential clients to use your service.
12. Become an assistant or seller at eBay
Unlike affiliate marketing, eBay sellers promote and sell products to clients. You can opt to sell for self or on behalf of others at a commission. It is worth noting that the jobs come with risks, but it is well paying if you can pick the right distributors and secure your banking details while online.
13. Graphic designer
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Source: UGC
Technology is taking over the world with high paying jobs like graphic design. Companies are interested in branding, making the service on demand. People skilled in applications such as Photoshop and Illustrator can conveniently start a business as graphic designers. Besides branding, you will design logos, information sheets, letters, advertisements, newsletters, and magazines.
14. Tax consultant
Strategize yourself as a tax consultant and attract good pay to companies that want their taxes prepared and filled. Such is a necessity to enable companies to shift their attention to routine operations. The business requires relevant training and expert skills in the accountancy and taxation field.
15. Blogger or vlogger
Blogging and vlogging alike require people with expert knowledge in a particular field. While it is fun to share what you understand better, you will be attracting some good pay. Grab a high-resolution camera and start a vlog where you will share information in the form of videos. With a blog, you only need to set up your blogging site and prepare engaging content.
16. Editorial services
You can start an editorial business right away at no cost and turn it to a lucrative business in the short run. Some of the services that sell well in this business include ghostwriting, indexing, proofreading, magazine article writing, and copywriting among others.
17. Meal planning
Several people are looking for meal preparation experts who have insights on a balanced diet and confidence in the kitchen. This is one of the food business ideas in South Africa that requires you to possess skills in coming up with ingredients, creating recipes, elaborate the nutritional value of servings, and stay within a prescribed budget.
18. Online photo selling
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Source: UGC
The niche is highly suitable for professional photographers with a limitless passion for quality pictures and videos. With a camera and a computer, you can launch this ever on-demand business opportunity. Take several high-quality photos and place them on sale for potential clients to buy them.
19. Translator
If you are proficient in specific on-demand languages, then this is a business opportunity for you. Interestingly, you do not need any form of investment to begin this business but stand a chance to earn huge returns of about $40,000 annually. Most clients prefer to contract translators for agreeable courses.
20. Survey taking
Surveys are a good alternative for a steady income stream, especially when signed with multiple employer sites. Most of these surveys will take a minimum of your time and come with good returns. Some of the prominent survey job sites include MySurveys, Global Test Market, InboxDollars, Harris Poll, and EarningStation.
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21. Direct sales representative
The traditional door to door sales however less prevalent in these days is a well-paying job. Identify a successful brand and become a sales representative. Working for leading companies such as Mary Kay, Tupperware, and Avon will not only earn you good returns but also expose you to the business world.
22. Currency trading
It is now manageable to become a currency trader compared to the recent past when it was reserved for tycoons. With several guide materials such as magazines and tutorials, the business could turn out to become your thing. Master basic analytic skills and technical skills before venturing into currency trading business. All you need is a phone, computer, or tablet.
23. Plan projects and events at a fee
Events and project planning requires a hands-on approach and can be executed remotely. The business falls in work from home category. It is, however, necessary to engage your clients at an individual level at hotels, their offices, homes, and even cafes.
24. Computer trainer
Several seniors are developing interests in acquiring technological skills which were hardly accessible in the past. Young people also provide a broad market for upcoming technologies, which are showing no signs of stopping, but rather becoming the tradition. You can train your clients on how to use their windows or mac computers among other applications. You can as well specialize in simple computing applications such as emailing and internet.
25. Become a property manager
Help your clients manage their properties and make sure they are running smoothly at a fee. Present your contacts as a primary communication channel for clients to access different services. By maintaining the properties well and responsibly, you will attract even more clients to your venture.
26. Courier services
The demand for courier services is at its peak given that more and more people relocate to urban setups. Establish your business and provide pickup and drop services to interested clients. Set a reasonable fee to attract more clients to your business.
27. Life coaching
With a proven track of the record, you can show your success by training others for a living. People aspiring to travel in your path will be more than willing to hear concerning your experiences, successes, and failures as a lesson for them. You can as well offer coaching and mentoring services to people interested in mastering specific mental and emotional skills.
28. Laundry services
Image: pixabay.com
Source: UGC
This is one way through which you can make fast money in South Africa. In starting the business, you do not need to learn additional skills except for a few requirements. Depending on your financial capability, you can set up a laundry shop or carry out the business on a domestic basis. The returns vary considerably based on your location and population.
29. Caregiving services
Caregiving services guarantee good returns both in the short run and the long term. Start by pursuing professional training and other certification programs. The fees are often negotiable and based on the level of operation. Caregiving is easy to start and sustain as long as you have a passion for the niche.
30. Babysitting services
This business is as old as childbearing, making it a profitable and sustainable business for passionate business persons. Hit the road and make money through babysitting. Seeking advice from experienced persons will help you be an excellent baby sitter. Similarly, you can work as a nanny or tutor depending on the level of your skills.
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31. Childproofing services
Most traditional living areas in South Africa are more hazardous for growing children. If you are trained in childproofing, take your best foot affront for some returns. The business is more paying to the service providers with proper certification.
32. Taxi or personal driver services
If you have a good driving record, then hit the road and become a personal or taxi driver. Both men and women can take advantage of this business opportunity which is slowly becoming institutionalized. Join Uber or hire out your car and driving services to earn good returns.
33. Bicycle repair
Image: pixabay.com
Source: UGC
Several university and high school students find it convenient to use bicycles when commuting to school. Every so often, bicycle consumers among them professional cyclists require bicycle repair services, making it a good business to invest in.
34. Daycare services
Most parents are now becoming busier, focusing on their careers, and thus making it harder for them to attend to their children fully. Opening a daycare in your neighborhood or a town set-up will attract several children whose parents are willing to pay for care-giving services.
35. Bridal concierge
Weddings and associated planning are tedious and often beyond the ability of both the bride and groom. If you have excellent organizational skills, you can tap into this field and build a strong portfolio in this high paying business opportunity.
36. Tour guide
You can convert your knowledge concerning a tourist attraction phenomenon or site by becoming a tour guide. You can charge people for tours in your neighborhood where you have enriched historical and background information.
37. Makeup artist
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Source: UGC
Charge people for perfecting their appearances and looks. You may receive well-paying clients including public figures and other invitations. The business requires relevant certifications, so get trained and offer this service professionally to make an earning out of it.
38. Digital media conversion
As technology unleashes new features and gadgets, it is time you recycle those old CDs and DVDs to save critical data. Find clients and help them transfer information contained in these mediums to computing devices for easier retrieval.
39. Packing services
People are always on the move, making professional packing a good business as you help them pack their belongings safely. Help the relocating tenants save time while moving to their new houses and homes. The business is now on demand and will pick up faster than you may think.
40. Dog trainer, groomer, and walker
Dogs are the most common pets, making it a profitable venture to specialize in their care. Besides dog walking and training, you can provide dog sitting services to help busy clients manage their pets without stress.
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41. Become a personal chef
Some people have money but do not have enough time to attend to their kitchen chores, which may include but not limited to cooking, vegan dishes, and diet meals for patient cases. You can earn a living by attending to the personal chef opportunity.
42. Massage therapist
Image: pixabay.com
Source: UGC
Seek for licensing to become a massage therapist. While passionate people succeed the most, anyone can master the business with some training and experience. Acquire the necessary massage products before you can attract your first client.
43. Home inspector
Become a home inspector and earn money. Besides looking around people’s homes, you will enhance networking and uphold positive relationships for success at your work. Many large homes and estate setups often require home inspectors.
44. Professional photography
Besides selling photos online, you can practice your professional photography skills at family events or even weddings for a pay. Set up and reasonable fee, advertise your services and deliver projects within the deadline to attract more clients for a higher wage.
45. Referral services
People are always interested in accessing good services from plumbers, lawyers, good restaurants, and tourist sites. By positioning yourself as an expert with all the necessary information, many people will happily pay to receive your services.
46. Telemarketing services
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Source: UGC
Several companies are speedily outsourcing their services in telemarketing. Position yourself as a work from home freelance marketer. Set up customer appointments and develop warm company leads for commercial returns.
47. Online custom tailoring
People are increasingly becoming aware of their looks and the quality of fabrics. Brand yourself as a custom tailor with skills in making simple clothes. Custom clothing industry will sell given the diversity of attired demand based on size, patterns, colors, design, and more.
48. Travel planning
There are several booking platforms available over the web in South Africa. In the current standing, people can flexibly book reservations right from their homes. Unfortunately, very few businesses offer services to help clients make the best choice. Why not try the idea?
49. Call center representative
Call center representatives are on demand in most industries that value customer relations. With a working phone line and computer, you can start the business. The business is cost friendly and time-saving.
50. Sustainability consultant
Green technology is pushing many businesses into safer and more secure practices. As a consultant, you will advise such companies on effective, friendly alternatives in their operations at a fee.
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51. Become a video producer
Videography is useful in developing a work from home career. You can help people gain popularity as YouTube celebrities by providing them and uploading quality videos. Besides well-edited videos, you can specialize in adverts and Vlog editing.
52. E-commerce store
With a great product, you do not have to worry about a physical outlet space. It is now possible to sell your product online where marketing opportunities and tools are endless. Establish an e-commerce store and then strategize to become a leading seller.
53. Financial advisor
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Source: UGC
Financial organization and management are vital for people aspiring to start and advance their businesses. With a certified financial planner certificate, you will attract more clients and increase your earning potential.
54. Website flipping
Website flipping entails the art of acquiring poorly developed sites, improving them through the development and selling them at a higher cost. The business is highly affordable for people talented with a combination of coding and bargaining skills.
55. Resume writer
Not many people enjoy coming up with their resume. Use your skills to brand yourself as a resume writer for an additional stream of income. Come up with reasonable pay rates to help maintain your clients for higher returns.
56. Informational product creator
Place your expertise skills and knowledge in the digital format and sell it to the world. Create an e-book and other related informal content to start attracting your very first earnings. Alternatively, you can write content and sell it on popular sites such as Amazon.
57. Writing business plans
Most small businesses experience difficulties in coming up with business plans. Even more challenging is that the program must compel potential investors to consider partnering with the company of interest. With the necessary skills at hand, your potential clients will give anything to see you create them a winning plan.
58. Internet security consultant
Are you a computer wizard with a specialty in security patches? Partner with different organizations offering consultation services and help them secure sensitive client information from potential hackers, viruses, and scammers.
59. Online dating consultant
Finding a date has become easier but finding the right partner is more challenging than ever before. Position yourself as a marriage and dating consultant and provide helpful tips for people prospecting to find suitable partners for themselves. You can help people update their profiles and matching status.
60. Secretarial services
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Source: UGC
Remote secretarial services are increasingly becoming fashionable. The idea is suitable for people who share strong communication skills, have good time management habits. Experience is also necessary when venturing into secretarial services as a business.
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61. Reviewer or tester
Startups are on the hunt for people to review and recommend their products. You can dive into this lucrative business by approaching the management of setting up your online profile to attract potential clients. You can as well use your blog or Vlog as a platform to share your opinion concerning different products and services in the form of a review.
62. Bookkeeping services
Work from home as a freelance bookkeeper without becoming a certified public accountant. Regardless of whether you are good with numbers or not, you can exhaust online invoicing tools to simplify your work.
63. Sell electronics accessories
Almost everyone owns at least an electronic gadget or two. Take advantage of this overwhelming market by selling accessories such as chargers, earphones, phone cases, and memories among others. It is for sure that the business promises a brighter future in its returns.
64. Google paid ad specialist
Paid internet marketing through ad campaigns is very much rewarding to dedicated persons. You can as well position the business as a source of extra pay. As your consultancy business grows, you will earn much more from your rapidly booming business operations. You can as well become a Landing Page Specialist.
65. Fiverr gigs
First-time individuals with specialized skills can create their profiles at Fiverr to attract potential clients. With some insights and knowledge, you can quickly turn your business into a million dollar business.
66. WordPress website consultant
Many South Africans are expressing interest in blogging. You can build WordPress templates for them or respond to different expert questions that surround WordPress setup, use and applications. Becoming a WordPress agent and consultant is a suitable business.
67. Artwork and collector
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Source: UGC
Ensemble contemporary artwork for high-end clients who will pay highly for good work. You can as well develop your art and sell it if you are talented. Artworks share not only explicit messages but also communicate creative ideas.
68. Develop an app
If you are a gifted programmer, you can come up with an app that solves an impending problem. If the app gains market success and high reception, you could become the next millionaire. Apps are useful and compare to no other operational platforms in the modern age.
69. Online news correspondent
Apply your journalistic skills working as a news correspondent from the comfort of your home.
70. Patent an idea
Patents pay well to the owners. Come up with an innovation or invention for a lucrative patent.
71. Personal fitness trainer
Become a private fitness instructor and help people lose weight at a fee. You can as well help them maintain a healthy diet.
72. Music instructor
Are you a professional musician or a talented person? Help others learn how to sing at a fee. You can train them on how to play instruments or sing for an exciting effect.
73. DJ-ing
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Source: UGC
Develop your skill as a DJ and master the art of entertainment for better hit releases.
74. Baking services
Establish a bakery and apply your skills in baking for heightened profits. We all love cakes and cookies for their enriched flavors. Cooking good bakeries is financially rewarding. Cooking is a diverse opportunity that particularly calls for specialized knowledge and skills
75. Freelance content marketing
This business opportunity is both stable and profitable with prospects of improving in the long run. Experienced content marketing freelancers earn highly making the opportunity very competitive.
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There are several small business ideas in South Africa that almost everyone can venture for a steady stream of income. Some of these opportunities come at no cost while others require some form of investment. Which idea excited you the most and what would be a good small business to start? Share your opinion with us in the comments.
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Source: Briefly.co.za