Starting a business can be one of the most exciting and rewarding things you can do, especially in a diverse and growing market like India. Whether you’re a new entrepreneur or a seasoned professional looking for fresh opportunities, picking the right business idea is key to long-term success.
In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best business ideas in India that are not only popular now but also have great potential for growth in the coming years.
List of 25 Best Business Ideas in India
On this page:
- List of 25 Best Business Ideas in India
- 1. Affiliate Marketing
- 2. Online Coaching and Tutoring
- 3. E-Commerce Store
- 4. Digital Marketing Services
- 5. Mobile App Development
- 6. Blogging and Content Creation
- 7. Graphic Designing
- 8. Health and Wellness Products
- 9. Fitness Training or Yoga Studio
- 10. Cloud Kitchen or Food Delivery
- 11. Handmade Products
- 12. Event Planning and Management
- 13. Real Estate Consultancy
- 14. Travel Agency
- 15. Freelance Writing
- 16. Dropshipping Business
- 17. Interior Designing
- 18. Freelance Web Development
- 19. Virtual Assistant Services
- 20. Pet Care Services
- 21. Freelance Accounting and Tax Consultancy
- 22. Social Media Influencer
- 23. Online Grocery Store
- 24. Plant Nursery and Gardening Services
- 25. Sustainable Fashion Brand
- Conclusion
- FAQs
| Business Idea | Investment Required | Risk Level | Profitability | Time to Start |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Affiliate Marketing | Low | Low | Medium | Quick (days) |
| 2. Online Coaching & Tutoring | Low | Low | Medium | Quick (days) |
| 3. E-Commerce Store | Medium | Medium | High | Moderate (weeks) |
| 4. Digital Marketing Services | Low | Low | Medium | Quick (days) |
| 5. Mobile App Development | Low | Medium | High | Moderate (weeks) |
| 6. Blogging & Content Creation | Low | Low | Medium | Quick (days) |
| 7. Graphic Designing | Low | Low | Medium | Quick (days) |
| 8. Health & Wellness Products | Medium | Medium | High | Moderate (weeks) |
| 9. Fitness Training/Yoga Studio | Medium | Medium | Medium | Moderate (weeks) |
| 10. Cloud Kitchen/Food Delivery | High | High | High | Long (1-3 months) |
| 11. Handmade Products | Low | Low | Low | Quick (days) |
| 12. Event Planning & Management | Low | Low | Medium | Quick (days) |
| 13. Real Estate Consultancy | Low | Low | High | Quick (days) |
| 14. Travel Agency | Medium | Medium | Medium | Moderate (weeks) |
| 15. Freelance Writing | Low | Low | Low | Quick (days) |
| 16. Dropshipping Business | Low | Medium | Medium | Quick (days) |
| 17. Interior Designing | Low | Low | Medium | Moderate (weeks) |
| 18. Freelance Web Development | Low | Low | Medium | Quick (days) |
| 19. Virtual Assistant Services | Low | Low | Low | Quick (days) |
| 20. Pet Care Services | Low | Low | Low | Quick (days) |
| 21. Accounting & Tax Consultancy | Low | Low | Medium | Quick (days) |
| 22. Social Media Influencer | Low | Low | High | Quick (days) |
| 23. Online Grocery Store | High | High | Medium | Long (1-3 months) |
| 24. Plant Nursery/Gardening | Medium | Medium | Medium | Long (1-3 months) |
| 25. Sustainable Fashion Brand | High | High | Medium | Long (3+ months) |
1. Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketers help promote products on their blogs, social media, or websites and earn a commission whenever someone buys through their referral links. For example, you can sign up for programs like EarnKaro, Amazon Associates, Flipkart Affiliate Program, or CJ Affiliate. Here is an example of an affiliate link used by Amit Bhawani from PhoneRadar in one of his YouTube videos.
Important Details
| Startup Cost | Low (₹0-₹5,000 for website/domain) |
| Target Audience | Bloggers, content creators, social media influencers |
| Profitability | Medium (Earnings grow with audience engagement) |
| Challenges | Requires consistent content, audience trust, and traffic generation |
Steps to Start:
- Choose a niche (Tech, Fashion, Finance, etc.)
- Join affiliate programs like Amazon, EarnKaro, Flipkart
- Create content (blogs, videos, social media)
- Promote products using affiliate links
- Track and optimize commissions over time
2. Online Coaching and Tutoring
You can start online classes using platforms like Vedantu or Zoom to teach subjects like math, science, or coding. If you specialize in areas like UPSC coaching, IIT-JEE prep, or language learning (like English or French), you can reach a big audience, especially students in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities where good education may not be easily available.
Important Details
| Startup Cost | Low (₹2,000-₹10,000 for online tools) |
| Target Audience | Students, professionals, competitive exam aspirants |
| Profitability | Medium (Scalability depends on expertise and course pricing) |
| Challenges | High competition, requires strong teaching skills |
Steps to Start:
- Pick a subject or skill you can teach
- Choose a platform (Zoom, Google Meet, Udemy)
- Create structured courses or offer live sessions
- Promote through social media and word-of-mouth
- Upsell additional courses or coaching sessions
3. E-Commerce Store
Starting a niche e-commerce store that focuses on specific categories like eco-friendly products, regional crafts, or custom fashion can be a great way to make money. For example, Meesho began as a platform for resellers, and Pipa Bella sells unique jewelry.
You can sell your products through platforms like Shopify, Amazon, or even create your own website.
Important Details
| Startup Cost | Medium (₹10,000-₹50,000 for website and inventory) |
| Target Audience | Online shoppers, niche audiences (fashion, electronics, handmade goods) |
| Profitability | High (Profits depend on sales and marketing strategy) |
| Challenges | Requires logistics, payment gateway setup, customer trust |
Steps to Start:
- Decide on product niche (apparel, gadgets, home decor)
- Build a website or sell on platforms like Shopify, Amazon
- Source products from suppliers or create your own
- Set up payment and delivery methods
- Market via social media and SEO
4. Digital Marketing Services
If you’re skilled in SEO, social media marketing, or content marketing, you can offer these services to small businesses wanting to grow online. Agencies like Webchutney and Social Beat focus on helping brands succeed digitally.
Nowadays, many small businesses in India are shifting their focus from traditional marketing to digital marketing for better results.
Important Details
| Startup Cost | Low (₹5,000-₹15,000 for certifications and tools) |
| Target Audience | Small businesses, startups, influencers |
| Profitability | Medium (High demand, but requires experience) |
| Challenges | Competitive field, requires continuous learning |
Steps to Start:
- Learn SEO, PPC, social media marketing (Google Skillshop, HubSpot)
- Offer free/low-cost initial projects for testimonials
- Create a professional website or LinkedIn profile
- Pitch businesses and build a client base
- Expand services (email marketing, content marketing)
5. Mobile App Development
With the fast growth of smartphone use in India, there’s a big demand for mobile apps. Developing custom apps for businesses, restaurants, or healthcare providers can be a great money-making opportunity. You can start building apps using tools like Flutter or React Native.
Important Details
| Startup Cost | Low-Medium (₹10,000-₹1,00,000 for tools and learning) |
| Target Audience | Startups, businesses, entrepreneurs |
| Profitability | High (Can charge per project or create own apps) |
| Challenges | Requires coding expertise, app store competition |
Steps to Start:
- Learn coding (Flutter, React Native, Kotlin)
- Develop a small project to showcase skills
- Offer freelance app development services
- List apps on Google Play Store or Apple App Store
- Monetize via ads, premium features, or client work
6. Blogging and Content Creation
Blogging in areas like personal finance, travel, or technology can help you earn money through ads, sponsored posts, and affiliate marketing. ShoutMeLoud by Harsh Agrawal is a great example of a successful blog in India that makes money through different sources, including affiliate marketing. Pick a topic you love, grow your audience, and start earning through Google Ads or partnering with brands.
Important Details
| Startup Cost | Low (₹5,000-₹10,000 for domain, hosting) |
| Target Audience | Readers interested in specific niches (Tech, Fashion, Finance) |
| Profitability | Medium (Depends on traffic and monetization) |
| Challenges | Requires patience and consistent content |
Steps to Start:
- Choose a niche and keyword-rich topics
- Start a blog with WordPress or Blogger
- Write quality content consistently
- Monetize with ads, affiliate marketing, sponsored posts
- Promote through SEO and social media
7. Graphic Designing
As a freelance graphic designer, you can create logos, brochures, social media posts, and branding materials for businesses. With tools like Adobe Illustrator or Canva, it’s easier than ever to offer these services to clients. Many small businesses, startups, and even influencers need eye-catching visuals but don’t have in-house designers, making this a great opportunity for you.
Important Details
| Startup Cost | Low (₹5,000-₹10,000 for software & portfolio) |
| Target Audience | Businesses, social media influencers, startups |
| Profitability | Medium (Freelancers can charge per project) |
| Challenges | Requires creativity and software proficiency |
Steps to Start:
- Learn tools like Canva, Photoshop, Illustrator
- Build a portfolio with sample designs
- Offer services on Fiverr, Upwork, LinkedIn
- Market on Instagram, Behance, Pinterest
- Scale to logo design, branding packages
8. Health and Wellness Products
With more people becoming aware of fitness, starting a business that sells health supplements, organic skincare, or Ayurvedic products is a smart idea. Patanjali has changed the Indian market with its Ayurvedic products. You can focus on selling niche items like vegan protein powders, organic skincare, or herbal supplements to attract health-conscious customers.
Important Details
| Startup Cost | Medium (₹20,000-₹1,00,000 for sourcing and branding) |
| Target Audience | Health-conscious consumers, fitness enthusiasts |
| Profitability | High (Demand for organic and ayurvedic products) |
| Challenges | Requires regulatory approvals, supplier management |
Steps to Start:
- Research high-demand wellness products
- Find reliable manufacturers or suppliers
- Launch online or partner with retailers
- Market via influencers and digital ads
- Scale to subscription models or new product lines
9. Fitness Training or Yoga Studio
As fitness becomes more important, opening a fitness studio or offering personal training sessions is a great option. Yoga instructors can also hold online classes or workshops using platforms like Zoom or Instagram Live to reach more people easily.
Important Details
| Startup Cost | Medium (₹50,000-₹2,00,000 for setup) |
| Target Audience | Health-conscious individuals, corporates |
| Profitability | Medium (Steady income from memberships) |
| Challenges | Requires space, certification, customer retention |
Steps to Start:
- Get certified as a trainer or yoga instructor
- Set up a home studio or rent a small space
- Offer group and personal training sessions
- Promote through social media and referrals
- Expand to online fitness programs
10. Cloud Kitchen or Food Delivery
Cloud kitchens are becoming popular because they don’t need a physical restaurant. You can set up a kitchen and list your menu on food delivery apps like Swiggy or Zomato. Faasos is a well-known Indian cloud kitchen that grew by offering multi-cuisine food only for delivery. You can focus on healthy meals, regional dishes, or special diets like Keto or Vegan to stand out.
Important Details
| Startup Cost | High (₹2,00,000-₹5,00,000 for setup & operations) |
| Target Audience | Urban customers, office workers, students |
| Profitability | High (If demand and pricing are right) |
| Challenges | Requires logistics, hygiene compliance, competitive market |
Steps to Start:
- Choose a niche (healthy meals, fast food, regional cuisine)
- Rent a small kitchen space
- List business on Zomato, Swiggy, Dunzo
- Market via Instagram, WhatsApp, and local promotions
- Expand to catering and bulk orders
11. Handmade Products
If you’re good at crafts, you can start a business selling handmade items like candles, soaps, or other crafts. Platforms like Etsy or Amazon Handmade are great for selling these kinds of products. IndieGood is a popular brand in India that sells sustainable, handmade items, showing how this kind of business can be successful.
Important Details
| Startup Cost | Low (₹5,000-₹30,000 for raw materials & branding) |
| Target Audience | Art lovers, gift buyers, home decor enthusiasts |
| Profitability | Low-Medium (Depends on demand & marketing) |
| Challenges | Requires creativity, manual labor, and inventory management |
Steps to Start:
- Choose a niche (jewelry, candles, home decor, pottery, etc.)
- Create samples and list products on Etsy, Amazon, Instagram
- Price competitively and offer customization options
- Promote through social media, craft fairs, and influencers
- Expand by collaborating with local stores or export markets
12. Event Planning and Management
You can specialize in planning weddings, corporate events, or personal parties. Companies like Wizcraft started with small events and now manage big corporate and entertainment events. You can focus on specific areas like destination weddings, eco-friendly events, or corporate seminars to stand out in the event planning business.
Important Details
| Startup Cost | Low-Medium (₹20,000-₹1,00,000 for initial setup) |
| Target Audience | Weddings, corporate events, parties |
| Profitability | Medium-High (Can charge per event or on commission basis) |
| Challenges | Requires networking, handling logistics, and managing client expectations |
Steps to Start:
- Choose a niche (corporate events, weddings, birthdays, etc.)
- Build a portfolio (volunteer for small events or collaborate)
- Connect with vendors (caterers, decorators, DJs, photographers)
- Promote services via social media, word-of-mouth, and referrals
- Scale by hiring a team and offering end-to-end event solutions
13. Real Estate Consultancy
The real estate market in India is growing fast, and offering consultancy services to help people buy, sell, or invest in property can be very profitable. Real estate consultancies like Square Yards provide a variety of services, from helping people buy homes to managing rentals. This can be a great business opportunity.
Important Details
| Startup Cost | Low (₹5,000-₹50,000 for marketing & legal registration) |
| Target Audience | Property buyers, sellers, investors |
| Profitability | High (Commissions per deal can be lucrative) |
| Challenges | Requires networking, market knowledge, and licensing |
Steps to Start:
- Get licensed as a real estate consultant (varies by region)
- Build relationships with developers and property owners
- Market properties through online platforms (99acres, MagicBricks)
- Offer advisory services on buying, selling, and renting
- Expand into commercial real estate or property management
14. Travel Agency
India has so many different tourist spots, making it a great place to start a travel agency. You can focus on niche tourism like adventure, eco-tourism, or luxury travel, which is a promising business idea. Thomas Cook India is an example of a travel agency that has grown by offering specially curated travel packages.
Important Details
| Startup Cost | Medium (₹50,000-₹2,00,000 for licensing, marketing) |
| Target Audience | Tourists, corporates, honeymooners |
| Profitability | Medium-High (Depends on bookings and commissions) |
| Challenges | Requires industry connections, seasonal fluctuations |
Steps to Start:
- Obtain necessary travel agent licenses
- Build partnerships with hotels, airlines, and travel service providers
- Create attractive travel packages and itineraries
- Market via Instagram, Facebook groups, and travel blogs
- Scale by offering niche experiences (luxury, adventure, budget trips)
15. Freelance Writing
You can offer writing services for blogs, website content, or social media posts. Content creators like Shradha Sharma from YourStory have built successful platforms by providing valuable content. You can find clients on platforms like Upwork and Freelancer, or even reach out to businesses directly for work.
Important Details
| Startup Cost | Low (₹0-₹10,000 for courses & website) |
| Target Audience | Businesses, blogs, publishers, digital agencies |
| Profitability | Low-Medium (Depends on project volume and specialization) |
| Challenges | Requires strong writing skills and constant pitching |
Steps to Start:
- Choose a niche (SEO writing, copywriting, scriptwriting, etc.)
- Build a writing portfolio (Medium, LinkedIn, guest blogs)
- Register on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Contentmart
- Market services through LinkedIn, cold outreach, and referrals
- Scale by specializing in high-paying niches like technical writing
16. Dropshipping Business
Start a dropshipping business where you sell products without keeping stock. You promote products on your e-commerce site, and when someone places an order, the supplier ships the product directly to the customer. Platforms like AliExpress and Shopify make it easy to begin this type of business.
Important Details
| Startup Cost | Low (₹10,000-₹50,000 for store setup & ads) |
| Target Audience | Online shoppers looking for unique/affordable products |
| Profitability | Medium (Margins depend on supplier costs and pricing) |
| Challenges | Requires finding reliable suppliers, high competition |
Steps to Start:
- Choose a niche (gadgets, fashion, fitness products, etc.)
- Set up an online store (Shopify, WooCommerce)
- Partner with suppliers (AliExpress, IndiaMART, Meesho)
- Market via Facebook & Instagram ads, SEO, and influencers
- Optimize pricing and customer experience for long-term success
17. Interior Designing
Offering interior design services for homes or offices is a growing business. Companies like Livspace have become successful by providing complete design services and products. You can work on real spaces or even offer virtual consultations to help clients with their design needs.
Important Details
| Startup Cost | Low-Medium (₹20,000-₹1,00,000 for certifications, portfolio) |
| Target Audience | Homeowners, office spaces, hotels, real estate developers |
| Profitability | Medium-High (Depends on project scope & clientele) |
| Challenges | Requires creativity, client coordination, and vendor management |
Steps to Start:
- Get certified or learn design software (AutoCAD, SketchUp)
- Build a strong portfolio (mock designs, 3D renders, case studies)
- Collaborate with architects, furniture stores, and realtors
- Market through Instagram, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and networking
- Expand into commercial and luxury interior design projects
18. Freelance Web Development
You can offer website development services to businesses. As more companies move online, the demand for web developers is increasing. Zoho, for example, started by offering software solutions and has now grown into a global company. There’s a big opportunity in helping businesses create and maintain their websites.
Important Details
| Startup Cost | Low (₹10,000-₹50,000 for tools & hosting) |
| Target Audience | Startups, small businesses, bloggers, e-commerce brands |
| Profitability | Medium-High (Earnings vary based on complexity) |
| Challenges | Requires strong coding skills, competition from agencies |
Steps to Start:
- Learn programming languages (HTML, CSS, JavaScript, WordPress)
- Build sample websites to showcase work
- Offer services on Upwork, Fiverr, LinkedIn, and networking groups
- Provide website maintenance as a recurring service
- Scale by hiring a team and offering full-stack solutions
19. Virtual Assistant Services
You can offer virtual assistant services to businesses and entrepreneurs, helping them manage emails, schedule meetings, and handle customer questions. Companies like WoodBows provide these services remotely to businesses around the world. It’s a great way to support busy professionals from anywhere.
Important Details
| Startup Cost | Low (₹0-₹10,000 for tools & setup) |
| Target Audience | Entrepreneurs, business owners, influencers |
| Profitability | Low-Medium (Hourly rates or retainer clients) |
| Challenges | Requires strong organizational and communication skills |
Steps to Start:
- Identify skills (email management, scheduling, bookkeeping, etc.)
- Register on freelancing platforms like PeoplePerHour, Fiverr
- Offer administrative support to clients remotely
- Build long-term client relationships for steady income
- Expand services into project management or specialized VA roles
20. Pet Care Services
You can offer pet grooming, walking, or boarding services in cities where many people own pets. Companies like Heads Up For Tails have grown in India by providing pet accessories and services. It’s a great way to tap into the growing demand for pet care.
Important Details
| Startup Cost | Low (₹5,000-₹50,000 for supplies & marketing) |
| Target Audience | Pet owners, working professionals, elderly people |
| Profitability | Low-Medium (Recurring income from loyal clients) |
| Challenges | Requires love for animals, licensing in some areas |
Steps to Start:
- Decide on services (dog walking, pet sitting, grooming)
- Get basic pet care certifications (if required)
- Market locally through flyers, social media, and pet forums
- Partner with vets, pet stores, and grooming salons
- Expand into pet boarding, training, or e-commerce for pet products
21. Freelance Accounting and Tax Consultancy
You can offer bookkeeping, accounting, and tax filing services for individuals and businesses. Cleartax is a great example—it started as a tax-filing service and now provides many other financial services. This can be a good business opportunity, especially with more people needing help managing their finances.
Important Details
| Startup Cost | Low (₹10,000-₹1,00,000 for certification & office setup) |
| Target Audience | Small businesses, freelancers, startups |
| Profitability | Medium-High (Steady demand, retainer clients) |
| Challenges | Requires certifications and trust-building |
Steps to Start:
- Get CA, CPA, or accounting certification
- Offer tax filing, bookkeeping, and financial planning
- Market via LinkedIn, networking events, business forums
- Build long-term relationships with clients
- Scale by hiring staff or offering online consultancy
22. Social Media Influencer
You can build a personal brand on platforms like Instagram, YouTube, or TikTok by focusing on areas like fashion, fitness, or tech. Influencers like Bhuvan Bam (BB Ki Vines) have turned social media into a full-time career, earning money through sponsorships and brand partnerships. It’s a great way to turn your passion into a business.
Important Details
| Startup Cost | Low (₹5,000-₹20,000 for equipment & branding) |
| Target Audience | Brands, startups, lifestyle audiences |
| Profitability | High (Depends on niche, engagement, and sponsorships) |
| Challenges | Requires consistent content, engagement, and personal branding |
Steps to Start:
- Choose a niche (fashion, travel, fitness, tech, etc.)
- Grow an engaged audience on Instagram, YouTube, TikTok
- Collaborate with brands and monetize through sponsored posts
- Stay consistent and create valuable content
- Scale by launching personal products or online courses
23. Online Grocery Store
You can start a local online grocery delivery business. Companies like BigBasket and Blinkit have shown there’s a big demand for home-delivered groceries. You could focus on offering organic or regional specialty products to stand out.
Important Details
| Startup Cost | High (₹2,00,000-₹5,00,000 for inventory, delivery, and website) |
| Target Audience | Urban households, working professionals, senior citizens |
| Profitability | Medium (Margins depend on sourcing and logistics) |
| Challenges | Requires supply chain management, logistics, and customer acquisition |
Steps to Start:
- Decide on a niche (organic groceries, specialty foods, daily essentials)
- Partner with suppliers or local farmers
- Set up an e-commerce platform or app
- Arrange delivery logistics or tie up with courier services
- Market via social media, SEO, and local promotions
24. Plant Nursery and Gardening Services
You can start a plant nursery that sells house plants, gardening tools, or even offers landscaping services. Nurserylive is a great example of an online platform that successfully sells a wide variety of plants and gardening supplies. This could be a great business for plant lovers!
Important Details
| Startup Cost | Medium (₹50,000-₹2,00,000 for plants, pots, and setup) |
| Target Audience | Homeowners, landscapers, apartment dwellers, offices |
| Profitability | Medium (Recurring revenue from plant sales and maintenance) |
| Challenges | Requires knowledge of plant care, seasonal demand variations |
Steps to Start:
- Choose plants to grow and sell (indoor plants, bonsai, succulents, medicinal plants)
- Set up a nursery (can start from home or rent space)
- Offer additional services like landscaping or garden maintenance
- Sell through offline stores, local markets, and online platforms (Instagram, Amazon)
- Expand to workshops, home delivery, and plant subscription boxes
25. Sustainable Fashion Brand
You can start a fashion brand that focuses on eco-friendly fabrics, sustainable production, or upcycled materials. No Nasties is a known Indian brand that promotes ethical and sustainable fashion. It’s a great way to create stylish clothing while caring for the environment.
Important Details
| Startup Cost | High (₹2,00,000-₹10,00,000 for production and branding) |
| Target Audience | Eco-conscious consumers, millennials, Gen Z |
| Profitability | Medium (Depends on branding, unique designs, and ethical appeal) |
| Challenges | Requires sourcing sustainable materials, ethical production, and marketing |
Steps to Start:
- Research and source sustainable fabrics and ethical manufacturers
- Design unique eco-friendly clothing or accessories
- Create an e-commerce website and brand identity
- Market through influencers, sustainability advocates, and social media
- Scale by offering customization, limited editions, or expanding to global markets
Conclusion
In today’s fast-evolving market, there’s no shortage of opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs. Whether you want to tap into the digital world, start a service-based venture, or explore product-driven businesses, the best business ideas are those that align with your passion, skills, and resources. By identifying the right niche and staying adaptable to market trends, you can build a thriving business in India.
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FAQs
Which business is most profitable in India?
Some of the most profitable and best business ideas in India are affiliate marketing, website design, interior design and decorating, dropshipping, pet care services, and travel agencies.
Which business is best in 1 lakh?
There are many businesses under 1 lakh that you can start, such as affiliate marketing, bookkeeping services, consulting businesses, online stores, graphic design services, homemade chocolates/desserts, and T-shirt printing.
How to start a business with RS 50,000?
Small businesses like affiliate marketing, tutoring, digital marketing, tiffin services, YouTube, freelancing, or consultancy are great because they need low investment and can grow quickly.
