70 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2025 + Student Scholarships

Small Business Ideas to Start in 2025 are no longer just for graduates or experienced professionals — students can now launch profitable ventures while still in school. With the right planning, passion, and support (like scholarships and grants), it’s entirely possible to start a business that fits your schedule and budget.

In this guide, you’ll discover 70 small business ideas tailored for students in 2025, plus scholarship opportunities that can fund your startup. Some ideas may require special skills or certifications, while others are simple enough to begin with little or no capital.

As you explore each option, consider your goals, interests, and available time to choose a business that aligns with your academic lifestyle and long-term vision.

How Starting a Small Business While in School Can Benefit You

Flexible schedule: Starting a business while in school can help you develop valuable time-management and leadership skills.

Financial independence: Having your own business can help you support your education through profits, which might reduce the need for traditional student loans.

Experience for your resume: Employers value entrepreneurial experience, especially if you’re balancing school and a business.

How to Determine the Best Small Business Ideas in 2025 While in School

How to Choose the Best Small Business Ideas to Start in 2025 as a Student

Starting a small business while still in school is not only possible — it’s a smart way to gain real-world experience and earn extra income. With the rise of remote work and digital tools, launching a small business in 2025 is more accessible than ever for students. Whether you’re running an online shop from your dorm or offering services in your local community, picking the right business idea is the first step to success.

Consider Your Skills, Interests, and Studies

Before starting your business, take stock of your existing skills, qualifications, and academic background. Ask yourself:

• What subjects do I enjoy or excel at?
• Do I already have hobbies or side projects that could become a business?
• Are there ways to turn my course of study into a business opportunity?

For example:

• If you’re studying accounting or finance, offering freelance bookkeeping could be a natural fit.
• Writing or communication majors could start content creation or editing services.
• If you love baking or cooking, you might begin a student-friendly catering service.
• And if you’re missing a particular skill, don’t worry — you can learn it online. Explore Google Online Courses with Certificates 2025 to gain practical knowledge in areas like digital marketing, eCommerce, or tech support.

These types of certifications can help boost your credibility and confidence — especially when just getting started.

Define Your Student Business Goals in 2025

What do you want to achieve with your small business while in school?

• Do you need a part-time side hustle to support your education?
• Are you building something long-term that could continue after graduation? If you’re looking for relevant work experience while studying, the Kuda SIWES Program offers paid internship opportunities for Nigerian undergraduates — a great way to develop skills while earning.
• How many hours can you realistically commit weekly without affecting your studies?

Clarifying your goals, income expectations, and available time helps set the right pace and keeps you focused on what matters. Use this to create a simple business plan that fits your student lifestyle.

Evaluate Market Demand for Your Small Business Idea in 2025

Even as a student, where you are matters. Think about:

• What’s in demand on campus or in your city?
• Are there student needs you can meet — like affordable tutoring, laundry services, or tech help?
• Can you reach customers online, or will you need a physical presence?

If you’re studying in a college town, businesses like note-selling services, group study planners, or event organizing may thrive. Research what’s missing around you — that’s where opportunity lives.

Online vs On-Campus Small Business Ideas for Students in 2025

There are two main paths: online businesses or local (in-person) services.

• Online Options: These are great if you want flexibility. Think: dropshipping, social media management, or selling digital products.
• On-Campus/Local Options: If you enjoy face-to-face interaction, you could start tutoring, offer haircuts, or organize events for students.

Each model has its pros and cons. Choose what fits your schedule, personality, and budget best.

70 Profitable Small Business Ideas to Start in 2025 for Students

1. Accounting and Tax Services

When considering small business ideas to start in 2025, offering accounting and tax services is a great choice for those with the right qualifications and skills.

2. Business Consulting

Are you experienced in a niche like marketing, tech, or HR? Turn that into a consulting gig. Many small businesses need help — and this can even be done online, making it a flexible small business idea to start in 2025.

3. Financial Planning and Advising

Help fellow students or young professionals plan budgets, save money, or invest wisely. A great business if you’re studying finance or economics.

4. Buying a Franchise

Some franchises offer student-friendly entry points or training programs. While it needs investment, it’s ideal for ambitious students looking for long-term gains.

5. Notary Public Services

With basic licensing, this can become a simple but in-demand service — especially for document-heavy environments like schools or courts.

6. General Construction

This idea suits students in engineering or technical fields. You can offer minor repair and construction services locally.

7. Landscaping

If you enjoy outdoor work, this seasonal business offers flexible hours. It’s easy to start small in your neighborhood or school area.

8. House Painting

Low startup cost and high demand make this one of the best low-investment business ideas for students in Nigeria or elsewhere.

9. Start a YouTube Channel

Starting a YouTube channel is one of the most popular profitable small business ideas to start in 2025, especially if you’re passionate about sharing your knowledge and skills.

10. Social Media Management

Many small brands can’t afford full-time staff and turn to freelancers. If you love Instagram, X (Twitter), or TikTok, turn it into a business.

11. Marketing or PR Agency

If you’re studying mass comm or related fields, offer press releases, branding, or digital campaigns to local businesses.

12. Carpentry

Great for students in tech or trade schools. You can build and sell custom furniture or do repair work.

13. Audio Editing

With the rise of podcasts, many creators need help with editing. This remote service only requires basic software and skills.

14. Videography

Event filming, social media reels, and promotional content for businesses are always in demand. You can charge per project or hour.

15. Photography

Offer affordable photoshoots for fellow students — graduation, ID, birthdays, or even events. Easy to start with a decent smartphone camera.

16. Web Development

One of the best business ideas to start in 2025 is web development due to its high demand and scalability. Additionally, you can start by building websites for student groups or local businesses. As your expertise grows, you can gradually expand your services to attract a wider range of clients.

17. Electrical Work

If you’re studying electrical engineering, for instance, you can offer repairs and installations. Additionally, you could expand your services to include wiring for new constructions or energy-efficient solutions. Just be sure you have the required safety training or licenses.

18. Moving Services

Perfect for students in hostels or off-campus housing. Help peers relocate during breaks or semester changes.

19. Graphic Design

One of the most accessible and profitable small business ideas for students is graphic design, particularly if you have basic Canva or Adobe skills. Moreover, this business can be started with minimal investment and has the potential for rapid growth.

20. Tutoring Services

Whether it’s academic support or exam prep (like WAEC, JAMB), tutoring, for example, is always in demand and requires no physical shop. In addition, it offers flexibility, allowing you to work remotely and schedule sessions based on your availability.

21. Freelance Writing

Write for blogs, websites, or even scholarship organizations. Use platforms like Fiverr or Upwork to find clients.

22. Dropshipping Business

This eCommerce model doesn’t require holding inventory. It’s a top low-investment business idea for students in 2025.

23. Laundry & Ironing Services

One great idea is to help other students or faculty with laundry services, particularly in hostels with limited amenities. In addition, you could offer a pick-up and delivery service for added convenience. You can expand quickly with word of mouth.

24. Event Planning

If you’re well-organized and creative, for instance, you could plan birthdays, student events, or campus gigs. Moreover, this business offers flexibility and the opportunity to work with a variety of clients.Start with free or discounted projects to build your name.

25. Mobile Phone Repairs

Students always need phone fixes. A short training course can equip you with the basics — and the demand is high.

26. Hair Braiding or Barbing Services

If you’re good with hairstyles or haircuts, this is one of the most profitable small business ideas for students, especially in campuses or urban areas.

27. Mini-Importation Business

Import low-cost products from China or Turkey and resell online. This business can be started with very little capital.

28. Online Coaching Classes

Teach a skill or academic subject online. Platforms like Zoom or WhatsApp can help you reach many students.

29. Affiliate Marketing

Promote products online and earn commission per sale. Perfect if you have a blog or social media following.

30. Blogging

Start a blog on scholarships, tech, fashion, or any niche. With time, it can bring in ad revenue and sponsorships.

31. Candle Making

Low startup costs and high profit margins make this a fun and practical side hustle for students.

32. Baking and Cake Decorating

Start small by selling birthday cakes, cupcakes, or snacks to students and staff around you.

33. Sell Used Books or Handouts

Many students are willing to buy used books at a lower price. Set up a mini online or offline bookshop on campus.

34. Print-on-Demand Business

Design t-shirts, hoodies, or mugs and use platforms like Printify or Teespring to sell your items without keeping inventory.

35. POS Business

Very common and lucrative in Nigeria. With a POS machine, you can offer banking services to fellow students and nearby communities.

36. Social Media Influencer

If you have a strong personal brand or niche content, you can collaborate with brands or earn from platforms directly.

37. Resume or CV Writing

Help students and graduates craft professional CVs. Offer different packages and quick turnaround time.

38. Laundry Soap or Liquid Soap Production

Sell homemade detergents or cleaning agents. Very popular on campuses with limited washing facilities.

39. Academic Research and Typing Services

Assist other students with assignments, projects, or proposal formatting for a fee.

40. Campus Delivery Services

Start a local delivery system to move food, packages, or documents within or near campus.

41. Recharge Card Printing and Selling

Print and sell mobile airtime recharge vouchers. A simple and quick-turnover business for students in Nigeria.

42. Tech Gadget Accessories Sales

Sell affordable phone cases, chargers, earphones, and more. You can import these in bulk or buy locally and resell.

43. Thrift Fashion Sales (Okrika)

Buy and resell quality thrift clothes. Students love affordable fashion, and you can market easily on WhatsApp or Instagram.

44. Voice-over Services

If you have a good voice, offer voice-over services for adverts, explainer videos, or YouTube intros.

45. Podcast Hosting

Start a student-focused podcast and monetize it through sponsorships or ads as your audience grows.

46. App Development

Design useful campus or utility apps. This requires coding knowledge but can be very rewarding.

47. Digital Art and NFT Creation

Create and sell art online — either for commissions, merchandise, or even as NFTs if you’re in the crypto space.

48. Data Reselling (VTU Business)

Sell cheap data bundles, airtime, or electricity tokens using a reseller platform. This works well within student communities.

49. Online Store for Student Essentials

Sell toiletries, groceries, or school supplies online and offer quick delivery on or around campus.

50. WhatsApp TV Advertising

Create a WhatsApp TV (broadcast channel) and grow your followers. Brands will pay to advertise to your list.

51. Makeup Services

If you’re skilled in beauty and grooming, offer makeovers for parties, photoshoots, or events.

52. Mobile Car Wash

Offer on-demand vehicle cleaning services, especially if you’re close to hostels or residential areas.

53. Virtual Assistant

Help small business owners or busy entrepreneurs handle emails, scheduling, and other tasks — all online.

54. Custom Jewelry Making

Create and sell handmade or custom-designed jewelry to students, online, or at events.

55. Language Translation Services

If you speak more than one language fluently, offer translation services for businesses or researchers.

56. Interior Decoration

Offer low-cost room or small space decoration. Great for students moving into hostels or apartments.

57. Fitness Coaching

Host fitness classes or create workout plans. You can even run them virtually through WhatsApp or Instagram Live.

58. Food Vending or Meal Prep

Sell homemade meals, snacks, or drinks to busy students or staff. You can start from your hostel kitchen.

59. Typing and Printing Services

Start a mini computer center or offer typing, printing, and photocopying services to fellow students.

60. Scholarship Blogging

Start a niche blog focused on scholarship tips, updates, and application guides. Use affiliate marketing or ads to monetize.

61. Online Marketplace for Handcrafted Items

Create a small eCommerce site or use platforms like Jiji or Instagram to sell handmade items.

62. Essay Writing Services

Offer professional academic writing for students, including essays, personal statements, and reports.

63. Campus Fashion Retail

Sell trending fashion items targeted at students. You can run this business from your room or via social media.

64. Customized Gift Items

Design and sell gift boxes, cards, or personalized souvenirs — especially during events or valentine seasons.

65. Online Courses and Ebooks

Create a course or eBook on what you know best — photography, Excel, writing, etc. and sell it online.

66. Smartphone Photography Class

Teach students how to take better photos using their phones. Easy to market through Instagram or TikTok.

67. Voice or Music Lessons

If you’re musically inclined, teach others to sing or play an instrument — virtually or in person.

68. Campus Taxi or Ride-Hailing Service

Offer on-campus transportation or coordinate student ride-sharing using a messaging app group.

69. Sell Digital Products

Templates, guides, planners, or worksheets — if you can design them, you can sell them online for passive income.

70. Hostels Listing and Booking Website

Build a simple site where students can view, book, or review available hostels near school.

How to Choose the Right Business Idea as a Student

Now that you’ve seen 70 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2025, it’s time to narrow down your choices. Consider your skills, available time, capital, and long-term goals. Start small, test your idea, and scale gradually. A side hustle during school can easily evolve into a full-time career if nurtured well.

Top 10 Low-Investment Business Ideas for Students

If you’re short on funds, don’t worry. Instead, consider starting a low-investment business that requires minimal startup costs but offers high growth potential. Here are 10 small business ideas from the list that require little to no startup capital:

• Start a YouTube Channel
• Freelance Graphic Design
• Offer Academic Tutoring
• Print-on-Demand T-shirt Business
• Social Media Management
• Affiliate Marketing
• Podcasting
• Online Research Assistant
• Resume Writing
• Blogging with AdSense and Affiliate Links

Scholarships and Grants to Fund Your Small Business Ideas in 2025

Need funding or support to launch one of these Small Business Ideas to Start in 2025? Check out these programs and competitions.

🌍 Looking to build global leadership skills while pursuing your education? The Schwarzman Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded program in China for future innovators and entrepreneurs.

• Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF) MSME Loan Programme – Affordable loans (9% p.a.) for Lagos residents to start or grow small businesses.
• YouWin! Scheme – Youth Enterprise with Innovation in Nigeria grants up to ₦10 million via business plan competition.
• Global Student Entrepreneur Awards (GSEA) – Premier global competition and mentoring program for student-run businesses.
• MIT $100K Entrepreneurship Competition – Leading university business plan contest offering up to $100,000 in non-dilutive funding.
• Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme – $5,000 seed capital, training, and mentorship for African entrepreneurs (including students).
• Echoing Green Fellowship – Seed-stage funding (up to $80,000) and leadership support for social entrepreneurs.

We’ll be updating our scholarship section regularly — check it out here.

Start Your Small Business in 2025 With the Right Idea and Support

Exploring Small Business Ideas to Start in 2025 is a smart way for students to take control of their financial future. Whether you’re looking to fund your education, gain real-world experience, or build something that lasts beyond school, these business ideas offer a wide range of possibilities. In addition, from low-investment options to skill-based services, there’s something for every student — regardless of background or capital. Moreover, many of these ideas can be started with minimal financial resources.

Don’t just dream about owning a business — take action today. Start with what you have, leverage free tools, and apply for scholarships or grants tailored for student entrepreneurs. Remember, the sooner you start, the more experience and growth you gain over time.

Start Your Small Business in 2025 With the Right Idea and Support

Ready to Start Your Business in 2025?

Are you a student looking to turn your passion into a thriving business? Bookmark this guide and start exploring your options today. If you’re serious about your journey, consider applying for student entrepreneurship scholarships and grants that can ease your startup costs.

• Need help choosing the best idea for your skills?
• Want access to free resources and funding opportunities?
• Looking for mentorship as a student entrepreneur?

Subscribe now to get the latest scholarship alerts, startup tips, and business ideas tailored for students like you!

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