According to recent data, the industries with the highest ROI remain:
- Technology – 16.08%
- Transport – 7.99%
- Services – 5.59%
Source: CSIMarket
Each of these sectors offers startup-friendly opportunities, especially in emerging markets.
We focused on real market trends and developments—expect to see ideas influenced by AI, sustainability, mobile-first behavior, and shifting customer habits.
What is a good startup business idea?
Whatever business idea you want to realize, a solid analysis of your local market is a must. Test the viability of a startup idea in your region by conducting customer development and analyzing the competition. It’s always smart to start small to scale later.
Another essential thing is to consider the bigger economic context and events such as:
- Saving and spending decision patterns among the target audience;
- Monopoly in the market;
- Taxes and governmental regulation in your industry;
- Employment trends.
In this post, we’re discussing business ventures with low startup costs. However, entrepreneurship always entails risks. Some small business startup ideas skyrocket, others fail — often due to the larger market context. There’s no way to guarantee a return on investment in any business.
Now, let’s dive into the best startup ideas for 2025.
What are the best service-based startup ideas with low costs?
Tech repair services
As our dependence on technology grows—think IoT devices, computers, and robots—the need for quick, reliable tech repairs is rising. Customers want hassle-free, on-demand fixes for their devices.
- The global electronic equipment repair market was valued at US$122 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow steadily.
- This sector offers a scalable, low-cost business opportunity with increasing demand.
Home improvement services
From plumbing and roofing to gardening and interior design, home improvement remains a lucrative service business.
- Consumers prefer reliable, on-demand contractors.
- Starting with one specialty service and expanding over time is a smart way to grow your business.
Cleaning services
Cleaning startups are perfect for those seeking easy scalability.
- You can start with just one employee.
- On-demand cleaning and organization services are increasingly popular among busy households and businesses.
Taxi services
In rapidly developing regions like Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East, transportation services enhanced by technology are booming.
- Using tech to provide reliable rides is a highly profitable business with low startup costs.
- Onde.Light supports new taxi businesses with features like:
- Branded customer booking web solution
- Driver apps for optimal routing
- Automated billing and payouts
- Business analytics with My Hub
- Operator app for managing orders - Onde.Light offers a free plan for up to 1,000 rides per month, with only a 1.9% commission afterward—one of the lowest in the market.
- Taxi businesses can easily scale into delivery, car-sharing, or airport transfer services.
Zero-emission trend still going strong
How is the zero-emission trend shaping transportation startups?
The transportation and mobility industry is rapidly embracing zero-emission solutions, including electric car-sharing, and rental of alternative electric vehicles like bikes, rickshaws, and scooters.
- In Q4 2023, venture capital investment in emissions-reducing startups hit a record US$7.6 billion.
- Globally, 1 in 5 new cars sold last year were electric.
- Highlighting zero-emission efforts can boost your business pitch and attract investors.
Delivery services
On-demand delivery remains one of the most profitable business ideas with low startup costs.
- Beyond traditional delivery, drone delivery is emerging as a trendy solution for small packages like healthcare products, restaurant orders, groceries, and urgent supplies to remote areas.
- Onde.Light offers a free-to-use platform ideal for launching and scaling delivery businesses, whether drone-based or traditional.
What are profitable low-cost startup ideas in food and hospitality?
Event Catering
Event catering is a smart small business idea in locations with high demand—think tourist destinations, business districts, and entertainment venues.
- Requires relatively low startup investment compared to full-service restaurants.
- Revenue grows steadily by partnering with institutions and event organizers.
- Ideal for entrepreneurs looking to build recurring business relationships and expand gradually.
Food trucks
Food trucks offer one of the best low-investment, high-return options in the hospitality industry.
- Lower setup and operational costs than traditional restaurants.
- Flexible location strategy—operate near events, business centers, or nightlife hubs.
- Strong potential for brand growth through social media marketing and word-of-mouth.
- Easy to scale by adding more vehicles, staff, or menu items.
What are the best low-cost startup ideas in education and knowledge sharing?
Online Tutoring and Coaching
Tutoring and coaching remain popular low-cost startup options—perfect for individuals with specialized knowledge.
- Teach what you know: languages, Photoshop, AI tools, or business writing.
- Use platforms like Preply, Teachable, or Udemy to reach your audience.
- Requires only basic tools: a laptop, internet connection, and some promotion.
- High potential for stable income via private sessions or course subscriptions.
Consulting Services
If you’re experienced in a professional field, consulting is a smart way to monetize your knowledge.
- In-demand across industries—think fundraising, compliance, taxes, or licensing.
- Low setup cost: just your expertise and a way to communicate it.
- Ideal for starting solo and scaling later as demand grows.
How to generate startup ideas?
A viable tech startup idea requires the following ingredients:
- Defining a real-life problem of your target audience;
- Market analysis, including in-depth competition overview;
- Knowing the latest social, economic, and cultural developments, locally and globally;
- Formulating a unique market proposition to persuade customers to buy your services.
Every market is different. Validate a business idea out in the wild by starting small.
People Also Ask
What are the most profitable low-cost startup ideas in 2025?
Delivery services, food trucks, and tutoring remain among the most profitable businesses with low initial investment. New tech-driven trends like drone delivery and AI-powered apps are also gaining traction.
Can I start a ride-hailing business without a large budget?
Yes. With tools like Onde.Light—a free-to-use software platform for launching ride-hailing, delivery, or rental services—entrepreneurs can test their ideas with minimal investment and scale as they grow.
How do I start a consulting business with no office?
You can start by offering expertise online in areas like fundraising, taxes, or compliance. All you need is your knowledge, an internet connection, and a way to promote your services.
Are food trucks more cost-effective than restaurants?
Yes. Food trucks require a smaller team and lower startup costs compared to traditional restaurants, making them a lower-risk hospitality venture.
What are the emerging trends in green mobility startups?
Startups that reduce emissions—like electric car rentals, e-bike sharing, or rickshaw fleets—are supported by a growing market and record-high investments in zero-emission technologies.
Can I test a delivery startup idea before investing too much?
Yes. Onde.Light - a free-to-use software platform for launching ride-hailing, provides the core functionality to launch a delivery business—even with drones. It's a great way to validate your idea without committing to large upfront costs.
