1. Freelance Writing and Content Creation
With demand for blogs, web content, and digital marketing on the rise, freelance writing is a low-cost business idea. All you need is:
- A laptop
- Internet connection
- Strong writing skills
You can start by offering services on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr and grow through referrals or your own website.
2. Online Tutoring or Coaching
If you have expertise in academics, language, music, or even fitness, you can start an online tutoring or coaching business. Tools like Zoom and Google Meet make it easy.
This is one of the best cheap business ideas UK-wide due to low overhead and increasing demand for flexible learning.
3. Dropshipping Store
With dropshipping, you sell products online without holding inventory. A supplier ships products directly to your customers.
Startup costs include:
- A Shopify or WooCommerce store
- Basic branding and marketing
- Domain name and hosting
You can start with £300–£500 and scale up with reinvested profits.
4. Virtual Assistant Services
Virtual assistants support businesses with admin tasks like:
- Email management
- Scheduling
- Research
- Social media posting
You can start from home with a basic setup. Charge hourly or offer monthly packages to small business clients.
5. Handmade Crafts or Art
If you’re creative, turn your hobby into a business by selling:
- Handmade jewellery
- Art prints
- Knitted goods
- Candles or bath products
Use Etsy, Folksy, or craft fairs to reach customers with minimal setup costs.
6. Cleaning Services
Cleaning homes or small offices can be started with basic supplies and word-of-mouth marketing. You can charge per hour or per job.
To scale, build a local website and offer:
- Domestic cleaning
- End-of-tenancy cleaning
- Airbnb or short-let services
Startup costs are typically under £200.
7. Dog Walking and Pet Sitting
Busy professionals often need help with pet care. If you love animals, offer services in your local area.
No special qualifications are required, but pet insurance and DBS checks build trust. This business has low costs and flexible hours.
8. eBay or Vinted Reseller
Buy second-hand clothes, collectibles, or gadgets and resell them online for profit. Start small and reinvest earnings into more stock.
With platforms like eBay, Depop, and Vinted, it’s easy to reach buyers across the UK. All you need is:
- Storage space
- A smartphone camera
- Time to research and list products
9. Social Media Management
Many small businesses lack the time or skills to manage their social media. Offer to handle:
- Posting and scheduling
- Basic graphic design
- Engaging with followers
Use tools like Canva and Buffer to deliver results. Start with local businesses and build a portfolio.
10. Mobile Car Wash
This is a practical, in-demand service with low overhead. All you need is:
- Cleaning supplies
- A vehicle (or bicycle with a cart)
- Word-of-mouth marketing or local ads
It’s eco-friendly if you use waterless cleaning solutions, and you can upsell add-ons like interior cleaning or waxing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the cheapest business to start in the UK?
Freelancing, tutoring, and virtual assistance are among the cheapest, often requiring only a computer and internet access.
Q2: Do I need to register my business for these ideas?
Yes, you should register as a sole trader with HMRC for tax purposes once you start earning.
Q3: Can I run these businesses from home?
Most of them can be operated entirely from home or online, making them ideal for side hustlers or stay-at-home parents.
Q4: How much can I earn from these cheap business ideas?
Earnings vary by niche and effort. Some freelancers or resellers make £1,000–£3,000+ per month.
Q5: Are these ideas suitable for part-time work?
Yes, all these business ideas can be started part-time and scaled gradually.
Q6: Do I need experience to start these businesses?
Not necessarily. With free online resources and some practice, anyone can learn the basics and grow from there.
Conclusion
Starting a business doesn’t require huge investment. With these cheap business ideas UK residents can launch with minimal capital, you can begin earning from your skills, hobbies, or creativity. Choose what fits your interests and lifestyle, and take the first step toward becoming your own boss in 2024.