Starting a business doesn't always require a large initial investment. In fact, with just a computer and an internet connection, there are several businesses that can be started entirely online. In this article, we'll provide four business ideas that can be started for zero dollars and some tools and software that can help you get your business off the ground. Whether you're interested in starting a short-form content repurposing agency, a dropshipping store, a virtual event planning business, or a social media management agency, we've got you covered. Keep reading to learn more about these business ideas and how to get started.

Short-form content repurposing agency 

With the popularity of platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts, short-form content is in high demand. However, it can take a long time for creators to make money on these platforms. As a content repurposing agency, you can offer to edit influencers' videos, live streams, and podcasts into short-form content using video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro.

Then, you can post the content for them on various social media platforms using scheduling tools like Hootsuite or Later to help them grow their audience. To stand out in this competitive market, consider offering your services for free to a select few influencers to build up a portfolio and show that you can get results. Once you have a track record, you'll be in a much stronger position to charge for your services.

Dropshipping store 

Dropshipping allows you to sell products without holding any inventory. You can set up a store on platforms like Shopify and list products that you source from other companies using a product sourcing tool like Oberlo. When a customer orders a product, you can place the order with the supplier and have it shipped directly to the customer.

This allows you to focus on marketing and customer service while the supplier handles the rest. To be successful with dropshipping, it's important to carefully research and select reliable suppliers using tools like SaleHoo, Aliexpress or Wholesale Central and to offer high-quality products at competitive prices using a pricing tool like PriceYak or RepricerExpress.

Virtual event planning business

The rise of remote work and the popularity of virtual events have created a demand for virtual event planners. You can offer services such as planning, coordinating, and managing virtual events for businesses and organisations using event planning software like Eventbrite or Cvent.

This can include everything from webinars and conferences to workshops and networking events. To succeed in this business, it's important to have strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate effectively with clients using project management tools like Asana or Trello.

Social media management agency

With the proliferation of social media, businesses are looking for help with managing their online presence.

You can offer services such as creating and scheduling posts, engaging with followers, and analysing analytics using social media management tools like Buffer or Sprout Social. This can be a lucrative business, especially if you focus on a specific niche or industry.

To succeed in this business, it's important to have a strong understanding of social media platforms and how to use them for marketing and branding effectively.

Overall, there are plenty of opportunities to start a business without any upfront investment using only a computer and an internet connection. By starting a short-form content repurposing agency, dropshipping store, virtual event planning business, or social media management agency, you can get your business off the ground without spending a single dollar.