Trending business ideas

Choose from over 20 online business ideas that are particularly popular this year. Each in-depth case study includes supplier info, marketing tips, business model insights and free high-resolution images for your store and marketing campaigns. Case studies are updated regularly, so check back often or subscribe for updates to stay on trend!

Easy small business ideas you can start today

Want to start an online business in 2023? With Shopify, you can dive into entrepreneurship by starting an online store today. Whether you’ve got a 9 to 5 job or are looking for a lifestyle business, you can build a small business that works around your schedule. You’ll have the freedom to be your own boss, and build a brand to call your own.

Why start an online business?

Make money: If you’re looking to earn more money, starting an online store can help you boost your income. With most 9 to 5 jobs, there is a limit to what you can earn, but with ecommerce, the possibilities are endless.

Work from home: Whether you’re a new mom or a globetrotter, you can run your online business from pretty much anywhere. All you need is an internet connection. Want to build a home-based side-hustle that allows you to work in your pjs? Or would you prefer to work lakeside at the cottage? You’ll have the freedom to take your work wherever you want to go.

Flexible schedule: You can build your online business around your schedule. Whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, you have the freedom and flexibility to plan your days any way you want.

Pursue your passion: Ecommerce allows you the flexibility to sell products in any niche. From beauty to fashion to electronics, there’s an endless supply of products you can sell and markets you can target. Why not turn your favourite hobby into your dream career?

Gain new skills: Are you a student looking to beef up your resume or a marketer wanting to gain more experience? You’ll learn a diverse range of new skills, like customer service and digital marketing, in a short period of time. The skills you’ll learn will make you a better entrepreneur or employee.

What type of small business should you start?

Handmade: One popular home-based business idea is to sell custom products; for example, this year homemade cosmetics like beard oils and face masks are particularly trendy. Other options include handmade jewelry, apparel, handbags, lip balm, candles, bath bombs and more. With handmade products, your customers will receive a one of a kind product which will help you stand out online. If you’re crafty and enjoy creating products, a DIY business is a great way to start your first online business.

Dropshipping: Dropshipping allows new entrepreneurs to build a new online store risk-free. When you sell a product to your customer, the manufacturer then packages and ships the product directly to them on your behalf. You only need to buy the goods as customers order them. This keeps costs low, which makes it an ideal business model for someone starting out. If you’re interested in dropshipping, check out our enamel pins, LED sneakers or cell phone cases case studies.

Ready to become an entrepreneur? Now is the perfect time to start building your online empire.