If you are a full-time student, and if you enjoy pastimes such as paying your rent on time and staving off hunger, you probably need more cash. There’s a reason students typically don’t have much money, and that’s a lack of part-time work opportunities. With only evenings and weekends to spare, and with self-study demanding irregular but sizable chunks of that time, finding a job that suits the hours you have available is an uphill task. That’s why you may wish to consider starting a small business. 

Before you read too much into it, and before you put yourself off the idea with thoughts of expensive business launch parties, hiring an internet marketing team, and sorting out staff retreats in the summer to Hawaii, let’s establish that we’re talking about small business ideas. These are businesses you can run alone. Although depending on how things go, you may need funding. Always do your research to check out the rates available. For example, you can get an idea by clicking the link to compare business loans. Now, let’s look at small business ideas for students.

Start a Website (and Monetize it)

If you’ve never thought about starting a website because of any barriers to software knowledge, don’t panic. There are multiple ways you can learn what you need to know for free, online. From purpose-designed courses to individual videos on dedicated topics, your journey into web development and web design can be fast, fun, and rewarding. 

All you need is a topic. Choose a topic you love. Next, start blogging. By joining an affiliate marketing network, you can earn commission by promoting products and services on your site. 

Start a YouTube Channel 

In recent years, the term “YouTube star” has entered the global lexicon. Many of these content creators have now become multi-millionaires - all from the comfort of their own home. All you need to follow in their footsteps is clicks and views. To do that, you need guides, reviews, or any other engaging content. Choose a topic you know and understand - otherwise, nobody will pay attention to your surface-level opinion! 

Become a Freelance Voice-over Artist

Sites like Fiverr or Upwork can help you to connect with potential clients looking for a voice-over artist (many other sites are also available). Accents and dialects of all kinds are always in demand, meaning your voice may have value to numerous brands looking for a specific angle. Startup costs will likely include a quality microphone.

Find Your Work-Life Balance 

You’re probably wondering how you will find the time to lead a successful business while in full-time education. That’s a good question. However, consider the alternatives. First, you can neglect to earn money whatsoever. Second, you can take a part-time job with rigid hours that eat into your study-time (often at the most inconvenient of times). 

That’s why starting your own business and finding the work-life balance that suits you is the best way for any business-minded student to make sensible use of their time.