Kids today are more creative, resourceful, and business-minded than ever. Whether they’re saving up for a new gadget, college, or just love making things, starting a business can be both fun and educational. If you’re a parent or young entrepreneur searching for kid businesses that make money, this guide is packed with real, age-appropriate, and profitable ideas.
Why Kids Should Start a Business
Running a small business at a young age teaches kids:
- Responsibility
- Money management
- Problem-solving skills
- Confidence and communication
- Entrepreneurship basics
With the right idea and a little support, kids can turn a hobby into a thriving venture that actually earns income.
Kid Business Ideas That Make Real Money
These business ideas are perfect for kids aged 7–17. They’re fun, low-risk, and scalable.
Pet Sitting or Dog Walking
Best For Ages: 10+Why It Works: Many pet owners need help while at work or traveling. A responsible child can walk dogs, feed pets, or check in on animals.Money Potential: $5–$15 per visit
Baking and Selling Treats
Best For Ages: 8+ (with parental help)Why It Works: Bake cookies, cupcakes, or brownies and sell them at school events, farmers markets, or to neighbors.Money Potential: $20–$100+ per event
YouTube Channel or Content Creation
Best For Ages: 10+Why It Works: Kids can create content around gaming, crafts, science experiments, or educational topics. Monetization comes from ads, sponsorships, or merchandise.Money Potential: $100–$1,000/month (once monetized)
Arts and Crafts Sales
Best For Ages: 7+Why It Works: Creative kids can sell handmade jewelry, slime, stickers, or art through Etsy (with parental help) or local events.Money Potential: $5–$50 per product
Tutoring or Homework Help
Best For Ages: 12–17Why It Works: Older kids can tutor younger students in reading, math, or specific subjects for extra income.Money Potential: $10–$30 per hour
Lawn Care or Yard Work
Best For Ages: 12+Why It Works: Mowing lawns, raking leaves, or shoveling snow can be great seasonal gigs.Money Potential: $15–$50 per job
Party Planning or Decoration Setup
Best For Ages: 13–17Why It Works: Organize kids’ parties, design themed decorations, or offer balloon and streamer setups.Money Potential: $50–$150 per party
Household Help or Cleaning Services
Best For Ages: 10+Why It Works: Kids can offer basic cleaning services like tidying rooms, organizing toys, or helping older adults.Money Potential: $10–$30 per session
T-Shirt or Merch Business
Best For Ages: 10+Why It Works: Design t-shirts using platforms like Printful or Teespring. No inventory needed—just creativity.Money Potential: $5–$20 profit per item sold
Photography Services
Best For Ages: 12–17Why It Works: Kids with a good phone camera or DSLR can offer photo services for family events, pets, or product photos for small businesses.Money Potential: $25–$100+ per session
How Parents Can Support Kid Entrepreneurs
Starting a business doesn’t mean kids are on their own. Parents can play a huge role:
- Help with permits or licenses (if needed)
- Manage finances or supervise income
- Promote the business on social media
- Offer transportation and scheduling support
- Teach budgeting and saving skills
Important: Always ensure safety and legal compliance. Some businesses may need adult supervision or local permits.
Skills Kids Learn from Running a Business
- Time management
- Customer service
- Financial literacy
- Goal setting
- Digital marketing
- Product development
These are valuable life skills that prepare kids for future jobs, college, or long-term entrepreneurship.
Tools and Platforms to Help Kids Succeed
- Canva – For designing logos and marketing materials
- Trello – Task and project organization
- Etsy – For selling crafts (via parent account)
- Instagram/TikTok – For free marketing (with supervision)
- Google Sheets – For tracking money earned/spent
Conclusion
Starting a business as a kid is more than just about making money—it’s about building confidence, learning real-world skills, and having fun. Whether it’s selling crafts, walking dogs, or creating a YouTube channel, there are endless opportunities for kids to earn income in creative ways.
With the right support and safe practices, kid businesses that make money can become lifelong passions—or even the start of a future empire.
FAQs
1. What is the best business for a 10-year-old?
Great businesses for 10-year-olds include dog walking, lemonade stands, selling crafts, or helping neighbors with chores. These are fun, low-risk, and teach responsibility.
2. Can kids legally run a business?
Yes, but minors often need a parent or guardian to oversee finances and legal aspects. Selling at markets, online, or locally is generally allowed with adult support.
3. How much money can a kid make from their own business?
Depending on the business and effort, kids can earn anywhere from a few dollars to several hundred per month. YouTube and craft sales have even helped some kids make thousands.
4. Do kids need a business license?
In most cases, no. However, some areas require a permit for food sales, lawn care, or public vending. Always check local laws or city rules before starting.
5. What if my child wants to start an online business?
That’s great! Help them by managing accounts, setting up an online store, or handling payments. Platforms like Etsy or Teespring allow young creatives to earn safely—with adult guidance.