🧰 Step-by-Step Guide: Top 10 Side Hustles You Can Start with Less Than $100

Embarking on a side hustle journey doesn’t have to strain your wallet. With less than $100, you can tap into your skills and interests to create an additional income stream. This guide breaks down ten accessible side hustles into simple, actionable steps to get you started.

Table of Contents

1. Start Freelance Writing
2. Become a Virtual Assistant (VA)
3. Manage Social Media Accounts
4. Launch a Dropshipping Business
5. Create a Blog
6. Start Pet Sitting
7. Offer Online Tutoring
8. Sell Handmade Crafts
9. Dive into Affiliate Marketing
10. Turn Your Photography Hobby into Cash
Conclusion

1. Start Freelance Writing

Step 1: Identify your writing niche—be it tech, health, lifestyle, or any other field you’re passionate about.

Step 2: Create a portfolio with samples of your work. Use free platforms like Medium or LinkedIn to publish your articles if you don’t have published work.

Step 3: Sign up on freelance websites like Upwork or Fiverr to find writing gigs.

2. Become a Virtual Assistant (VA)

Step 1: List the services you can offer, such as email management, scheduling, or social media management.

Step 2: Create a profile on freelance marketplaces or join VA networks like VA Networking.

Step 3: Start pitching to potential clients by highlighting your organizational skills and reliability.

3. Manage Social Media Accounts

Step 1: Brush up on your social media skills and stay updated with the latest trends and algorithms. Consider free online courses from Hootsuite Academy.

Step 2: Offer your services to local businesses or startups without a strong social media presence.

Step 3: Use your own social media accounts as a portfolio to demonstrate your skills.

4. Launch a Dropshipping Business

Step 1: Choose a niche for your dropshipping store that you’re interested in.

Step 2: Use an e-commerce platform like Shopify to set up your online store.

Step 3: Connect with suppliers on Oberlo or directly through manufacturers’ websites.

5. Create a Blog

Step 1: Pick a niche for your blog based on your interests and expertise.

Step 2: Set up your blog using WordPress or Blogger. Many hosting services offer plans starting below $100/year.

Step 3: Start creating and publishing content. Use SEO best practices to increase your visibility.

6. Start Pet Sitting

Step 1: Decide what services you’ll offer—dog walking, pet sitting, overnight care, etc.

Step 2: Sign up on platforms like Rover or Wag! to connect with pet owners in your area.

Step 3: Gather testimonials from your first clients to build your reputation.

7. Offer Online Tutoring

Step 1: Choose subjects you are knowledgeable in and passionate about teaching.

Step 2: Register on online tutoring platforms like Tutor.com or VIPKid.

Step 3: Set up a quiet, well-lit space for conducting online tutoring sessions.

8. Sell Handmade Crafts

Step 1: Determine what crafts you can create, whether it’s jewelry, art prints, or handmade clothing.

Step 2: Set up a seller account on Etsy to list your products.

Step 3: Use social media and content marketing to drive traffic to your Etsy store.

9. Dive into Affiliate Marketing

Step 1: Choose a niche for your affiliate marketing efforts based on your interests.

Step 2: Start a blog, YouTube channel, or social media account dedicated to your niche.

Step 3: Sign up for affiliate programs through networks like Amazon Associates or Commission Junction.

10. Turn Your Photography Hobby into Cash

Step 1: Curate a portfolio of your best work.

Step 2: Sign up to sell your photos on stock photography sites like Shutterstock or iStock.

Step 3: Market your photography services for events or portraits to gain more exposure.

Conclusion

Starting a side hustle with a small budget is more feasible than ever. By following these steps, you can launch a side hustle that not only brings in extra income but also aligns with your passions and skills.

Remember, the key to success is consistency, quality, and engagement with your audience or clients. Start small, think big, and watch your side hustle grow.

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