25 Weekend Businesses You Can Launch With $500

Starting a business doesn’t have to cost a fortune or take months of planning. With just $500 and a weekend, you can start earning extra income while keeping your regular job. This guide outlines 25 low-cost business ideas across four categories: services, creative projects, online ventures, and product sales. Each idea is designed to be simple to start, quick to set up, and budget-friendly. Here’s a quick overview:

  • Service-Based Ideas: Start with your skills and minimal supplies (e.g., house cleaning, pet sitting, tutoring, car detailing).
  • Creative Projects: Turn hobbies into income (e.g., custom t-shirts, jewelry, photography, cake decorating).
  • Online Ventures: Use digital tools to work from anywhere (e.g., virtual assistant, freelance writing, social media management).
  • Product Sales: Sell physical goods with low startup costs (e.g., candles, baked goods, pet products, seasonal décor).

The key is to pick a business that fits your interests and schedule. With tools like social media and online marketplaces, you can attract customers fast. Start small, reinvest profits, and grow over time. Let’s dive into the details for each idea.

No Big Budget? 77 Easy Business Ideas Under $500

1. Service-Based Businesses

Starting a service-based business is a great option for weekend entrepreneurs. These businesses don’t need much upfront investment - your time and skills are your biggest assets. There’s no inventory to manage, no warehouses to rent, and no complex logistics to figure out. Plus, they can start generating income quickly, often within days. Each idea here focuses on using your abilities to create revenue with low startup costs.

1. House Cleaning Service

House cleaning is simple to start and only requires basic supplies and transportation. With $500, you can buy cleaning products, microfiber cloths, possibly upgrade your vacuum, and invest in some local marketing. This type of service is always in demand, and you can charge $25-$50 per hour depending on your area. Start with local clients and grow through word-of-mouth referrals. You can easily work evenings and weekends, and once you’ve built a good reputation, clients often schedule weeks in advance.

2. Pet Sitting and Dog Walking

Pet owners are always looking for dependable care for their furry friends, whether they’re traveling or working long hours. Startup costs are low - you’ll need liability insurance (around $200 annually), some basic pet supplies, and an online profile to attract clients. Dog walkers typically charge $15-$30 per walk, while overnight pet sitting can bring in $50-$75 per night. Starting in your neighborhood keeps travel costs down. Reliability and genuine care go a long way in earning repeat business and referrals.

3. Lawn Care and Landscaping

For $500, you can get a good trimmer, hedge clippers, a leaf blower, fuel, and some initial advertising. Residential clients pay $30-$60 per lawn, depending on the size, and it’s possible to service 4-6 lawns in a single Saturday. This business grows naturally - earn more, invest in better equipment, and expand your reach. Many lawn care businesses start small, focusing on a single street or neighborhood, and grow through referrals and yard signs.

4. Personal Shopping and Errand Service

This business is perfect for helping busy professionals, elderly individuals, or those without transportation. You’ll need little more than gas money and some basic marketing to get started. Charge $20-$40 per hour plus reimbursement for purchases. The flexibility is a big plus - you decide which clients to take on and when to work. Trust is key here, so starting with referrals from people who know you is a smart move. Planning efficient routes will help you maximize your hourly earnings while keeping travel time low.

5. Tutoring Services

If you’re skilled in academic subjects, test prep, music, or languages, tutoring can be a profitable option with no inventory to manage. Use your $500 budget for marketing materials, a simple website, and any necessary educational resources or workbooks. Tutors typically charge $25-$75 per hour depending on the subject and their level of expertise. You can meet students at libraries, coffee shops, or even offer virtual sessions. Weekend availability is a bonus since many students and parents prefer Saturday or Sunday lessons. Success stories from your students will naturally lead to referrals from parents and schools.

6. Mobile Car Detailing

Car detailing is popular because it combines convenience with a premium service. With $500, you can buy quality car wash soap, wax, microfiber towels, interior cleaners, a portable vacuum, and water supply solutions. Basic exterior washes start at $50, while full detailing services can fetch $150-$300 per car. The mobile aspect is a big selling point - customers love the convenience of having their cars cleaned at home. You can detail 3-4 cars on a Saturday, and many detailers build long-term relationships with clients who book monthly services. The work is hands-on but straightforward, and happy customers often refer friends and neighbors.

These service-based ideas are ideal for getting started quickly, with minimal costs and the potential for steady income right from the beginning.

2. Creative Ventures

If you’ve got a knack for creating or crafting, diving into a creative business could be your ticket to earning extra cash while doing something you love. These types of ventures allow you to turn your skills into income with minimal upfront costs. In fact, you can often get started within days. What sets you apart is the unique, personal touch you bring to your work - something customers are often willing to pay a premium for. Here are six creative business ideas that can help you start earning quickly.

7. Custom T-Shirt and Apparel Printing

With just $500, you can kick off a custom apparel business. Spend around $200–$300 on a heat press, $50–$100 on transfer materials, and stock up on blank t-shirts for $3–$5 each. Custom shirts typically sell for $20–$35, depending on the design and quality. Focus on niche audiences like local sports teams, small businesses, family reunions, or event organizers who need personalized apparel fast. Weekend craft fairs and online platforms are great places to sell your creations. Once you’ve got the hang of it, you can branch out into hoodies, tote bags, and more. The secret? Create designs that speak directly to specific groups rather than trying to appeal to everyone.

8. Handmade Jewelry

Starting a handmade jewelry business is another great option. With $500, you can purchase quality beads, wire, clasps, pliers, and packaging supplies. Handmade pieces can sell anywhere from $15 to over $100, especially if you use materials like silver or semi-precious stones. Begin by crafting 20–30 pieces in different styles to see what resonates with buyers. Farmers markets, local craft fairs, and online shops are excellent sales channels. Many jewelry makers find success by developing a signature style - whether it’s bold statement pieces, minimalist designs, or bohemian-inspired looks. Pro tip: Take professional-quality photos of your jewelry on real people instead of flat surfaces to boost sales.

9. Photography Services

For aspiring photographers, a $500 investment can cover a basic lighting setup, backdrops, editing software, and some initial marketing. Event photography - like birthday parties or small family gatherings - can earn you $100–$300 per session, while portrait sessions often run $150–$400 depending on your experience and the package you offer. Start by building your portfolio with friends and family, then expand through social media and local community groups. Offering affordable mini-sessions (30 minutes for $75–$100) is a great way to attract new clients, some of whom might book full sessions later.

Custom cakes and decorated cookies are always in demand for celebrations. With $500, you can buy professional decorating tools, piping bags, food coloring, fondant, and basic ingredients. Decorated cookies sell for $3–$6 each, while custom cakes can range from $50 to $200 or more, depending on size and complexity. Since most orders are for weekend events, this is a perfect side gig. Be sure to check your state’s cottage food laws - many allow home bakers to sell certain items without needing a commercial kitchen license. Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook are ideal for showcasing your designs and attracting customers. Specializing in a specific style, like wedding cakes or playful children’s birthday themes, can help you stand out.

11. Custom Sign and Home Décor Making

If you enjoy crafting home décor, personalized signs and decorations can be a profitable venture. With $500, you can buy wood boards, paint, stencils, vinyl lettering supplies, and basic woodworking tools. Custom signs often sell for $25–$100, depending on their size and detail. Items like farmhouse-style décor, motivational quotes, and family name signs are particularly popular. Seasonal decorations also provide opportunities for recurring sales throughout the year. Offering personalized options - like letting customers choose their own quotes or colors - can justify higher prices and create a more tailored experience.

12. Face Painting and Balloon Art

Children’s entertainment is a lucrative weekend gig, especially for birthday parties, festivals, and community events. For $500, you can purchase professional face paints, brushes, balloons, a pump, and some basic marketing materials. Face painters typically charge $75–$150 per hour for private parties, while festival shifts might pay $100–$200 for 3–4 hours. Balloon artists earn similar rates. Parents appreciate entertainers who are reliable and engaging, and building relationships with event planners or party venues can lead to consistent bookings. Many face painters manage to work 3–4 parties each weekend during busy seasons, bringing in $300–$600 in just two days.

These creative business ideas not only let you turn your artistic talents into income but also offer flexibility and low overhead costs. The personal touch you bring to your products or services is something mass-produced alternatives simply can’t match, making your work all the more appealing to customers.

3. Online and Digital Businesses

Thanks to the internet, starting a business no longer requires a storefront or inventory. With just $500 and a laptop, you can launch a venture that’s flexible, scalable, and low-cost. These digital opportunities remove physical barriers and open up new ways to serve customers. Let’s dive into some online business ideas that are both affordable and quick to get off the ground.

13. Virtual Assistant Services

Virtual assistant services are a great option for a weekend start-up. As more small business owners and professionals look to outsource tasks, the demand for virtual assistants continues to grow. With $500, you can set yourself up with productivity tools, a simple website, and some initial marketing. Virtual assistants typically charge $25–$50 per hour, depending on their skill set and the complexity of tasks.

Common services include managing emails, scheduling calendars, posting on social media, data entry, and customer support. Offering packages - like 10 hours per month for $250–$400 - can attract clients by providing predictable costs while ensuring steady income for you. Networking through referrals and job boards is key to finding clients. Specializing in a specific industry, such as real estate or e-commerce, can help you stand out and charge higher rates as you gain expertise in that field.

14. Freelance Writing and Content Creation

Freelance writing is a fast way to start earning. With $500, you can build a portfolio website ($100–$150), subscribe to grammar tools ($10–$15 per month), and run targeted ads to attract clients. Writers can earn $50–$300 for blog posts, while website copy projects often pay $200–$500. Other services like email newsletters, product descriptions, and social media content are also in high demand.

Start by creating 3–5 writing samples in areas you’re passionate about, such as technology, wellness, or personal finance. Then, pitch your services directly to businesses that could benefit from improved content. A strong strategy is offering to rewrite a page of weak website copy as a paid trial. Once you’ve completed a few projects, testimonials and referrals will help you secure more clients.

15. Social Media Management

Small businesses know they need a social media presence but often lack the time or know-how to manage it effectively. That’s where you come in. With $500, you can invest in scheduling tools, graphic design software, and marketing materials. Social media managers typically charge $300–$1,000 per month per client, depending on the platforms managed and posting frequency.

A basic package might include 12–15 posts per month across two platforms, along with community engagement and analytics reports. Start by offering your services to local businesses, like coffee shops or gyms, that struggle with consistent posting. Presenting a sample content calendar during your pitch can help you seal the deal. As you gain experience, you can expand into services like managing paid ads or influencer collaborations to increase your income.

16. Online Course Creation

If you’re knowledgeable in a specific area, creating an online course can turn that expertise into passive income. Your $500 budget can cover hosting fees ($30–$50 per month), basic video equipment like a microphone and ring light ($100–$150), and screen recording software ($50–$100). Courses can sell for $50 to $500 or more, depending on the depth of the material.

Focus on practical skills that solve real problems, like beginner photography tips, Excel for business, or meal prep ideas for busy parents. Start small with a mini-course of 5–7 lessons to gauge interest before committing to a larger program. Many course creators pre-sell their courses at a discount to gather feedback and refine the content before launching. Promoting through email and social media works best, especially if you build an audience by sharing helpful tips for free.

17. Print-on-Demand Products

Print-on-demand is an ideal way to sell custom products without worrying about inventory. With $500, you can invest in design software ($20–$50 per month), purchase design templates or hire a designer ($100–$200), and run targeted ads ($150–$250). Each sale typically earns you $5–$15 in profit after printing costs.

The key is finding niche audiences - like pet owners, gamers, or nurses - and creating designs that resonate with them. Set up an online store on a platform that integrates with print-on-demand services, upload your designs, and start marketing. Grouping products into themed collections instead of offering random designs can encourage customers to buy multiple items.

18. Affiliate Marketing Website

Affiliate marketing involves promoting products from other companies and earning a commission on sales made through your referral links. With $500, you can cover domain and hosting costs, basic website design, and initial SEO efforts. Commissions range from 3% to 50%, depending on the program.

Pick a niche where you can provide genuine value, such as camping gear reviews, software comparisons, or parenting products. Start by publishing 10–15 high-quality articles that answer common questions in your niche. While affiliate marketing takes longer to generate income than service-based businesses - often 3–6 months - it can eventually become a consistent source of passive income. Focus on recommending products you’ve personally used or thoroughly researched to build trust with your audience.

These online businesses allow you to start small, experiment, and grow at your own pace. With access to customers worldwide, your earning potential isn’t limited to your local area, making the internet a powerful tool for entrepreneurs.

4. Product-Based Businesses

Selling physical products doesn't have to mean spending thousands on inventory or renting warehouse space. With just $500 and a weekend, you can start small, test the waters, and grow your business over time. These low-risk ideas allow you to create or source products without stretching your budget too thin. Like service- and digital-based businesses, these ventures are designed to maximize limited resources for a strong market entry.

19. Handmade Candles

Candle making is a straightforward business with minimal startup costs. With an investment of $500, you can purchase wax ($100–$150 for 50–100 pounds), fragrance oils ($50–$75), wicks and containers ($100–$150), and labels ($50–$100). Each candle costs between $3 and $6 to produce and can sell for $15–$30, leaving you with a profit margin of 60–70%.

Develop a small collection of signature scents tailored to specific moods or seasons - think lavender vanilla for relaxation or pine and cedarwood for winter. Before launching, test your products to ensure quality. You can sell at farmers markets, craft fairs, or through social media to quickly build a following. Many candle makers also offer custom scents for weddings or corporate gifts, which fetch higher prices and often lead to repeat orders.

Another hands-on option to consider is creating bath and body products.

20. Bath and Body Products

Homemade soaps, bath bombs, and body scrubs appeal to customers looking for natural, high-quality ingredients. With $500, you can buy soap bases, essential oils, molds, and packaging materials ($200–$300), as well as ingredients for 100–200 units. Production costs range from $1 to $3 per item, while retail prices typically fall between $6 and $15.

Focusing on a niche - such as organic ingredients, sensitive skin solutions, or men's grooming - can set your products apart. Packaging plays a big role in attracting customers, so use eye-catching designs that look professional. Selling gift sets or bundles can also increase your average order value. To get your products into more hands, offer sample packs priced at $10–$15 or hand out samples at local events.

If crafting isn’t your thing, custom apparel might be a better fit.

21. Custom T-Shirts and Apparel

Making your own custom apparel gives you more control over quality and profits compared to print-on-demand services. For $500, you can purchase a heat press ($150–$250), vinyl or transfer paper ($50–$100), blank shirts ($100–$150 for 20–30 pieces), and design software. Each shirt costs $5–$8 to produce and can sell for $20–$35, keeping your costs low and margins high.

Target niche audiences like local sports teams, schools, small businesses, or hobby groups such as hikers or fishing enthusiasts. Custom designs for family reunions, local events, or small organizations can lead to quick sales and word-of-mouth referrals. Once you’ve mastered t-shirts, you can expand to other items like hoodies, tote bags, or hats using the same equipment.

If food is more your passion, baked goods could be your calling.

22. Baked Goods and Treats

If you love baking, turning your kitchen skills into a business can be both enjoyable and profitable. Check your state’s cottage food laws - many allow home-based food businesses with annual sales under $25,000–$50,000. A $500 investment covers ingredients ($150–$200), packaging materials ($100–$150), business licenses ($50–$100), and marketing.

Specializing in a specific product helps you stand out. Consider gluten-free cookies, intricately decorated sugar cookies for events, or artisan bread. Ingredient costs usually account for 20–30% of the selling price, so a dozen cookies that cost $4 to make can sell for $15–$20. Partner with local coffee shops to carry your products or take custom orders for birthdays and weddings. Another popular option is offering subscription boxes, where customers receive fresh treats delivered weekly.

For those who enjoy crafting, handcrafted jewelry is another option worth exploring.

23. Handcrafted Jewelry

Jewelry making offers endless opportunities for creativity with relatively low startup costs. A $500 investment can cover beads, wire, clasps, tools, and display materials ($200–$300) along with packaging and inventory ($150–$200). Each piece costs $2–$10 to make and can sell for $20–$75 or more, depending on the design.

Developing a signature style - such as minimalist designs, natural stones, or bohemian themes - can help you stand out. High-quality photos are essential since most sales happen online or at craft fairs where visuals drive customer interest. Personalized pieces, like those featuring initials or birthstones, often command higher prices. Many jewelry makers create collections based on themes like zodiac signs or chakra stones, which appeal to specific audiences and simplify marketing efforts.

The pet market also offers exciting opportunities for creative entrepreneurs.

24. Pet Products and Accessories

Pet owners love spoiling their furry friends, making this a profitable market to tap into. With $500, you can create items like custom pet bandanas, homemade dog treats, cat toys, or pet beds. Materials typically cost $100–$250, with another $50–$100 for packaging and labels. The rest can go toward business registration and marketing.

Homemade pet treats are especially lucrative - ingredients for 50–100 bags cost $75–$125, and each bag sells for $8–$15. Focus on using natural, healthy ingredients and clearly list them on the packaging. Custom pet bandanas, which cost $2–$4 to make, can sell for $12–$18, especially when personalized with the pet’s name. Partnering with local pet stores, groomers, or veterinary offices can help you reach more customers. Social media is also a powerful tool for promoting pet products - people love sharing pictures of their pets using fun, unique items.

Seasonal decorations are another way to turn creativity into profit.

25. Seasonal and Holiday Decorations

Seasonal decorations are a great way to take advantage of predictable demand spikes. Invest $500 in craft supplies, tools, and materials for items like wreaths, ornaments, centerpieces, or yard signs. Materials cost $3–$8 per item, while finished products sell for $25–$75.

Start creating inventory well before the season begins - Christmas decorations in September, Halloween items by July, and so on. This gives you time to prepare and market your products effectively. Offering custom options, like wreaths in specific color schemes or personalized yard signs, can boost perceived value. Many sellers find success at holiday craft fairs, through local Facebook groups, or with pop-up shops in high-traffic areas during peak seasons.

While product-based businesses require more upfront effort than services, they offer the advantage of selling the same item multiple times. Start with one product, refine your process, and expand once you’ve built a steady stream of sales and happy customers.

Conclusion

Starting a business doesn’t have to mean draining your savings, spending months on planning, or quitting your job. With just $500 and a weekend, you can kickstart a business that not only generates income but also has the potential to grow into something bigger. The 25 ideas we’ve explored here prove that limited resources don’t have to hold you back from stepping into entrepreneurship.

From practical service-based ventures like house cleaning or pet sitting to creative projects like candle making or jewelry design, and even digital opportunities like social media management or online tutoring, these ideas are designed to get you started quickly. They require minimal upfront investment and offer real potential for profit. While timelines may vary, each one is structured for a quick launch and the chance to see early returns.

The next step? Pick one idea that excites you and map out your first five action steps. For example, if you’re drawn to pet sitting, your to-do list might include registering on Rover, designing a simple flyer, sharing your service in local Facebook groups, telling friends and neighbors, and booking your first client. If a custom t-shirt business is more your speed, you could start by ordering a heat press, creating sample designs, photographing your work, setting up an Instagram account, and connecting with community groups.

Setting a firm launch date is key - it creates a sense of urgency and keeps you from getting stuck in endless preparation. You don’t need a perfect website, a polished logo, or a detailed business plan to make your first sale. What matters is offering a product or service that solves a problem or meets a need. Your first customer won’t care about the finer details; they’ll care that you delivered something valuable.

As your business gains traction, reinvesting your early profits can help you grow. You could upgrade your tools, invest in advertising, or expand your reach. Over time, what starts as a weekend side hustle could evolve into a steady source of income, adding real value to your financial future.

These aren’t shortcuts to instant wealth - they’re real opportunities to build something meaningful with limited resources. Whether you’re looking for extra income, testing a new idea, or working toward financial independence, the path is clear. Choose your business, put your $500 to work, and start now - your customers are out there waiting. The journey to entrepreneurship begins today.

FAQs

What are some cost-effective ways to market my weekend business?

Marketing your weekend business on a limited budget doesn’t mean compromising on impact. A great place to start is by tapping into social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Use these platforms to share engaging posts about your services, interact with followers, and join local community groups where your potential customers might be active.

Another smart move is to set up a simple website to showcase your offerings. There are plenty of free or low-cost website builders available that make it easy to create a professional-looking site. A website gives customers a central place to learn about your business and how they can reach you.

Lastly, focus on building connections. Network with other local businesses, participate in community events, and encourage happy customers to spread the word. Personal recommendations and word-of-mouth referrals can go a long way in helping your business grow - all without stretching your budget.

How do I choose the right weekend business idea based on my skills and interests?

To choose the right weekend business idea, start by taking stock of your skills, passions, and the amount of time you can realistically commit each week. Keep your budget in mind - aim for something that starts under $500 - and think about what you’re naturally good at or enjoy doing. For instance, if you’re handy or love crafting, starting a handyman service or selling handmade goods could be a great match.

Once you have an idea in mind, dig into the market demand. Is there a local need for your product or service? Could this idea expand into something bigger if you decide to invest more time down the road? By matching your strengths with opportunities that have real potential, you’ll create a business that’s not only manageable on weekends but also has room to grow.

What challenges do weekend entrepreneurs face, and how can they handle them?

Weekend entrepreneurs often juggle the demands of building a business with personal responsibilities or full-time jobs, making it tricky to maintain balance. On top of that, inconsistent income - especially in the early stages or during slower periods - can add to the pressure.

To navigate these challenges, consider starting with business ideas that are affordable to launch and manageable within limited hours. Delivering outstanding customer service can make a big difference, helping you build loyalty and gain referrals through word of mouth. Additionally, planning your time wisely and setting achievable goals can keep you on track while ensuring steady progress without feeling overwhelmed.

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