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Women own around 42 percent of companies in the United States, bringing in $3.3 trillion to the economy. Yet, the average revenue for women-owned companies stands at $142,900 each year, which is about one-third of what male-owned companies bring in. Choosing a business idea with strong market demand and low competition can help close this gap.
Here are ten business suggestions backed by current statistics and market research.
1. Online Course Creation for Niche Audiences
People are turning to online learning. The e-learning market is projected to top $375 billion by 2026, according to Teachable. Building online courses around topics like wellness, parenting, or business skills allows you to tap into this growth. Focus on a tight subject to attract a loyal group of learners. Platforms offer templates and tools to get started without much technical knowledge.
2. Vintage Clothing and Goods Resale
Secondhand shopping has grown sharply. Depop reports 90 percent of its top sellers are women. The secondhand market is expected to reach $350 billion by 2027. You can source clothing, antiques or jewelry locally, and market them on sites such as Depop or Etsy. Data from Etsy shows sellers who ship worldwide earn three times more than domestic sellers, so consider cross-border sales.
3. AI Consulting for Small Enterprises
Artificial intelligence is no longer reserved for large firms. By 2030, the AI market could reach $1.8 trillion. Many smaller companies want simple, practical ways to use AI for customer service, scheduling, and sales analytics. Female-led firms that use automation tools report 73 percent faster revenue growth according to Capstone Partners. If you have a tech background, consider advising local shops and service providers on this new technology.
4. Grant Writing and Funding Support
Around 32 percent of small businesses use grant funding, but many miss out due to lack of expertise. The opportunity for grant writers stands at $12 billion. If you are skilled at research and writing, this is a wide-open field. Offer packages to nonprofits or local businesses looking for new revenue streams.
Tools and Steps for Building Your Business Presence
Once you select your business idea, consider the practical elements needed to launch. You may need to create a website, build a lead list, register your business name, and set up payment gateways. For example, starting a handmade crafts shop on Etsy, offering online coaching, or running a podcast all benefit from simple online storefronts or landing pages.
Today, platforms make these steps more accessible. Entrepreneurs who run an e-commerce shop, offer grant writing services or launch a niche consulting service often begin by using basic templates to showcase their skills. Taking time to set up structured contact forms or booking systems can help turn visitors into clients.
5. Handmade Sensory Toys for Children
Demand for sensory toys for children with autism or ADHD is rising. The market is valued at $4.8 billion, yet fewer than five percent of sellers focus on this need. Creating quality, safety-tested sensory products gives you a unique selling point. Focus on clear product descriptions and thoughtful packaging to gain the trust of parents and therapists.
6. Podcast Production Services
Audio content is in high demand. Podcast ad revenue reached $2.5 billion in 2024 according to Exploding Topics. Many small companies and influencers want to launch shows but lack tech skills. Offering production, editing, or marketing services for podcasts is a strong niche. Knowledge of audio tools is helpful but can be self-taught. Focus on clear packages and fast delivery.
7. Virtual Assistance and Admin Help
Companies of all sizes outsource administrative tasks to save time. The virtual assistance industry is growing by around eight percent per year. Services can include calendar management, email filtering, research, or travel booking.
8. Sustainable Product Brands
Consumer demand for sustainable products is rising. Nielsen found that 66 percent prefer companies with a clear sustainability edge, especially those that are women-led. Only 18 percent of women-owned brands market to this group, so the competition is lower. Products could include zero-waste home goods, refilled beauty products, or reusable containers.
9. Menopause Wellness Coaching
Menopause wellness is an $18 billion market. Fewer than 500 providers globally focus only on this field. Women seek symptom relief, support, and clear information that most healthcare providers miss. Online group coaching, meal plans, and self-help content make practical offerings. Focus on accessible, research-based advice.
10. Community-Owned Cooperatives
Cooperative companies, such as food-buying clubs or service collectives, benefit from high client retention. International benchmarks show that women-led co-ops keep 89 percent of their clients compared to 33 percent for solo ventures. This model works well for wellness, fitness, recycling, or childcare services.
Practical Considerations Before You Begin
- Research your local market and choose a business that aligns with your skills
- Start small. Test your product or service before investing heavily
- Seek out government programs or certifications to open more doors. Only five percent of federal contracts go to women, but there are free pathways to qualify
- Use online tools to handle booking, payments, and email outreach
- Set clear milestones and revisit your business’s progress every month
Building a sustainable company takes steady work, not luck. Start with current market gaps, address a clear need, and focus on efficiency. These suggestions allow you to step into markets with proven demand and room for growth.