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Money is only a tool. It will take you wherever you wish, but it will not replace you as the driver.” – Ayn Rand
Think outside the box
Looking to turn a simple $100 investment into a world of possibilities?
You’re in the right place!
Out-of-the-box ideas can be inherently riskier as they may lack a proven track record or market validation, increasing the possibility of financial loss.
But what else would you do with $100? I’ve been told the usual advice of putting it in a bank or even under the mattress but I’m looking for something unusual or different.
Diversify
Investing $100 across multiple out-of-the-box ideas diversifies your risk, increasing the chances of finding a successful venture.
Here are 20 inventive ways to turn $100 into future earnings. Here are some unconventional ways to leverage your capital for maximum returns. From curating specialized subscription boxes to showcasing your talent in the world of voice-over, prepare to be inspired and motivated to take your financial future into your own hands.
1. Chocolate making
Start an artisanal chocolate-making business: Chocolatiers can create handcrafted chocolates with unique flavors and premium ingredients, gift them to family and friends eventually catering to customers seeking high-quality and indulgent treats.
With $100, you can start a chocolate making hobby or explore some initial steps towards a small-scale chocolate business.
- get your supplies –chocolate molds, digital thermometer and chocolate
- develop your skills by searching for classes online. Books offer guidance and recipes for the chocolate
- packaging and presentation
- Sharing and Marketing Your Chocolates- Check out your local markets or community events and find out where you can show case or sell your chocolates.
2. Take up photography
Invest $100 in a camera and when you get good at taking pictures, offer photography services for events or sell as stock photography.
- Use a portion of your budget to enhance your photography skills through books, online courses or workshops. Platforms like Udemy, You-tube and Skillshare. Investing in education will help you improve your techniques and expand your knowledge.
- Portfolio- to put all your quality photos in
- Consider buying used or refurbished equipment to save money while maintaining quality
- Attend local photography meetups, workshops, or events to network with fellow photographers and potential clients. Collaborate with other creatives, such as models, stylists, or makeup artists, to build a diverse portfolio and expand your professional connections.
Success comes to those who take action. Take that $100 and transform it into a stepping stone towards your entrepreneurial dreams. Embrace the power of creativity, persistence, and continuous learning as you embark on this exciting journey. Each of these ideas holds the potential to be a springboard for your financial growth and personal fulfillment. It’s time to unleash your potential and turn your $100 investment into a thriving venture!
3. Buy a drone
Buy a drone and offer aerial photography or videography services
- Learn the Regulations: Before you start flying your drone for aerial photography, familiarize yourself with local regulations and guidelines. Check the rules and restrictions set by aviation authorities in your country or region. It’s important to fly safely and responsibly to avoid any legal issues or accidents
- Practice Flying Skills: Allocate time and resources to practice flying the drone in open areas away from obstacles or crowded areas. Become comfortable with the drone’s controls, flight modes, and maneuvers to ensure smooth and stable flights. Practice capturing stable footage and still photos during flights. Get a guidebook on drone photography.
- Focus on Camera Quality: Pay attention to the camera specifications of the drone you choose. Look for drones that offer at least 1080p video recording and decent image quality. The camera should have stabilization features and the ability to capture still photos while in flight.
- Join Drone Communities: Engage with online drone communities, forums, or social media groups to connect with fellow drone enthusiasts and photographers. Seek advice, share your work, and learn from experienced aerial photographers. Networking with others can provide valuable insights, inspiration, and opportunities for collaboration,
3. Buy a printing machine
Buy a printing machine or a shirt press machine and offer personalized printing services for t-shirts, mugs, stationary or calendars.
Running a printing business gives you the opportunity to express your creativity and work on various design projects.
- Define Your Niche: Identify a specific niche or target market for your heat press or printing services. This could be anything from custom stationery for weddings and events, art prints, marketing materials for small businesses, or specialized labels and packaging.
- Build an Online Presence: Establish an online presence through a website or social media platforms. Create a professional website that showcases your services, portfolio, and contact information. Utilize social media platforms like Instagram or Facebook to share your work, engage with potential customers, and build an online following
- Collaborate with Local Businesses: Approach local businesses, such as event planners, photographers, or small retailers, and offer your printing services. Partnering with complementary businesses can help expand your reach and increase referrals.
4. Start a small-scale homemade soap or candle making business
- Supplies:
- Used: Look for second-hand equipment like molds, measuring cups, scales, mixing bowls, and safety gear (gloves, goggles) on platforms like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or thrift stores.
- New: Prioritize essential basics like sodium hydroxide (for soap) or fragrance oils (for candles) in small quantities. Consider buying in bulk later when finances allow.
- Packaging: Start with simple but attractive options like recycled containers, brown paper bags, or fabric wraps. Decorate with twine, stamps, or personalized labels.
- Website/Online Presence: Explore free website builders like Wix or Squarespace to create a simple online presence showcasing your products and story. Utilize social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook for free marketing and promotion.
Specifics for Soap Making:
- Base Oils: Opt for readily available and affordable options like coconut oil, olive oil, or vegetable shortening. Experiment with small batches to find your desired soap properties.
- Molds: Start with basic silicone molds in small sizes, or even repurpose muffin tins or ice cube trays for unique shapes.
- Additives: Consider natural colorants like herbs or spices, and essential oils for fragrance instead of more expensive synthetic options.
Specifics for Candle Making:
- Wax: Soy wax is a clean-burning and readily available option for beginners. Start with small bags to minimize initial investment.
- Wicks: Choose the right wick size for your container type and wax to ensure proper burning.
- Dyes and Scents: Explore natural options like herbs, spices, and essential oils for a budget-friendly approach.
Additional Tips:
- Focus on a niche: Start with a few unique soap or candle variations to attract a specific audience.
- Test and refine: Experiment with different recipes and presentations to find what works best. Get feedback from friends and family.
- Sell locally: Participate in farmers markets, craft fairs, or offer local delivery/pickup to minimize initial marketing costs.
- Offer workshops or tutorials: Share your knowledge and passion through small, in-person or online workshops to generate additional income.
- Build a community: Engage with potential customers on social media, share creative content, and run contests to build brand awareness.
Remember, starting small and reinvesting profits into your business as you grow is key. Be patient, passionate, and adaptable to navigate the journey successfully!
