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Professional photography is one of the most competitive businesses out there. Every year, thousands of talented shutterbugs consider turning their passion into a cash-machine by starting a business – or at least, a profession they can live off. Which means that if you want to start a photography business, there's a lot of planning to do first. You’ll have to define a serious strategy, and implement it wisely while getting equipped with the right tools.   How to start a photography business Make a business plan   Know your worth and set your pricing   Create a stunning online portfolio   Organize your photography business website   Brand yourself   Start strong on social media   Get the best email solution in town   Write a blog   Promote your photography business   Think (big) business   Equip your photography business   Register your business   Brace yourself     01. Make a business plan   In an ideal world, a philanthropist would pop up from nowhere and offer you tons of money for the photography project you’ve been preparing for the last three years. But this, my friends, would only happen in an ideal world. Chances are you'll spend some time taking on diverse freelance photography jobs as you work on building up your own business. This is why you have to build a proper photography business plan, in order to face reality as it is, and convince everyone around you that you’re serious about becoming a professional photographer. By no means does this mean that you’ll have to sell your soul along the way. There is a huge area between “commercial only” and “all creative”, and this is where you’ll find a good spot for yourself to prosper. How exactly do you do that? Learn more:  Is Wix good for small businesses?   \\ Start by taking a pen, and drawing two columns on a sheet of paper. In the column on the left, write all the expenses that you’ll be facing in the beginning. Try to foresee everything, from the business licences to the insurance, to your photo equipment and the cost of a studio if you need one. Indeed, you’ll have to know precisely how much you’ll be spending before calling your family for assistance, applying for a bank loan or one of these 5 ways to fund a small business . Once that’s done, fill the second column with the services you expect to provide. Of course, always go for what you’re the most experienced in, whether it’s wedding, boudoir or portrait photography. Don’t limit yourself to your core skills – explore as many side ideas as you can. For example, if you’re a professional travel photographer, on top of sending your pictures to magazines, you might consider selling some of your work to stocks or photo agencies. Learn more: Photography business name ideas     02. Know your worth and set your pricing   For every service you choose to offer in your business plan, come up with a definite pricing. Depending on your field, you’ll work on a flat rate per mission, through copyright, or based on an hourly fee. For the last option, you’ll need to figure out how much one hour of your time is worth. The hourly fee very much depends on your location, the types of clients you’re working for, and your prior experience as well as your reputation. It’s not easy to estimate your market worth. Talk to other photographers on professional forums to get an estimate on what they charge. Browse websites of peers in your area, and even try calling some as a client to get an estimate. Finally, set your own prices, keeping this basic rule in mind: Try to be ambitious, but not dissuasive.   A mistake made by a lot of overexcited photographers is to only take into consideration the time of shooting. Actually, for every hour that you’ll spend on an event, you’ll have to count at least two more hours of processing the images. Not to mention, the time spent on other business-related activities, such as negotiating with your clients, commuting, finding inspiration, and… taking vacations (yes, you deserve them!). Don’t forget to include these when finding the right pricing.   03. Create a stunning online portfolio   A beautiful and complete photography website is your number one asset as a photographer of the 21st century. Before, you used to go from one client meeting to another with an actual book of your best shots. Today, you simply have to open your tablet or smartphone, and enter your website’s URL to stun your audience. Wix allows you to create the online portfolio  that you need: visually stunning, fully customizable, and easy to use with a sophisticated drag-and-drop solution. Millions of businesses, among which some of the most respected photographers in the profession, already use it. Now it’s your turn   Where to start? First, create your profile on Wix  within seconds (it’s free). Once your account is set, follow our step-by-step guide on how to create a photography website  to get the exact results you want. Learn more: How to make a website   Cute fonts Cool fonts 04. Organize your photography business website An impressive website is a must, but it’s not enough. You’ll want to add some tools to it, in order to transform your portfolio into a business-generating platform. Here are some of the best online solutions, especially designed to help you start your photography business: Online reservations (and payments) Last time we checked, you didn’t exactly look like Kali, the Indian goddess with four arms. You have a camera in one hand, and a mouse in the other. So how can you possibly handle a phone to take reservations? Well, you actually don’t have to. Simply install Wix Bookings : this genius app will automatically take all your reservations and payments 24/7, straight from your website, and commission free!   Clients' albums Part of the photography business is to send final pictures to your clients. Since your time and energy can be invested more efficiently on other tasks, go for the simplest solution: an online album. Wix Pro Gallery  allows you to create as many “mini-sites” as you wish, for each of your events. Simply upload the photos, choose a beautiful layout for a professional impact, share the URL with your clients and let them download the photos they like. And yes: it’s totally free! A personalized domain name Investing on a professional domain name  is absolutely worth it. Not to mention the SEO boost that it’ll give to your site, a personalized domain, which includes your business name, will make you look really respectable online. Sell your pictures online Want to sell your pictures straight from your website? You can add an online store to do this. All the transactions, smooth, secured and quick, simply done on your page. Your clients don’t have to leave your online portfolio to reach an external platform anymore.   05. Brand yourself Part of starting a photography business, and any small business for that matter, is seeing yourself as a brand. It’s a psychological switch that you have to make. From now on, it will drive a lot of the decisions that you’ll take in your daily life. For example, every new person that you meet is now a potential client, who you can possibly offer a shooting session. To help you act like a brand, you’ll need to shape your visual identity. The most important item is your photography logo , that you’ll affix on every online and offline document that bears your name: online portfolio, business cards, invoices, emails, etc. If you can’t afford a designer at this stage, don’t fret! Take a look at these photography logo ideas and get inspired to create your own logo .      06. Start strong on social media   Just like your camera needs lenses to grasp more elements, your website needs social media to attract more traffic – and thus, clients. Active pages on the major “friends-maker” platforms are absolute musts when it comes to launching a business. They will help you build a community, that is to say a group of people that might be interested in booking your services, or who know someone who might. Moreover, a nicely shaped social post can be much more efficient and simple to run than an ad in a local magazine – while remaining absolutely free! So, immediately after hitting the “Publish” button of your photography website, open an account on every important social media channel. What are they? You might be using the blue bird to publish 140 character messages on your spare time. But as for your photography business, you should definitely choose the three main platforms: Instagram : An absolute must for shutterbugs. Facebook : Everybody is there, from your clients to your grandma. Which means a lot of competition. LinkedIn : The number one professional network is also the perfect tool to search for institutional clients, connect with other professionals and feel the pulse of the market.   07. Get the best email solution in town   New era, old tools. Believe it or not, sending a newsletter is still the most efficient online marketing tool  (by far). Think about it: out of hundreds of people on your emailing list, there must be at least a dozen who need a photographer this month, be it for a portrait, a bar-mitzvah or a birthday. What if the first name that pop ups in their mind was yours, just because they received a nice message from you a few days before, right in their inbox? This is why you should send regular newsletters to your community, using the easiest (and yet powerful) email marketing solution - Wix email marketing . As for the content, you can send your new blog articles, discounts for special occasions like Valentine's Day, or New Year’s greetings. It’s basically like Nutella: every occasion is a good occasion – as long as you don’t overindulge.   Important:  Where do I collect email addresses to feed my database, you may ask? Straight from your website, thanks to the great app Wix Get Subscribers, that’ll smoothly integrate within your website’s design and contacts list.   08. Write a blog   Starting a blog  is an excellent marketing strategy, that’ll give a nice boost to your burgeoning photography business. How exactly? First, it will help you establish your reputation as a trustworthy expert, who knows all the best practices of the profession. Secondly, it will give your website a strong SEO upgrade, necessary to be found on Google. Last but not least, the content you’ll create will attract a nice community, that you’ll easily convert into enthusiastic clients.   For the “how to write” and “what are the best blogging tools”, everything has been said much more eloquently in this cornerstone article: how to write a blog for photographers . You know what to do. Use the Wix Blog Maker  to start your photography blog.   09. Promote your photography business   Immediately inform your friends and family about your decision of stepping out of the dark room. Good old word-of-mouth is always efficient at the first stages of a business, especially for service providers who can only count on their good name. Networking is also great. Join as many clubs, forums and groups as you can, in order to ensure that people know who you are. No need to travel to Shanghai (unless you live there): your efforts should be focused in your immediate neighborhood first.   Your name should resonate in the world wide web. We can’t stress enough the importance of good SEO to promote your photography website, as well as the obligation to register to as many directories as you can. Put your brand and website everywhere people could be looking for photographers like you.   10. Think (big) business   In the beginning, you may not have the attitude and confidence like the Wolf of Wall Street. And between us, that’s probably a good thing. But you still need to master a few business know-hows in order to see the first dollars flow. First, work on your presentation and negotiation skills. Always keep in mind that you’re not only selling beautiful pictures: you’re also selling a person (yourself), and a once-in-a-lifetime experience to your clients.   Secondly, pair up with other businesses in your area, that naturally complete yours – like a DJ or a caterer, if you’re a wedding photographer. It’s also a recommended good practice to start with discounted prices in the first few weeks, in order to entice some new clients. After getting your first commissions, then you can raise the prices back to normal.   11. Equip your photography business   Just like the sickle is essential to the work of the harvester (and of the revolutionary), good gear is crucial to start your photography business. Make sure you’ve provisioned in your business plan all the costs of all the equipment you’ll need, from the camera to the lenses, to the lights and subscriptions to editing softwares. That’s a lot of money that will go out of your pocket in the first few months, but it’s an investment that you simply can’t skip.   It doesn’t mean that you have to ruin yourself, though. To avoid going bankrupt before actually launching your business, buy progressively, starting with the vital gear and acquire the rest when you have more money. Another option is to go for second-hand, either online, or in your favorite photography shop. Sure, it won’t have the same feeling as when you’re the first to hold that gorgeous camera. But your bank account will look happier, and at this stage, that’s what really matters. Finally, more and more photographers are pairing up and lending each other’s equipment. A win-win bargain, that’ll help you in your first missions, until you have what it takes to go solo.   12. Register your business   Hopefully sooner than later, you’ll start making some money. So, like it or not, photography won’t be a passion only – it’ll be a business too. Which means that you’ll have to update the relevant administration in your country of your new status. Whether you work in the US, in Dubai, in Italy or in Australia, make sure you’ve fulfilled all your legal, accounting and tax obligations.   Learn more: How to register a business in the US   13. Brace yourself   Brace yourself, because starting a photography business is not exactly a walk in the park. There will be tough moments, and you will need inner strength, conviction and sometimes desperate inspiration to keep on doing what you love. For example, when your hear one of the 10 things that drive all photographers crazy. Or when you’ll face months with less income than you would make working as a waiter. Get used to good practices such as reinvesting any penny of profit into your business, and saving up for the dimmer periods. Remain patient, no matter what. Remember: just like Rome, no one expects your photography empire to be built in a day. How to start a photography business FAQ Can I start a photography business from home? Yes, you can start a photography business from home. Begin by setting up a home studio or focusing on outdoor/on-location shoots. Can I start a photography business with no money? While challenging, it's possible to start a photography business with minimal funds and here's how: 1. Use your existing camera/smartphone 2. Look for free editing software 3. Create a free website with Wix 4. Offer services to friends/family for portfolio building 5. Network and seek collaborations 7. Gradually reinvest your earnings into better equipment Can I start a photography business as a side hustle? Starting a photography business as a side hustle is common and very manageable, here's how: 1. Begin part-time while keeping your main job 2. Focus on weekends/evenings for shoots 3. Specialize in specific niches (e.g., events, portraits) which are more flexible to arrange 4. Build your portfolio gradually 5. Use social media for marketing 6. Set realistic expectations for your business growth What are the biggest challenges with starting a photography business? The biggest challenges in starting a photography business include: 1. High initial equipment costs for equipment, camera etc. 2. Fierce competition in the market, there's a lot of photographers out there 3. Building a strong portfolio and client base, it takes time and a big commitment to great customer service 4. Pricing services competitively, so you attract business but also are profitable 5. Managing inconsistent income, work and income can be seasonal 6. Balancing creative work with business tasks 8. Marketing your business effectively 9. Handling client expectations and service What are the biggest benefits of starting a photography business? The biggest benefits of starting a photography business include: 1. Creative expression and fulfillment — making money from what you love 2. Flexible work schedule — no 9-5 3. Potential for high earnings 4. Diverse work environments 7. Low overhead costs (especially if home-based) 8. Ability to specialize in preferred niches, the ones you love 10. Capturing meaningful moments for clients and being a part of all those happy moments How much does it cost to start a photography business? Starting a photography business can be affordable or a bigger investment—it all depends on your goals and resources. Here's a quick breakdown of potential costs:  Basic Equipment : Already have a camera? Great—you’re off to a good start. If not, budget $500–$5,000 for a quality camera, lenses and accessories.  Editing Tools : Use a  free photo editor  like Wixel to get started—it’s simple and effective.  Website : Start with a free site builder like Wix or invest $100–$300 annually for a custom domain and professional look.  Marketing : Social media is free but consider spending $50–$500 on ads or business cards to boost visibility.  Extras : Depending on your niche, you might need props, backdrops or funds for travel.  In total, starting costs can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. The good news? You can start small and grow as you reinvest in better gear and tools over time. What type of photography is most profitable? Photography profitability depends on the niche and market demand. Here are some of the most rewarding types to consider:  Wedding Photography : Always in high demand with clients willing to invest in unforgettable memories.  Event Photography : Corporate events, parties and more offer steady opportunities.  Commercial Photography : Businesses need standout product, real estate and marketing images—making this niche highly lucrative.  Portrait Photography : From family to maternity and senior portraits, there’s consistent demand for meaningful moments.  Stock Photography : Upload once and earn passive income as your images sell over time.  Real Estate Photography : Agents rely on professional photos and videos to showcase properties.  E-commerce/Product Photography : The rise of online businesses fuels the need for high-quality product images.  Focus on a niche that matches your skills and market demand. With the right approach, you can turn your passion into a profitable career. How can I start a photography business with no experience? Starting a photography business with no experience? You can absolutely do it. Here’s how: Learn the basics : Explore free resources like YouTube or photography blogs to understand techniques, composition and lighting.  Practice consistently : Start taking photos of anything that inspires you to sharpen your skills.  Work with what you have : Use your smartphone or any camera you can access to get started.  Build a portfolio : Offer free or discounted shoots for friends, family or local businesses to showcase your work.  Master editing : Enhance your photos using beginner-friendly tools like Wixel.  Ask for feedback : Reach out to others for constructive advice to grow and refine your craft.  Promote your work : Share your photos on social media to start building your brand and attracting clients.  Take it one step at a time and watch your skills grow into a thriving business. You’ve got this!

Start generating business ideas with the Wix Business Launcher → If you're skilled in plumbing, enjoy working with your hands and have a knack for problem-solving, starting a plumbing business can be a fulfilling and lucrative venture. From honing your skills to setting up a professional business website , we'll cover everything you need to know to successfully start a business and turn your plumbing expertise into a career. What is a plumbing business? A plumbing business is a service-based company that offers a wide range of plumbing services to residential, commercial and industrial clients. These services include installation, repair and maintenance of plumbing systems, such as pipes, fixtures, drains and water heaters. Plumbing businesses play a vital role in ensuring proper water flow, waste removal and overall plumbing functionality in buildings. Plumbing is constantly in demand, and reliably so. This type of venture is also thought of as a boring business —in a positive and dependable way. Before diving into starting a plumbing company, it's important to decide on your business idea in order to understand the legal and regulatory aspects involved in these business types . You'll need to register your business with the appropriate authorities, obtain the necessary licenses and permits and comply with local building codes and regulations. This ensures that your plumbing business operates legally and meets the highest standards of safety and quality. Learn more:  Is Wix good for small businesses? Still on the hunt for the right business idea? Use the Wix Business Launcher to discover various business ideas based on skill match and profitability. Simply chat with AI to receive a full market analysis, earning strategies and launch kit that helps you take any idea from concept to reality.  How to start a plumbing business in 7 steps Starting a plumbing business requires careful planning, preparation and adherence to legal requirements. Here are seven essential steps to help you establish your plumbing business and set it up for success. Develop a business plan Choose a business structure and plan Obtain the necessary licenses and permits Secure financing Acquire the right tools and equipment Build a professional network Create an online presence 01. Develop a business plan Creating a comprehensive business plan serves as a roadmap for your plumbing business. It outlines your goals, target market, competition analysis, marketing strategies, financial projections and operational plan. Your plumbing business plan should include: Executive summary : A concise overview of your plumbing business, its mission and key differentiators. Market research: Identify your target market, analyze local demographics and understand the demand for plumbing services in your area. Competitive analysis: Study existing plumbing businesses in your region, identify their strengths and weaknesses and develop strategies to differentiate your services. Marketing and sales: Develop a marketing strategy to promote your plumbing business, establish your brand and attract customers. Consider online and offline advertising, social media marketing and partnerships with local businesses. Financial projections: Create a detailed financial forecast, including startup costs, monthly expenses, revenue projections and profitability analysis. Include a contingency plan to address unforeseen expenses or changes in the market. 02. Choose a business structure and name Select a legal structure or business entity for your plumbing business, such as a sole proprietorship , partnership , limited liability company (LLC ) or corporation . Each structure has different legal and tax implications so you might want to consult with an attorney or accountant to determine the most suitable structure for your business. For example, learn how to start an LLC in New York. Register your business with the appropriate state agency, such as the Secretary of State or county clerk's office. This step establishes your business as a legal entity. Name your business. Consider using a business name generator for inspiration when deciding on a plumbing business name idea . Check for name availability in your jurisdiction. 03. Obtain the necessary licenses and permits Research and comply with the licensing and permit requirements for plumbing businesses in your area. These may include contractor's licenses, trade-specific certifications and permits for operating a business. Additionally, you may need liability insurance to protect your business and clients in case of accidents or property damage. For example, in most states you'll also need a plumbing contractor's license on top of a normal business license. You may also need liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance, if you plan on hiring employees. Some states require a surety bond for plumbing businesses too. Also always be sure to check local regulations for any specific permits or zoning clearances. 04. Secure financing Consider your startup costs and financial needs to determine the financing options for your plumbing business. These options may include: Personal savings: Consider bootstrapping from your own savings and personal funds to invest in your plumbing business. Small business loans: Explore loans from banks, credit unions or Small Business Administration (SBA) loans tailored for small businesses to help you raise money for your business . Investors: Consider seeking investors who are interested in partnering with you and providing capital in exchange for equity. Equipment financing: If you need specialized plumbing equipment, you can explore financing options specifically designed for equipment purchases. Financial pitch deck: Prepare a comprehensive financial plan and present it to potential lenders or investors as you embark on the process of raising money for your business . 05. Acquire the right tools and equipment As a plumbing business, having the right tools and equipment is essential for providing efficient and high-quality services. Invest in plumbing tools, diagnostic equipment, safety gear and a reliable vehicle for transportation. Research reputable suppliers and compare prices to ensure you get the best value for your investment. Some basic plumbing equipment to start with might include: Pipe wrenches Plungers Drain snakes Pipe cutters Soldering equipment Plumber's torch Pliers Teflon tape Borescope Jetters             06. Build a professional network to drum up business Establish relationships with other professionals in related fields, such as construction contractors, architects and real estate agents. Networking can lead to referrals and collaborations, helping you expand your customer base and build a solid reputation. 07. Create an online presence with a website In today's digital age, having a strong online presence is crucial for business success. Create a plumbing website for your business to showcase your services, expertise and customer testimonials. Consider using a small business website builder like Wix, who offer user-friendly interfaces and customizable templates to manage your plumbing website cost effectively . Check your website is mobile-friendly and optimized for search engines to attract organic traffic. Learn more: How to create a website . Additionally, use social media platforms to engage with your audience, share plumbing tips and promote your services. Consider creating accounts on platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn to connect with potential customers and establish your credibility. Thinking of starting another type of business? Check out some of these creative service business ideas  to help get you started. How much does it cost to start a plumbing business? If you're starting a plumbing business in the US, it can cost you anywhere from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on which state you're located in and the size of your business. A rough breakdown of the necessary costs to start a plumbing business should include: Licenses and Permits: $500 - $5,000 (varies by state and type of business entity) Insurance: $1,000 - $5,000 per year (depends on size of company and number of employees) Equipment and Tools: $5,000 - $20,000+ Employee Wages : Varies based on number of employees and location Training and Certification: $500 - $2,000 per employee (depending on their current experience and qualifications, also varies by state) Working Capital: Varies based on operating expenses and business growth plans Legal and Accounting Fees: $1,000 - $5,000 or more It's important to remember that these figures are rough estimates and can vary widely based on your specific circumstances, location, and business goals. It's important to thoroughly research and budget for each aspect of starting your plumbing business to ensure you have a clear understanding of what it will take financially to get your business off the ground. It's also worth noting that some costs, like insurance, will be ongoing expenses, while others, like equipment purchases, are upfront costs. Creating a detailed business plan and consulting with industry experts, accountants, and business advisors can help you create a more accurate estimate of the funds you'll need to start and operate your plumbing business successfully. Managing a plumbing business effectively Once your plumbing business is up and running, effective management is crucial for its long-term success. Here are five essential steps to manage your plumbing business effectively: Streamline operations: Implement systems and processes that streamline your business operations , such as scheduling software for appointments, invoicing software for billing and project management tools for tracking tasks and deadlines. Use technology to automate administrative tasks and maximize efficiency. Provide excellent customer service: Customer satisfaction is key to building a strong reputation and attracting repeat business. Train your team to deliver excellent customer service, emphasizing professionalism, punctuality, clear communication and problem-solving skills. Actively listen to customer feedback and address any concerns promptly and professionally. Manage finances: Maintain accurate financial records and regularly monitor your cash flow, expenses and revenue. Use accounting software to track income and expenses, generate financial reports and ensure compliance with tax obligations. Consider hiring an accountant or bookkeeper to assist with financial management and tax filings. Invest in employee development: Continuously invest in the training and development of your plumbing team. Provide ongoing education on industry best practices, safety procedures and new technologies. Encourage employees to pursue certifications and professional development opportunities to enhance their skills and expertise. Focus on marketing and promotion: Consistently market your plumbing business to attract new customers and maintain a competitive edge. Utilize a mix of online and offline marketing strategies, such as search engine optimization (SEO), local advertising, social media marketing and referral programs. Monitor the effectiveness of your marketing efforts and adapt your strategies based on customer feedback and market trends. Promoting a plumbing business Once your plumbing business is operational, effective promotion is crucial to attract customers and build a strong brand presence. Here are five tips to help you promote your plumbing business successfully: Develop a strong online presence by making a website  for your plumbing business, optimize it for search engines and include valuable content such as plumbing tips and FAQs. Utilize social media platforms to engage with your audience, share informative content and run targeted ad campaigns. Keep your branding consistent: No matter where you promote your business, make sure to keep your branding consistent. Use Wix’s logo maker to create a logo and plumbing slogan that you can feature in all of your digital assets. Check out these cleaning logo ideas for inspiration. Local SEO: Optimize your website and online listings for local search queries. Include location-specific keywords in your website content, meta tags and business descriptions. Encourage customers to leave reviews on platforms like Google My Business to boost your local search visibility. Referral program: Implement a referral program that rewards customers for referring new clients to your plumbing business. Offer incentives such as discounts, gift cards or future service credits to encourage word-of-mouth recommendations. Networking: Attend local business networking events, join professional organizations and participate in community activities to connect with potential customers and build relationships with fellow professionals. Consider offering your services pro bono to charitable organizations to increase visibility and contribute to the community. Customer testimonials and case studies: Collect positive customer testimonials and create case studies highlighting successful projects or challenging plumbing issues you have resolved. Feature these testimonials and case studies on your website, social media platforms and marketing materials to build credibility and trust with potential customers. Why start a plumbing business? The plumbing industry is a fundamental part of any community and the demand for plumbing services remains steady. Although the industry is only expected to grow about 2% from 2021 to 2031 , there continue to be over 48,600 job openings in the field each year due to current professionals switching careers or retiring. Here are some reasons why starting a plumbing business can be a wise choice: Consistent demand for plumbing services Plumbing issues can arise at any time, making plumbing services a necessity for both residential and commercial properties. As the population continues to grow and buildings age, the demand for professional plumbers is expected to increase. Profit potential Plumbing services are typically billed at an hourly rate, allowing you to generate substantial revenue from your expertise. Additionally, plumbing emergencies often require immediate attention, enabling you to charge premium rates for urgent repairs. Job security Plumbing is an essential service that cannot be easily replaced by automation or technology. By starting a plumbing business, you'll be entering a field that offers long-term job security and stability. It's also reasonably recession proof, as an essential home service. Other benefits of starting a plumbing business Starting a plumbing business comes with several advantages, similar to starting any kind of service business, that can contribute to your professional and financial success. Here are some benefits to consider: Financial independence: As the owner of a plumbing business, you have the opportunity to control your income and build a profitable enterprise. By providing high-quality services and attracting a loyal customer base, you can secure a steady stream of revenue. Flexibility and autonomy: Running your own plumbing business allows you to set your own schedule and work at your own pace. You have the freedom to choose the projects you undertake, the clients you work with and the areas you serve. Personal satisfaction: As a plumber, you'll have the satisfaction of using your skills to solve complex problems and provide valuable services to your customers. Helping people resolve their plumbing issues can be immensely rewarding. Career growth opportunities: A plumbing business can expand over time, allowing you to hire and train additional plumbers or diversify your services. This opens up possibilities for business expansion and increased profitability. Challenges of running a plumbing business While starting a plumbing business can be rewarding, it's important to be aware of the challenges that come with it. By understanding and preparing for these challenges, you can position your plumbing business for long-term success. Here are some blockers you may encounter: Intense competition : The plumbing industry is highly competitive, with numerous established businesses and individual plumbers vying for clients. Standing out from the competition requires strategic marketing, exceptional service and a strong reputation. Seasonal fluctuations: Plumbing needs may vary throughout the year, with certain seasons experiencing higher demand for specific services, such as pipe repairs during colder months. Managing cash flow during slower periods can be a challenge, requiring careful financial planning. Skill and knowledge development: Staying up-to-date with the latest plumbing techniques, technologies and building codes is crucial. Continuous learning and professional development are necessary to ensure you provide the best possible service to your clients. Customer satisfaction and complaints : Plumbing work can be complex and unpredictable, and customer satisfaction is paramount. Addressing customer concerns and resolving complaints promptly and professionally is essential to maintaining a positive reputation. Successful plumbing businesses on Wix Bates Plumbing Bates Plumbing : Bates Plumbing is a residential and commercial plumbing company based in Lombard, Illinois. With over 30+ years of experience, they do water heaters, sump/ejector pumps, leaky pipe repair, toilets, drain/sewer cleaning, water filters, garbage disposals, re-piping and more. West Coast Plumbing West Coast Plumbing : West Coast Plumbing has been serving the West Michigan area as a master plumber since 1992. They offer services ranging from faucet install to new home construction and commercial services. Real Deal Plumbing and Heating Real Deal Pumbing & Heating : Real deal plumbing & heating has been providing quality plumbing repairs, modifications and installations to the Boston/South Shore area since 2013. From cleaning and de-clogging pipes to repairing broken fixtures, they’re trained, licensed and fully insured to handle any plumbing job. For more inspiration, you can check out these service business examples to help you get your creative juices flowing. How to train to become a plumber There are two main ways to train to become a plumber: through an apprenticeship or through a vocational training program. Apprenticeship An apprenticeship is a paid training program that combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Apprentices typically work under the supervision of a licensed plumber for 2-5 years, depending on the state. During their apprenticeship, apprentices learn about all aspects of the plumbing trade, including: Basic plumbing principles and practices Installation, repair, and maintenance of plumbing fixtures and systems Reading and interpreting blueprints Troubleshooting and resolving plumbing problems Vocational training program A vocational training program is a formal training program that teaches students the skills they need to become plumbers. Vocational training programs typically last 1-2 years and cover the same topics as apprenticeship programs. Requirements: To become a plumber, you must typically meet the following requirements: Be at least 18 years old Have a high school diploma or GED Pass a background check and drug test How to find an apprenticeship or vocational training program To find an apprenticeship or vocational training program, you can contact your local plumbers union, community college or trade school. You can also search online for apprenticeship and vocational training programs in your area. Once you have completed your apprenticeship or vocational training program, you will need to pass a state licensing exam in order to become a licensed plumber. Starting a plumbing business without being a plumber To start a plumbing business without being a plumber, you'll need to hire licensed and experienced plumbers for your team. Focus on managing and growing the business, handling customer relations, marketing and administrative tasks. This could also mean developing partnerships with suppliers, creating a website and ensuring compliance with licensing and legal requirements. You should consider learning the basics of plumbing to communicate effectively with your team and clients. Prioritize customer satisfaction, quality service and timely project completion. Network with other businesses in the construction industry and build a reputation for reliability. Continuously educate yourself on industry trends and regulations at the same time. How to start a plumbing business FAQ Can a plumber be a millionaire? In theory, yes. There are a few factors that can contribute to a plumber's success, including: Skill level: Plumbers with more skills and experience are in higher demand and can charge higher rates. Location: Plumbers in high-cost areas can charge higher rates. Business acumen: Plumbers who are good at running a business are more likely to be successful. How do I make my plumbing business successful? Here are a few tips for making your plumbing business successful: Provide excellent customer service: This is essential for any business, but it's especially important for a plumbing business. Customers should feel like they are valued and that you are going the extra mile to meet their needs. Be reliable: Customers should know that they can count on you to show up on time and complete the job correctly. Offer competitive rates: You don't want to be the cheapest plumber in town, but you also don't want to be the most expensive. Offer rates that are fair and competitive. Market your business: Let people know that you exist and that you offer excellent plumbing services. You can use plumbing marketing through online advertising, print advertising and word-of-mouth. What type of plumbing makes the most money? There are a few types of plumbing that can be particularly profitable, including: Commercial plumbing: Commercial plumbers work on plumbing systems in commercial buildings, such as offices, restaurants and retail stores. Commercial plumbing jobs are often more complex and challenging than residential plumbing jobs, but they can also be more rewarding financially. Emergency plumbing: Emergency plumbers are available 24/7 to respond to plumbing emergencies. Emergency plumbing jobs can be more expensive than routine plumbing jobs, and emergency plumbers can charge a premium for their services. Specialized plumbing: Specialized plumbers have expertise in specific areas of plumbing, such as medical gas plumbing or backflow prevention. Specialized plumbers can charge higher rates for their services due to their specialized knowledge and skills. No matter what type of plumbing you choose to specialize in, the most important thing is to be good at your job and to provide excellent customer service. If you do those things, you will be well on your way to success. What do I need to start a plumbing company? To start a plumbing company, you need the following five main things: Education, certification and experience: Obtain the necessary education and certifications to work as a plumber. This may involve completing an apprenticeship program and obtaining a plumbing license. Gain hands-on experience in the field to enhance your skills. Business plan: Develop a comprehensive business plan outlining your business goals, target market, services offered, pricing strategy and financial projections. A well-thought-out business plan serves as a roadmap for your company's success. Legal compliance: Ensure legal compliance by registering your plumbing business and choosing a suitable legal structure. Check local and state regulations for licensing requirements and obtain the necessary permits. Compliance is essential for the legitimacy and success of your business. Insurance: Obtain the necessary insurance coverage for your plumbing business. This typically includes liability insurance and worker's compensation to protect yourself, your employees and your clients in case of accidents or property damage. Tools, equipment and vehicle: Invest in quality plumbing tools and equipment, including pipe wrenches, pliers, pipe cutters and a pipe threader. Purchase a reliable work vehicle, such as a van or truck, to transport yourself, your team and your equipment to job sites. Having the right tools is crucial for the efficient operation of your plumbing business. How much money does a plumber make? The income of a plumber can vary based on factors such as location, experience, specialization and employment status. On average, plumbers in the United States may earn an hourly wage ranging from $20 to $45, translating to an annual salary of $56,000 to $80,000. Highly experienced plumbers or those with specialized skills may command higher salaries. Plumbers who are self-employed or run their own businesses have the potential to earn more, but individual earnings depend on the success and growth of their ventures. How do I establish credibility with my business without decades of experience? Start with making sure all your qualification certifications are in order and display them prominently. You can consider creating detailed case studies of plumbing projects you've dome, with before/after photos, these can be shared on your plumbing website and in your office. Collect and showcase customer testimonials as you work, also for your website and to establish your experience. Maintain an active, professional social media presence with content around plumbing. Should I specialize in eco-friendly plumbing solutions or stick to traditional services? The optimal strategy is to blend both, offer traditional services while developing eco-friendly expertise. Start with conventional plumbing to build a stable customer base, then gradually introduce green solutions like low-flow fixtures, water recycling systems and tankless water heaters. This hybrid approach meets both immediate customer needs and growing environmental concerns. As eco-conscious solutions become mainstream, you'll already have the expertise while maintaining your traditional service revenue stream. How to start a plumbing business in a specific state It's important to note that registration and licensing requirements can vary by state and local jurisdiction. Therefore, it's crucial to research and comply with the specific regulations and requirements of your location to operate legally and protect your business. Here are some helpful resources: Start a business in Pennsylvania Start a business in Tennessee Start a business in Connecticut How to start a business in Missouri How to start a business in Indiana How to start a business in Tennessee How to start a business in Colorado How to start a business in Virginia How to start a business in Georgia How to start a business North Carolina How to start a business in South Carolina How to start a business in Arizona Don’t see your chosen state here? You can use the search bar in the Wix Blog to find all the information you need. Got a different idea for your business? How to start an online business How to start a consulting business How to start a fitness business How to start a fitness clothing line How to start a makeup line How to start a service business How to start a candle business How to start a clothing business How to start an online boutique How to start a t-shirt business How to start a jewelry business How to start a subscription box business How to start a beauty business How to start a rental property business How to start a food prep business How to start a baking business How to start a DJ business How to start a painting business How to start a babysitting business How to start a car wash business How to start a flower business How to start an eCommerce business How to start a dropshipping business How to start a farming business How to start a photography business How to start a print on demand business How to start a laundromat business How to start a wedding business How to start a hotel business How to start a marketing business How to start a cellphone business How to start a dance studio

Get started by:  Creating an online store →  |  Getting a domain → It’s hard to believe that you can launch an eCommerce business with minimal up-front investment, zero on-hand inventory or a place to store your items. But, that’s the beauty of print on demand business ideas  (aka “POD”). Whether you’re a designer looking to sell your art on t-shirts, or a musician looking to sell custom merch—POD offers a low-risk way to get started. In this article we’ll cover all the essential steps of building a print-on-demand business. From sourcing the right products to listing them for sales, here’s what you need to know. What is print on demand? Print on demand is when you work with a print on demand dropshipping service to design, sell and ship custom items. You, the seller, are responsible for providing the design for these items and listing them to a sales channel. Meanwhile, your POD partner provides you with a catalog of items to choose from, and usually offers a mockup generator so that you can design your products exactly as you want. Once an order comes in, your POD service will handle manufacturing and order fulfillment for you. You will not have to handle the item or ship it yourself. Rather, your POD platform will send the finished product straight to your buyer. POD is useful for types of businesses  of all stages, ranging from those that are just learning how to start a business  and those with existing stores that are looking to test new ideas. Be inspired by our guide to print design . How to start a print-on-demand business in 7 steps Choose your niche   Decide what to sell  Create your design   Choose the right print-on-demand service   Build your online store   Set the right pricing strategies Develop a marketing plan Where to sell your POD products 01. Choose your niche Your print-on-demand business can’t be all things to all people. That’s why the first step is choosing the right niche for your business. A niche may include people in a certain profession (like nurses or teachers), folks who share a particular passion (like foodies or yoga enthusiasts), or people who participate in shared activities (like cyclists or pet owners). You’ll want to be as specific as possible about your niche, while still reaching an audience that’s wide enough to let you earn profits. For example, you may want to sell to wine enthusiasts. But rather than targeting everyone over the age of 21 in the U.S., you may hone in on millennial moms who enjoy wine. This will help you to better define products, styles, and campaigns that speak directly to your buyers. You may already have an ideal niche in mind. If not, here are several good places to start your research: Scroll through your social media feeds : See what’s trending on TikTok or Twitter. Or, participate in Facebook Groups or Reddit forums to immerse yourself in conversations among potential buyers. Ask the internet: Leverage free tools like Google Trends  to gauge interest in particular topics. Keep an eye out for trends that show steady growth over a multi-year period, versus those that are short-lived fads. Do keyword research : SEO software like Moz  or Semrush  can help you measure the amount of search traffic that shopping-related queries attract. Similarly, a solution like JungleScout  can help you gauge interest and sales for items based on data from online marketplaces like Amazon. Do a product search on popular marketplaces: Read product descriptions and reviews on Etsy, eBay, or Amazon and get intel into who’s buying what on each platform. Follow your competitors : Visit competitors’ websites and catalogs. See who they’re targeting with their products and use that as a way to shape your own messaging or to identify a niche that’s not currently being served. 02. Decide what to sell There’s a chance that you landed on this blog with a certain product, like t-shirts, in mind. But POD platforms will give you access to a plethora of other items: hoodies, leggings, caps, water bottles, or smartphone cases (just to name a few). For more inspiration, here’s a list of the top print-on-demand products  to consider selling. It goes without saying that the products you choose should be tightly aligned with your niche. If you’re targeting people who enjoy yoga and mpreditation, your product line may include full-print yoga pants, mats, and towels. If you’re creating products that appeal to beach lovers, you may choose to put your designs on beach chairs, blankets, and swimwear. Another option: offer sustainable products. Eco-friendly and ethically-sourced items are especially appealing to today’s Gen Z consumers. Several print-on-demand suppliers offer a range of eco-friendly printed products, from apparel to lunch totes to pillowcases. Learn more: brochure ideas. 03. Create your design This step can either be the most exhilarating or intimidating part of your journey, depending on your comfort level with design. If you were born with a gift for design, then starting a POD business can help you share your passion and give you an avenue to make money as an artist . If you’re not an artist or graphic designer, there are other ways that you can close the “design gap.” You could, for example, choose from premade designs, images, and fonts within your POD platform. Or, use a design tool like DesignWizard  or Piktochart to spark your creative juices. Alternatively, you could hire a designer from the Wix Marketplace  to help you out. If you’re struggling to find some artistic inspiration, look at popular designs that are already selling well on marketplaces or other sites. But be careful not to copy them. Avoid trademark infringement and other thorny legal issues by studying intellectual property for print on demand. Whether you choose to create your own designs or work with another professional, carve out time to validate your ideas. Share your vision or early mockups with a trusted group of individuals or via channels like social media where you can gather honest feedback. 04. Choose the right print-on-demand service When it comes to picking the right printer for your designs, make sure to consider the following questions: What type of products does the platform offer? What kind of equipment, materials, and printing techniques do they use? What are their average turnaround times? Where do they ship your products from, and how are shipping rates calculated? What type of packaging will be used? Do they charge a monthly fee and/or a percentage of each sale? How are returns, cancellations, and refunds handled? Does the platform integrate with your eCommerce platform? Check out online reviews to see what other online merchants are saying about their services. Also, order a sample of your products so that you can evaluate product quality. Check that the colors, materials and texture meet your expectations. It’s possible for some designs to look better on a computer screen than in person. This step is therefore crucial for making sure that your design actually looks good when paired with the fabrics, ink and printer that you choose. There are several well-known print on demand companies  that you can choose from: Modalyst: Modalyst connects online store owners with a curated selection of suppliers. It offers high-quality products, including jewelry, clothing and accessories, that can be branded and shipped directly to customers. Printify: Printify enables entrepreneurs to create custom products like t-shirts, mugs and posters. It connects with a network of print providers across the globe to offer a wide variety of items for customization. Printify integrates with major eCommerce platforms to handle printing and shipping, making it easy to scale a business. Gooten: Gooten specializes in creating and fulfilling custom products such as apparel, home goods and accessories. With a global network of printing partners, Gooten offers high-quality printing and fast fulfillment. Printful: Printful offers a wide range of customizable products, from clothing and accessories to home decor. Known for its high-quality printing and fast shipping, it handles everything from production to shipping, allowing business owners to focus on marketing and customer service. 05. Build your online store Start selling your products in one of two popular ways: Sell on a marketplace like Amazon, Etsy or eBay: Marketplaces offer large, established audiences that are already eager to buy. That said, marketplaces may charge subscription fees, listing fees, and/or transaction fees. They each have their own rules regarding branding, pricing, and listing products too, so you’ll need to familiarize yourself with these to avoid any hiccups. Learn how to build a website using a platform like Wix eCommerce : This approach offers you the most freedom; you can design your store exactly how you want and stay in control of the entire buyer experience. The challenge here is that you’ll have to invest in marketing so that your products get seen, but platforms like Wix eCommerce offer built-in marketing tools, as well as automations to help you grow your business faster. You don’t necessarily have to pick one or the other. In fact, a multichannel selling  strategy has proven to increase sales. (Merchants who connect their stores to a sales channel like Amazon or Wish can increase sales up to 12%, according to Wix proprietary data.) However, starting with a website can help you to build the right foundation for your brand. Aside from giving you total control over the user experience, a website allows you to test various prices and offers without limitation. It further gives you direct visibility into user behaviors, so you can better track what’s helping or hurting sales. Wix eCommerce additionally integrates with marketplaces. So, if you decide to expand into marketplaces in the future, you can easily sync your products, inventory, and prices without having to log into each marketplace individually. There are other perks, too. For example, if you sign up for eBay through Wix, you’ll automatically receive a higher limit of zero insertion fee (read: free) listings. Learn more:  Is Wix good for small businesses? 06. Set the right pricing strategies Finding the sweet spot in terms of pricing can be a challenge. But here are a few questions that you can ask yourself to get to the right answer: What are my startup costs? Make sure that your pricing accounts for all of your expenses, including your marketing, labor, fees, and other costs. What are other businesses charging for their products?  It goes without saying that you’ll want to price competitively or have a strategy for justifying higher price points. How unique are my products?  As noted above, you may be able to charge more for your products if they're one-of-a-kind. Will I offer free shipping to my customers? More than half (58%)  of shoppers abandon their carts due to higher-than-expected shipping costs, so offering free shipping may be a good idea—given that it doesn’t kill your margins. There are various ways to offer fast and free shipping, whether that means folding it into the product price or offering free shipping at certain price points. What will my profit margin be at this price?  When all is said and done, you, of course, will want to make sure that you’re making money from every sale. Make sure that you calculate your profit margins accurately, taking into account all expenses and “hidden” costs (think: returns, taxes, transaction fees, etc.). 07. Develop a marketing plan Your work doesn’t end once your online store goes live. To build a successful print-on-demand business, you’ll need to proactively drive attention to your products. Here are five great ways to start building an audience and creating positive buzz around your business: Tell your friends and family members: All about your business and encourage them to share your products with their networks. Engage with buyers on social media: Invest in learning the ins and outs of channels that are most strategic for your brand. Join in on relevant conversations and express your brand’s personality online. Learn how to make a blog : Publish articles that showcase various ways to use your product and/or simply addresses questions people might have when searching for a brand like yours. A blog can help you to expand your SEO strategy and reach consumers organically. Partner with influencers: Collaborate with influencers or other brands that target similar audiences as you. Be sure to offer something in return and to lean on their areas of expertise. Create an email strategy: Plot out the emails you’d like to send, whether you’re looking to re-engage shoppers, reduce abandoned carts, or generate buzz around upcoming sales. Check out these 14 eCommerce marketing  ideas for more inspiration (see our guide on what is eCommerce ). 08. Where to sell your POD products Choosing where to sell your print-on-demand products depends on how you want to grow your business. Some sellers focus on quick sales and exposure while others aim to build a brand they can fully control. Think about how much time and effort you want to spend on marketing, customer service and running your store. If you want a more hands-off approach, one option might suit you better.  Your long-term goals matter too. Selling on marketplaces can bring quick sales but limits your control and branding. Running your own store gives you more freedom but requires a solid plan to attract customers. A smart strategy is to test products on marketplaces, see what works and then move your top sellers to your own store. This way, you get the best of both worlds and can grow your business over time. Marketplaces vs. your own eCommerce store Selling on marketplaces (Etsy, Amazon, Redbubble, etc.):  Marketplaces give you access to millions of potential customers right away so you don’t have to worry about driving traffic. They also handle payments and bring built-in buyer trust. But competition is tough, fees can eat into profits and you don’t have much control over branding or customer relationships. There’s also a chance of being suspended or banned which could put your business at risk. Running your own store:  Having your own eCommerce store gives you full control over branding, pricing and the customer experience. You can build a loyal audience, run targeted marketing and avoid marketplace fees. The downside? You’ll need to drive traffic yourself which means investing in SEO, social media or ads. Growth takes longer but you’re building a brand you own without depending on marketplace rules.  Hybrid approach:  Many successful POD businesses start by using marketplaces to gain traction while building their own store. This lets you benefit from marketplace exposure while gradually shifting customers to your website. Offering exclusive products or discounts on your site is a smart way to encourage repeat buyers to shop directly with you. How much does it cost to start a print on demand business? Starting a print-on-demand (POD) business is generally low-cost compared to traditional retail models, as it eliminates the need for inventory and large upfront investments. Here's a breakdown of potential costs: eCommerce website builder fees If you're setting up an online store, website builders like Wix, have monthly fees ranging from $0 to $149 depending on the plan and features you choose. Domain name A custom domain enhances your brand's professionalism and costs anywhere from free up to hundreds of dollars a year. Create an eCommerce website with Wix and a domain name is free with a paid plan. Graphic assets Investing in high-quality design assets or hiring freelance designers can cost anywhere from $5 to hundreds of dollars per design, depending on complexity and licensing. Sample products Ordering samples to check quality before selling is crucial. This varies based on the products but expect to spend $20 to $100. Marketing and advertising This varies widely with strategy and scale. Initial budgets for ads might start around $50 to $500 to gain traction. Organic marketing through social media can be low-cost but demands time. Business registration and licenses The cost to register a business varies by state and country, usually around $50 to $800. However, some POD platforms don’t require formal business registration initially. A rough estimate for starting a small-scale POD business might range from $100 to $1000 or more. However, costs can be kept low by using free trials, open-source software and organic marketing strategies initially. The primary investment is time and creativity to create appealing designs and a strong brand. Ongoing success in POD also requires reinvestment in marketing and new designs to stay competitive and keep capturing customer interest. Pros of starting a print on demand business Fast and easy to get started: Once you pick a service and a design, you can start selling in minutes. Avoid buying in bulk : Only pay for what gets sold, whether you sell a single unit of an item or thousands. This reduces your initial inventory costs and the risk involved. Instant access to a variety of products : Most POD platforms connect you with a wide range of products and brands to choose from. Don’t worry about shipping or storage : Your print on demand partner handles the logistics for you. Pro tip: Kevin D'Souza, Director, Product Experience at Vista Corporate Solutions shares, "Custom merchandise is not just a revenue channel; it's a conversation starter that deepens your audience's connection to your brand." Partnering with a reputed print-on-demand service unlocks the potential for unmatched quality and an eclectic mix of products, empowering you to venture beyond the conventional. Envision creating unique, memorable pieces — think water bottles, lunchboxes or tote bags — that not only stand out but become integral to your customers’ daily lives. Check out some more pro tips from VistaPrint about branded merch and how to leverage it. Cons of starting a POD business You can’t customize everything  - While you can personalize your design, you can’t necessarily select any material you’d like or manufacture products in non-standard sizes. Quality control is trickier  - You must vet and monitor vendors carefully to ensure that product quality, shipping, and the overall buyer experience consistently meet expectations. Lower margins - You’re likely to pay higher per-unit costs in exchange for outsourced logistics and the ability to manufacture in small batches. How to create designs for print on demand Creating designs for print on demand (POD) without a background in design can be accomplished with the following steps: Leverage graphic elements: Make use of existing graphic elements and templates provided by design tools. These elements can be customized to create unique designs without starting from scratch. Look for graphics, icons, and fonts that align with your vision. Simple and impactful designs: Embrace simplicity. Clean and straightforward designs can often be more effective. Focus on conveying a clear message or aesthetic rather than overcomplicating the design. Typography and color palette: Experiment with typography. Play with different fonts, sizes, and arrangements to create visually appealing text-based designs. Ensure that the text is easy to read and complements the overall design. Additionally, choose a cohesive color palette. Consistent and well-chosen colors can enhance the visual appeal of your designs. Incorporate personal photography: If relevant, incorporate personal photographs or images. Authenticity can resonate with customers, and personal images can add a unique touch to your designs. Outsource: If you find design overwhelming, consider outsourcing. Connect with freelance designers who can bring your ideas to life at an affordable cost. How to start a print on demand business FAQ Is print on demand a profitable business? Print on demand (POD) can be a profitable business model for some entrepreneurs, but its success depends on various factors. It depends however on the following - the product niche you choose and how successful it is, how unique your designs are, the effectiveness of marketing and promoting your business, the quality of your products, profit margins, how good your customer service is, the platform you use to sell your goods and its integrations, seasonal trends, as well as how much competition you have. Is it possible to make a living from a print on demand business? Yes, it's possible to make a living from print on demand (POD) if the business is well-planned, executed effectively, and meets market demand. Many entrepreneurs and artists have built successful and profitable print on demand businesses. However, it's important to recognize that the level of income you can achieve through POD dependent on how successful your business might be. Is print on demand easy? Print-on-demand (POD) can be relatively easy to start, especially for individuals with minimal upfront investment and without the need for inventory management. POD services handle printing, production, and order fulfillment, allowing entrepreneurs to focus on designing and marketing their products. However, success in POD still requires strategic planning, creativity in design, and effective marketing to stand out in a competitive market. Can I start print on demand with no money? What are the startup costs for a print-on-demand business? Startup costs for a print-on-demand business using Wix: Wix website plan : $14-$39/month Domain name : $10-$20/year Logo design : $0-$300 (DIY or professional) Product designs : $0-$500 (DIY or outsourced) Wix app integrations: $0-$50/month Marketing: $0-$500 initial budget Business licenses : Varies by location Sample products: $50-$200 Total estimated startup cost : $100-$1500 How do I price my print-on-demand products? To price print-on-demand products calculate base cost (production + shipping) first. Then research competitor pricing and your target market. Add your desired profit margin (typically 30-50%), factor in any platform fees, bulk discounts. It's good to psychologically (e.g., $19.99 instead of $20) and test different price points. What are the profit margins in print-on-demand? Profit margins in print-on-demand vary but typically range from 20-30% on average. They might be higher at (40-50%) for unique designs or niche markets. Generally lower-cost items (e.g., stickers) may have higher margins, complex products (e.g., all-over print shirts) often have lower margins. Factors impacting profit margins include competition, pricing strategy and volume. How do I build a brand with print-on-demand? To build a brand with print-on-demand define your niche and target audience. From there start creating a unique logo and visual identity, with a consistent design style that's unique to you. Come up with a compelling brand story as part of this. To get your brand out there you'll want to build a following on social media, backed up by great customer service. Can I integrate print-on-demand with existing e-commerce platforms? Yes, you can integrate print-on-demand with Wix via the following steps: 1. Use Wix App Market to add POD apps 2. Popular options: Printful, Printify 3. Easily sync products to your Wix store 4. Automate order fulfillment 5. Customize product pages within Wix 6. Use Wix's built-in e-commerce tools 7. Manage inventory through POD integration 8. Seamless checkout process for customers 9. Track orders via Wix dashboard 10. Maintain brand consistency across platforms Got another business idea in mind? How to start an online business How to start a consulting business How to start a fitness business How to start a fitness clothing line How to start a makeup line How to start a candle business How to start a clothing business How to start an online boutique How to start a t-shirt business How to start a jewelry business How to start a subscription box business How to start a beauty business How to start a courier business   How to start a flower business   How to start a gym business   How to start a pool cleaning business   How to start a rental property business How to start a tutoring business How to start a medical supply business   How to start a food prep business    How to start a babysitting business   How to start a plumbing business   How to start a frozen food business   How to start a vending machine business How to start an eCommerce business   How to start a dropshipping business   How to start a farming business

Start generating business ideas with the Wix Business Launcher →  If you have a passion for logistics, enjoy fast-paced work environments and want to be part of the growing eCommerce industry, starting a courier business can be a lucrative and fulfilling venture. In this guide, we'll take you through the process of starting a courier business all the way from building a business website to management and growth. We’ll take you through the key information to set yourself up for success. Still not 100% sure about your business idea? Use the Wix Business Launcher to evaluate your opportunities based on skill match and profitability. Simply chat with AI about your goals, skills and experience. The Wix Business Launcher will then use proprietary data to make personalized suggestions, plus give you all the market research up front. Get a launch kit as well, complete with all the Wix tools and earning strategies you need to get started right away.  What is a courier business? A courier business is a service-based enterprise that provides timely and reliable delivery of packages, documents and other goods. Courier services are essential in today's fast-paced world, where eCommerce and online shopping have become increasingly popular. By 2026, 24% of retail purchases are expected to take place online. As entrepreneurs venture into the world of business, minimizing overhead costs has become a key consideration, especially for operating " boring businesses ." Renting a physical retail space may not be the top priority anymore. The spotlight is now embracing the digital realm and ordering online. Courier businesses can take advantage of this boom. They offer a range of services, including same-day delivery, next-day delivery and international shipping, catering to both individuals and businesses. Before diving into the courier business, it's important to consider the legal aspects involved. You'll need to register your business with the appropriate authorities and obtain any necessary permits and licenses. Compliance with local regulations ensures that your courier business operates legally and meets the required safety and quality standards. Learn more:  Is Wix good for small businesses? Why start a courier business? The courier delivery business is currently booming, with eCommerce on the rise and the need for fast, reliable delivery options (see our guide on how to start a trucking business ), the market size of the global courier and delivery services industry grew 5.2% per year on average between 2018 and 2023 and is currently valued at $454.5 billion, making it a great space to be in. How to start a courier business Starting a business on the right track is no easy feat, therefore we’ve simplified the main steps to help you map out your journey: Research the market Develop a business plan Create an identity Choose a business structure Obtain necessary licenses and permits Acquire suitable vehicles Invest in technology and software Hire and train staff 01. Research the market Running a courier business is all about connecting people to the solutions they need, exactly when and where they need them. The first step? Understanding who in your area relies on delivery services. Start by looking close to home. Are there small businesses nearby, like florists, bakeries, boutiques or print shops? They often need fast, local deliveries to keep things running smoothly. Hospitals, clinics and law offices are another group that depends on secure, time-sensitive deliveries. And don’t overlook individuals—busy parents, freelancers or people selling items on platforms like Facebook Marketplace could also become loyal customers. Once you’ve identified who you could serve, take a closer look at your competition. Research and ask yourself: What areas do they cover? How fast do they deliver? Are their customers satisfied, or do reviews reveal frustrations? Are their prices reasonable? Do they offer anything unique, like real-time tracking or eco-friendly options? This research helps you uncover gaps in the market and define your unique selling proposition . Maybe no one is offering two-hour delivery, ignoring rural areas or providing weekend pickups. These are opportunities for your courier business to stand out and attract customers who need something others aren’t offering. 02. Develop a business plan Create a comprehensive business plan that outlines your goals, target market, competitive analysis, marketing strategies, financial projections and operational plans. If you’re financial projections look off, you may want to consider how to raise money for your business. Think about other factors such as service offerings, pricing, vehicle selection and growth strategies in your plan. Once you've written your business plan, write a concept statement to outline your vision. 03. Create an identity Develop a compelling brand identity that reflects your business’s professionalism and expertise. When looking to name a business , you want to create a memorable name that encompasses your brand. If lost for inspiration, you can use a business name generator to help you find a catchy name. 04. Choose a business structure Decide on the legal structure and business entity for your courier business, such as a sole proprietorship , partnership , limited liability company (LLC) or corporation . Consult with an attorney or accountant to determine the most suitable structure for your business. For example, learn how to start an LLC in New York . 05. Obtain necessary licenses and permits Research and obtain the necessary licenses, permits and certifications required to operate a courier business in your area. This may include business licenses, vehicle permits, driver certifications and insurance coverage. 06. Acquire suitable vehicles Select vehicles that meet the needs of your courier business and comply with safety standards and regulations. Consider factors such as cargo capacity, fuel efficiency and vehicle maintenance requirements. What other equipment do I need for a courier business? To efficiently run a courier business, you'll need various equipment and tools beyond just your vehicles. Here's a list of essential equipment needed for a courier business: GPS devices or navigation apps on smartphones to ensure accurate and efficient route planning for deliveries. Mobile phones or smartphones for communication with customers, dispatch, and team members. Boxes, envelopes, bubble wrap, packing tape, labels, and other shipping materials for packaging and securing items. A portable scanner and printer for printing shipping labels, receipts, and other necessary documents Basic tools for vehicle maintenance, such as tire pressure gauges, jack, and basic toolkits. Fuel cards for your drivers to use can help manage fuel expenses more effectively. Branded uniforms or attire to create a professional and consistent appearance for your delivery team. Racks, shelves, and storage compartments in your vehicles to organize and secure packages during transportation. First aid kit, fire extinguisher, reflective vests, and other safety equipment required for the safety of your delivery team and packages. Mobile payment devices or systems to accept payments from customers on the spot. Dispatching and route optimization software to manage and assign deliveries efficiently. Email, messaging apps, or customer management software to communicate delivery updates to customers. Software or tools to track deliveries, collect signatures, and maintain records of completed deliveries. Locking mechanisms and security systems to safeguard packages during transit. Ultimately the specific equipment you need may vary based on the size of your operation, the types of deliveries you handle and the technology you choose to implement for your operations. 07. Invest in technology and software Utilize technology to streamline business operations and enhance customer experience. Implement tracking systems, route optimization software and online booking platforms to improve efficiency and transparency. Note: website builders like Wix include many of these built-in features, plus integrations, to help you build your perfect command center when you begin making a website . Learn more: How to create a website . 08. Hire and train staff Recruit and train reliable drivers who have the necessary qualifications and a clean driving record. Provide comprehensive training on delivery procedures, customer service and safety protocols to ensure professionalism and adherence to standards. How much does it cost to start a courier business The cost to start a courier business can vary based on factors such as scale, location and services. On average, initial expenses can range from US$10,000 to US$50,000. Key costs Obtaining necessary licenses and permits ($500 - $2,000) Purchasing reliable vehicles (new or used vans, $10,000 - $30,000 per vehicle) Insurance coverage ($2,000 - $5,000 annually) Marketing and advertising ($1,000 - $5,000) Software for order tracking and dispatching ($1,000 - $5,000). Additional expenses may include fuel, maintenance and employee wages. Tips to manage a courier business effectively Once your courier business is up and running, it's important to implement effective management strategies to ensure its success: Efficient routing and scheduling: Implement route optimization software and scheduling tools to streamline operations, reduce fuel costs and improve delivery efficiency. Regularly review and update routes based on customer demand and traffic patterns. Effective communication: Establish clear communication channels with drivers, customers and staff. Utilize mobile apps, email or text messaging to provide real-time updates, handle inquiries and address any issues promptly. Vehicle maintenance and safety: Regularly maintain and inspect your vehicles to ensure they are in good working condition. Implement safety protocols, including driver training, defensive driving practices and routine vehicle checks, to minimize accidents and ensure compliance with regulations. Build strong relationships: Develop strong relationships with customers, including eCommerce businesses, local retailers and individual clients. Provide personalized service, maintain open lines of communication and address any concerns promptly to build loyalty and secure repeat business. Continuously improve processes: Regularly evaluate and refine your operational processes to improve efficiency, reduce costs and enhance customer satisfaction. Types of courier services There are many different types of courier services available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are a few of the most common types: Standard courier services: These services offer basic delivery of packages, documents and other items from one point to another. They typically offer a variety of delivery options, such as next-day, two-day and standard delivery. Express courier services: These services offer faster delivery than standard courier services, often with same-day or overnight delivery options. They are typically more expensive than standard courier services, but they are ideal for deliveries that need to arrive quickly. International courier services: These services specialize in delivering packages and documents to other countries. They typically offer a variety of shipping options, including air freight, ocean freight and expedited shipping. Specialized courier services: These services offer specialized delivery services for specific types of items, such as medical specimens, hazardous materials and high-value items. They are typically more expensive than other types of courier services, but they offer specialized expertise and handling for these types of items. In addition to these general types of courier services, there are also a number of niche courier services available, such as same-city courier services, bicycle courier services and on-demand courier services. Benefits of starting a courier business Alongside the above statistics, there are many reasons one might want to start a business in deliveries. Here are just a few of those. Flexibility and autonomy: Running a courier business offers flexibility in terms of working hours and operations. You have the freedom to set your own schedule, determine the areas you want to serve and choose the types of delivery services you offer. This autonomy allows you to customize your business to fit your lifestyle and preferences. Potential for growth: As your courier business establishes a reputation for reliable and timely service, you can attract more customers and expand your operations. With strategic planning, efficient logistics and a focus on customer satisfaction, you can scale your business and explore additional services or geographic areas. Revenue potential: A well-managed courier business has the potential to generate a steady income. By building relationships with eCommerce businesses, local retailers and individual customers, you can secure contracts and establish recurring revenue streams. Additionally, as the demand for same-day and express delivery grows, you can offer premium services at a higher price point. Just make sure to take all expenses into account when you're calculating your potential net profit . Low overhead costs: Compared to many other businesses, starting a courier business can require relatively low startup capital . While you'll need to invest in vehicles, technology and marketing, you can avoid the high expenses associated with renting or purchasing a physical storefront. Technology simplifying processes: Technology plays a crucial role in the courier industry. Implementing tracking systems, route optimization software and online booking platforms can streamline your operations, enhance customer experience and improve efficiency. Challenges of running a courier business While starting a courier business offers numerous benefits, it also comes with its own set of challenges: Intense competition: The courier industry is highly competitive, with both large and small players vying for market share. Building a strong brand presence and differentiating yourself from competitors can be a challenge, especially in saturated markets. Make sure your brand is up to par with a strong name and logo. If you’re struggling, you can use a logo maker or take inspiration from these trucking logo ideas . Operational logistics: Managing logistics, including routing, scheduling and dispatching, can be complex and demanding. Implementing effective systems and processes is crucial to ensure smooth operations and timely deliveries. Customer service: Providing excellent customer service is essential in the courier business. Dealing with customer inquiries, handling complaints and managing expectations requires strong communication skills and a customer-centric approach. Security and safety: Ensuring the security and safety of packages during transit is of utmost importance. Implementing measures to prevent theft, damage or loss of goods, as well as complying with safety regulations, is essential for building trust with customers. Workload and time management: The nature of the courier business often involves long hours, including evenings, weekends and holidays. Balancing workload and effectively managing time is crucial to prevent burnout and maintain the quality of service. How to start a courier business FAQ How profitable is a courier business? The profitability of a courier business can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the size of the business, the type of services offered, the geographic area served and the level of competition. However, the profit margin of a courier service business is generally higher than many other industries. The average profit margin for courier businesses in the United States ranges between 15% to 30% or even higher . How do courier companies get clients? Courier companies get clients in a variety of ways, including: Direct sales: Courier companies can reach out to potential clients directly through sales calls, email marketing and social media. Partnerships: Courier companies can partner with other businesses, such as eCommerce businesses and brick-and-mortar stores, to offer their services to their customers. Online directories: Courier companies can list their businesses in online directories, such as Google Maps and Yelp, to make it easier for potential clients to find them. Networking: Courier companies can network with other businesses and individuals in their community to generate leads. What equipment do I need to start a courier business? The basic equipment you need to start a courier business includes: A vehicle: You will need a reliable vehicle to transport your clients' packages. A computer: You will need a computer to manage your business operations, such as scheduling deliveries and tracking packages. A phone: You will need a phone to communicate with your clients and drivers. Other equipment, such as boxes, labels and packing materials. You may also want to consider investing in additional equipment, such as GPS tracking devices and mobile scanners, to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of your business. How to start a business in a specific state If you're enthusiastic about starting your courier business in a specific state, we've got you covered. Make sure to explore these helpful resources to ensure you navigate the state-specific regulations with precision and gather all the vital information tailored to your specific location: Start a business in South Carolina Start a business in Pennsylvania Start a business in Oregon Start a business in Tennessee Start a business in Wisconsin Start a business in Georgia Read more… Other business types you might be interested in starting and how to go about starting them: How to start an online business How to start a consulting business How to start a fitness business How to start a fitness clothing line How to start a makeup line How to start a candle business How to start a clothing business How to start an online boutique How to start a t-shirt business How to start a jewelry business How to start a subscription box business How to start a beauty business How to start a flower business How to start a babysitting business How to start a plumbing business How to start a trucking business How to start an eCommerce business How to start a dropshipping business Music business ideas Restaurant business ideas

Start generating business ideas with the Wix Business Launcher → With its positive business climate, diverse talent pool and culture of innovation, Michigan is, in many ways, an attractive place to start business. According to Governor Whitmer, Michigan saw a record number of new small businesses in 2021, with more than 150,000 new small business applications that year—up 59% from 2019. If you’re thinking of joining this wave of entrepreneurship, you'll need to follow some important steps, from coming up with a business name to creating a website that gets your brand out there. Get started with  making a website  using Wix, or follow our guide on  how to build a website . Need help narrowing down your options? Enter a chat with the Wix Business Launcher, which can help you find personalized business opportunities based on skill match and profitability—plus get you a full market analysis, earning strategies and launch kit for every idea. Start a business in Michigan in 7 steps Come up with your business idea Choose your business entity Select the best name for your business in Michigan Write your business plan License and register your business in Michigan Secure funding for your business Create a business website 01. Come up with a business idea When you start a business , you’ll need to figure out exactly what to focus on. Begin by brainstorming the products and/or services you want to sell. Think about your personal interests, experience and skills—and don’t be afraid to ask friends and family for feedback on your initial ideas. Make sure to also research your target market thoroughly and avoid operating from gut instinct alone. With all that said, Michigan has a diverse economy with opportunities in various industries for all sorts of established and unique business ideas . Here are some business ideas to consider that may be successful in the state: Automotive : Michigan is a major hub for the automotive industry (in fact, 96 of the top 100 automotive suppliers have a presence in the state). Dip your toe in the automotive industry by offering auto repair and maintenance, starting a car rental business , car parts manufacturing or car detailing and car wash services. Check out our guides on how to start a car wash business and how to create a car wash business plan to get started. Healthcare : The healthcare and life sciences sector is booming in Michigan; the state ranks in the top 10 nationwide for bioscience-related R&D, as well as number nine in the pharmaceuticals employment sector. Business opportunities include nursing or residential care services , manufacturing medical equipment and supplies, or ambulatory health services. Manufacturing : Michigan is a leader in advanced manufacturing, boasting the 5th largest advanced manufacturing workforce in the U.S. You could try your hand at fabricated metal product manufacturing, machinery manufacturing, plastics and rubber products manufacturing, or supplying raw materials to other businesses. Technology : With a strong talent pool of engineers, programmers and tech graduates, Michigan is a springboard for tech businesses. Consider business opportunities involving mobile app development, software-as-a-service (SaaS) or virtual reality. Agriculture : Michigan produces more than 300 commodities each year and has a robust food processing sector. That makes Michigan a strong market for businesses that provide agricultural products or services, such as farm-to-table restaurants, floriculture products, wholesale produce and wine. There are a number of diverse ways to start a farming business, or make money as a farmer in the state. Sustainable energy : There’s a growing demand for clean energy products and services in Michigan, plus the state has a goal of being carbon-neutral by 2050 . This makes Michigan an excellent place to start a sustainable energy business. Solar panel installation, wind turbine manufacturing, biomass pellet production and geothermal heat pump installation are just a few of the business ideas to consider in the sustainable energy space. Online education : Michigan is home to many universities and colleges that offer online courses and degrees, creating a large pool of potential students who are accustomed to—and interested in—online learning opportunities. Starting an online learning, coaching or other mobile learning business in Michigan is a great way to share your knowledge and expertise with others. Looking for more business ideas to start in Michigan? How to start a DJ business How to start a food prep business How to start a plumbing business How to start an eyelash business How to start a cleaning business How to start a baking business 02. Choose your business entity There are five types of businesses that can be established in Michigan including sole proprietorships, partnerships, corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs) and nonprofits. Here’s a summary of each: Sole proprietorship : An unincorporated business that is owned by one individual. Owners of sole proprietorships are personally responsible for debts and liabilities of the business. Partnership : General partnership and limited partnership businesses are owned by two or more people who share in the organization’s profits and losses. Corporation : A legal entity that is separate from its owners. Corporations can be taxed, sued and enter into contracts. There are two types of corporations: C Corporations and S Corporations. C corporations offer more flexibility in terms of ownership and stock but are subject to double taxation. Limited liability companies (LLCs) : This business structure combines the limited liability features of a corporation with the corporate tax efficiencies and operational flexibility of a partnership. Forming an LLC is a relatively straightforward and easy process, though requirements vary by state ( How to start an LLC in Michigan ) - consider working with a third party expert service, such as Legal Zoom to start yours. This is also a type of a joint stock company . Nonprofit : Nonprofits are typically organized to serve a specific social cause or to provide a public benefit. They are exempt from paying federal income taxes and may also be exempt from state and local taxes. You can establish your nonprofit by applying for 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status through the IRS. Learn more:  Is Wix good for small businesses? 03. Select the best name for your business in Michigan When it comes to choosing a business name , there are a lot of factors to keep in mind. A good place to start is by brainstorming words and phrases that relate to your mission, product or service. Ultimately, your business name should be memorable and original. It should also be flexible enough that it still makes sense as your business grows. Here are some ideas that rely on qualities or regions specific to Michigan to kickoff your brainstorming process: Motor City Innovations : References Detroit's nickname as the "Motor City" and emphasizes the idea of innovation and technology. Great Lakes Green Energy : A nod to Michigan’s Great Lakes and emphasizes the idea of sustainability and green energy. Wolverine [Anything] : Michigan is often called the Wolverine State, though the precise reason for this has been lost to history. Attaching Wolverine to your business name is one way to differentiate your business from others in your industry while appealing to people from Michigan (e.g., Wolverine Building and Loan, Wolverine Lighting, Wolverine Candles, etc.). Pure Michigan Produce : This name honors the state's agricultural heritage and could be used for a business that sells fresh produce or agricultural products. The Auto Innovator : This name references Michigan's strong foundation in the automotive sector and emphasizes the idea of innovation and technology. The Upper Peninsula Outfitter : This name references the Upper Peninsula region of Michigan and could be used for a business that sells outdoor gear or provides outdoor-related services. Michigan Made : References to the state's strong manufacturing heritage. It’s a concise name that emphasizes the idea of creating a product. Superior Gourmet : A reference to Lake Superior which borders Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Ontario, the name could be used for a business that specializes in food products or services. Huron Health : A reference to Lake Huron, this name could be used for any type of healthcare business that serves local communities or as a way to differentiate a biotech or device manufacturer located in the area. MiTech : A great short name for a Michigan-based business providing technology products or services. This can be easily adapted for different business types (e.g., MiCyber for a cybersecurity business or MiTraining for an online training school). If you’re looking for more original ideas, take Wix’s business name generator for a spin. Once you’ve selected a name, you’ll want to check that it’s available as a domain name . Also, make sure to check the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) and United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) websites to see if there are any other businesses in the state with the same name or any existing trademarks , respectively. 04. Write your business plan Launching a business in Michigan is an exciting undertaking, but it's important to be prepared. Writing a comprehensive business plan ensures that your venture gets off on the right foot. Your ‘roadmap to success’ should include an insightful executive summary or concept statement , as well as key information regarding how you’ll structure and fund your business so that it remains profitable in the long run. It should include your business triage plan as well as your intended business operations just one example. 05. License and register your business in Michigan To register a business in Michigan, you’ll need to follow these general steps: Register your business on the LARA website . The exact paperwork and filing fee at this stage will depend on your business structure. Obtain an employer identification number (EIN) with the IRS . An EIN is required if you have employees and is also required by most banks when you go to open a business bank account. Register for state taxes with the Michigan Department of Treasury . You can register your business with the Michigan Department of Treasury through their Online Business Registration portal. After completing the online application, you will receive a confirmation number of your electronic submission, then receive your new sales tax license in as few as seven business days. Register for Michigan unemployment insurance and workers' compensation with the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency. This applies to you if you plan on hiring employees. Obtain any applicable permits and licenses. Knowing how to get a business license is a key step. Check the LARA site to see which permits and licenses you need based on your business type and industry. These could include permits from the Department of Environmental Quality, Department of Health and Department of Taxation. 06. Secure funding for your business There are several approaches you can take when you’re ready to raise money for your business in Michigan, including: Personal savings : Using your own savings to start or grow your business is one of the most common ways to fund a business, at least from the jump. Angel investors : Angel investors are wealthy individuals who provide funding for startups in exchange for ownership equity or convertible debt. Venture capital : Venture capital firms invest in startups and small businesses that have the potential for significant growth. Crowdfunding : Crowdfunding is a way of raising money from many people either through a fundraising website or through platforms such as Kickstarter or Indiegogo . Small Business Administration (SBA) loans : The SBA provides loans to small businesses through participating banks and other lending institutions. Community development financial institutions (CDFIs) : CDFIs are financial institutions that provide loans and other financial services to underserved communities. Business incubators and accelerators : Incubators and accelerators provide funding, office space and other resources to help startups grow. Bank loans : Banks offer different types of loans for small businesses, such as term loans, SBA loans and lines of credit. Additionally, here are some small business funding resources specific to Michigan: Small Business P2 Loans : A business loan program run by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE). It provides funding opportunities for small businesses that are making efforts toward sustainability, waste reduction and energy conservation. Detroit Community Loan Fund : The Detroit Community Loan Fund is a local funding option for small businesses in Detroit. Opportunity Resource Fund : Provides mortgages, small business loans, and real estate development loans to Michigan businesses. They can also help explain how to get a business loan and which type. Invest Detroit : This is a local organization that connects Detroit businesses with funding sources. They have four primary areas of focus: real estate, small business, commercial and industrial, and venture capital. Make sure to carefully research each funding option and consult an attorney or financial advisor to decide what works best for your business. When seeking funding, it's important to have a strong business plan that demonstrates how the funds will be used to grow your business. 07. Create a business website Your business website is the virtual face of your company. It’s where you can promote your business using your own words and imagery. Making a website is essential, even if you plan to do most of your business offline at a brick-and-mortar storefront or office. From selling products online, to marketing your brand, to establishing customer loyalty—a website lends credibility to your business and is a valuable tool for connecting with your customers. Choose from Wix’s business website templates and customize your design to your liking. Then, study these steps on how to make a business website that not only looks good, but performs well. Business examples in Michigan Check out the below Michigan business examples, which are all built on Wix. Powers Property Management Powers Property Management services commercial and residential properties throughout Southeast Michigan, assisting with hydroseeding, excavation, snow removal and more. What started as a small landscape business has evolved into a trusted property management service with more than 10 years of experience under its belt. State & Main Located in Scottville, Michigan, State & Main manages several rental units in a historic building that was once home to People’s State Bank. Website visitors can explore floor plans, amenities and information about the property—while residents can log in to a residents’ portal. How to start a business in Michigan review Looking to start a business in another state? Check out: How to start a business in Texas How to start a business in Georgia How to start a business in Ohio How to start a business in California How to start a business in Arizona How to start a business in North Carolina How to start a business in Wisconsin How to start a business in Colorado How to start a business in Hawaii How to start a business in Utah How to start a business in Massachusetts How to start a business in Oregon How to start a business in Alabama How to start a business in Missouri How to start a business in Illinois How to start a business in Maryland How to start a business in Connecticut How to start a business in South Carolina How to start a business in Tennessee How to start a business in Minnesota How to start a business in New York How to start a business in Pennsylvania How to start a business in Virginia How to start a business in Indiana How to start a business in Washington state How to start a business in Florida How to start a business in Michigan FAQ How much does it cost to start a business in Michigan? The cost for initial registration varies according to the types of business entity you choose to establish. An LLC costs $50 to set up. Plus a $25 annual fee to keep it registered. A sales tax license is free, but you may be subject to other licensing and insurance costs depending on the type of business and industry. Is Michigan a good place to start a business? In theory, yes. Michigan has a highly educated workforce with expertise in a wide range of industries. The state is home to several major universities, including the University of Michigan and Michigan State University, which provide a strong pool of talent for businesses to tap into. It also has a relatively low cost of living compared to other states, which can be beneficial for entrepreneurs looking to keep their expenses low in the early stages of their business. Michigan has a strategic location with easy access to markets in the Midwest and Canada, which can be beneficial for businesses looking to expand their reach. How to start a business in Michigan with no money? 1. Begin by deciding on a low cost business idea that requires minimal initial investment and is aligned with your skills and interests. 2. Register your business with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, ensuring compliance with any necessary licenses or permits. 3. Reach out to use free or low-cost resources such as the Michigan Small Business Development Center for guidance and support. 4. Bootstrap your business by focusing on lean operations, using your personal network for initial clients and gradually reinvesting profits into the growth of your venture. How long does it take to start a business in Michigan? The timeframe to start a business in Michigan depends entirely on its structure. A sole proprietorship takes a day to register, in general. An LLC takes 1-2 weeks, while a corporation takes 4-6 weeks for formation and obtaining licenses. Each of these time frames is a recommendation, external factors can influence the time it takes. How could a business capitalize on Michigan's unique position bordering four of the five Great Lakes? How about a Great Lakes data collection service using autonomous drones and AI. It could offer environmental monitoring, mapping services and data collection to researchers, environmental agencies and shipping companies. This could include tracking invasive species, monitoring water quality or mapping shoreline changes, using Michigan's strategic location to start a tech-driven environmental business. What kind of innovative business could address the challenges of Michigan's harsh winters while promoting outdoor activities? Start a winter wellness and retreat business. Convert unused summer camps or resorts into winter wellness centers offering activities like ice yoga, snowshoe meditation and cold therapy sessions. Include cozy accommodations, healthy local cuisine and educational workshops on healthier living.

Start generating business ideas with the Wix Business Launcher → As the state with the largest economy in the United States, California has a gross state product of $3.16 trillion . More specifically, California small businesses are major drivers of economic growth—responsible for two-thirds of new jobs that employ nearly half of all private sector employees. With a warm, temperate climate and a booming economy, California offers exciting business opportunities for entrepreneurs and small business owners. If you’re ready to start a business in the Golden State, we’ve put together seven easy steps on how to start a business in California. Once you’ve got your business idea, start creating a website to jumpstart your venture. Need help narrowing down your options? Enter a chat with the Wix Business Launcher, which can help you find personalized business opportunities based on skill match and profitability—plus get you a full market analysis, earning strategies and launch kit for every idea. Start a business in California in 7 steps Come up with a business idea Choose a business type Name your California business Write a business plan License and register your business in California Secure business funding Create a business website 01. Come up with a business idea The foundation of any business—small or big—a great business idea is precisely how entrepreneurs turn their passion and energy into something tangible. Each detail, from creating a product to providing services to customers, will shape your business, so having a strong idea from the start is key. An effective business idea is focused on solving a problem or meeting a need in the market. It should be innovative and original, as well as customer-focused, affordable and practical. Unique business ideas work well, in the right context and with solid planning. Since California is known for its diverse economy, with a strong emphasis on technology, entertainment and tourism, here are a few business ideas that can be successful in the state: Tech startups: California is home to Silicon Valley, the global center of the technology industry. Starting a tech business in California can provide access to a large pool of skilled workers, investors, and resources. You could also start a consulting business in such an environment. Online retail: Since California has a large and affluent population, it’s a prime market for online retailers, and a great place to start an online store . Health and wellness: With a focus on healthy living, there is a huge demand for businesses in the health and wellness sector, like fitness businesses and studios, organic food markets, healthy frozen food businesses , natural products and wellness facilities. Social media and influencer marketing: California is a hub of entertainment, media and technology, so businesses that focus on social media, digital advertising or influencer marketing can be lucrative. Environmental services: As a leader in environmental policies and regulations, business ideas that are focused on sustainability, energy efficiency and recycling are perfect for California. Tourism and travel: California is a popular tourist destination, with a variety of attractions such as Disneyland, Hollywood, and the Napa Valley wine region. Starting a tourism-related business, like a hotel (see our guide on the best hotel website designs), rental property , travel agency or tour company can all be a good fit within the bustling tourism industry. Or consider starting a car wash business , to capitalize on the amount of people that travel to California. Home services: Known for the high cost of living, residents of California are often willing to pay for home services such as a cleaning (see our guide on how to start a cleaning business ), pet-sitting, plumbing (see how to start a plumbing business ) and landscaping . These also work well as small town business ideas within this large state. Learn more: Is Wix good for small businesses? Whatever business idea you choose, be sure to conduct thorough market research and consult with experts to ensure the viability of a business idea in California. 02. Choose a business type There are several types of businesses that can be established in California. These include: Sole proprietorship Partnerships Corporations Limited liability companies (LLCs) Nonprofits The type of business you will start will vary depending on your interests, goals, skills and resources. Here are some types of businesses that have potential for success in California: Learn more: How to start an LLC Start an LLC with Legal Zoom How to start an LLC in California Online businesses With the rise of e-commerce and the increasing use of the internet, starting an online business can provide a low-cost way to reach a global customer base. Tip: Use Wix to create an ecommerce website and grow your online presence. Service-based businesses Service-based businesses, such as consulting, personal training and graphic design, can be started with little capital and allow for flexibility in terms of location and hours. Home-based businesses Starting a business from home can be a cost-effective way to jumpstart your idea and can be operated on a full or part-time basis. This is also ideal for solopreneurs or those working independently. Dropshipping Dropshipping is a business model in which an entrepreneur sells products online without having to hold any inventory. According to these dropshipping statistics , ecommerce retailers opting for dropshipping, could earn 50% more than those who rely on onsite inventory. Franchises Investing in franchising can provide a proven business model, established brand and support from the franchisor. You can check out franchise opportunities in California to see what kind of business ideas are out there. Learn more about how to start a franchise business . Virtual business Virtual businesses like bookkeeping (see how to start a bookkeeping business ), event planning and virtual tutoring can be started with minimal resources and you can work with clients remotely. Mobile business Mobile businesses like food trucks, mobile grooming or mobile detailing can be started with low overhead costs and can operate in multiple locations. Niche business Starting a business in a niche market, such as organic products, eco-friendly products, or gluten-free products can help to differentiate your business and attract a specific customer base. 03. Name your California business Naming a business or product is an important part of the business planning process. The name you choose for your business communicates how it is differentiated from its competitors, how it will be perceived by potential customers and how it reflects the values and goals of the organization. When choosing a business name, be sure to consider how the name appeals to the target audience, if it stands out from the competition, if it reflects the company’s values and how easy it is to remember. Tip: Use a business name generator tool to find your perfect business name. Here are a few business name ideas: Silicon Valley Tech, Hollywood Glam, Golden State Fitness, Pacific Sunrise or The California Kitchen. Once you’ve thought of your business name, it’s a good idea to research if the relevant domain name is available for your website. In addition, you can California Secretary of State Name Regulations for name compliance guidelines. 04. Write a business plan A business plan is a document that outlines how a business will be structured and how it will operate. It includes information such as the company's concept statement and mission, goals, objectives, strategies, products or services offered, target market, cost to start a business , startup capital and financial projections. You can think of a business plan as a roadmap that guides the entrepreneur in organizing, launching and running their business. When starting a business in California, a comprehensive business plan is an essential step as it also provides investors, stakeholders and potential partners with an understanding of the company’s goals and how it intends to reach them. 05. License and register your business in California Regardless of which state you start your business in, you should always consider local regulations, like how to obtain licensing and permits, tax requirements, intellectual property protection or simply how to comply with employment laws. In order to specifically register your business in California, here are some essential steps: Obtaining a California business license and registering with the Secretary of State . Adhering to state and local tax laws, including sales tax and income tax. Complying with California labor laws , including minimum wage and overtime pay requirements. Securing any necessary permits or certifications for the specific industry in which the business operates. Following California's environmental regulations and consumer protection laws . Adhering to the state's strict data privacy laws, such as the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and the California Privacy Rights Act (CPRA) . Complying with laws related to remote work, such as the California's Assembly Bill 5 (AB5) which regulates worker classification and employment status. For further information, check the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration . 06. Secure business funding Raising capital and securing business funding can make all the difference when starting a business. There are several ways to fund a business in California (and how to get a business loan ), including: Personal assets: Many entrepreneurs choose to start by bootstrapping - meaning to use their own savings to start or grow their business. Friends and family: Entrepreneurs may also turn to friends and family for financial support, either through loans or investments. Bank loans: Banks and other financial institutions may provide loans to businesses, usually secured by collateral such as real estate or equipment. Small Business Administration (SBA) loans: The SBA provides loan guarantees to small businesses through participating lenders. Start with the SBA Los Angeles , SBA San Fransisco. Government grants: The government may provide grants to businesses that meet certain criteria, such as those involved in research and development or those operating in certain industries. Crowdfunding: Websites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo allow entrepreneurs to raise funds from a large number of people, usually in exchange for a product or service. Venture capital: Venture capital firms invest in early-stage or high-growth companies in exchange for an ownership stake. Angel investors : High-net-worth individuals who invest their own money into startups, usually in exchange for equity. Incubators and accelerators: Business incubators and accelerators provide startups with mentorship, office space, and other resources in exchange for a small equity stake. When researching business funding options, it's important to evaluate different funding options to find the best fit for your business. Keep in mind that California has a robust startup ecosystem with many resources and opportunities for funding, such as Silicon Valley and Los Angeles, where venture capital and angel investors are present. 07. Create a business website A business website is an essential tool for entrepreneurs to reach their potential customers and showcase their products and services. A well-crafted website can help establish credibility, build trust with potential customers and provide them with the information they need to make an informed decision about whether to purchase products or services. When learning how to make a website , consider how the site will be designed, promoted and stand out from competitors. You can start by choosing a business website template and customizing it to suit your needs. You’ll also need to select a domain name and web host. In addition, you’ll want to brand your business and reflect this on your website. This includes visual elements like your logo, brand colors, typography, brand messaging and brand persona. You can read our full guide on how to make a business website to help get started. Once you’ve launched your business website , be sure to promote it. Create a detailed marketing plan, which may include email marketing or social media campaigns. Part of your marketing strategy should include a mission statement, vision statement, SWOT analysis and clear market research to understand your target audience. Business examples in California Check out some California business examples, all with Wix websites that support their endeavors. The Paper Bakery Founded by Jackie Treitz, The Paper Bakery is a design collective that creates various branding assets from logos and style guides to pitch decks, social templates, business cards and custom stationery. Treitz also builds websites for clients using Wix, and is the branding creative behind Netflix’s Motel Makeover (you can read her branding advice for more tips). Based in Redando Beach, California, Treitz is able to work remotely with clients all over the world, while setting up her home base in the Golden State. LUUM Jewelry A business idea that was born amidst four Canadian friends who all share a mutual love of Palm Springs, LUUM Jewelry uses traditional methods of jewelry making, by transforming noble metals, heirlooms and casting mediums into forged memories. Based in California, the company accepts heirlooms from around the world and ships both locally and internationally. Weirdoh Birds With 24 years of experience in the industry, Weirdoh Birds creator Orit Harpaz operates the exclusive interior design brand from her studio in Los Angeles, California. The lifestyle brand offers customers a range of linens, totes, cushions, ceramics, wall coverings and other creative hospitality products. All products can be purchased directly from Weirdoh Birds online shop. Box and Bow Shop Located in Brentwood, Northern California, Box and Bow Shop was established by Lauren Rodgers after leaving behind her corporate job in the tech industry to be a full time stay-at-home mom. What started out as a humble home business grew exponentially and eventually Rodgers shifted to a 3000+ sq. ft. commercial warehouse to run her small business. Box and Bow Shop sells curated and custom gift boxes that ship all across the country. How to start a business in California review Looking to start a business in a different state? Check out our 8 steps to starting a business in Texas or 7 steps to starting a business in Georgia. How to start a business in California FAQ How much does it cost to register a business in California? It varies on the type of business you wish to start, but generally between $30-$150. This doesn't include other license or necessary permits relating to the type of business you start. All LLC's registered in the state of California must also pay an annual tax of $800 to maintain their registration. You'll also need to factor in the cost of equipment and a staff to get your business off the ground. Is California a good place to start a business? California can be a great place to start a business, depending on the type of business you want to start and your specific goals. California is the largest state economy in the United States and it's home to a diverse range of industries, including technology, entertainment, agriculture, tourism, and more. The state also has a highly educated workforce, with top-rated universities like Stanford and UC Berkeley. At the same time, California can also be a challenging place to start a business, with a high cost of living, high taxes, and complex regulations. It can also be difficult to find affordable commercial real estate in some areas, especially in major cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles. How to start a business in California with no money? T o initiate a business in California with no money, consider starting a service-oriented or online venture that demands minimal upfront expenses such as dropshipping or print on demand. Leverage free marketing tools like social media platforms to promote your services. How to start a business in California from home? To start a home-based business in California, first, identify a viable business idea and ensure there is a demand for your product or service. Next, register your business with the California Secretary of State and obtain any necessary licenses or permits, depending on your industry. Create a dedicated workspace in your home that complies with local zoning regulations and set up a professional online presence through a website or social media. Finally, market your business locally and online to attract customers and build a client base. How long does it take to start a business in California? Starting a business in California depends on its structure and complexity. A sole proprietorship, the simplest, can be registered within a day. LLCs take from 1-2 weeks, while corporations require 4-6 weeks for formation and licensing. How can I navigate California's strict environmental regulations while starting a green business? To navigate California's environmental regulations for a green business: 1. Research specific regulations in the state for your industry 2. Consult environmental lawyers or consultants 3. Engage with local environmental agencies 4. Implement sustainable practices from the start 5. Consider eco-certifications 6. Stay updated on changing regulations 7. Use green business incentives 8. Network with other eco-friendly businesses What strategies can I use to manage high operating costs in California's expensive urban areas? To manage high operating costs in California's urban areas: 1. Consider remote work options, to avoid office costs 2. Explore coworking spaces 3. Negotiate long-term leases on office spaces 4. Implement energy-efficient practices 5. Outsource non-core functions 6. Use all tax incentives and credits 7. Share resources with other businesses if possible How do California's worker classification laws (like AB5) affect my ability to hire contractors or gig workers? California's AB5 law may significantly impact contractor hiring because it: Applies strict ABC test for worker classification, demands thorough documentation Many workers are now considered employees with the required benefits, not contractors Increases employer responsibilities (benefits, taxes, etc.) Some industries have exemptions How do I navigate California's complex zoning laws when choosing a location for my business? To navigate California's zoning laws you'll need to extensively research local zoning ordinances, consult with your city planning department on the permitted uses for each zone and how it impacts your business. It's important to check for overlay zones or special districts, parking and signage requirements, conditional use permits and environmental impact regulations. It's recommended to seek legal advice on zoning laws and areas before making any decisions about your office or business location.

Start generating business ideas with the Wix Business Launcher → If you're considering launching a business in the Grand Canyon State as a first-time entrepreneur, this guide will provide the information you need to successfully start a business  in Arizona. Arizona's business-friendly environment and diverse economy offers plenty of opportunities for new ventures, making it an attractive location for entrepreneurs wanting to start something new. As one of the fastest-growing states, Arizona hosts a population of over 7 million and a gross domestic product of $400 billion. Furthermore, the state is home to more than 590,000 small businesses, accounting for over 99% of all businesses in the state. From healthcare to tourism, small businesses in Arizona span a wide range of industries. Need to create a business website? Start building yours today . Need help narrowing down your options? Enter a chat with the Wix Business Launcher, which can help you find personalized business opportunities based on skill match and profitability—plus get you a full market analysis, earning strategies and launch kit for every idea. Start a business in Arizona in 7 steps Come up with a business idea Choose your business type Name your Arizona business License and register your business in Arizona Write your business plan Find business funding in Arizona Create a business website 01. Come up with a business idea Every successful business starts with a defensible business idea . This idea should be innovative, customer-focused and geared towards meeting the needs of Arizona's specific market. Begin by researching the state's unique characteristics, target audience and industry trends to develop the right business idea for Arizona. This will help you understand what types of products or services are in demand and what gaps in the market you could fill. Here are some example unique business ideas that could work well in Arizona: Tourism : Arizona is home to many natural attractions, such as the Grand Canyon, and is a popular tourist destination. Business ideas in this industry could include opening a bed and breakfast, starting a tour company, starting a party planning business (see how to create a party planning business plan ) or opening a gift shop. Real estate : Arizona has a growing population and strong housing market. Business ideas in this industry could include becoming a real estate agent, starting a property management company or investing in real estate development. For more details, check out our guide on how to start a real estate business . Health and wellness : Healthcare is a growing industry in Arizona. Business ideas in this industry could include starting a home health care service, providing medical equipment, or opening a service-based business (such as a personal, nutritional or life coach). In addition, self-care services like a yoga studio or massage business could do well in Arizona. Technology : Arizona is a hub for technology and innovation. Business ideas in this industry could include software or mobile app development, IT consulting, systems architecture and data analytics. Solar energy : Arizona has abundant sun, making it a great state for solar energy businesses that provide services like solar panel installation, energy audits or energy efficiency consulting. Agriculture : Arizona is home to many farms and is a major producer of fruits and vegetables, making it a strong market for businesses that provide agricultural products or services such as farm-to-table restaurants. Home services : Arizona's growing population makes starting a home services business—such as a cleaning business , organizing, a plumbing business , landscaping (see how to start a landscaping business ) or a handyperson service— potentially lucrative opportunities. Consulting : Utilize your expertise to assist others in Arizona by starting a consulting business. Consulting business ideas can be a low-cost but lucrative startup option across various industries, such as marketing, finance and human resources. Personal training or fitness instruction : Transform your passion for fitness into a career by starting a personal training or fitness instruction business in Arizona. Pet grooming or pet sitting : If you have a fondness for animals, starting a pet grooming or pet sitting business can offer you an opportunity to earn a living while working with your furry friends. Photography or videography : If you possess a keen eye for capturing beautiful moments, start a photography or videography business in Arizona and turn your hobby into a satisfying career. Check out our guide on how to create a photographer business plan to get started. Online courses or coaching : As online learning continues to surge in popularity, starting an online course or coaching business can allow you to share your expertise and knowledge with others. Learn more: Is Wix good for small business? Other business ideas include: How to start a clothing business How to start a party planning business How to start a web design business 02. Choose your business type Choosing the right business type, business entity or business structure is essential to starting a business. Your choice will affect your personal liability, tax obligations and management structure (among other things). When registering your new business, you will need to select one of the following types of businesses : Sole proprietorship : A business owned and operated by one individual with complete control and personal responsibility for all debts and obligations. Partnership : A business entity where two or more individuals share ownership and management, with general or limited liability. Corporation : A legal entity owned by shareholders and managed by a board of directors, with the ability to raise capital through stock sales and have perpetual existence. Limited liability company (LLC) : A business entity that combines liability protection of a corporation with tax benefits of a partnership, with limited liability for members and pass-through taxation. Interested in starting an LLC ? Consider starting an LLC in Arizona doing so with Legal Zoom . Nonprofit : Nonprofits typically support a cause or an underserved area within a community. Nonprofit organizations are tax-exempt and governed by a board of directors. All profits are reinvested back into the organization. In addition to the business type, consider how your business will operate. For example, will you conduct business operations exclusively online from your home office? Or will you need outside office space and inventory storage? Launching your business as an LLC is a great way to separate your business from your personal assets. Should your company face a lawsuit, an LLC can protect your home, car, or personal bank account from being impacted. Shylene D’Addario, VP and associate general counsel at LegalZoom Choose a business type that aligns with your goals and vision for your company. If you intend to start out of your home (perhaps via eCommerce ) and expand later, include a plan for that expansion in your business plan. 03. Name your Arizona business When it comes to selecting a name for your business, there are various factors to take into account. For example, your business name is part of your brand and should connect with your target audience and potential customers. Additionally, consider how your business offering might expand over time and choose a business name that leaves room to grow. To begin, consider the products or services you plan to provide and generate a list of relevant keywords for your business. Experiment by combining keywords to form unique phrases. Alternatively, try Wix's business name generator for name ideas. To help inspire your creativity, here are some Arizona-themed business name ideas: Sonoran Sky Services Arizona Oasis Copper Canyon Creations Grand Canyon Home Goods Sedona Sun Photography Studio Southwest Style Co. Phoenix Rising Jewelry Canyon State Crafts Desert Diamond Designs Valley View Landscaping Choosing a simple yet catchy business name that’s easy to spell can make it easier for customers to remember and find your store again for future purchases. Moreover, creating a logo design that matches your business's personality is crucial. After settling on a business name, check if it’s available as a domain name is available. Use the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) business name search to also confirm that your chosen business name is not already in use, plus the USPTO trademark search to ensure that it’s not trademarked. 04. License and register your business in Arizona To register and license a business in Arizona, follow these general steps: Register your business with the Arizona Corporation Commission by filing the appropriate forms and paying any required fees. Register through ACC's online services or by mail. Get an employer identification number (EIN) from the IRS for federal tax purposes. Register with the Arizona Department of Revenue for state taxes and to obtain your sales and use tax ID. Obtain any necessary business licenses and permits from the appropriate state and local agencies. This may include permits from the Department of Environmental Quality, Department of Health and/or Department of Revenue. Register for unemployment insurance and workers' compensation with the Arizona Department of Economic Security if you intend to hire employees. You may want to apply for additional insurance coverage, depending on your line of business. Check with your local and state governments to determine what rules and requirements you must follow to start your business. Different types of companies sometimes follow different rules depending on where they are and what they do. If you have any doubts concerning how to register a business, consult an attorney or accountant. 05. Write your business plan A comprehensive business plan is an essential component to launching and operating a successful business. Your business plan should include key elements such as: Executive summary Vision statement Thorough market research Competitive analysis Profitability projections Risks and challenges and how you’ll overcome them Success KPIs and benchmarks Funding plans A well-crafted business plan can help you to effectively meet the needs of your target market, both now and in the future, while differentiating yourself from competitors in your market and establishing your unique selling proposition (USP) . Moreover, the more detail you put into your business plan, the more serious you may look to outside investors or other funding sources that can offer funding for your business. That’s why you don’t want to skim over this important step. 06. Find business funding in Arizona Fortunately, there are many options available for small business funding in Arizona. From traditional bank loans to alternative lending options, you have several avenues to explore. With the right preparation and approach, you can find the funding you need to grow your business. Here are some potential avenues to explore: Small Business Administration (SBA) loans : The SBA provides a range of loan programs to help small businesses access financing. These loans are often available through partner banks and lenders, and the SBA offers options for businesses with low credit scores or limited collateral. Check out the SBA website to learn more about loan programs and find a local lender. Local banks and credit unions : Many local banks and credit unions offer small business loans, and they may be more flexible than larger financial institutions. Contact your local bank or credit union to inquire about their small business loan options. Venture capital : If you have a high-potential business, venture capital can provide funding in exchange for equity in your company. Arizona has a thriving startup ecosystem, with several venture capital firms located in the state. Crowdfunding : Crowdfunding is an innovative way to raise money from a large group of people, often through an online platform. Platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo allow businesses to showcase their products or services and request funding from backers. Grants : Many grants are available to Arizona small businesses, particularly those in certain industries or with specific demographics. The Arizona Commerce Authority offers several grant programs, and private foundations also provide grants to small businesses. Don't be afraid to explore these opportunities and see if they could benefit your business. Small Business Development Center of Arizona (SBDC) : The SBDC of Arizona provides free and low-cost consulting services to help small businesses start, grow and thrive. Their experienced advisors can assist with business planning, marketing, financial analysis and more. The SBDC also offers workshops and training sessions. Contact your local SBDC office to learn more and schedule an appointment. Personal savings : Don't forget that your savings can be a source of funding for your small business. While it may be challenging to use your savings, it can give you greater control and flexibility over your business. Plus, potential lenders or investors may view your personal investment as a sign of commitment and dedication to your business idea. By thoroughly researching each funding option and consulting with a financial advisor or attorney, you can determine the best funding strategy for your business. 07. Create a business website Having a business website is a must for any business looking to thrive and succeed in today's digital landscape. With a professionally designed website, you can build brand awareness, attract potential customers and establish brand credibility. When building your website, choose a business website template that reflects your brand's personality. Customize the color scheme, typography, visual elements and written content to ensure that your website stands out from competitors. Focus on creating high-quality content that resonates with your target audience, including information about your products or services as well as contact details to keep visitors engaged. Since having a great website can give you a competitive edge, it's important to consider best practices for how to make a business website . Something that I always heard growing up was that you could be the smallest fish in the sea, but if you have a professional website and branding, people will take you seriously. When I sent my website to potential retailers early on, we were making seven candles at a time out of my small kitchen. I think it goes to show that when you have a professional brand, the goals and dreams that you have are limitless. Amanda Buhse, Owner + Chief Creative Officer of Coal and Canary *Coal and Canary now) produce more than 1000+ candles a day from their 10,000 sq foot warehouse.) Once you launch your website, use various promotional strategies—such as email marketing, SEO, and social media campaigns—to increase visibility and attract relevant audiences to your website. Business website examples in Arizona Are you ready to launch your small business in the Grand Canyon State? Get inspired by some of our favorite Arizona-based businesses that are using Wix to manage their online presence and fuel their growth. Muse Architecture Muse Architecture is a small business in vibrant Phoenix, Arizona. They are a team of passionate, experienced architects who specialize in creating modern and sustainable designs for residential and commercial properties. What sets Muse Architecture apart is their focus on understanding their clients’ needs and visions for their space. They work closely with their clients to develop personalized designs that look stunning and function effectively. Their attention to detail, creativity and commitment to customer satisfaction has earned them a great reputation in the Phoenix area. Phoenix Family Retreat Specializing in providing affordable vacation rentals for families, Phoenix Family Retreat goes above and beyond to make its guests feel at home. One way they’ve risen above the competition is by offering a variety of comfortable and spacious rental properties fully equipped with everything guests might need, including fully-stocked kitchens, linens and even toys for children. In addition to providing top-notch accommodations and customer service, Phoenix Family Retreat delivers its services at an affordable price point, making it easy for families to enjoy a memorable vacation in the Phoenix area without breaking the bank. How to start a business in Arizona review Looking to start a business in another state or find the best states to start a business ? Check out, How to create a business in Texas How to start a business in Georgia How to build a business in Ohio How to start a business in North Carolina How to start a business in California How to start a business in Wisconsin How to create a business in Colorado How to start a business in Hawaii How to open a business in Utah How to start a business in Massachusetts How to start a business in Oregon How to start a business in Alabama How to start a business in Missouri How to start a business in Illinois How to start a business in Maryland How to start a business in Michigan How to start a business in Connecticut How to start a business in South Carolina How to start a business in Tennessee How to start a business in Minnesota How to start a business in New York How to start a business in Pennsylvania How to start a business in Virginia How to start a business in Indiana How to start a business in Washington state How to create a business in Florida How to start a business in Arizona FAQ Is Arizona a good state to start a small business? It can be, and for a few reasons. Arizona's location in the southwestern United States offers strategic transport advantages. It has proximity to major markets in California, Texas, and Mexico, making it easier to access customers and suppliers. The state also benefits from its own robust transportation infrastructure, including an extensive highway system and international airports. The state also has a diverse economy, state support for entrepreneurship and several strong Universities from which to build a skilled workforce. How much does it cost to start a business in Arizona? If you choose to form a legal entity, such as a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Corporation, there are associated costs. The filing fee for an LLC in Arizona is $50, while filing fees for corporations vary based on the type and structure. On top of this you'll need to announce your filing of your LLC in a local Arizona newspaper which can cost anywhere from $50-400. There are no annual renewal costs. On top of this you'll also need to consider the cost of insurance and any necessary required permits. Do you need a business license in Arizona if you have an LLC? Yes, you need to obtain a business license to operate a business in Arizona, even if you have an LLC. The Arizona Department of Revenue (ADOR) requires all businesses, including LLCs, to have a business license. What documents do I need for an LLC in Arizona? To form an LLC in Arizona, you will need to file the following documents with the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC): Articles of Organization LLC Operating Agreement (optional) LLC Name Reservation (optional) How to start a business in Arizona from home? To start a home-based business in Arizona, first, identify your business idea and conduct market research to ensure there is a demand for your product or service. Next, choose a unique and memorable business name and register it with the Arizona Corporation Commission. Obtain any required licenses or permits for your specific industry and location. Finally, create a professional online presence, such as a website and social media profiles, to promote your business and reach potential customers. How to start a business in Arizona with no money? To start a business in Arizona with no money, focus on service-based or online businesses that require minimal upfront costs. Leverage free resources such as social media and online platforms to market your services. Additionally, explore partnerships or collaborations that may allow you to exchange services or skills without requiring significant financial investment. What taxes must I pay as a business in Arizona? In Arizona, as a business owner, you need to be aware of several types of taxes you may be required to pay. The main ones include (but may not be limited to): Transaction privilege tax/sales tax: TPT is imposed on businesses for the privilege of conducting business in the state. The tax rate varies by city and business activity. You need to obtain a TPT license from the Arizona Department of Revenue (ADOR). Filed and paid monthly, quarterly, or annually depending on the amount of tax due. Use tax: If you purchase goods or services out of state and use them in Arizona, you may be liable for use tax, which is similar to the TPT but applies to out-of-state purchases. Corporate income tax: Corporations operating in Arizona are subject to a state corporate income tax. As of 2024, the corporate tax rate in Arizona is 4.9% of net income.  Filed annually with the Arizona Department of Revenue. Personal income tax: If you operate as a sole proprietorship, partnership or LLC (pass-through entities), business income is typically reported on your personal income tax return. Arizona has a progressive personal income tax rate ranging from 2.59% to 4.50%. Filed annually by April 15. Employer taxes: There's unemployment insurance tax, which e mployers must pay to fund unemployment benefits. The rates vary depending on the employer's experience rating and the state’s unemployment fund status. Withholding tax is when e mployers are required to withhold state income tax from employees' wages and remit it to the ADOR. Withholding tax is filed periodically (e.g., monthly, quarterly), and unemployment insurance is filed quarterly. Property tax: If you own real or personal property used in your business, you may be liable for property tax. Property tax rates and assessments are determined by local county assessors. How does Arizona's unique climate affect business insurance requirements and costs? Arizona's extreme heat and monsoon seasons can impact insurance needs. As a business in the state you may require additional coverage for heat-related equipment damage, flash flood protection and dust storm-related property damage. This can increase insurance costs but many insurers offer tailored policies for Arizona's climate. How can new businesses in Arizona take advantage of the state's renewable energy initiatives? Arizona's abundant sunshine makes solar energy a viable option for businesses in the state. The state offers tax credits and incentives for installing renewable energy systems. Consulting with local renewable energy experts is recommended.

Start generating business ideas with the Wix Business Launcher → Starting a business in Florida can be a great decision for many reasons. It has the 3rd largest population of any state in the U.S. and the 4th largest state economy . The Sunshine State also has a growing population, making it a place for considerable potential business growth and consumer demand. With small businesses representing 99.8% of all businesses in the state, Florida has earned its well-deserved reputation as one of the best places to start a small business in the U.S. With this in mind, we’ve put together the seven steps necessary to start a business in Florida. Once you’ve got your business idea, create a website to jumpstart your venture. Need help narrowing down your options? Enter a chat with the Wix Business Launcher, which can help you find personalized business opportunities based on skill match and profitability—plus get you a full market analysis, earning strategies and launch kit for every idea. Start a business in Florida in 7 steps Come up with a business idea Choose a business type Name your Florida business Write a business plan License and register your business in Florida Get funding for your business Create a business website 01. Come up with a business idea Coming up with a viable and eventually profitable business idea is the first step in the process of setting up a business. With its large number of retirees, Florida is ripe for specific products and services that meet the needs of an aging population. Needless to say that Florida is also popular among tourists, who travel from far and wide to experience Disney (among other attractions)—making it a top destination for travel and tourism-related businesses. With the nature of Florida’s business climate in mind, here are a few unique business ideas to consider: Tourism-related : In 2022, Florida welcomed more than 137.6 million tourists to its beaches, cities and tourist attractions. From holiday rentals, to city tours or chartered boat rental, there are many tourism-related businesses that you could entertain (see our guide on the best hotel website designs). Food and beverage : From seafood to southern comfort food, Florida is no stranger to a diverse range of cuisines. This can make it a great place to start a restaurant, food truck or catering business . These are also great small town business ideas , of which Florida has many. Health and wellness : With a large and always growing retiree population, Florida may be an ideal location to start a fitness business like a center, spa or health clinic. Florida may additionally be a good place to offer in-home care or elderly services, such as food delivery. You could also start a consulting business , offering support to seniors and their families navigating senior care or other similar services. Home services : Florida, like many large states, has a flourishing tech industry which attracts a younger, professional population. Home services (such as a pool cleaning business , landscaping , cleaning services , a plumbing business and general home maintenance) could therefore be in high demand. Learn more: Is Wix good for small business? Other business ideas include: How to start a clothing business How to start a party planning business How to start a web design business 02. Choose your business type There are several types of businesses that can be established in Florida. These include: Sole proprietorships Partnerships Corporations Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) (Learn more: How to start an LLC with Legal Zoom , How to start an LLC in Florida ) Nonprofits Ultimately, the best type of business to start is one that draws from your personal interests, expertise and available resources - whether you begin with a microbusiness , a small medium business or something bigger. With this in mind, we’ve put together some general types of businesses you could start as an entrepreneur in Florida: Online businesses/ ecommerce : For many people the first online business idea that comes to mind is an eCommerce website , but an online business could also mean a digital marketing agency or online tutoring business . Dropshipping : Dropshipping is a popular eCommerce business model in which you don’t have to carry any physical inventory. Instead, any customer orders are forwarded to a third party supplier, who handles all aspects of fulfillment. Service businesses : In general service businesses are easy to start, and can be started with a team of one. Examples include a pressure washing business , house cleaning, pet sitting, babysitting (see how to start a babysitting business ) and other home-based businesses. Consulting businesses : Consulting is a great way to start a business if you’re already well-versed in a particular field or skillset. For example, you could start a marketing consultancy or offer financial advice. 03. Name your Florida business Naming your business is one of the most important parts of the business setup process. Your name will shape your brand identity and play a pivotal role in building a connection with your customers. When choosing a business name, be sure to consider how the name appeals to the target audience. Ensure that it stands out from the competition, while also reflecting your company’s values. Once you’ve thought of your business name, it’s a good idea to research if the relevant domain name is available for your website. In addition, you can search the Florida Secretary of State website as well as the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) site to check that your name isn’t currently in use by another Florida-based business or trademarked , respectively. It's also a good idea to claim all relevant accounts immediately—including those for your domain, business email and social media accounts—so that no one else beats you to it and forces you to start from scratch. Tip : Use a business name generator tool to find your perfect business name. Here are a few business name ideas to get you started: Florida Sun Rentals, Key West Tutors, Orland Events. 04. Write your business plan Writing a comprehensive business plan is an important and necessary step when it comes to creating a business. At minimum, your business plan should include: An executive summary Details about your target market Competitive analysis Initial financial projections (with a clear path to profitability) - include cost to start your business and your startup capital Business triage plan It should additionally include details about ownership, hiring goals, marketing plans and more to give a 360-degree view of your move-forward plan. Your business plan helps to keep your team on track, plus communicate your vision to investors or other stakeholders. 05. License and register your business in Florida Business registration and licensing requirements vary from state to state, so if you’re registering a business in Florida, it’s important to research the specific steps required. These may include submitting an application for a trade name and filing Articles of Incorporation with the state, depending on your business type. Study these essential steps for getting registered in Florida: Register your business with the Florida Division of Corporation , taking care to fill out the necessary paperwork and pay any fees related to your business type. Apply for an employer identification number (EIN) with the IRS . An EIN is used for federal tax purposes, as well as to open a business bank account with most banks (among other things). You’ll also need to register your business with the Florida Department of Revenue to receive any required tax IDs. Depending on your industry, you may need specific licenses and permits from both the state and local governments in your area. For example, businesses that sell food, alcohol or tobacco will need to obtain specific licenses from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. Apply for the right insurance . Under Florida law , you’ll need to purchase workers’ compensation insurance if you plan to hire employees. There are a variety of other insurance types that you should consider, including general liability insurance. If you’re not sure what you should get, it’s best to seek legal advice. Before starting a business in Florida we highly recommend checking all registration and licensing requirements with the Florida Division of Corporations , as well as any relevant local government and industry associations for more specific information and guidance. 06. Get funding for your business Securing funding for your business can seem challenging but there are a number of capital sources that you can entertain: Personal savings : Depending on the intended starting size of your business and the amount of resources needed to get it off the ground, using personal funds can be a quick and easy way to fund a new business. This is generally a good funding option if you’re starting a business from home, or without a staff. Small Business Administration (SBA) loans : The SBA provides a variety of loan programs to small businesses, including the 7(a) loan program and the microloan program. These across-state loan programs can provide funding to cover startup costs, working capital and equipment purchases. The SBA runs from different regions within states, for example, SBA South Florida . They can also help you understand better how to get a loan for your business and what type. Crowdfunding : If you can’t rely on personal savings or a bank loan, consider crowdfunding. Sites such as Kickstarter allow you to set funding goals and raise money from the general public. Business grants : Examples of Florida-specific business grants include those from the Florida Small Business Development Center and the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund . State and local programs : Each state has its own local programs for business banking solutions aimed to to help small businesses get up and running. In Florida, these include the Florida Angel Nexus and the Florida Opportunity Fund . These often have strict criteria requirements and favor local, community businesses. 07. Create a business website Creating a business website is essential for propelling your business forward—whether you’re selling products online or offering local services. Making a website can be one of the most effective ways to build and market your brand. Learn more about how to create a website in our complete guide. Start by choosing the right business website template for your needs. From there, you’ll want to consider the functionality and user experience of your site. Carefully consider its layout and design, finding opportunities to drive visitors towards the right actions—be it to purchase something, join your mailing list or anything else. Business examples in Florida Check out some business examples located in Florida, all of which use Wix to manage and promote their businesses. 5 Flags Pizza This affordable pizza joint offers both takeaway and home delivery services in Ripley, Florida. They combine great, fresh ingredients with a creative approach to catering that brings great pizza to your door whenever you need it. Lumia This tattoo parlor brings together Florida-based tattoo artists who specialize in detailed and meaningful designs. Site visitors can view past work (including fine line tattoos and micro-realism tattoos) and book an appointment at their convenience. How much does it cost to start a business in Florida The exact cost of starting a business in Florida will vary depending on what type of business and business model you start. Some initial costs for an LLC include: Filing articles of organization for an LLC costs $100 plus a mandatory $25 registration fee. If you choose to use a third party service to act as your LLC's registered agent, it can cost anywhere between $50-500 a year. Filling an annual LLC report in Florida costs $138.75 How to start a business in Florida review How to start a business in Florida FAQ What are the tax requirements for Florida businesses? Some unique Florida tax requirements include: No state income tax Sales tax collection is required There's corporate income tax for C-corporations Reemployment tax for employers Local taxes may apply Annual report filing is required How do I obtain a Florida business tax receipt? To obtain a Florida business tax receipt you need to: 1. Contact your county tax collector's office 2. Complete the required application form 3. Pay the required fee 4. Provide all and any necessary business information 5. Renew the receipt annually 6. Display your receipt prominently What funding options are available for Florida startups? There are a few funding options, including: 1. Small Business Administration (SBA) loans 2. Florida-specific grants 3. Angel investors 4. Venture capital firms 5. Crowdfunding platforms 6. Microloans 7. Business incubators and accelerators 8. Local bank loans 9. Enterprise Florida programs 10. Friends and family investments Do I need a physical address to start a business in Florida? Yes, a physical address for a Florida business is generally required but you can use a home address. But a P.O Box registration is not sufficient. Some business types require a commercial location and you should always check your local zoning laws. How do I choose the right business structure for Florida? When choosing the right business structure for your business in Florida consider: The liability protection you need Evaluate your tax implications Assess your growth plans Weigh your management preferences Compare all formation/maintenance costs Consult with lawyers/accountants Research common structures used for the business type and industry you plan to operate it Do I need a different registered agent if I'm starting multiple businesses in Florida? Florida requires all businesses to have a registered agent but many entrepreneurs don't realize they can use the same registered agent for multiple businesses or act as their own registered agent under certain conditions. How do I handle Florida's unique weather-related business risks? Maintain comprehensive hurricane insurance coverage Create a detailed business continuity plan in the event of extreme weather and disruptions to your business Install hurricane-proof windows and doors Keep digital backups of all important documents in cloud storage Establish emergency communication protocols with staff Keep 3-7 days of emergency supplies Have backup power systems ready Looking to start a business in another state or find the best states to start a business ? Check out How to start a business in Texas How to start a business in California How to start a business in Georgia How to start a business in Ohio How to start a business in Arizona How to start a business in North Carolina How to start a business in Wisconsin How to start a business in Colorado How to start a business in Hawaii How to start a business in Utah How to start a business in Massachusetts How to start a business in Oregon How to start a business in Alabama How to start a business in Missouri How to start a business in Illinois How to start a business in Maryland How to start a business in Michigan How to start a business in Connecticut How to start a business in South Carolina How to start a business in Tennessee How to start a business in Minnesota How to start a business in New York How to start a business in Pennsylvania How to start a business in Virginia How to start a business in Indiana How to start a business in Washington state How to start a business in Florida

Start generating business ideas with the Wix Business Launcher → If you’re starting a business , you likely already know that calculating startup costs is a crucial step in getting your company off the ground. Simply put, you need money to make money. Depending on the type of business, you might need to create a website , rent equipment and an office space, obtain licenses and permits and hire a team of skilled workers—all of which add up in different bills to pay each month. To better understand your expenses and start a successful business venture , you’ll want the answer to this burning question: How much does it cost to start a business? We’ve put together a guide on how to identify expenses, find the best way to estimate costs and pick the right financing methods for your new business. Learn more: Is Wix good for small business? 10 types of business startup costs Before you start calculating the cost of starting a business, you need to understand how startup costs are categorized (and check out our business startup checklist ). As you write out your business plan, keep in mind that there are two main types of spending: expenses and expenditures. Startup expenses can include initial legal and state incorporation fees, as well as deductibles like business travel and meals, according to the SBA guidebook . Also known as capital expenses or assets, expenditures are one-time purchases such as equipment, property and a vehicle. These cannot be tax deductible. Here are the main types of business startup costs you'll need to prepare for when starting your business: Legal and administrative costs Office space costs (if relevant) Inventory costs (if relevant) Marketing and advertising costs Equipment and technology costs Employee-related costs Operational costs Licenses and permits Research and development costs Working capital 01. Legal and administrative costs Every business has legal and administrative costs to get it up and running. These can vary widely between states and industries so be sure to do your research for your precise costs. Business registration fees: These are all the costs associated with registering your business, its name and obtaining necessary permits and licenses. These vary according to the type of business you plan to start. Legal fees: Includes expenses for consulting with attorneys to help set up your business structure, draft contracts and ensure compliance with laws and regulations. While a home-based business  may have little startup legal fees, other types of businesses, such as LLCs, corporations or partnerships may incur heftier attorney expenses leading up to tens of thousands of dollars. For example, if you plan to start an LLC , you'll need to work with an authorized agent, such as Legal Zoom . If you're planning to start an LLC in California, for example, registration fees will cost you: Articles of Organization : $70 Statement of Information (every two years) : $20 Annual LLC tax : $800 (minimum) LLC fee (based on income) : Varies based on total income from California sources ($900 - $11,790) 02. Office space costs (if relevant) Not all businesses need an office so this startup cost is not always relevant. If you're starting a business from home or online you can ignore this cost. However, if you plan to scale your operations, they're worth factoring in for some time down the road. They include: Rent: Monthly payments for leasing office or retail space. Some business owners consider buying office space an investment of its own but this is a large cost, depending on your budget and funds. Utilities : Costs for electricity, water, internet and other utilities. Office supplies and furniture: Initial setup costs for desks, chairs, computers and other necessary office equipment. Office rental costs vary widely between states and cities. In Florida for example, Orlando : The average rent for office space is approximately $26.74 per square foot per year. Class A office spaces average around $28.65 per square foot, while Class B spaces are about $26.85 per square foot and Class C spaces are around $20.77 per square foot. Tampa : Office space rental rates can vary, but the average sale price per square foot was noted to be around $182.63 in 2023. In New York renting an office is considerably more expensive. The average asking rent for office space in New York City is around $80 per square foot. Class A office spaces, which are the highest quality buildings with the best amenities and locations, tend to be slightly higher, averaging just under $90 per square foot. 03. Inventory costs (if relevant) Factor in inventory costs only if relevant. For example, if you're starting a service business or a dropshipping business you won't need to. Inventory costs typically include: Initial inventory : Purchasing stock or raw materials needed to start operations. If you're planning to start a craft business, for example, this would include your crafting materials and equipment. Storage costs: Renting warehouse space or purchasing storage solutions for inventory. If you're starting small and testing the market with limited inventory, storage may be a relevant cost to factor in later. Also consider manufacturing  and stocking of products,   packaging, labeling and dropshipping with Wix . 04. Marketing and advertising costs No matter which business you plan, your business startup costs should include marketing and advertising costs. These are essential to getting your business in front of your intended audience and an absolute must. Budget for: Branding : Expenses for designing a logo , business cards and other branding materials. These are what will set the style and tone of your business to make sure to choose high-quality options that reflect your brand properly. There’s also trademarking  your business name  or logo which represents additional costs to starting a business. Advertising : Include costs for online ads, print media and other promotional activities to attract customers. Paid ads are a fast and efficient way to get your product or service in front of a lot of people. Website development: Learn how to create a website with a website builder . You'll encounter steps like domain registration and web hosting fees. With Wix, you can start building your site for free (or opt for a paid plan) that includes reliable hosting and advanced security features. 05. Equipment and technology costs Every business needs equipment and technology to run. Depending on the type of business you start, you will need the right equipment to aid you in getting the job done. For example, if you’re starting a mobile business  (like a food truck), you’ll need to finance a truck, cooking equipment and refrigeration equipment. Plus operating supplies, ranging from oil, petrol and water, to your POS system and marketing supplies, such as a menu board and online ads. These are examples of sunk costs , which means money spent that cannot be regained. Most businesses will require computers and relevant software to run. Including scheduling software and business organizational tools, such as Monday. 06. Employee-related costs If you plan to hire employees, either at the start or later down the road you'll need to factor in the following essential costs: Salaries and wages: This will include wages,   employee salaries, benefits and perks plus any relevant insurance and taxes. Benefits: Costs for health insurance, retirement plans and other employee benefits. Training and development: Expenses for onboarding and training new staff, as well as helping existing staff to grow. 07. Operational costs These are an essential part of your startup costs and should be included in the financial section of your business plan . Remember to include the cost of: Insurance: You must purchase business insurance to protect against risks and liabilities. The type you need will depend on your state and type of business. Accounting and bookkeeping: Hiring accountants or using accounting software to manage finances is a necessary business cost. Professional services: Fees for consultants, IT support and other professional services need to be accounted for. 08. Licenses and permits Another crucial business startup cost to remember is the cost of your licenses and permits. These vary widely between states and industries. Business licenses : Essential costs include all of the fees necessary for obtaining local, state and federal licenses required to operate. You'll likely need to research how to get a business license based on where you start and operate your business. Depending on the state where you’re conducting business, you will have to consider processing and recurring fees that range between $50 and a few hundred dollars per year. The US Small Business Administration ’s (SBA) website also has information about federal business licenses . Special permits: Costs for specific permits related to certain industries, such as health permits for food businesses must be researched and added to your financial planning. 09. Research and development costs Research and development costs can vary widely between businesses. But if you plan to create a product or run a service you'll need to calculate: Product development: Expenses for creating and testing new products or services. You'll also need to think about the cost to keep improving products and services on a regular basis so that you stay relevant in the market. Market research: Costs for conducting surveys, focus groups and other research to understand the market are essential for planning how you develop and improve your product. 10. Working capital Thinking beyond your startup costs, you'll need to think about the costs the day after you start your business. These include: Operating expenses: The funds needed to cover day-to-day expenses until your business becomes profitable. Emergency fund: A reserve of money set aside for unexpected expenses or financial downturns. Each of these costs varies depending on the type of business, its size and its industry, but understanding and planning for these expenses is crucial for a successful startup. Still on the hunt for the right business idea? Use the Wix Business Launcher to discover various business ideas based on skill match and profitability. Simply chat with AI to receive a full market analysis, earning strategies and launch kit that helps you take any idea from concept to reality.  How to calculate the cost of starting a business There are various ways to estimate how much it will cost to start a new business. Once you differentiate between these types of costs, you’ll be able to better manage your business cash flow and assess your company’s overall profitability. 01. One-time vs. ongoing costs A one-time expense can be anything from equipment purchases to paying for a special ‘one-off’ service, such as a business consultation or legal advice. When you make a one-time purchase, you may also find more money flowing out of your business than coming in as you go over your monthly bookkeeping . Generally speaking, you will need to make up for any monetary loss from such unusual or nonrecurring expenses in the next month—so plan your one-time costs accordingly. In stark contrast, ongoing costs should not alter your monthly cash flow since they are included on a regular basis in your overall budget. Typically, ongoing costs are rent, utilities, insurance and employee salaries. 02. Essential vs. optional costs Certain expenses cannot be avoided, including those for development and growth. Essential costs are taxes, employee salaries, human resources , debt repayment, business software and more (like plumbing equipment for someone starting a plumbing business ). On the other hand, optional costs are made if the budget permits it. They can include upgrading the office coffee beans, snacks or any kind of small perks. 03. Fixed vs. variable costs Similar to ongoing expenses, fixed costs are paid regardless of how much you sell. In other words, these costs do not change and should not affect your cash flow. Your weekly payroll, rent for office space and even equipment depreciation are common examples of fixed costs in most businesses. Variable costs are based on sales volume, thus as your profits increase so do variable costs, such as raw materials and production supplies. If you run a successful bakery, you will have higher variable costs of flour, sugar and butter. Common mistakes and pitfalls in startup budgeting Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to miss or miscalculate certain expenses. These slip-ups can derail your financial plans and lead to unexpected costs later. To help you avoid these common mistakes, we’ve put together a list of the most frequent errors entrepreneurs make when calculating startup costs and how to avoid them. Forgetting big expenses : Don’t skip one-time costs like buying equipment (computers, machinery) or licenses (business or health permits). These can add up fast. Missing small fees : Little fees like shipping costs, credit card transaction charges or SSL certificates can sneak up on you if they’re not in your budget. Overlooking inventory costs : Selling physical products? Remember expenses like storage, packaging and handling. Don’t forget about excess inventory sitting unsold. Ignoring regular bills : Monthly expenses like internet, software subscriptions, employee wages and office rent can pile up quickly if you’re not tracking them. Underestimating employee costs : Employees cost more than their paychecks. Account for benefits like health insurance, taxes, training and even office supplies. Expecting quick sales : It’s tempting to expect fast sales, but it’s smarter to budget for a slow start. Cover marketing costs and plan for lower revenue in the beginning. Skipping a safety net : Unexpected costs like repairs, legal fees or supplier price increases happen. Keep a contingency fund of 10-20% of your startup budget. Not updating your numbers : Your budget will evolve as your business grows. Revisit it regularly to stay accurate and reflect your current needs. Skipping marketing costs : Building awareness takes money. Plan for things like website design, social media ads, influencer partnerships and branding materials. Forgetting taxes : Account for sales tax, business taxes, payroll taxes and the cost of filing taxes. You might need to set aside funds for an accountant too. How to fund your business costs When it comes to financing your startup, there are multiple options available. Below are a few suitable business funding models that are low-risk and effective. 01. Small business loans The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers small businesses different types of loans , including 7 (a) loans, 504 loans and microloans. SBA-guaranteed loans have competitive rates and fees compared to non-SBA loans and provide unique benefits, such as flexible overhead requirements and no collateral. 02. Government grants There are thousands of government grant opportunities for small businesses distributed on a federal, state and local level. Some examples include the National Institute of Health Grants , which reserves grants for small businesses specific to research on COVID-19; the Rural Innovation Stronger Economy (RISE) grants which support rural jobs and new businesses in the agricultural industry, providing funding between $500,000 and $2 million; and more. 03. Investors A third way to raise money for your business is by reaching out to an angel investor . These are affluent individuals who can invest their own money in startups in exchange for ownership equity in the business. While there is no set amount for these types of investors, investment is known to range from a few thousand dollars to a few million dollars. What about crowdfunding? That is another option if investors are hard to come by. Cost to start a business FAQ How can entrepreneurs take advantage of the sharing economy to significantly reduce their startup costs? Making use of the sharing economy to reduce initial business startup costs can be a smart idea, especially if you're located in a large city. The following ideas might be a good fit for reducing costs: Using co-working spaces instead of leasing offices Renting equipment through peer-to-peer platforms Using car-sharing services for transportation needs Employing freelancers for specialized tasks Participating in tool libraries or maker spaces for production What innovative financing methods can reduce upfront costs for product-based startups? There are a number of alternative and creative funding options open to businesses just starting out, amongst them: Crowdfunding pre-orders to finance initial production Implementing a pay-what-you-want model for digital products Using blockchain technology for fractional ownership or tokenization Partnering with suppliers for consignment or revenue-sharing arrangements Leveraging micro-loan platforms for small, specific startup needs How can new business owners use the lean startup concept to test business viability with minimal cost? Create a minimum viable product (MVP) to test market demand Use no-code platforms to build prototype websites or apps Conduct low-cost market research through social media polls Offer services before developing products to validate ideas Use A/B testing for marketing messages before full-scale campaigns Start and fund a business by state How to start a business in California How to start a business in Texas How to start a business in Georgia How to start a business in Florida How to start a business in Ohio How to start a business in Arizona How to start a business in North Carolina How to start a business in Wisconsin How to start a business in Colorado How to start a business in Hawaii How to start a business in Utah How to start a business in Massachusetts How to start a business in Oregon How to start a business in Alabama How to start a business in Missouri How to start a business in Illinois How to start a business in Maryland How to start a business in Michigan How to start a business in Connecticut How to start a business in South Carolina How to start a business in Tennessee How to start a business in Minnesota How to start a business in New York How to start a business in Pennsylvania How to start a business in Virginia How to start a business in Indiana How to start a business in Washington state Start and fund an LLC by state How to start an LLC in Texas How to start an LLC in Indiana How to start an LLC in Georgia How to start an LLC in California How to start an LLC in Colorado How to start an LLC in Arizona How to start an LLC in Ohio

Nothing says you're serious about your business like a custom email address . If you’re starting a business and still using a generic email like coolbiz123@gmail.com , it might be time for an upgrade. With Wix, you can get your very own Google Workspace business email that matches your website's domain . Think something like maria@musicbymaria.com or info@pureblissspa.net. Clean, branded and also super professional. Learn more: Is Wix good for small business? Already have a business email? You can head over to the Business Email page in your Wix account to see what you’ve got. Bought your email elsewhere? You can still connect it to your Wix site in just a few steps. Why an email with Wix is worth it A business email isn’t just a nice-to-have, it adds serious credibility to your brand. Plus, if you’re using Wix’s built-in marketing tools , your custom email keeps everything consistent and productive. With Wix can create business email addresses  for every team member. That means: hello@mywebsite.com for customer service sales@mywebsite.com for inquiries name@mywebsite.com for individual team members It’s a great way to keep things organized and help your customers reach the right people without unnecessary back-and-forth. Google Workspace also comes with a range of useful productivity features such as: Smart compose Email scheduling Real-time collaboration on docs, slides and sheets Built-in chat to ping your team when needed Wix and Google Workspace doesn’t just help your business look good, it also comes with phishing protection, spam filters and 24/7 customer support (chat, email or phone). There are also advanced delivery options to route emails, set rules for unknown senders, or catch-all addresses if you like to keep tabs on everything. As noted by Meghan Kennedy, founder of lucid ladybug  (sustainable styling and coordinating services), who attended a recent Wix x Google workshop:  "As a sustainable stylist, I work to individualize and customize every client experience and event. I trust Google Workspace to help streamline all communication and utilize email, Google Sheets, Google Docs—and now, Google Gemini and NotebookLM. Having a shared workspace allows me to run notes between clients, eliminating excess back-and-forth and relieving my bandwidth as a solopreneur." Wix makes things simple by offering Google Workspace plans directly within your Wix account. You get: Access to Google Calendar 30GB (or more) of inbox + Drive storage File sharing and collaboration tools Access to the Google Gemini AI assistant and NotebookLM Everything you need to run your business from one place. Pro tip:  If you're serious about your business, having a custom email is one of the easiest upgrades you can make. And with Wix, it takes just a few clicks to set it up. How much does email with Wix cost? The cost of a business email depends on the Google Workspace plan you choose. You don't need a paid Wix plan to buy a business email. But you must own a Wix domain . * Some Workspace business email plans are not yet available in all regions.  Each plan offers different services and has different amounts of cloud storage per user. Plans can be upgraded at any point. Business Starter Business email Gemini AI for Gmail Phishing and spam protection Ad-free email experience 2-step verification Enforced ssl connections Alert Center: notifications of potential security issues Basic endpoint management ( secure connection on different devices) 30 gb cloud storage per user Up to 100 participants in Chat and Google Meet video calls Business Standard All the features of Business Starter with the following extras: Gemini AI for Gmail, Docs, Meet and more 2 TB cloud storage per user Up to 150 participants in Chat and Google Meet video calls Record Google Meet meetings Shared Drives for teams Business Plus All the features of Business Starter with the following included: Gemini AI for Gmail, Docs, Meet and more 5 TB cloud storage per user Up to 250 participants in Chat and Google Meet video calls Advanced endpoint management (ensuring secure connection on different devices) Google Vault for eDiscovery and information governance You can also learn more information on plans from Google. Learn more about how to use Wix  as a website builder and to manage your business.

Turn your ideas into a website you love with Wix →   No matter what type of site you want to make, your website should represent you or your business in the best light possible. This is often easier said than done; it’s not uncommon to get burnt out when building a website from scratch or using a website builder . Fortunately, this guide will show you how to build a website from scratch while maintaining your sanity. Keep reading for expert tips on getting started, or check out our website launch checklist for additional steps on getting your site publish-ready. Learn more: What is a Wix website? Looking to create a website fast? If you're looking to create a stunning website, fast—there are several ways you can go about it. A website builder, like Wix is a great place to start, you can choose from over 2,000 pre-designed, customizable website templates to easily build a website. Choose templates by website type, functionality or your business industry. You can discover more in this piece - should I use a template to make a website ? Not fast enough? Then you might want to consider creating a website with AI. An AI website builder can make a site for you in minutes. All you have to do is tell it what you want. How to make a website from scratch Define what type of website you want to make Choose your website builder Pick and register a domain name Choose a web hosting plan Pick your template Customize your template to your brand Build your site structure and architecture Add useful pages Create engaging content Test and publish Maintain and promote your website 01. Define what type of website you want to make Every great site starts with a clear website goal  and understanding your audience. Know what you're here to do—selling products, sharing knowledge or building a community. A clear website purpose keeps you on track as you build. Next, get to know your audience. Who are they and what do they need? Create personas based on their demographics, interests and challenges. Use surveys or chats to gather helpful insights. The better you understand them, the more your site will grab attention and keep visitors coming back. Want your website to stand out? Focus on what makes you different. Start by exploring other sites in your market. How do they look? How do they work? Take notes on what they’re doing well and where they fall short. Spot trends, find gaps and think about how you can offer something better. Expert tip from Ian Lawson, head of user experience at Slickplan : “Before jumping into design, take the time to understand who your audience is and how they look for information. The most successful websites are built around clear user goals. They use that insight to guide everything from site structure to navigation to content hierarchy, ensuring that visitors find what they need in as few clicks as possible.” Learn more about website mapping . Depending on your goals, there are different types of websites that you may want to consider creating and various elements worth adding to your site: Business & commerce websites : These websites are built to get things done. Selling products through an online store  on an eCommerce  platform, booking services or giving customers a clear idea of what a company offers—business websites focus on clarity and conversion. From local shops to national brands, they share pricing info, service details, testimonials and contact forms. A solid privacy policy  is a must and adding a chat feature makes staying in touch with customers quick and easy. Creative & portfolio websites : If you're a photographer, designer, writer or musician, your website should reflect your style. A strong portfolio website might include a photo gallery  to highlight your best work, a blog to share your process and social media links to grow your audience. For freelancers or creative agencies, these sites act as living resumes—personal, expressive and designed to attract the right clients. Content & media websites : These sites focus on sharing stories, insights or entertainment. A niche blog  is a classic example, often packed with how-tos, lists or essays. Content-heavy websites might also include videos, podcasts or a news section. If you’re publishing regularly and want people to keep coming back, make sure to have clean navigation, a search tool and maybe even a members area for exclusive stuff like newsletters. Educational websites : School homepages, online courses and resource hubs make learning easier for everyone. These sites include lessons, PDFs , video lectures or even certification programs. A clear layout and simple navigation keep things user-friendly, while member log-ins can track progress. Many also include blogs or FAQ sections to answer questions and explore topics in more detail. Personal & lifestyle websites : From fitness journeys to recipes or travel stories, personal websites come in all styles. A couple planning their wedding might create an event website  or a wedding website  to share info and collect RSVPs. Some people prefer a one page website —simple and streamlined—perfect for a resume, bio or link-in-bio page. You can add a photo gallery, a blog or just a few social media links to keep it personal and relatable. Institutional & public service websites : Built for trust and accessibility, these sites are for schools, governments, charities and community groups. A nonprofit website  might include donation forms, mission statements and volunteer sign-ups. A church website  could share service times, livestreams and upcoming events. Utility & niche websites : Some websites have one job—and nail it. From comparing insurance plans to calculating a mortgage, utility websites focus on function. These can be custom tools, SaaS platforms, directories, or crowdfunding sites. With the right strategy, you can also monetize your website  by offering premium features, ads or partnerships. Some sites serve more than one purpose, so it’s important to focus on your main goal. For example, Cleverchefs uses its site to tell its brand story. While it attracts new bookings, the main focus is helping prospects understand what makes Cleverchefs unique. Their site reflects their company’s ethos, making it a powerful tool to connect with clients who share their values Expert tip from business owner Nick Collins, founder of Cleverchefs : "When I ask my clients why they chose us over our competitors, they usually say it's because of our website. I think they can really feel our passion through the way we connect with them and stand out as a creative catering company." 02. Choose your website builder A website builder is a popular and affordable solution that enables you to set up, design, personalize, publish and manage a website without having to use code. The best platforms help you get a site set up and launched quicker and without fuss—while also offering 24/7 support and built-in features that make scaling easier. Learn more about what a website builder is . Expert tip from Esin D. Habif, product marketing lead (outbound) at Wix.com: "What often gets forgotten when talking about choosing a website builder is the capabilities of the infrastructure that’s promised to you—the reliability of the hosting, the level of security that’s in order to protect your visitor’s data, and of course your site's speed. Even if infrastructure is not the first thought that comes to mind when it comes to making a website, if it’s not robust enough, it can cause large headaches for website owners when trying to scale a website later on." When you choose the right website builder, you won’t have to deal with the mountains of minutia that other DIY site owners may face (e.g., installing security features by hand, fixing bugs on your own, etc.). Low-code-no-code software takes care of web development for you, so you don't need to know how to code to customize your site's design. Modern-day website builders will also include AI-powered capabilities, allowing you to work faster and smarter than ever. Learn more: Website builder vs. CMS Website builder vs web developer Wix vs. GoDaddy That said, while there are several solid players in this website-building industry, you’ll want to make sure that you do your due diligence before investing in the right one. Making the wrong choice could leave you with serious regrets down the road. Learn more about why you should use a website builder . Sign up for Wix today. Here are some key factors to consider so that you end up with a website builder you love: Customizability: A good website builder should offer the customization you need to start and design your website according to your unique brand and vision. For example, do you envision creating a static website or a dynamic one? Look for builders that offer a range of layout options, as well as the flexibility to tweak the design and functionality to your liking. Wix, for instance, offers hundreds of designer-made templates in addition to AI-powered site creation that can be easily modified for your brand. Furthermore, its WYSIWYG (what you see is what you get) editor lets you preview your changes in real time as you go. Back-office tools/business capabilities: Beyond just website design, when it comes to starting a website, a website builder should provide the back-office tools that you need. This might include features like eCommerce functionality if you need to create your own eCommerce website , inventory management, appointment scheduling and customer relationship management (CRM) tools. Create your list of must-haves and the tasks that need automating as you evaluate your options. AI capabilities: AI is all the rage these days—and for good reason. When you’ve got a full-time job or business to run, AI tools can simplify the process of creating and maintaining your website. For example, Wix’s AI site builder can help you produce a fully functional website in minutes. It makes sophisticated decisions on your behalf regarding your web design, site copy and user experience, while setting you up with the right business apps; you can always edit your site as desired, but can save yourself hours of setup time. Learn more: How to make a website fast Third-party integrations: Chances are, you already have a favorite platform for emails, advertising or other functions—or perhaps you’re a retailer who wants to expand to new sales channels like Amazon. Seek website builders that integrate with your favorite tools and channels, or that offer sufficient alternatives. Explore your options in marketplaces like Wix’s App Market . (Note that you can also use Wix Headless to access Wix tools from any application.) Security: Website security is paramount to protect your site and user data. A reliable website builder should offer security features like SSL certificates, regular backups and security monitoring to safeguard against cyber threats and data breaches. Speed: Website loading speed significantly impacts user experience and SEO rankings. As page load time goes from one second to five seconds, the probability of a visitor bouncing increases by 90% . Choose a website builder known for fast-loading websites. Look for built-in capabilities like content delivery networks (CDNs) , which speed up content delivery; streamlined code; and tools like an image compressor to optimize visuals for faster load times. Reliability: A reliable website builder should provide consistent uptime and minimal downtime. Read reviews and check the builder's uptime statistics to give yourself peace of mind knowing that your website and online presence will be accessible to visitors around the clock. Support: Most of us don’t realize how important support is until it’s dire. As you evaluate your options, you’ll want to check that customer care is accessible in your time zone and that you can resolve issues before they snowball. Look for website builders that offer various support channels, including a knowledge base and self-help resources. For example, Wix has a 24/7 support team as well as a robust library of how-to articles, YouTube videos and communities to help you find whatever answers you’re looking for. Expert tip from Esin D. Habif, product marketing lead (outbound) at Wix.com: "As a creator or entrepreneur, you're often wearing multiple hats. You're designing the website, you're optimizing for SEO. This means you need a website builder that makes it easy and very learnable for you to do all of those things, on the same platform and still deliver as if working with experts in those fields." Building a website for your business, passion project or side hustle should be easy and exciting. With Wix, you can customize and launch a professional website in minutes, no coding needed. We’re all about simplifying the process so you can focus on what matters most–bringing your ideas to life. So why wait? Let’s get started on creating the website you’ve always wanted. 03. Pick and register a domain name Now comes one of the most exciting parts of making a website—picking a  domain name . How domain names work Your website’s address  (or website URL ) is the path people use to find you on the web. When someone types it into their browser, a web server  gets to work. It locates your site’s IP address —like finding coordinates on a map—and loads your site for the visitor. This all happens thanks to the Domain Name System , or DNS, a global network that turns easy-to-remember names into the numbers computers understand. Why your domain name deserves extra thought With over 368 million domain names  already registered and more added every day, standing out takes some creativity. A great name tells your story, reflects your values and resonates with your audience. That’s why finding a unique, memorable name matters more than ever. Choosing a domain name  doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Pick something unique and easy to remember. Most top-level domains  and subdomains  combine your business or website name with an extension like .com or .org , making it easier for people to find you. Need fresh ideas? Use a website name generator  to get the creative juices flowing and discover names that are catchy, unique and available. Claim your domain: Here’s how it works All domain names must be registered with a domain name registrar or registry, where the owners of any domain name can be searched and found. This process ensures your domain is unique and officially recognized online. By registering a domain, you’re essentially leasing it for a specific period (usually a year or more). That’s why you can’t just “create” a domain on your own—it needs to be registered to exist on the web. You might wonder why domains come with a cost. This fee helps maintain the DNS infrastructure and covers the services provided by registrars. You'll also need to consider what domain extension you want to use: .de domain .xyz domain .co domain .ch domain .be domain .store domain .info domain .tv domain .company domain .digital domain .ca domain .fr domain Website builders often throw in a free custom domain name when you sign up for a paid website building plan . Instead of a generic web address, you get your very own unique URL (like yourbusiness.com). It looks more polished, builds trust with visitors, and helps boost your site on search engines so more people can find you. Learn more:   Website name ideas 04. Choose a web hosting plan Web hosting stores your site's files and images on a server managed by the hosting provider. When a user enters your URL in a browser, a request is sent to the server and your site is then served. Many hosting providers are out there, but the simplest, most secure option is choosing a website builder with built-in hosting. For example, Wix offers free web hosting  with every site. This means no digging through hosting plans or making extra decisions—you can focus entirely on building your site. From shared hosting to cloud hosting, there are several different  hosted services  to choose from. Wix sites all include reliable and secure hosting, meaning high   uptime  for all user sites. This is an important consideration when picking a hosting provider both as a small business owner or enterprise site. 05. Pick your template The visual layout of your website is its most important element. You’ll want to take your time exploring your options before settling on the visual imagery and design. To get started, take a look at professional website templates to see which one fits your vision best. Learn more: What is a template Looking for portfolio templates , model portfolio examples  or templates for an online store ? Explore dozens of customizable options that fit your style. From simple website templates  to more advanced designs, there's something for every idea and every vision. Find design inspiration As you plan out your site, note what your competitor sites look like and check out other visual platforms, like Pinterest and Instagram. All of these examples will provide insight into what fonts, colors and web design styles and trends your audience gravitates towards. However, avoid copying what’s already been done. Rather, gain an understanding of the visual language you want to pursue and check that it resonates with your intended audience. Expert tip from Anna Suntsov, blog and social team lead at Wix.com: "The most important thing before building a website is good research. Know what you want to do and collect strong inspirations that will contribute to your design." Alternatively, build your website with AI If the process of choosing and customizing a template feels daunting, or you simply don’t have the time, Wix’s AI website builder can simplify your work even further. Just answer a few simple questions about your goals and Wix will create a custom-made, fully functioning site for you in minutes. The AI site builder combines our decades' worth of experience in web design with the best tech that AI has to offer. The result: a builder that not only creates a site that's appealing to your customers but also equips you with all the web pages and widgets you need to run your business. Try our AI website builder  for free. 06. Customize your template to your brand Your website is often the first thing people notice about your brand, and 75% of users judge credibility based on design . From layout to load speed every detail matters. A generic site blends in but a branded design shows confidence, professionalism and value. Your template is a flexible tool you can shape to fit your brand. Adjust it to create the tone that feels just right. When your design reflects your brand's personality visitors will instantly feel at home. Build your site with meaning, not just style Before choosing colors or fonts take a moment to focus on what your brand truly represents. What feelings or ideas do you want people to associate with it? Is it professionalism, joy, rebellion or fun? Write these down and start linking them to visual styles. For example, "calm" might mean soft muted colors and lots of white space. "Confident" could mean bold fonts and strong contrasts. Create a quick visual map with your website type in the center. Surround it with moods, keywords and themes. This helps shape a design direction that feels purposeful and meaningful. Once you have a solid foundation everything starts to click—your logo placement, photo style, copy tone and call-to-action buttons all work together seamlessly.. Craft a website color theme The use of color is not only for making your site look nice. Your color palette should align with your brand identity. Color psychology is important to take into consideration, as colors have the power to affect and evoke specific emotions and behaviors. For example, blue has become a common color used in branding corporations and businesses, particularly in the tech field—most likely because blue is associated with stability and reliability. However, blue can also reflect sadness, hence the term “feeling blue.” Orange, for example, is generally paired with feelings of freshness and vitality. Keep in mind that the feeling correlated with a color also depends on the shade and what other colors it’s paired with. These are both important points to consider when choosing your website color scheme . To get started, consider your website goals. Think about the vibe you want to create and the emotions you want to convey, especially if you’re starting a business . The more aligned your web design is with your overall branding, the more people are going to connect with your company and your website. And the stronger the personal connection, the more time they’ll spend on your business website. This will have enormous effects on conversion rates and overall interest and engagement with your brand. Keep in mind that choosing your color theme doesn’t mean you’re stuck with that palette forever, so try out different options and see what speaks to you. With Wix, for example, you can adjust your site’s colors at any point by clicking on the Site Design icon on the left side of your editing screen. From there, you can choose your base colors, accent colors, text colors and more. Pick the right web fonts Just like colors, typography can also play a key role in evoking feelings. When choosing the best fonts for your website, there are a number of things to consider. First, like all other elements on your site, your font choice should match your branding. Browse different typefaces to find one that reflects your unique personality, whether you’re youthful and contemporary or have a more traditional approach. The three primary types of fonts include: Serif: Fonts with a small line attached to the ends of each letter. Sans serif: More standard, block-like typography without small lines at the ends of each character. Script: Has a more elegant feel, with each letter connecting fluidly from one to the next. You can also check out our article on the best fonts for websites for more details on how to choose the best one for your site. Whatever you go for, make sure that your font is readable on both desktop and mobile devices. Remember to keep in mind Google safe fonts. Pro tip: When it comes to fonts, remember to stay consistent throughout your website. On Wix, you can easily accomplish this by going to the Site Design icon on your side panel and managing text through the Text Theme tab. That way, your content will appear uniformly across the site. Add other branding elements When it comes to creating a professional site that wows, the magic is often in the details. As you look to strengthen the branding on your site, don’t overlook these elements: Logo: Place your logo prominently in your header and as needed across your site. Wix's logo maker simplifies the logo design process, allowing you to create a logo that represents your brand and perfectly matches the aesthetic of your site. Favicon: A favicon is a small icon that appears in the browser tab to the left of your URL when someone visits your site.​​ Adding a favicon to your Wix website is a simple process that adds another layer of professionalism to your user experience. Just go to your site editor, click on “Settings” in the top left of your screen and scroll down to “Favicon.” Here, you can upload, adjust and save your favicon image. Then, just publish your site and behold—your brand new favicon. More tips: Learn the ins and outs of building a website using the Wix Editor with this online course. 07. Build your site structure and architecture A pretty site means nothing if it’s clunky and difficult to navigate. Before releasing your site to the world, check that your site makes it easy for visitors to find the exact pages that they’re looking for. There are several main components to bear in mind when you're planning and optimizing your site architecture, as listed below. Create your sitemap Your sitemap is the blueprint of your site’s architecture. It includes all the pages and content you plan to create, so web crawlers like Google can better find and understand your pages. Break your site into logical sections and categories that align with your goals and audience's needs. Whether you’re running an eCommerce store, a portfolio or a blog, a clear sitemap ensures every page has a distinct purpose within your overall structure. A sitemap typically needs updating whenever you add pages or move pages around, but systems like Wix automatically create and update your sitemap for you. Optimize your navigation menu Your navigation menu guides your human visitors to the right pages on your site. It’s usually displayed as a horizontal or vertical bar on your site with links to several different pages. As a general rule of thumb, your site should be organized in a way that enables a visitor to move from one page to another in three clicks or less. But your main menu does not—and should not have to—include all of your site pages. Link to the most important or popular pages from here, and provide an easy way for visitors to get back to where they started. (One of the best ways of achieving this is by adding a clickable logo at the top of your page that leads visitors back to the homepage.) To create an effective menu: Prioritize key pages like your homepage, product or service pages, and contact information. Stick to three clicks or less to reach any page. Users shouldn’t have to dig to find the content they want. Use logical categories and subcategories to group pages together cohesively. For instance, a photographer might place wedding and portrait galleries within a larger “Portfolio” menu item. Check how your favorite sites design their navigation menus for inspiration. You may, for instance, want to include a mega menu that’s more visual in nature and allows users to hover over a main menu category to see subcategories of links. Alternatively, if you’re creating a simple website with fewer pages, you can have a simple anchor menu at the top of your page that links to specific pages or specific sections on a page. A mega menu with visuals and subcategories could suit larger ones. You’ll also want to spend time optimizing a mobile version of your menu to make sure everything translates clearly to phones and tablets. To set up a menu in the Wix editor, just head to your side panel on the left side of the editor and click on “+” at the top of the panel to add an element. Then, select "Menu & Anchor" from the drop-down and choose your desired style. Expert tip from Adi Huri, product manager at WOW for Wix.com: "Keep in mind that the menu is the map of your website. By adding the right pages to your menu, in the right order, it can be the heart of your website’s success." Prioritize key content Make sure the most important content on your site is easy to find–it’s crucial for delivering a great user experience and meeting your goals. Highlight the information your audience is looking for, like your services, contact details or pricing, and place it front and center on your homepage or navigation menu. Don’t forget to include clear call-to-actions (CTAs) on essential pages to guide visitors towards actions like making a purchase, signing up or reaching out. Regularly check your site’s analytics to see how users are interacting with your content and make adjustments as needed to keep things running smoothly. Don’t ignore your footer While your navigation menu is the primary navigation tool visitors will use to traverse your site, you can use your footer strategically to provide additional links and information. Your footer offers prime real estate to reinforce important content or show other areas of your site that your main menu doesn’t cover (think: contact information and direct links to your social media profiles). In the Wix editor, you can easily drag and drop widgets and other elements directly into the footer. You can also easily adjust its size by dragging the border up or down. Design with scalability in mind As your business grows, so will your website. You'll need to accommodate new pages, features or increased traffic without compromising performance. That’s why it’s smart to plan a site structure that’s ready to grow with you. Choose a flexible layout that makes it easy to add new sections without messing up your current setup. If you’re adding more content, think about expanding your categories and updating your navigation so everything stays clean and organized. It’s also a good idea to check in on your site structure regularly. Adjust as needed to match your evolving content or business goals. By designing with scalability in mind, you can save yourself a lot of hassle down the line. Plus, it ensures your site grows with your business while delivering a smooth user experience. Here are a few reasons why site structure matters: Better user experience: A well-organized site makes it easy for visitors to find what they’re looking for, fast. This can lower bounce rates and leave a great impression on your users. Stronger SEO performance: Search engines love a clear site hierarchy. It helps them crawl and index your pages better, which can increase your visibility in search results. Higher engagement: When visitors can navigate your site effortlessly, they’re more likely to stick around, interact with your content and take the actions that matter most to your business ( like purchases, sign-ups or inquiries). 08. Add useful pages Once you’ve mapped out what pages you want on your site, it’s time to create them. Here’s a quick step-by-step of how to build useful and engaging pages and how to do it in the Wix editor. Open Page Manager: Click the "Pages & Menu" icon in the left side panel to access the Page Manager. Add page: Click the blue "+ Add Page" button to create a new page and click on whatever template suits your needs. Name your page: Once the page is added to your site, the page name will be highlighted in the left side panel for you to edit. Customize: Customize and build the newly created page by adding your content, adjusting the layout and refining the design. Manage pages: Drag and drop pages in the side panel to rearrange them or click on the ellipsis icon to the right of each page title to duplicate, delete, rename, hide and more. Subpages: Create dropdown menus by adding subpages to your main pages, enhancing site navigation. Save and publish: Save your work regularly and, when ready, hit the "Publish" button to make your changes live on your website. When designing web pages for your professional website , consider adding these pages: An inviting homepage . This is the face of your website, which means that you have to make it beautiful, yet informational. You should strive to present all the crucial elements right from the get-go. This way, clients will instantly understand who you are and what you do. A shop or gallery. This is the center of your site where visitors can browse through your products or services. Create product listings, manage inventory and process transactions all from one centralized dashboard. Dedicate time to write product descriptions that will grab potential customers’ attention. The same goes for your product photography to ensure that your items are displayed in their very best light. A personable About page. Use this page as your online business card . It’s the spot where you can present who you are, what you stand for, your strengths, values and any other crucial information you think your visitors should know about your team and your business. An easy-to-find contact section. Don’t leave your site visitors astray by making them search for your contact information. Dedicate a page to list contact numbers, email, social links and any other way users can get in touch with you. In addition, it’s a good practice to add your essential contact details on your website footer. An engaging blog. By starting a blog , you’ll be able to continuously add regular and fresh content to your website. You’ll have the chance to establish yourself as an expert in your field while giving your SEO efforts a well-deserved boost. Give our blog maker a go , when you're ready to start. Expert tip from Allison Lee, editor-in-chief at Wix.com: "Blogs don’t get enough credit for their long-term advantages. In the long run, a blog can serve as a huge traffic driver and a way to connect with future customers (case in point: our Wix Blog is the first touchpoint for millions of people who may have never stumbled onto our site otherwise). That said, a blog is a long-term commitment—it requires a well thought-out strategy and consistent maintenance." An interactive membership area. Creating a membership area on your website serves the dual purpose of monetization and user engagement. Various membership models, like drip-feed, all-in and fixed-term, can be employed to monetize your content. You can also offer premium content, online services or downloadable materials as incentives for users to subscribe. Easy-to-access online courses. The growing popularity of virtual classes presents an opportunity to generate income by launching a paid online course. This approach allows you to monetize your existing website traffic. Design courses that align with your expertise and cater to your audience's needs. Ensure the content is relevant and unique. An informative FAQ page. Save yourself and your clients some time (and frustration) by including an FAQ page to provide answers to questions that may naturally come up as visitors browse your site. An online booking system . Allow customers to schedule and pay for appointments or classes directly from your site. This way, you can spend less time playing phone tag and more time growing your empire. A testimonials page. This provides you with the perfect place in which previous, satisfied customers can sing your praises. Nothing is more impressive to a potential client or buyer than positive, unbiased reviews. A custom 404 page. When visitors land on a broken or unavailable link, a well-designed 404 page can make all the difference. Add a friendly message, clear navigation options or a search bar to guide users back to valuable content. Stay in the know— subscribe to the Wix blog  for a weekly dose of web design tips, trends and updates. 09. Create engaging content As people interact with your website, you'll want to make sure you're grabbing their attention and keeping it. The best way to do this is by optimizing and diversifying how you relay information. And it matters — websites with video content can increase user dwell time by up to 88% . That’s why thinking beyond just text is key to keeping visitors engaged. Start by thinking about the various types of content you can host on your website. There's text, photography, videos, animation and so much more. Once you have a grasp on all of your options, it’s time to decide how to organize it. Consider your content hierarchy For your visitors to feel comfortable and at home while browsing, it’s important to keep your site as organized as possible. Think about hierarchy here: you’ll want your most eye-catching and important content to be placed above the fold (in other words, the area that’s visible on your website without visitors having to scroll). Expert top tip from Amanda Weiner, CRO expert at Wix.com: "Site hierarchy and the information you provide your visitors with is more than just how your site looks. This will also directly impact how many visitors ultimately buy your products. You’ll want to be clear about your offerings through your content, your visuals and your buttons right from the get go to ensure visitors recognize your value right away." Furthermore, take note that some of your readers are only skimming your content. To make their lives easier and to make your content stand out, consider how you can optimize your design so your audience can get the most out of your content. To do so, consider which written information can be made more digestible and visual with the use of media features (videos, images and animations, infographics for example). Make certain headers and other important bits of information stand out more than others by opting for a larger font or a bright color that contrasts with the background. Looking to create content for your website? Consider using AI tools to speed up the process for you. Read all about Wix's next steps on AI text generation for websites and AI website creation. Or, get started by understanding more about how to build a website with AI . Consider SEO Search engine optimization, or SEO, is the practice of optimizing your site so your pages can rank higher on search engine result pages. When launching a new website from scratch, it’s vital to set your site up for success so it can be found by Google. The more exposure you get, the more likely it is for prospective clients to find your site and book your services, buy your products or read your blog. Enhancing your website's visibility on search engines like Google is essential for driving organic traffic to your pages. Fortunately, every Wix site starts out with a solid infrastructure that already exceeds the needs of search engines, giving you a strong SEO foundation in organic search. From there, Wix SEO tools make it easy for you to optimize your reach even further. Capabilities include: SEO Assistant: Every Wix site comes with an SEO Assistant. Just put in your focus keywords for the page you’re working on, and your SEO Assistant will tell you if there’s anything you can do to further optimize it. Keyword research: Wix provides keyword research tools to help you discover relevant keywords for your content. On-page SEO: Easily optimize your meta titles, descriptions and headers to improve your on-page SEO. Image SEO: Optimize your images with alt tags and compress them to improve page loading times. AI meta tag creation: Use AI to generate optimized title tags and meta descriptions for each of your pages. Sitemap generation: Wix generates XML sitemaps to help search engines crawl and index your site effectively. Mobile optimization: Ensure your website is mobile-friendly for better search rankings. You might also want to consider creating a responsive website. Local SEO: If you have a local business, use Wix's local SEO tools to improve your visibility in local searches. SEO analytics: Monitor your website's SEO performance with built-in analytics and reports. Rich results: Implement rich snippets and schema markup to make your search results stand out. Backlink tracking: Keep an eye on your backlink profile to improve your site's authority. You’ll also have the ability to utilize additional SEO tools like Ahrefs and Semrush . Consider the mobile experience As you build your site, keep in mind that a significant amount of consumers will be visiting your site from their smartphones. According to current trends, by 2025, a significant majority of internet traffic, nearly 70% , is expected to come from phones and tablets, with most of that share attributed to smartphones alone. It’s because of this that Google established mobile-first indexing , a system in which the search engine predominantly determines website ranking based on mobile websites, not desktop. As mobile web surfing becomes even more entrenched in our culture, it’s essential to invest time in mobile features as well as design to provide a smooth, intuitive user experience for those smaller screens. Whatever website creation platform you choose, make sure it has a mobile editor and the ability to adjust elements for mobile without it affecting the desktop version. You’ll also want a website builder that prioritizes performance and site speed. For example, Wix deploys performance-friendly website infrastructure, such as cache and lazy loading , to ensure faster sites. Once you're done with your site and happy with it, you may want to consider making your website an app as well . Learn more: How to make a website mobile-friendly 10. Test and publish Building a website from scratch can be an exciting journey, but rushing through the process is a common pitfall. In an eagerness to go live, many often overlook critical elements, potentially harming their website's performance and user experience. To avoid this situation, make sure to dot your Is and cross your Ts before publishing. Here are some key tips to help you out: Take advantage of features like Wix’s “Site Preview” mode, which allows you to view and navigate your site as a user. This enables you to experience the user journey of navigating your site and flag issues a user might encounter. Also, you can proofread your site's content and check for spelling and grammar mistakes. Clear, flawless text boosts professionalism and credibility, leaving a great impression. Ensure functionality across your site by testing all pages, links and embedded media on both desktop and mobile views to ensure your site is mobile-friendly. Also, check all internal and external links to ensure they lead to the correct pages. Avoid broken links to provide a positive user experience. Test your site across multiple browsers. This means making sure you test your website on various browsers like Chrome, Firefox and Safari. This guarantees your site looks right and works perfectly for everyone, no matter their browser choice. Ask a friend or colleague to take a look at your website and give you notes on their initial impressions, the user experience, clarity of content and effectiveness of your design. This step is imperative as someone less familiar with your content will be a much better barometer for how a new visitor would navigate your website than you can be. Allow one to two weeks for final tweaks to make sure everything works as it should. 11. Maintain and promote your website Much like a work of art, a website is never truly "finished." It's an ever-evolving entity that demands regular attention to maintain its performance. One of the primary advantages of using a website builder to create your site is that you can easily make additions and changes as needed in real time. By following these best practices, you can maintain a site that helps your business thrive online. Your website can quickly become outdated over time, from its design to your keyword targeting and overall SEO strategy. Often, website designers find that they need to provide easier navigation with better bounce rates and other important site metrics. This is particularly important if you have found that sales on your online store are decreasing. Update your website  as part of your website management strategy by adding new content regularly and making sure that your existing content is up-to-date. Every published Wix website has   Wix Analytics  included in the Dashboard, which gives you actionable information and metrics about your website traffic . Learn which content is working best and how your visitors behave, then use these insights to fuel your marketing efforts.  A great website doesn’t just meet user needs—it grows with them. Start by listening to your visitors. Use surveys, on-site forms or direct conversations to learn what they value most and pinpoint areas to improve. Combine this feedback with analytics to spot trends, like high exit rates or navigation challenges. Turn these insights into action. Simplify navigation if users can’t find what they need or create content that addresses popular searches and emerging trends. Stay one step ahead by keeping an eye on competitors and industry changes. Regular updates to your design, content and features keep your website fresh, user-friendly and competitive. It's also important to keep your website secure from hackers and malware. You can do this by installing security software and by keeping your website's software up to date. It's also crucial to use a platform that thoroughly incorporates  website security  such as Wix, which provides a safe foundation for your website and gathers real-time insights to detect any threats. Backing up your website regularly is a smart way to protect it from unexpected data loss. Whether it’s caused by technical issues, cyberattacks or accidental changes, having backups ensures you can quickly restore your site and keep everything running smoothly . Wix has a feature called Site History , which automatically creates site revisions every time you save or publish. This means that you can go back to a previous version of your site any time you want. You can also duplicate your site  at any time to create a manual backup in your Wix account. Be aware that the duplicated site is not automatically updated when you update your original site. You also need to let people know about your site. You can promote your website through social media, email marketing, guest blogging or outreach marketing. Effective promotion ensures that your website reaches the right people and delivers the desired outcomes—whether you’re aiming to increase traffic, engagement or sales. Expert tip from Lilach Goldis, social media marketing manager at Wix.com: "Identify the social media platforms your audience is active on the most and get an in-depth understanding of what it takes to rank in them. For example, converting your Instagram carousel posts into a Reel can capture attention more effectively and boost your content's impact, ultimately leading people to visit your site." Here are some ways Wix can help you get your site out there: SEO: In case we haven’t said it enough, SEO is imperative. For those less familiar with SEO, SEO is basically the practice of optimizing your site to help it rank better on Google and other search engines, which, in turn, bring you more web traffic. This is a crucial step in ensuring your site's success once it’s published. Although SEO is very technical and nuanced, using the right website builder can streamline the entire process. You can get an automatically optimized site with a solid infrastructure that exceeds search engine standards, alongside a suite of SEO tools. For example, Wix’s SEO Assistant gives you a personalized SEO setup plan for your site. It can make suggestions on how to tweak your content and provide explanations as to how these changes may help your rankings. For the more advanced user, Wix offers other SEO tools including a robots.txt editor, dynamic XML sitemaps and customizable canonical tags (among others). Keep in mind, however, that it takes time (and regular investment) to see the results of SEO, and your site may not rank well immediately. Email marketing: Whether you're an eCommerce business, a blogger or an entrepreneur, it’s essential to build and maintain strong customer relationships. Email marketing tools enable you to create and send professional email campaigns to your subscribers and drive traffic to your site. Send newsletters, promote new products, create trigger emails and share exciting updates with your audience. Blogs: Blogging is a powerful content marketing strategy. With SEO-rich blogging capabilities, you can create and publish engaging blog posts that not only captivate your audience but also rank well in search engine results. When selecting your website builder, look for built-in SEO features to ensure your blogs are optimized for maximum visibility. Advertising: Unlike SEO which takes time to yield results, ads can help drive immediate attention to your site. It’s worth experimenting with Google Ads, Facebook Ads and others—but avoid spreading yourself too thin. Use the tools at your disposal in your website builder, and test different targeting and campaign types. For example, you could use Instagram ads to retarget website visitors, in addition to Google search ads to engage new visitors who are searching for sites like yours. How to make a website with AI Making or designing a website with AI involves using artificial intelligence tools and services to enhance different aspects of your site, such as design, content creation or user interaction. Take Wix ADI , for example. Launched back in 2016, it gives every Wix user the option of creating a website in mere minutes by simply providing some upfront information about what your site should include. "Wix ADI offers smarter AI tools deeper down in the journey, like personal recommendations and business growth tools,” says Marine Levy Belder, a product marketing manager at Wix. Wix ADI serves as the foundation for Wix's AI website builder— an even more powerful way to create a site that’s tailor-made for you. Learn more about Wix's ever-evolving AI capabilities in this letter from our CEO, Avishai Abrahami . Be inspired by these websites made with AI via Wix ADI: Curtinsmith Guitars Bowden Scott Barnhart How much does it cost to build a website from scratch? The cost of building a website from scratch is influenced by several key factors: Design: Custom designs require more time and expertise, raising costs compared to using pre-made templates. The same is true if you choose to use a web designer to plan and design your site, rather than going for a DIY approach. Functionality : sometimes features like eCommerce capabilities, custom forms, databases and interactive elements increase costs. This is not true for all features, or website builders, so it's worth doing your research. Website builder: Costs vary between DIY platforms, like Wix and more custom-built websites, like Wix Studio . Content creation : Both on-page copy, images and video can cost you if you outsource them to professionals rather than creating your selves. Hosting and domain: Robust hosting services and domain registration can vary in price based on performance and security needs. With a Wix site, hosting is included; domain names are available with a paid plan. Marketing: Investing in marketing services to drive traffic and improve visibility can significantly affect your website building budget. How much does it cost to create a website with Wix? With Wix, you can create a website for free (learn more about, is Wix free ?) or opt for a paid plan that can cost from $17 a month, depending on the type and exact features. This plan will include a custom domain , 24/7 customer support and hosting services. Plans Monthly price (USD) Ideal for Features Free $0 Individuals just starting out Wix branding, limited storage, subdomain Light $17 Personal websites or small projects needing a custom domain Free domain for 1 year, 2GB storage, multi-cloud hosting, light marketing suite, 2 site collaborators Core $29 Small businesses or freelancers needing basic features Free domain for 1 year, 50GB storage, multi-cloud hosting, basic marketing suite, accept payments, basic eCommerce, 5 site collaborators Business $36 Best for eCommerce sites Free domain for 1 year, 100GB storage, multi-cloud hosting, standard marketing suite, accept payments, standard eCommerce, 10 site collaborators Business Elite $159 Large-scale eCommerce sites or high-traffic businesses Free domain for 1 year, unlimited storage, multi-cloud hosting, advanced marketing suite, accept payments, advanced eCommerce, advanced developer platform, 100 site collaborators Enterprise Custom pricing Large enterprises or businesses needing custom solutions Custom solution tailored to your business needs (All pricing in the table is based on annual billing) What are some common mistakes to avoid when creating a website from scratch? While creating a website by yourself can be very manageable, even if you don't have design or coding experience and especially if you use a website builder - it's worth taking into account some common pitfalls associated with building a website. These include: Neglecting your user experience (UX) design Focusing on design and how it looks, over functionality Ignoring accessibility guidelines and design Not optimizing for SEO from the start Failing to preview and test every part of your site before going live How to learn to create a website When it comes to learning web development and creating a website from scratch, you have a few main options to explore. Bootcamps Bootcamps offer intensive, short-term programs focused on teaching practical skills relevant to web development. They typically cover HTML, CSS, JavaScript and frameworks like React or Angular. Computer science or software engineering degrees Pursuing a degree in CS or software engineering from a university provides a comprehensive understanding of computer science principles, including web development. These programs cover a wide range of topics beyond web development, such as algorithms, data structures and software engineering principles. Independent learning options There are also ways for you to learn on your own. Some of these include online courses and tutorials, books, coding bootcamp prep programs and opportunities to contribute to open-source projects. Streamline the process of creating your website with Wix's website builder . Create a website from scratch FAQ Can anyone create a website from scratch? If you choose a website builder that essentially provides the infrastructure of your site, yes. You don't have to know coding to make a website, you just have to use the right website platform. With Wix, your entire site infrastructure is taken care of, including advanced levels of security, including public key certification via TLS, so you can focus on what matters: your design and content. Why is it important for my business to have a website? A website is an essential part of any business's marketing strategy. It provides a way for potential customers to learn more about your business, your products or services, and how to contact you. You can also use a website to manage and run your business, from attracting clients to using your site to manage bookings or to sell products and services and accept payments. How can I keep my website up to date? There are a few things you can do to keep your website up to date: Update your content regularly. This includes adding new blog posts, articles and other content to your website. Fix any errors or bugs. If you find any errors or bugs on your website, fix them as soon as possible. Make sure your website is mobile-friendly. More and more people are using their mobile devices to access the internet, so it is important to make sure your website is mobile-friendly. Promote your website. Let people know about your website by promoting it on social media, in your email newsletter and in other ways. How can I create a website for free? With a website builder, such as Wix, you can choose to create a website for free. This will include access to templates, hosting and advanced security features. You can also upgrade to a premium plan to register a domain name and benefit from 24/7 customer support. How long does it take to make a website? In general, anywhere from one to six months depending on the type of website you make and how you choose to create it. If you do it yourself, with a website builder you can set your own time frame and work reasonably fast. If you choose to work with a web designer and/or developer, it often takes longer. Learn more about how long it takes to build a website. Do I need technical or coding knowledge to build a website? If you use a website builder, like Wix, so no. You can choose from several customizable templates for every type of website, and use its intuitive drag-and-drop features and editor to make a website from scratch. What are the most effective ways to monetize a website? Popular ways to monetize a website include affiliate marketing, display ads with Google Adsense, sponsored content or subscription content. The strategy you choose to make money from your website will depend very much on your target audience. It's also best practice to test different strategies and diversify how you monetize your site. How to make a website for your business? When it comes to making a business website, choosing the right website builder is crucial. Whether you want to make your own website with a drag-and-drop builder from templates, or have your site built by a web developer and designer, choose a website builder, like Wix. Enterprise-grade hosting and security make it a good choice for any type or size of business website. How to start a website? Starting a website begins with choosing what type of website you want to setup and why. Then you'll need to decide on the best website builder for your needs. Choose the right one and setting up a website, including its hosting, domain name and security, is taken care of for you. What are some top tips for building a website? Start with a clear purpose for your website Choose a customizable template Opt for a clean website design with clear navigation Use good images and optimized content in general Make sure your site is mobile friendly Include essential pages, such as a homepage, Contact Us Optimize for SEO and test it before publishing What are some good website builders for beginners? Wix is a popular choice for beginners due to their user-friendly drag-and-drop interfaces, extensive templates and built-in features like e-commerce and SEO tools How to make sure that my website is secure from the start? Choose a reputable hosting provider, or website builder with robust security measures. Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication. Check your site comes with an SSL certificate to encrypt data. Regularly update software and plugins to patch vulnerabilities. How do I get people to visit my website? Here are some popular ways drive traffic to your website: Search Engine Optimization (SEO: Optimize your website content with relevant keywords to rank higher in search results. With Wix yiu can use the in-built SEO assistant to help you do this. Social media marketing : Share your website's content on social media platforms to reach a wider audience. You might need to repurpose it in order to fit out social media users consumer content. Create a blog: Create valuable and engaging content that people will want to share and link to. Paid advertising : Invest in targeted ads on platforms like Google or social media.

In the ever-evolving world of eCommerce and how to build a website , two giants stand out: Wix and Shopify. Both platforms have been helping entrepreneurs and businesses get online since 2006, offering user-friendly solutions to create and manage their online presences.  Wix, with its impressive 8.5 million live sites globally, has become associated with intuitive and versatile website creation. On the other hand, Shopify has carved out its niche as an 'all-in-one' eCommerce platform, powering over 5.6 million online stores worldwide. While both platforms allow you to build websites and sell products online with relative ease, they each bring unique strengths to the table. In this comprehensive comparison, we'll dive deep into the features, functionality and user experience of Wix and Shopify, helping you determine which platform aligns best with your specific goals. Looking for the best Shopify alternatives ?  Try Wix for free and see how it compares. Skip to a section: Key features Drag-and-drop capabilities Web design (and AI) App market Security and reliability Blog Ecommerce Marketing and SEO Customer support Pricing Wix vs. Shopify: key features Before we get into the nitty-gritty, here's a quick overview of Wix and Shopify’s website builder offerings. Drag-and-drop capabilities When it comes to website creation, the editor is where the magic happens. Wix shines in this department with its drag-and-drop builder that supports both non-coders and coders alike. Those with absolutely no code experience can use the editor to create their sites. This intuitive interface allows you to precisely position elements anywhere on the page, offering design flexibility and customization down to the pixel. With over 2,000 free, professionally designed website templates , including more than 120 that are specifically for online stores, Wix provides a vast number of starting points for any business. In contrast, Shopify's editor, while user-friendly, doesn't offer the same level of drag-and-drop functionality. Instead, it allows you to add, delete and edit sections within predefined layouts. Shopify offers over 200 themes, with 23 free options and 246 paid alternatives.  While both platforms cater to users of varying design experience, Wix's approach provides greater creative freedom, making it easier for entrepreneurs to bring their unique visions to life without coding knowledge. Bottom line:  Wix’s free-range drag-and-drop tools allow for greater customization. Wix’s website builder additionally comes with plenty of free template options that cover a wide range of industries, and unlike Shopify, aren’t solely eCommerce-focused. Explore Wix Studio to elevate your web design, or read more about Wix vs. Studio . Web design (and AI) When it comes to leveraging artificial intelligence in website creation and management, both Wix and Shopify have made impressive advancements. Let's dive into how these platforms utilize AI for website building and streamlining business operations. Wix: AI site builder and tools Wix has been investing in AI since 2016 when launching Wix ADI (Artificial Design Intelligence). Here are just some of the tools that sets Wix apart: Wix AI website builder : Wix’s AI website builder lets you create a personalized, fully functional website in minutes. Through a simple chat interface, you describe your vision and goals, and the AI generates a custom, business-ready site that you can easily adjust to fit your needs. Built-in AI tools: Wix’s AI goes beyond just building your site. It helps generate branded content, product descriptions and entire blog posts, so that your site feels like one cohesive brand. You can also create or edit images on the fly with AI. Plus, Wix provides AI-designed layouts and sections tailored to your style, as well as SEO and marketing tools like optimized meta tags, email campaigns and Google Ads content. AI assistants: Wix offers AI assistants throughout its platform that guide you through various stages of site creation and business growth. Different assistants provide support for different tasks in Wix, such as picking the right theme for your brand or finding the tools you need in the Editor. Note: Wix has a separate brand/product called Wix Studio, a dedicated solution for agencies, freelancers and enterprises with advanced design and technical requirements. Wix Studio enables more intricate designs, responsive behaviors and offers multi-site management capabilities. Create a website  with Wix today. Shopify: AI tools for eCommerce Shopify's AI capabilities are focused on eCommerce functionality and are packaged as two types of toolkits: Shopify Magic: This free suite of AI tools includes features for generating site themes based on a single prompt, image editing, SEO keyword generation, FAQ answer suggestions, email marketing (recommendations/scheduling), chat, checkouts and more. Shopify Sidekick: An AI assistant that provides step-by-step setup instructions for Shopify-related tasks, as well as strategy and content advice. Sidekick speaks 20 languages and can generate new images with a few keywords. While both Wix and Shopify offer AI-powered tools, their focus and strengths differ. Wix excels with its versatile AI website builder, making it ideal for individuals and business owners across various industries by allowing simple website creation and design through a conversational interface. On the other hand, Shopify’s AI tools are tailored specifically for eCommerce, making it highly appealing to busy store owners. Wix also provides more design flexibility with a wide range of templates and AI-driven customization, making it a top choice for creative freedom. Both platforms support scalability, but Wix’s diverse AI tools extend beyond eCommerce to cover a broader online presence. Bottom line: Wix is ahead of the game when it comes to AI-driven website creation and overall design flexibility. However, Shopify is ramping up the competition, particularly in the eCommerce sector, with AI tools focused on streamlining online store management and sales processes. App market When it comes to enhancing your website's functionality, both Wix and Shopify offer robust app marketplaces. Before we compare the numbers, it’s important to keep in mind that Wix has a “native solution” approach. Many features that might require third-party apps on other platforms come built-in with Wix, allowing business owners to keep their business solutions under one roof. Wix's App Market boasts over 750 apps from pre-vetted partners, providing a diverse range of options that span various industry and website types. While Shopify's App Store is more extensive with around 16,000 apps, these apps are primarily focused on eCommerce solutions. For example, Shopify offers a wider range of apps and direct integrations specifically for shipping carriers and fulfillment warehouses. Wix's app ecosystem, on the other hand, caters to a broader range of industries and website types such as businesses that take online bookings like hotels and gyms, businesses that sell online, have menus (restaurants) and so on. Bottom line:  While Shopify may have a numerical advantage with apps and a lean towards eCommerce, Wix’s investment into native solutions means that you can find what you’re looking for within Wix (whether you’re running a restaurant, online store, etc.). It means you don't necessarily need an integration or multiple subscriptions to run and grow your business. Security and reliability A secure and dependable website isn't just a nice-to-have—it's an absolute must for any online business, especially if you're collecting sensitive information, like credit card details, email addresses or any other personal data.  On the security front, both Wix and Shopify check the essential boxes: SSL encryption to secure data transmissions 24/7 security operations center (SOC)   PCI compliance for eCommerce DDoS mitigation against attacks Two-step verification Fraud detection Learn more about website security on Wix. Bottom line:  Both platforms take website security seriously with around-the-clock monitoring and safety measures. Blog When it comes to blogging, both Wix and Shopify offer built-in solutions, but Wix has a slight edge with its more comprehensive platform. Wix offers an intuitive blogging experience, packed with features for both beginners and seasoned content creators. You’ll find flexible layout options, along with AI-powered tools that can generate blog ideas, outlines, full posts and even edit content based on your target audience, keywords and content goals. The platform also includes an AI meta tag creator and SEO checklist to help optimize each post. Organizational features like categories and tags are built in, plus you get automated SEO assistance for sitemaps and metadata to improve your blog's visibility. On the other hand, while Shopify does include a basic blogging engine, it falls short on advanced content management features like replying to comments directly or adding multiple authors. It also lacks detailed blog analytics, such as tracking blog views—features that Wix offers seamlessly. Shopify's blogging platform additionally offers limited design options and less native SEO tools compared to Wix. Bottom line: While Shopify's blogging tools are designed to help you build a community around your brand, Wix's feature-rich blog maker gives you more tools to create a truly engaging and professional blog. Learn how to make a blog with Wix. Ecommerce Both platforms provide essential features like secure payment processing , inventory management and multichannel selling capabilities. Wix's strength lies in its built-in eCommerce tools that don't require additional integrations, which can be particularly appealing for small to medium-sized businesses or those just starting their online selling journey. On the other hand, Shopify's strengths lie in its extensive multichannel integrations and advanced order and inventory management tools, which are particularly beneficial for merchants with multiple locations or those scaling their operations. Learn more: Why use Wix? Diving into the specifics, both platforms support selling on popular marketplaces like eBay, Google Merchants, Amazon and TikTok. However, Shopify extends its reach further by including platforms like Pinterest, Walmart and Target Plus. It also supports SMS and WhatsApp sales. A notable advantage for Shopify is the “Shopify Buy” button (that's included with any Shopify subscription) as well as the recent integration of the "Buy with Prime" button, allowing merchants to tap into the vast Amazon Prime customer base and offer Prime benefits like free delivery. In addition to all this, Shopify has what it calls its “Handshake” marketplace, a unique feature that connects wholesalers (handpicked by Shopify) with retailers. This B2B platform opens up new opportunities for businesses looking to expand their wholesale operations or source products. A notable advantage for Wix is its unique checkout experience. With Wix, customers can bunch together different types of products and services in one shopping cart. For example, they can add a service (e.g., a haircut), an event ticket and physical products (like shampoo, if we’re staying with the hair theme) all into one shopping cart and then pay in one payment. This is something that is not currently possible with Shopify out of the box. With Wix you can also add elements to the checkout (something you can only do on Shopify if you pay for Shopify Plus, which is around $2,500/month). This is a big benefit for Wix users especially because you can modify fields in the checkout to collect the information you need from your customers. On top of this, you can make rules for certain fields to suit your business’ needs. For example, you can create a custom field asking your customers if the purchase is for business. If the customer selects "Yes," additional relevant fields will appear. Those who select "No" won't see these extra fields. This is a great way to collect information about your customers and discover their needs, and how to best cater to them. Bottom line: Ultimately, the choice between Wix and Shopify for eCommerce will depend on the specific needs of your business. Wix might be your best bet if you’re seeking an all-in-one solution, while Shopify might appeal to businesses focusing on multichannel selling, advanced inventory management or B2B operations. Explore how to start an online store with Wix's eCommerce platform . Read more about: Best eCommerce platforms Squarespace alternatives Wix vs Squarespace WordPress alternatives Marketing and SEO When it comes to marketing and SEO features , both Wix and Shopify bring powerful tools to the table, but there are some key differences. Wix takes the lead with its comprehensive suite of in-house CRM and marketing solutions, offering a one-stop shop for merchants looking to cover all their bases without the hassle of managing third-party apps. While Shopify may have an edge in certain advanced functionalities, Wix's platform is designed to give you everything you need right away. On the SEO front, both platforms have got you covered with the essentials. Shopify automatically handles some technical SEO aspects, like generating canonical tags and sitemaps, while also allowing you to optimize your content by editing title tags, meta descriptions, robots.txt files and URLs. Wix matches these capabilities and then some, offering a broader set of features that experienced marketers will appreciate. With Wix, you're getting direct ad campaign management from the Wix dashboard (something you can only do on Shopify Plus), direct integrations with tools like Semrush (which comes with 10 free keyword searches every 24 hours) and even AI-powered assistance for creating SEO-friendly content and meta tags. Both Wix and Shopify offer branding tools like a logo maker and business name generator to go alongside their website offerings. But what really sets Wix apart is its native-solution approach to marketing. For example, you can create social media graphics and videos in the Wix platform (and then post and manage the campaigns from Wix as well). Bottom line: While both platforms offer solid marketing fundamentals, Wix provides a comprehensive suite of in-house CRM and marketing solutions. Shopify may offer some advanced functionalities, but Wix’s platform allows you to cover the fundamentals without having to download or manage a third-party-app. Customer support Both Wix and Shopify provide 24/7 support through all sorts of channels including, phone, chat and email, with most customer inquiries resolved within 24 hours. They also both have help centers, with extensive knowledge bases that can assist with almost any troubleshooting need. Wix customer support includes: 24/7 callback service (for English speakers) Live chat (available in English Monday through Friday, 2 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET, and in other languages) Ticket submission Help Center (FAQ and community forum) Knowledge base with video tutorials Shopify customer support includes: 24/7 chat support Shopify Community Help Center Bottom line:  Between the two, Shopify leans more heavily on a digital support model. While both offer AI assistance and self-service resources, Wix has more readily available live support options. Pricing Shopify pricing: Basic (for solo entrepreneurs): $29/month Grow (for small teams): $79/month Advanced (for scaling businesses): $299/month Plus (for more complex businesses): starts at $2,300/month (for one year) Enterprise: Pricing available upon request Shopify also has a unique plan called the “Starter” plan, which costs $5 a month. This is for anyone who primarily wants to sell on social media or on the go. The Starter plan includes a simple online store, mobile POS, Linkpop (Shopify's link-in-bio tool), access to Shopify apps and other essential tools. The plan allows you to start small and upgrade as needed. Wix's pricing: Free plan: free forever plan. Learn more about is Wix really free ? Light plan:  $17/month  Core (with basic eCommerce features): $29/month Business (with standard eCommerce features):  $36/month Business Elite:  $159/month (advanced developer platform) Enterprise: Pricing available upon request All of Wix's paid plans include a free custom domain for one year. Bottom line:  Shopify’s plans are generally more expensive than Wix and are tailored to eCommerce businesses. Wix offers a free plan that you can use forever, whereas Shopify does not.  Related reading: Wix vs. GoDaddy The verdict: Wix or Shopify, which builder should you choose? In the battle between Wix vs. Shopify, the best solution for you comes down to what you intend to do with your website. Shopify is one of the most mature eCommerce platforms if you’re looking for a feature-rich, scalable online store and hold a hefty amount of inventory. As long as you don’t mind adding third-party apps and integrations to your site—there’s a third-party app for pretty much everything and anything eCommerce-related. Wix is the right choice if you need a content-focused website builder with outstanding design capabilities and flexibility. You don’t need a drop of code to be able to design a beautiful website, exactly the way you want it without being limited to defined sections—this is especially true if you use Wix Studio. With its user-friendly, do-it-yourself platform and affordable business solutions, Wix is an excellent choice for eCommerce. However, it’s not limited to just that. You can also take advantage of features like a booking calendar, event management tools, restaurant order handling and fitness business capabilities—opening up a range of other revenue streams and business opportunities. Start a free account with Wix . How to migrate from Shopify to Wix If you already have a Shopify website but want to switch to Wix, here's a quick overview of migrating your site : Add an app and select a Wix Account.  Go to the Wix App Market and add the Cart2Cart app to get started. Grant permission for the data switch and select what to migrate. Select your source cart (Shopify) and provide the necessary permissions to access it. Check the results. You can view your data in your Wix dashboard.  Editor's note: The information presented in this article is true as of June 18, 2025, unless mentioned otherwise.