How to Start a Successful Side Business With No Money in 2025
Real steps from someone who did it—without a trust fund or tech investor
When you think about starting a business, it’s easy to assume you need two things: money and connections. But what if you don’t have either?
That was me. I didn’t have funding. I didn’t have wealthy friends or startup advisors in my phone. What I did have was an idea I believed in, a New York Public Library card, and a willingness to learn. If you’re sitting on a business idea but feel stuck because of money, let me tell you this: you can start with what you have—and build from there.
Here’s exactly how I started my business with no money, and how you can too.
1. Use Your Library Card Like a Business Credit Card (But Free)
One of my first moves was using my NYPL (New York Public Library) card. It gave me access to quiet workspaces, free business books, market research databases, and even in-person business workshops.
I signed up for a free business class at the library, where I met other aspiring entrepreneurs and started learning the language of business—LLCs, tax IDs, and more.
Pro tip: Your local library likely has a small business librarian who can guide you toward free resources. Use them.
2. Meet With a Free Business Counselor
I booked a one-on-one session with a free business counselor through the NYC Small Business Services network. During that meeting, they gave me:
A list of grants and free classes across the five boroughs
Guidance on how to structure my LLC
Information on certifications like MWBE (Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise) and WBE
These are not just letters—they open doors to contracts, partnerships, and public sector opportunities you may not know exist.
3. Tap Into Small Business Centers
New York City is full of Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) and Business Solution Centers. I took advantage of:
Free legal clinics for startups
LLC formation help
Info sessions on certification programs
They walked me through forms, reviewed my documents, and saved me time and money I didn’t have.
4. Join Your Local Chamber of Commerce
I became a member of my local Chamber of Commerce, and that changed everything. They:
Shared grant opportunities
Connected me with other Black and women business owners
Invited me to free networking events and vendor markets
You never know what your neighborhood is offering until you plug in.
5. Use TikTok and Instagram as Free Marketing Tools
I didn’t hire a PR firm or pay for Facebook ads in the beginning. What I did was show up on TikTok and Instagram, creating content that resonated with real women.
I posted how-to videos, transformation stories, and moments from my journey. Some of them went viral, and suddenly I had customers. Not just likes—actual orders.
You don’t need a perfect studio or expensive camera. Just a phone and a clear message. Talk to your people the way you’d talk to your friends.
6. Start With the Version You Can Afford
You don’t need a warehouse or a 10-product line to start. I launched with one product. I bootstrapped packaging. I packed orders myself. I learned how to work with what I had, and every time I made a sale, I reinvested it back into my business.
Final Thoughts: You Don’t Need Money. You Need Momentum.
Starting a business with no money isn’t a myth—it’s possible. You just need to be resourceful, consistent, and clear about your why.
And remember: not all investments are financial. Time, energy, and community count too.
I’m not saying it’s easy. But if you're serious about building something that matters, you’ll be surprised how far you can go on grit, a library card, and a phone
