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7 tips for starting a business as a teenager

Got a business idea you’re excited about? You don’t have to wait until you’re older to give it a go. If you’ve got a spark of inspiration and a bit of time, you can start small and build something of your own.

In this guide, we’ll share simple tips to help you start your first business as a teenager. Whether it’s a side hustle or a bold new idea, your business brainwave could be the start of the next big thing.

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Benefits of starting a business as a teen

Starting a business as a teenager is exciting and the best part is, it doesn’t need to be complicated.

You don’t need a long business plan or even any money to get it going. As long as you have a good idea, plenty of passion, some time plus a willingness to learn, you can get started straight away.

Running your own business as a teen can teach you loads of useful skills that could help you in the future. You might learn how to build a website or design a logo, how to talk to customers or how to sell your product or service. It can also boost your confidence as you try new things. Plus, if your business takes off, you could even make some money out of it.

What’s more, it looks great on uni or job applications too. It shows that you’ve got the drive to make things happen. And we’re here to show you how to get started.

In this guide

Someone in a brown T-shirt and jeans is sitting on a couch using a laptop, with large windows behind them showing buildings and cars outside

1. Come up with a business idea

You might already have an idea for a business. But if not, it’s time to get thinking.

The best ideas often start with something you already enjoy. Think about your hobbies, interests or skills. Maybe it’s something creative like fashion or design, or something practical like fixing bikes or helping with tech. You could also look at what people often ask you for help with.

Still stuck? Try browsing social media or marketplace apps for ideas or think about things you wish existed but don’t.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

  • Sell handmade arts, crafts or jewellery
  • Design posters, logos or websites
  • Upcycle or customise second-hand clothes
  • Tutor younger students in a topic you enjoy
  • Offer dog walking or pet sitting
  • Help older people with tech
  • Taking portraits or pet photos
  • Run bake sales or sell homemade treats
  • Starting a YouTube, TikTok or blog around a topic you love (you’ll need to be 13 or older, and it’s a good idea to check with a parent or carer before you start)

Pick something you enjoy and that feels manageable. It’s easier to stick with a new business idea when it’s fun.

Three people in casual clothes sit on stone steps, one using a laptop, the others on their phones

2. Do a bit of research

Before you dive in, take a moment to learn more about your idea.

Start by building your knowledge:

  • Explore sites like The King's Trust and Young Enterprise
  • Search on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and even LinkedIn to see what other young people or small businesses are doing (some platforms have age restrictions so check with an adult if you’re not sure)
  • Browse marketplaces like Etsy, Depop, eBay or Vinted to compare ideas and prices (these sites may require you to be 18 or have an adult’s help to create an account or sell items)
  • Check Google Trends to see what’s popular and what people are searching for

Then, ask yourself these questions:

  • Is anyone else doing something similar? If the answer’s yes, what do you like about what they’re doing? What would you change or do differently to make yours better or stand out as different?
  • Who is it for? Think about who would buy, use or need your product or service
  • How much would people pay? Look at similar products and services to see what they cost. This can give you a rough idea of how much to charge and what people might be willing to spend

You can ask friends and family what they think. Remember, you don’t need to spend loads of time on this. Just gather enough to help you make a confident start.

Two young people stand facing each other outside, one in a brown jacket and the other in denim, with trees and pavement in the background

3. Ask an adult for support

Starting a business as a young person can be a brilliant adventure, but there might be moments where you need a bit of extra help from an adult. That could be a parent, carer, family member or teacher who can trust and feel comfortable talking to.

They can support you with things like:

  • Setting up a bank or payment account
  • Understanding any legal rules
  • Staying safe when talking to customers
  • Working out if you need insurance or special permission

Some websites and platforms may also require you to be 18 or have adult permission, so it’s always worth checking first.

You can also explore trusted organisations that offer free support, mentoring and help with things like tax and business basics:

  • Young Enterprise: Enterprise programmes and inspiration for young people
  • The King’s Trust: Support for 16-30 year olds looking to start a business
  • Enterprise Nation: Advice and events for new entrepreneurs
  • Your local council: Many offer youth enterprise programmes or small business support

A person in a red jacket and jeans sits on steps with headphones on, writing in a notebook next to a backpack and coffee cup

4. Make a simple plan

You don’t need a big business plan to make a start. Even a few notes can help you stay focused. You could jot it down in a notebook, use a free template online or create a mood board with your ideas.

Ask yourself:

  • What are you offering?
  • Who is it for?
  • How much will it cost you to make or do?
  • What will your charge?
  • How will people find out about it?

Having a plan can help you stay clear on what you’re doing and why.

Two young people stand close together. One wears a denim jacket and tinted blue sunglasses, holding a phone. The other is in a brown top and tinted yellow-orange sunglasses, Both look at whatever is on the phone

5. Get the word out

Now it’s time to tell people about your business. Start small by letting friends, family and neighbours know what you’re doing. Remember, word of mouth can go a long way.

You could also:

  • Make a simple website: Free tools like Wix or Google Sites let you build a basic webpage without needing lots of fancy tech skills. If you have a bit of extra cash, you could use platforms like Squarespace to create a website too. If you’re under 18, ask an adult to help you set it up and check what you’re sharing
  • Create leaflets or flyers: Use free design tools like Canva to make simple posters with your name, what you offer and how people can get in touch. Print some off to share locally but check with a parent or carer before posting them through doors or putting them up in public spaces
  • Use social media: Platforms like TikTok and Instagram can be a great way to spread the word. Share photos, behind-the-scenes content and jump on fun trends to show off what you do. If you’re under 16, get help from an adult to set up a separate account for your business

Remember: Keep your personal details private and avoid sharing anything that could reveal where you live or go to school. And be careful about talking to strangers online. If anyone makes you feel uncomfortable, speak to an adult you can trust.

A person sits at a desk with a laptop, writing in a notepad, surrounded by coffee, notebooks and a camera, with a bed and plants in the background

6. Learn as you go

When you start a business, some things will go well and others might not. That’s completely normal. What matters most is that you learn from your mistakes, change it up and try again.

It’s a good idea to ask friends, family or customers what they think so you can figure out what’s working and what’s not. Look for signs like repeat customers or positive feedback. If something’s not landing, it might be worth tweaking your pricing, product or the way you promote it.

This will all help you build useful skills like:

These skills will help you in any future job or business. Celebrate small wins and remember that not getting it right doesn’t mean you’ve failed. It means you’re learning.

Three people sit close together, each holding a game controller. One wears yellow, one red and one a pink top

7. Keep it safe and fun

Running a business as a young person is a big achievement. But school, friends, rest and fun are still important. So go at your own pace and don’t put pressure on yourself to be perfect or earn lots of money straight away.

Make sure:

  • You have enough time and energy for school, college or anything else that matters to you
  • You get help when you need it
  • You take breaks and enjoy your free time
  • You feel safe and confident in whatever you’re doing

If something doesn’t feel right or starts to become overwhelming, stop and speak to someone you trust. It’s OK to pause, change your mind or start again.

Read more money tips and guides

Managing your money

Common questions about starting a teen business

  • Yes. If you're under 18, you'll usually need permission from a parent or guardian to start a business. Depending on what you're doing, you might also need their help to set up things like a bank account or register the business.

    If you’re unsure, speak to a parent, guardian, teacher or a careers adviser.

  • You can, but many platforms like Vinted, Depop, eBay, Etsy or PayPal have age limits. Most require you to be at least 18. You might need an adult to help you set up an account or manage payments. Always check the rules of the site you want to use and talk to a trusted adult before you start.

  • Maybe. If you earn over a certain amount in a year, you might need to pay tax or register as self-employed. Most teens won’t earn enough to pay tax, but it’s still a good idea to keep track of how much money you’re making.

    Ask a parent, teacher or trusted adult for help. You can also check the income tax rules on the government website.

  • You don’t need loads of money to get started. Many teen businesses begin with simple ideas that use things you already have – like offering a service or selling handmade items. You can also ask friends or family if they’d like to support you in small ways, like helping you print flyers or spread the word.

    If you need help with saving or managing your money, check out our guide to building good money habits as a teenager.

  • Read more

  • Start by thinking about what you enjoy, what you’re good at and what people might pay for. It could be something creative, helpful or skills-based. Start small, test it out and see what works. There’s no perfect idea – the best one is the one you’re excited to try.

  • Of course. Making mistakes or changing your mind is part of the learning process. Every business owner, no matter how successful, has faced challenged or had things go wrong. What matters is that you keep learning, trying new things and asking for help when you need it.

  • Always talk to a trusted adult before you start. They can help you with things like setting up a bank or payment account, understanding legal rules and working out if you need insurance or special permission.

    They can also help you stay safe when talking to customers or meeting people. If you’re ever meeting someone in person, take someone with you or let them know where you’re going.

    Don’t share personal information online and always use safe ways to get paid. If anything makes you feel unsure or uncomfortable, talk to an adult straight away.

Banking and personal finance

  • Everyday banking

    Got a UK bank account? Pay in cash, withdraw money and check your account at your local Post Office branch 

  • Savings

    Start growing your money with a savings account to suit you. Plus, manage your account online or in person 

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