In a world that believes in second chances, individuals with previous convictions have the power to rebuild their lives and embark on a new journey—one that leads to entrepreneurship and self-sufficiency.
This article is dedicated to those resilient souls seeking inspiration and valuable opportunities. We’ll explore why felons should consider starting their own businesses and provide a comprehensive list of 41 incredible business ideas that can pave the way to success.
So, let’s dive in and discover the entrepreneurial path to a brighter future!
Why Should Felons Start a Business?
Behind every dark cloud, there’s a silver lining, and starting a business can be just that for individuals with past convictions. Here’s why:
- A Competitive Edge: Owning a business allows you to take control of your destiny. As a felon, you possess unique perspectives and experiences that can give your business a competitive edge. Embrace your individuality and let it shine through your entrepreneurial endeavors.
- Demand for Your Business: The marketplace is diverse and ever-evolving. You can tap into an untapped demand by identifying a niche that aligns with your passion and expertise. So many people get caught up in can a felon start an LLC before even looking at whether there is enough demand to make money.
- Social Media, Website & Business Cards: Establishing a strong online presence is crucial for any business in the digital age. Leverage the power of social media platforms, create a professional website, and don’t forget the impact of traditional marketing tools like business cards. They can serve as your virtual handshake, opening doors to new connections and customers.
- Funding: Seeking funding for your business can be challenging, but not impossible. Explore various options such as grants, small business loans, crowdfunding, or even self-funding. Remember, determination and resourcefulness are your allies on this journey.
- License: Ensure you have the necessary licenses and permits to operate your chosen business. Research your area’s specific requirements for good business ideas and ensure compliance. This step will establish your business’s legitimacy and boost your credibility among customers and partners.
- Personal Grit: The road to success is rarely smooth, but felons know the power of resilience better than anyone. Channel your inner strength, persevere through obstacles, and stay committed to your vision. Your determination will be the driving force behind your business’s growth and triumph. You will have to work hard to overcome the question: can felons start a business.
Okay, enough of beating around the bush. Let’s explore the best busineses to start when you have a previous criminal conviction.
Top Businesses Felons Can Start
Now, let’s explore an array of business ideas that felons can embark upon. Remember, these are just starting points—let your creativity flow and adapt these concepts to match your unique strengths and interests. So, can a felon start a business? Yes, just look at any of these businesses to start.
#1 – Event Planner
Unlock your creativity and organizational skills as an event planner. From weddings to corporate gatherings, people are always seeking professionals to make their special occasions unforgettable. Your attention to detail, ability to manage logistics, and knack for creating memorable experiences will set you apart in this industry.
Collaborate with clients, select venues, coordinate vendors, and design stunning themes to bring their visions to life. With exceptional customer service and a passion for crafting extraordinary events, you can build a thriving event planning business. The events industry is expected to reach $1,552.9 billion by 2028
#2 – Personal Trainer
If you have a passion for fitness and helping others achieve their health goals, consider becoming a personal trainer. With your knowledge of exercise, nutrition, and motivation, you can guide individuals on their fitness journeys.
Create personalized workout plans, offer one-on-one training sessions, and support and encourage your clients. Your positive impact on their physical and mental well-being will keep them coming back for more, establishing a loyal clientele and a rewarding business. The annual median wage of personal trainers was $40.7 thousand in 2021.
#3 – Graphic Designer
Unleash your artistic talents and technical skills as a graphic designer. Businesses, organizations, and individuals are constantly in need of captivating visuals to enhance their branding and communication efforts. Create eye-catching logos, stunning websites, engaging social media graphics, and attractive marketing materials.
By blending your creative flair with strategic design principles, you can help clients stand out in a visually saturated world while building a portfolio that speaks volumes about your expertise. All you need is a passport, and this career will take you anywhere.
#4 – Copywriter
Harness the power of words and become a copywriter, helping businesses craft compelling content that captivates their audience. Your ability to weave words together with precision and persuasion can significantly impact marketing campaigns, website copy, product descriptions, and more.
Dive into the brand’s voice, understand its target audience, and deliver captivating narratives that drive engagement and conversions. Your talent for storytelling and your way with words will be the cornerstone of your successful copywriting business.
#5 – Dog Walking/Grooming
Combine your love for animals with a profitable business by offering dog walking and grooming services. Many pet owners lead busy lives and rely on professionals to ensure their furry friends receive the care and attention they deserve.
Provide regular exercise and companionship through dog walking services or grooming services such as bathing, trimming, and nail clipping. Building trust with clients and their beloved pets will be essential to establishing a thriving and fulfilling dog-related business. The global market for pet grooming is expected to grow from $1305 million in 2022 to $2015 million in 2029.
#6 – Landscaping & Lawn Care
Transform outdoor spaces into beautiful landscapes as a landscaper and lawn care specialist. From residential yards to commercial properties, there’s a constant need for skilled professionals who can create and maintain aesthetically pleasing outdoor environments.
Offer services such as mowing, pruning, planting, and landscape design to enhance curb appeal and provide clients with functional and inviting outdoor spaces. Your green thumb and attention to detail will help you flourish in this nature-inspired business.
#7 – Automated Car Wash
Invest in automated car wash equipment and provide an efficient and convenient car cleaning service. With people leading busy lives, they often seek quick solutions for maintaining their vehicles’ cleanliness. Your car wash business can offer automated washing, drying, and even detailing services.
By incorporating modern technology and ensuring a high standard of cleanliness, you can attract customers seeking convenience and a sparkling car.
#8 – Storage Units
Can you start a business with a felony? Yes! As people accumulate belongings, the need for secure storage solutions grows. Own and manage a storage facility, offering individuals and businesses a safe space to store their items.
Provide various storage unit sizes, implement robust security measures, and offer flexible rental terms. With excellent customer service and a well-maintained facility, you can cater to the growing demand for storage and establish a profitable long-term business.
#9 – Dry Cleaning & Laundry
Make life easier for busy individuals and families by offering professional dry cleaning and laundry services. Invest in the necessary equipment, establish partnerships with local cleaners, and provide convenient pick-up and delivery options.
Whether it’s business attire, delicate garments, or everyday laundry, your reliable and efficient services will save customers valuable time and effort. The growth rate of the dry cleaning industry is 3.4% a year from now until 2028.
#10 – House Cleaning
Utilize your attention to detail and thoroughness to create a thriving house-cleaning business. Many individuals and families appreciate the convenience of professional cleaners who can maintain a clean and organized living environment. Develop a reputation for delivering top-notch cleaning services tailored to the specific needs of your clients.
Your meticulous approach and commitment to customer satisfaction will make you the go-to house cleaning service in your area. This is also a great way to network to find an apartment as a felon.
#11 – Construction & Restoration
Put your construction skills to work and offer services in renovation, remodeling, or restoration projects. From residential homes to commercial spaces, there’s a constant demand for skilled craftsmen who can bring new life to properties. Whether it’s painting, flooring, carpentry, or general contracting, your expertise in the construction field can create transformative spaces.
Build a reputation for delivering high-quality craft, attention to detail, and timely project completion, establishing a solid foundation for your construction and restoration business. You may want to consider getting your CDL as a felon as well.
#12 – Family & Event Photographer
Capture precious moments and create lasting memories for families and events through your photography skills. From weddings to family portraits, there’s a continuous demand for professional photographers who can immortalize special occasions.
Develop your unique style, invest in quality equipment, and master the art of composition and storytelling through imagery. Your ability to evoke emotions and freeze time will ensure clients choose you as their trusted photographer, allowing you to build a thriving business capturing cherished moments.
#13 – Blogger
Share your knowledge, experiences, and passions by starting a blog focused on a specific niche. Whether it’s travel, fashion, cooking, or personal development, blogging provides a platform for expressing your unique voice and connecting with an engaged audience.
Through captivating storytelling, informative articles, and engaging visuals, you can attract readers, monetize your content through advertising or sponsored collaborations, and turn your blog into a profitable business venture. Heck, the person writing this article is a felon!
#14 – Grocery & Food Delivery
In today’s fast-paced world, many individuals seek the convenience of grocery and food delivery services. Set up a system for online orders, partner with local grocery stores or restaurants, and provide efficient and reliable delivery to customers’ doorsteps.
Ensure prompt and professional service, maintaining the quality and freshness of the delivered goods. You can build a successful business in the ever-growing delivery industry by catering to people’s busy lifestyles and offering a convenient solution.
#15 – Florist
Tap into your creativity and love for flowers by establishing a florist business. From arranging stunning bouquets to providing floral decorations for weddings and events, your artistic touch can add beauty and joy to people’s lives. Build relationships with local suppliers, offer personalized designs, and provide exceptional customer service.
Your ability to create captivating floral arrangements and your passion for brightening others’ days will make your florist business blossom. The market size of the Florists industry in the US has grown 1.9% per year on average between 2017 and 2022.
#16 – Cargo Van Delivery
If you own a cargo van, you can turn it into a delivery service for small businesses or individuals needing transportation. Offer reliable and timely delivery of packages, groceries, or specialized items within your local area.
Your efficient service and attention to handling goods with care will position you as a trusted delivery provider, creating opportunities for repeat business and word-of-mouth referrals.
#17 – Local Corner Store
Become the heart of your neighborhood by establishing a local corner store. Stock essential goods and daily necessities, catering to the needs of the community. Offer a convenient shopping experience and personalized customer service, fostering a sense of belonging and community spirit.
Creating a welcoming atmosphere and being responsive to the residents’ needs can make your corner store a cherished local institution.
#18 – Organic Bakery
Start an organic bakery by embracing the growing demand for healthy and organic baked goods. Use high-quality, organic ingredients to create delicious bread, pastries, and treats. Position your bakery as a destination for health-conscious individuals, providing them with guilt-free indulgences.
Establish a reputation for exceptional taste and quality, emphasizing your commitment to sustainable and wholesome baking practices. Consumer demand for organically produced goods has shown strong growth since the 1990s.
#19 – Chauffeur & Ride Sharing
If you have a reliable vehicle and enjoy driving, consider providing personalized chauffeur services or joining a ride-sharing platform. Offer safe and comfortable transportation to individuals or groups, catering to their specific needs.
Whether it’s airport transfers, special occasions, or business travel, your professionalism and excellent customer service will make you the go-to choice for reliable transportation. Uber is a great option.
#20 – Bar, Pub, or Hookah Lounge
Create a space for socializing and entertainment by opening a bar, pub, or hookah lounge. Provide a vibrant atmosphere, a wide selection of beverages, and engaging events to attract a diverse clientele. Focus on creating a welcoming environment where people can relax, unwind, and enjoy the company of friends.
Your attention to ambiance, quality service, and unique offerings will make your establishment a popular destination in the local nightlife scene.
#21 – Barbershop
Tap into the timeless tradition of grooming and establish a barbershop. Offer a range of services, from classic haircuts and shaves to modern grooming trends. Provide a welcoming and masculine space where gentlemen can receive top-notch grooming services.
Your attention to detail, precision, and ability to create a personalized experience will make your barbershop the go-to destination for style-conscious individuals in your community.
#22 – Gutter Cleaning
Ensure clean and functional gutters for homeowners by offering professional gutter cleaning and maintenance services. Clogged gutters can lead to water damage, so homeowners often seek reliable professionals who can keep their gutters in optimal condition.
Utilize your knowledge of gutter systems, invest in the necessary equipment, and offer efficient and thorough cleaning. Your reliable service will help homeowners protect their properties, establish trust, and gain repeat customers.
#23 – Painters
Transform homes and businesses with your painting expertise. From interior to exterior painting, your skill in choosing the right colors, preparing surfaces, and applying flawless coats of paint will revitalize spaces.
Develop a reputation for delivering high-quality artistry, attention to detail, and meeting deadlines. Your ability to enhance the aesthetics of properties and leave a lasting impression will be the driving force behind your successful painting business.
#24 – Pool Cleaners
Owning a pool comes with the responsibility of maintenance and cleaning. Establish a pool cleaning business, offering services to pool owners who desire clean and well-maintained pools.
Provide regular cleaning, water testing, and equipment maintenance to ensure a safe and enjoyable swimming experience for your customers. Your expertise and commitment to pool care will make you a trusted partner for pool owners in your area.
#25 – Coffee Shop
Fuel your community with freshly brewed coffee and create a cozy ambiance as the owner of a coffee shop. Craft the perfect brews, offer a variety of coffee options, and create a welcoming space for people to relax, work, or socialize.
Focus on providing exceptional customer service and cultivating a sense of community. Your dedication to serving quality coffee and creating a warm environment will make your coffee shop a special gathering place. This is also a good resource for helping other felons find a first-time job.
#26 – Thrift & Yard Sale Resale
Curate a collection of secondhand treasures and sell them through a thrift store or online platform. This quick and easy profitable business ideas allows you to embrace the sustainability trend by offering pre-loved clothing, accessories, furniture, and other unique items.
Create an inviting shopping experience and showcase the value and charm of secondhand finds. Your eye for quality, affordability, and trendiness will attract customers seeking one-of-a-kind treasures and budget-friendly shopping options.
#27 – Affiliate Marketer
Harness the power of online marketing by becoming an affiliate marketer with entrepreneur ideas. Promote products or services through your website, blog, or social media platforms, earning commissions for each sale or lead generated.
Select affiliate programs that align with your niche and audience, and develop engaging content that educates and convinces your readers to make a purchase. Your ability to build trust, create persuasive content, and drive conversions will make you a successful affiliate marketer.
#28 – Etsy Store
Tap into your creativity and craftsmanship by selling handmade goods on Etsy, the popular online marketplace. Whether it’s jewelry, home decor, personalized gifts, or artwork, create unique and high-quality products that resonate with your target audience. Build a strong brand presence on Etsy, optimize your product listings with compelling descriptions and appealing visuals, and provide exceptional customer service.
Your talent, attention to detail, and passion for your craft will attract customers who appreciate the value of handmade items, ensuring the success of your Etsy store. In 2021, Etsy generated $13.5 billion in gross merchandise sales volume. This is an increase from 2020’s $10.2 billion.
#29 – Flooring Business
Specialize in flooring installation or restoration, providing homeowners and businesses with stunning and durable floors. Whether it’s hardwood, laminate, tile, or carpet, your expertise in flooring materials and installation techniques will make you a sought-after professional in the industry.
Offer quality craft, personalized recommendations, and excellent customer service to create beautiful and functional flooring solutions for your clients.
#30 – Website Designer
Utilize your web design skills to create visually appealing and functional websites for businesses in need of an online presence. With the increasing reliance on the internet, companies understand the importance of having an effective website.
Collaborate with clients to understand their brand and objectives, and create user-friendly and aesthetically pleasing websites that reflect their unique identity. Your ability to blend design principles, usability, and SEO optimization will help businesses thrive in the digital landscape.
#31 – Urban Farmer & Microgreens
Embrace sustainable agriculture and grow microgreens or other produce in urban settings. As people become more conscious of the food they consume, there’s a growing demand for fresh, locally sourced, and nutrient-rich products.
Utilize vertical gardening techniques, hydroponics, or rooftop farming to cultivate microgreens or other specialty crops. Establish relationships with local restaurants, markets, or direct-to-consumer sales to distribute your fresh and flavorful harvest. The global microgreens market was worth USD 1,445 million in 2021.
#32 – Self-Published Author
Share your stories, knowledge, or expertise by self-publishing books or e-books. With the rise of digital platforms, self-publishing has become accessible to aspiring authors. Write compelling content, edit meticulously, and design attractive book covers.
Leverage online marketplaces such as Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing or establish your own website to sell your publications. Your creativity, storytelling, and expertise will captivate readers and open doors to new opportunities.
#33 – Online Tutoring
Utilize your expertise in a particular subject or skill to offer online tutoring services. With the convenience of online platforms, you can connect with students from around the world and provide personalized and engaging educational support.
Develop lesson plans, provide one-on-one or group sessions, and offer guidance and feedback to help students achieve their academic goals. Your knowledge, patience, and ability to adapt to various learning styles will make you a trusted online tutor.
#34 – Travel Consultant
This is one of the easiest startup business ideas given today’s technology. Turn your wanderlust into a career by becoming a travel consultant. With your passion for exploration and extensive travel experiences, you can curate unforgettable trips for individuals or groups. Plan itineraries, book accommodations, arrange transportation, and provide insider tips and recommendations.
Your attention to detail, destination knowledge, and commitment to delivering seamless travel experiences will ensure client satisfaction and repeat business.
#35 – Virtual Assistant
Provide administrative, organizational, or creative support to businesses remotely as a virtual assistant. With the rise of remote work, entrepreneurs and busy professionals often require assistance managing their tasks and projects.
Offer services such as email management, scheduling, social media management, content creation, or customer support. Your efficiency, reliability, and ability to adapt to different work styles will make you an indispensable asset to your clients.
#36 – Real Estate Agent
Guide individuals through buying, selling, or renting properties as a licensed real estate agent. With your local market knowledge, attention to detail, and negotiation skills, you can help clients navigate the complexities of real estate transactions.
Build strong relationships, provide personalized guidance, and go the extra mile to find the perfect property or secure favorable deals. Your professionalism and commitment to client satisfaction will make you a trusted real estate agent in your community. Can a felon get a real estate license? Yes!
#37 – Carpentry, Welding, or Plumbing
Apply your trade skills and offer specialized services such as carpentry, welding, or plumbing to homeowners and businesses. These skills are always in demand for construction projects, repairs, or renovations. Your expertise and craftsmanship will ensure quality work, client satisfaction, and positive word-of-mouth referrals.
Establish yourself as a reliable professional in your trade, and you’ll build a successful business based on your skills and reputation. This is a great opportunity for answering can a felon start their own business.
#38 – Food Truck
Create a mobile culinary experience by operating a food truck. Serve delicious and unique food options to customers at different locations or events. Your creativity in developing mouthwatering menus, ability to provide exceptional customer service in tight spaces, and mobility to reach diverse audiences will make your food truck a hit.
Build a loyal following and establish a brand known for its tasty delights and convenient dining options.
#39 – Small Appliance/Electronic Repairs
Offer repair services for small appliances and electronic devices. From smartphones and laptops to kitchen appliances and home electronics, there’s always a need for skilled technicians to diagnose and fix issues.
Develop expertise in specific brands or types of devices, invest in the necessary tools, and provide reliable and efficient repairs. Your technical knowledge and problem-solving skills will make you a trusted go-to resource for repairing and restoring valuable items.
#40 – Social Media Manager
With the ever-growing influence of social media, businesses understand the importance of having a strong online presence. Offer your expertise as a social media manager, helping companies to create engaging content, manage their platforms, and interact with their online communities.
Develop effective social media strategies, analyze metrics, and optimize campaigns to drive engagement and increase brand visibility. Your ability to stay up-to-date with social media trends and deliver results will make you an invaluable asset to businesses seeking to expand their online reach. Remember, over 4.74 billion people across the world use social media.
#41 – AI Consultant
As artificial intelligence continues to shape various industries, businesses seek guidance on integrating AI solutions. Position yourself as an AI consultant, providing insights and recommendations on leveraging AI technologies to improve efficiency, enhance customer experiences, or streamline processes.
Stay abreast of AI advancements, understand business needs, and help organizations harness the power of AI to gain a competitive edge. Your AI expertise and ability to communicate its potential to business owners will make you a sought-after consultant in this rapidly evolving field.
Conclusion
Starting new business ideas is a remarkable opportunity for individuals with previous convictions to forge a new path. Felons can overcome challenges and create successful ventures with determination, passion, and a solid plan.
The 41 incredible business ideas we’ve explored here are just the beginning. So, seize the moment, pursue your entrepreneurial dreams, and embrace the possibilities that lie ahead. With resilience, hard work, and a commitment to excellence, felons can write a new chapter filled with prosperity, personal growth, and a brighter future.
If you would like to learn more about changing your life after a felony conviction, check out the guide Getting Out: success after incarceration, available on Amazon.
