If you’re an entrepreneur who’s not afraid to get your hands dirty, it’s possible to turn a profit with a low-touch business. You’ll need to put in some sweat equity, but the ROI can be huge. So many businesses in the service industry require a high amount of input all the time to stay running. While certain tasks can be automated, it’s better to start off with a business that can be more easily managed with very low input from the get-go. So, what kinds of businesses have a great ROI without requiring much human interaction? Here are some great options.
Sell Digital Products Online
If you’re looking to make a living online, one of the best ways you can do so is by selling digital products. The good news is that there are many different ways to do this. The great thing about digital products is that they can be sold an infinite number of times once you’ve created them. Sell digital products on your own website, or through an affiliate program like Amazon. Sell digital products as part of a subscription service. You can even use your blog to promote other people’s products, getting paid commissions every time someone buys something from them.
Install Parcel Lockers
Parcel lockers are a great low-touch business idea. An outdoor locker can be used to deliver mail and packages to travelers and other people who are staying in your region temporarily. With an installable parcel locker, customers can pick up their online orders from a local locker rather than having them delivered straight to their front door. You’ll get paid by the people who need access to the locker. And because technology is amazing, there is no need to use a key to give them access. Simply allow them to unlock and lock with an app.
Buy Some Vending Machines
If you are looking for a low-touch business, vending machines should be at the top of your list. Vending machines are an excellent investment because they can make money without requiring much attention from the owner. You can buy used vending machines from online auctions or Craigslist, or you can purchase a new one from any number of companies. There are many different types of products that can be sold through a vending machine and there is also a huge variety when it comes to location options.
Run an RV Park
RV parks are a great choice for low-touch businesses. Since you’re not providing any services, all you have to do is rent out your space, which can be as simple as putting up a few signs advertising the availability and letting people know where they can park. You can even offer avid RVers free space in exchange for help managing the park.
Start a Courier Service
Starting a courier service is a great way to start your own business without needing a lot of capital or technical skills. If you have the ability to drive, you can earn money by driving for other people. While this type of business may not be for everyone, it’s worth considering if you want to make some extra cash while also building up your resume and experience. You can easily get the business, and then hire drivers to handle the deliveries. This makes it a low-touch option that is appealing to many business owners. Just be sure to factor in insurance and other costs as you develop your business plan.
Be a Drone Pilot
Drone piloting is a great business idea for people who like to travel. This is because you can get paid to travel around the world, but all you need to do is fly a drone. You don’t even have to be physically present in the country where your clients are located, so you don’t need any special visas or permits. All you need to do is make sure you’re qualified to operate aerial drones. This can be done with practice as well as by completing a drone flight lesson program.
As far as ROI goes, drone piloting has one of the highest ROIs out there: most drones cost less than $2,000 and they can make $50 per hour of flight time or more. The only downside is that this type of business requires some flight training before it’s safe and legal for you to fly professionally.
Develop a Series of Apps
Developing a series of apps that solve problems can be one of the most lucrative low-touch business ideas. Apps have some major advantages over traditional businesses and services, like the fact that you don’t need to build a physical location or hire employees. Apps are also easier to market because they’re digital and can be found through search engines and app stores. It’s a great small business idea that can go a long way.