How to Start a Business at 17: A Step-by-Step Guide for Teen Entrepreneurs
Introduction
Starting a business at 17 might seem daunting, but it's achievable than ever in today's digital age. With no more than a phone and a driven mindset, you can establish a profitable venture that fits around your school schedule. In this step-by-step guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about starting and growing a business as a teenager, including in-depth business concepts that can earn you at least minimum wage income.
Why Start a Business at 17?
Before diving into the how, let's explore why entrepreneurship as a teenager is a good idea:
Financial Independence: Earn your own money without relying on parents or regular jobs with limited hours for teens
Skill Development: Learn valuable skills in marketing, sales, finance, and customer service
Flexibility: Work according to your school schedule without the set timings of most part-time jobs
College Applications: stand out with actual entrepreneurial experience
Future Foundation: potentially launch a career to be continued in college and thereafter
Best Business Models for 17-Year-Olds (Using Only a Phone)
Based on your constraints of working around school and using primarily a phone, here are the most viable business models:
1. Social Media Management
Why it works: Local businesses usually realize that they must have an active social media presence but cannot keep up.
How to start:
Master 1-2 platforms (Instagram and TikTok most relevant for teens)
Create sample content for fictional businesses to build a portfolio
Provide a free trial period for local businesses
Provide monthly packages ($150-$300 per client)
Earning potential: You can exceed minimum wage income with just 2-3 clients.
2. Content Creation
Why it works: You can create content anywhere, anytime with just your phone.
How to get started:
Select a niche you are passionate about (gaming, fashion, study tips, etc.)
Consistently create quality content
Monetize through platforms like YouTube Partner Program, TikTok Creator Fund, brand deals, and affiliate marketing
Earning potential: Very variable, but micro-influencers (10k-50k followers) can earn $500-$2,000 per month.
3. Reselling/Flipping
Why it works: Requires very little time investment and can be done entirely from your phone.
How to get started:
Start with items you no longer need but already possess
Identify profitable niches to resell (sneakers, vintage clothing, electronics)
Use platforms like eBay, Depop, Poshmark, or Facebook Marketplace
Reinvest profits to build out your inventory
Earning potential: $200-$1000+ a month depending on effort and niche knowledge.
4. Tutoring or Academic Support
Why it works: You have recent knowledge of the material younger students are learning.
How to start:
Identify subjects you're proficient in
Create minimal marketing materials
Offer sessions via Zoom or similar platforms
Consider group sessions to increase earnings per hour
Earning potential: $15-$30 an hour, higher for test prep subjects.
5. Mobile Photography/Videography
Why it works: Smartphones have decent cameras now, and quality content is needed for most people.
How to get started:
Learn your phone camera capabilities
Offer services for small events, product photography, or social media content
Build a portfolio by offering free sessions initially
Potential earnings: $50-$150 a session depending on the scope of work.
Answering Common Questions from Reddit
Based on analyses of popular questions young entrepreneurs pose on Reddit, below are detailed answers to the most frequent concerns:
"How do I balance business and school?"
Time management is essential:
Use a scheduling app to block out time for school and business
Maximize weekends for larger business ventures
Use small moments of time (lunch, study halls) for smaller business tasks
Set realistic expectations - don't try to grow too quickly during exam periods
Speak with teachers - some will be sympathetic and offer flexibility
"What if I have no startup capital?"
Most ventures require little or no capital:
Start with service ventures that require just your time
Utilize free tools and websites to start
Find a low investment venture like reselling, starting with what you have
If needed, small personal loans from family members (with a written repayment plan) can help
"How do I handle taxes as a teen?"
Tax consequences for teen business owners:
You are required to file taxes if you earn over $12,550 (2023 standard deduction)
Keep detailed records of income and expenses
Consider using tax software for freelancers/small businesses
You may need to make quarterly estimated tax payments
Consult with a tax professional for personalized advice - most offer free initial consultations
"What business structure do I need?"
For most teen businesses:
Sole proprietorship is simplest and requires no formal setup
When growing, consider an LLC for liability protection
Research your state's legislation on minor business ownership
Some states require parent/guardian involvement until age 18
"How do I market my business when I don't have a budget?"
Effective free marketing strategies:
Using social media - Create quality content showcasing your expertise
Word of mouth - Tell every person you know about your venture
Online communities - Become an active and authentic member of relevant subreddits, Facebook groups, etc.
Collaborate with other young entrepreneurs for cross-promotion
Offer referral incentives to your current customers
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Venture Started
1. Validate Your Concept
Before investing time, ensure there is demand:
Talk to potential consumers
Create a simple survey
Test with a bare minimum version of your product/service
2. Set Up the Basics
Business name: Make it catchy and check if available
Payment processing: Set up PayPal, Venmo, or Cash App (check age limitations)
Communication: Set up a business email
Scheduling: Use free tools like Calendly for appointments
3. Create a Simple Business Plan
Outline:
Your product/service and target customers
Pricing model
Marketing plan
Financial goals and projections
4. Start and Iterate
Start small with a few customers/clients
Gather feedback and improve your product/service
Raise your pricing as you gain experience
5. Manage Your Finances
Open a business bank account for business transactions
Keep track of all income and expenses
Set aside money for taxes (25-30% of earnings)
Reinvest earnings to grow your business
Overcoming Common Challenges
Parental Approval
Present your business plan formally to obtain their approval
Address their time management and safety concerns
Offer a trial period to show you can handle business and school
Age Limits
There are age limitations on certain sites (typically 18+). Solutions:
Use parent/guardian accounts under their supervision and with their consent
Target platforms without age restrictions (e.g., TikTok, Instagram)
Use payment gateways that allow teen accounts with parental involvement
Time Management
Utilize productivity techniques like time blocking
Delegate tasks using the Eisenhower Matrix (urgent/important)
Practice saying no to activities that aren't aligned with your goals
Scaling Your Business
Once you've launched your business, consider the following growth strategies:
Increase your prices as you gain experience and social proof
Package deals to increase the average client value
Create passive income streams like digital products or selling content
Outsource tasks others can do better or cheaper
Diversify into allied services your current customers need
Conclusion
Not only is it possible to launch a business at 17, but it can be incredibly rewarding too. With the capabilities of your smartphone and the right business model, you can earn far more than a typical part-time job, while acquiring skills that will hold you in good stead going forward.
Keep in mind that all successful entrepreneurs began somewhere, and your age can even be a plus—you're digitally native, flexible, and bring new eyes. The important thing is to begin now, learn by doing, and push forward despite obstacles.
