Did you know that 90% of startups fail within the first five years? That’s a staggering statistic that shows how hard it is to succeed in a crowded and competitive market. If you want to increase your chances of making it as an entrepreneur, you need to find a way to stand out from the crowd and offer something that no one else does. That’s why you should look for an unusual business idea to make money.

An unusual business idea is one that fills a void or addresses an overlooked niche in the market. It’s something that solves a problem, meets a need, or satisfies a desire that most people don’t even know they have. It’s something that makes people say “Wow, I’ve never seen anything like that before!”

An unusual business idea can be profitable for several reasons. First, it can help you avoid or reduce the competition in your niche, as you offer something that no one else does. Second, it can help you generate more interest and word-of-mouth marketing, as you attract attention and curiosity from potential customers and media outlets. Third, it can help you create loyal fans and advocates, as you deliver value and delight to your customers.

Later, I’ll explain why you should look for an unusual business idea to make money, and give you some examples of successful businesses that have done just that.

Less Competition

One of the biggest advantages of having an unusual business idea is that you can have less competition in your niche. This means that you can charge higher prices, spend less on marketing and advertising, and enjoy higher profit margins.

When you offer something that no one else does, you create a unique selling proposition (USP) that sets you apart from the rest. You don’t have to compete on price or quality, as you offer something that is incomparable and irreplaceable. You also don’t have to worry about losing customers to competitors, as you have a loyal fan base that loves what you do.

Some examples of businesses that have less competition because of their unusual ideas are:

• Glamping: Glamping is like glamorous camping. It’s a way of enjoying nature without sacrificing comfort and luxury. Glamping businesses offer tents, cabins, yurts or other accommodations that are equipped with amenities like beds, electricity, heating, Wi-Fi and more. Glamping businesses cater to a niche market of people who want to experience the outdoors without giving up their comforts.
• Cat cafe: A cat cafe is a cafe with cats. It’s a place where people can enjoy coffee, tea, snacks and other beverages while interacting with friendly felines. Cat cafes appeal to cat lovers who want to spend time with cats without owning them, or who want to socialise with other cat enthusiasts. Cat cafes also help cats find new homes, as they often partner with local shelters or rescue groups.
• Microgreens sales: Microgreens are young edible plants that are harvested when they are only a few inches tall. They are rich in nutrients, flavour and colour, and are used as garnishes or ingredients in salads, sandwiches, soups and other dishes. Microgreens sales businesses grow and sell microgreens to restaurants, farmers markets, grocery stores or directly to consumers. Microgreens sales businesses tap into a niche market of health-conscious and gourmet customers who want fresh and organic produce.

More Interest and Word-of-Mouth Marketing

Another advantage of having an unusual business idea is that you can generate more interest and word-of-mouth marketing in your niche. This means that you can attract more traffic, leads and sales without spending a lot of money on advertising.

When you offer something that is different or innovative, you create a buzz around your business. You catch the eye of potential customers who are curious about what you do and how you do it. You also catch the attention of media outlets who want to feature your story and spread the word about your business.

Some examples of businesses that have generated more interest and word-of-mouth marketing because of their unusual ideas are:

• Selling candles: Candles are not a new product, but some businesses have found ways to make them more unique and appealing. For example, Homesick Candles sells candles that smell like different states, cities or countries. They evoke nostalgia and memories for customers who miss their hometowns or want to travel. Another example is Uncommon Goods, which sells candles that smell like books. They appeal to book lovers who want to immerse themselves in their favourite stories.
• Sell charcuterie boards: Charcuterie boards are platters of cured meats, cheeses, fruits, nuts and other snacks that are arranged in an artistic way. They are popular for parties, picnics or as gifts. Some businesses have specialised in selling charcuterie boards online or locally, or boards made from unusual materials.

Keep in mind

There may be reasons why no-one else has moved into the specialised business that you are thinking about. Maybe people have tried and found no market, or found it difficult to market simply because consumers don’t know to look for it.

Like any other business, make sure you do your due diligence before putting your heart and soul into a business idea that has no competitors.