In today’s economic environment, individuals with entrepreneurial mindsets are exploring new ideas for businesses that will not only survive in a recession, but will also thrive. The key to starting a new business is maximizing its resources while remaining lean in operations. Let’s face it: most people do not have $100,000 sitting in their pockets. So, how is it possible, then, to start a business with a minimal amount of capital? The good news is that there are literally hundreds of business concepts that can be created with less than $5,000 in start-up costs.

Businesses under $1,000

Yes, believe it or not, it is possible to start a business under $1,000. According to BusinessTown.com, there are 82 business categories that do not require more than $1,000 in start-up fees. For example, to become a Merchandise Demonstrator, start-up costs are estimated between $500 and $1,000. However, earnings can rest between $20,000 and $35,000 per year. This business requires a person who has garnered a network of business contacts to demonstrate products for one or more specific companies at trade shows and seminars. This business can be learned first by handing out samples at grocery stores, which typically pays up to $50 per day. By beginning here, the person has a launching point from which to establish relationships with larger corporations, with the ultimate goal of merchandising their products. Other examples of inexpensive businesses under $1,000 entail Lawn Care Services, Toy Cleaning and Repairing Services, Reminder Services, Professional Organizers, Motor Vehicle Transportation, and Roommate Referral Services.

Businesses between $1,000 and $5,000

The good news is that there are literally hundreds of business concepts that can be created with $5,000 or less. As reported by the aforementioned online source, 136 businesses cost between $1,000 and $5,000 in start-up fees. Most of these concepts only require a phone, desk, and a few other tools such as a list of established contacts and a passionate drive to build a steady pipeline. Some of the more interesting businesses that stood out include a Resume Service Provider, a Mobile Hair Salon, a Meeting Planner, a Mover, a Window Washing Service, a Vending Machine Owner, Flower and Tree Cutting and Trimming Services, and Speechwriting Services. Now, these are only eight of the 136 businesses listed, but are businesses that may appeal to a larger number of entrepreneurs, than the more concentrated, niche-targeted businesses such as an Adoption Search Service firm.

The antiquated notion that a business cannot be started without a large lump sum of money is no longer the reality. Many businesses today have flourished based off of lean operations and low start-up costs. Today’s world does not require every type of business to begin its first day in operations out of a 10-story office building with leather couches and a glitzy waiting room. Companies can start out of one’s home and see immediate results. Entrepreneurial expert Bonny Alpo, who has owned her own copywriting service since 2005, reports that the least expensive business concepts revolve around pet care, home care, and delivery and moving services.

There’s no excuse for not being able to start your own small business either as a full time effort or start off part-time until it grows.

Considering that my core focus is building, developing, coaching, and mentoring sales teams for emerging companies, many people ask me what it takes to get sales going. The answer is simple, but all too often the greatest challenge a young company faces. If you just decided your product is ready for market, then take a long hard look at your first sales person. Take a look in a mirror, because it is you.

The problem is, in some cases, you are a website designer, or a programmer; possibly a business man or a finance guru, but a sales guy? You are not the one who gets people to buy. Well wait a moment, because all the efforts you put into your state-of-the-art offering that will change the world will sell itself right? We just have to advertise and the sales ready buyers will flock to our website, phone line, and inbox.

I do not relish being the bearer of bad news, but if you believe the latter, prepare to move back into the corporate world and slip those boots off for good. Someone in the founding group must be a capable sales person, and one who understands the innovators in your field. They have to know how to evangelize your offering without pitching and convincing. No one like this on your team? Then the first thing you should do is get a coach. Then read some books, articles, blog posts, and get ready for another education as you get your degree in selling.

There are some other basics to getting a competitive advantage when selling. First of all, innovators like other innovators, and while you can find many helpful hints on my blog and in other posts, most of my work here will be in sharing how to use Web 2.0 and cutting edge technologies to better sell your products. I hope you find this helpful as we journey through the advances of the 21st century. If you want to have a successful sales team, you have to start by getting some sales.