8 Low Investment Manufacturing Business Ideas (that don’t suck)

So you want to start a manufacturing business but you’re low on funds? Worry not, here are quite a few low investment manufacturing business ideas with big potential.

Here’s the thing about coming up with a low investment manufacturing business idea. Half of the ideas you’ll find online simply do not make sense. Making concrete blocks? Great idea, but how do you start?

We’re going to break this list down into two different parts, with the first being true manufacturing businesses (like, welding things together in the shop). The second half of this article is going to be more arts focused manufacturing. 

At the end of the day, every business manufactures something of some sort. However, some manufacturing shops have much higher overhead than others. Let’s jump into the list.

How to start a low cost manufacturing business

Starting a manufacturing business is an article in and of itself, but for starters, making sure you’ve got the cash flow to support your business is huge. If this means working a side job while you’re starting to work on projects in the garage, then that’s what you’ll have to do to support yourself.

First, figure out what you’re going to make. 

Start with things you’re passionate about. If your business blows up, you don’t want to be making something you despise. Are you passionate about the outdoors? Consider making tree stands. Do you like working in the dirt? How about making Skidsteer attachments? The list of ideas that do not involve a ton of startup capital are endless.

Second, build out a marketing plan.

This sounds romantic, but it’s really not. Figure out how, after you sell your first product, the rest of your products will sell themselves. After all, you’re going to be busy making them.

Third, work.

Work until you no longer have enough hours in the day. When you’ve reached this point and you’re still not caught up, hire somebody who understands manufacturing (or, someone you can train).

Lastly, rinse and repeat.

If you’ve gotten to this point, you already understand what to do. Manufacturing isn’t a low competition business. There are pitfalls at every corner. At some point, the cashflow could be a challenge as you grow. If you’ve figured the ins and outs of your business out well enough, you’ll be well on your way.

5 Low investment manufacturing businesses you can start in your garage 

#1 Tree Stand Manufacturing

This one involves a bit more risk than making metal flags, for example, due to the liability. However, the outdoors industry is one that features a ton of customer loyalty. If you can build up a solid base of customers

Tree stand manufacturing marketing plan

  1. Make a logo (use either Canva or Fiver)
  2. Build an eCommerce website (we use Shopify for all our eCommerce websites)

#1 Herbal Oil Manufacturing

#1 Herbal Oil Manufacturing

#1 Herbal Oil Manufacturing

Low investment manufacturing businesses you can start in your kitchen 

#1 Herbal Oil Manufacturing

This is a business with a lot of potential. Ayurvedic or herbal oils are hugely in demand due to their effectiveness and benefits.

It is quite easy to find the raw materials needed to make herbal hair oils. They are made using vegetable oils and some other essentials that are affordable and easy to acquire.

Some of the most common elements used in the manufacturing of herbal oils include:

  • Amla
  • Henna
  • Pumpkin Seeds

It is best to stick to materials that are easily available in your region. Plus, you will not have to spend a lot on machinery either. You may, however, have to spend a huge amount on licenses.

#2 Bakery

If you enjoy baking then this can be quite a good business. You can start it from your home and then expand gradually.

The good thing about starting a bakery is that you do not have to spend a lot on equipment or people. You can handle baking alone and hire a delivery service to get the business started. You will, however, have to acquire machinery and hire more people as the business grows.

Plus, there are a lot of options to choose from. You can bake biscuits, cakes, cupcakes, etc. Just make sure to stick to a recipe that works.

#3 Candle Making

The internet is full of candle making recipes. This is a growing business, especially if you can be creative and come up with scented candles available in different designs.

You will only have to invest in scents (essential oils), molds, and wax. There is no machinery required as such since most work can be done manually, however it may be a good idea to invest in equipment if you intend to go big.

The good thing about candles is that they do not come with a short expiry, making it a good option for new entrepreneurs.

#4 Jewelry Manufacturing

If you’re creative with an eye for details then you can opt for a jewelry making business. Many online entrepreneurs have their own Instagram pages where they sell creative jewels and make a good amount of money.

You do not have to add gold, diamond, or other such expensive items. You can start small by using silver, platinum, and cheaper stones. Plus, customization can also be an option, allowing you to reach more people.

The most important thing in a jewelry business is to acquire raw materials. Different sellers offer products at different rates. You might be able to get a discount if you buy in bulk.

Other than this, your designs must be creative and entice excitement among potential buyers. Stealing designs from others can get you into trouble so make sure to be original.

These were some of the best low investment manufacturing businesses. You can start most of these businesses at home and then expand globally. However, be ready to pay for licenses, when required.