Top 13 Online Businesses to Start in Ireland in 2025
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Ireland is brimming with opportunities for online entrepreneurs, especially in 2025. Whether you’re planning to launch a side hustle or build a scalable business, these 13 online business ideas offer promising avenues backed by current market insights. Irish consumers are increasingly shifting towards digital services and products—with e-commerce sales, online education, and virtual events all witnessing remarkable growth. For example, the Central Statistics Office (CSO) reports that e-commerce sales have surged by over 20% in recent years.
Below, we explore each business model with explanations, overviews of startup costs, pros and cons table, useful tools and resources, and extra insights for each opportunity.
1. E-commerce Store
Building an e-commerce store allows you to tap into Ireland’s growing online shopping trend. Whether you’re selling locally made crafts, fashion items, or tech gadgets, you can take advantage of a digital marketplace that is expanding rapidly. Startup costs can be kept low — sometimes as little as €500 — by using platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce. These affordable options enable you to get your store off the ground quickly while you focus on driving traffic and sales.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Access to a broad customer base | High competition in popular niches |
| Scalable and flexible operations | Requires ongoing digital marketing efforts |
| Ability to reach international markets | Inventory management challenges (if not dropshipping) |
Tools & Resources:
- Shopify – for store setup
- Google Analytics – to track visitor data
- Local Enterprise Office Ireland – for grants and business advice
To scale your e-commerce store, focus on niche markets where competition may be lower and tailor your marketing strategies to resonate with local tastes. Consider partnering with local influencers and exploring targeted advertising on social media. One common sticking point is inventory management — if not using a dropshipping model, invest in robust inventory software to prevent overselling and stock-outs.
2. Dropshipping
Dropshipping enables you to run an online store without managing physical inventory. This model allows you to partner with suppliers who handle shipping, letting you focus on marketing and customer acquisition. Typically, startup costs range from €300 to €1,000, covering website setup and initial marketing. This modest investment makes it easier for new entrepreneurs to test different products and niches with minimal financial risk.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Low upfront investment in inventory | Lower profit margins due to supplier fees |
| Simplified order fulfillment | Less control over product quality and shipping times |
| Flexibility to experiment with various products | High competition in certain product categories |
Tools & Resources:
- Oberlo – for integrating dropshipping with Shopify
- AliExpress – a vast supplier network
- Google Trends – to monitor product demand
As your dropshipping business grows, consider diversifying your supplier base to mitigate risks related to shipping delays or quality issues. Focus on optimizing your website for conversions and invest in excellent customer service. A common challenge is maintaining consistent product quality — regularly review supplier performance and consider ordering samples periodically to ensure your customers receive top-notch products.
3. Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketing allows you to earn commissions by promoting other companies’ products, making it an ideal model for generating passive income with minimal overhead. The startup investment is generally low — often under €500 — primarily spent on website hosting, content creation, and basic marketing efforts. With projections that the industry may exceed €8 billion in global revenue by 2025, affiliate marketing remains a viable option for dedicated marketers.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Minimal initial investment | Highly competitive niche |
| Flexibility to work from anywhere | Income can be unpredictable |
| Potential for passive income through content | Requires consistent content production and SEO |
Tools & Resources:
- Amazon Associates – a top affiliate program
- CJ Affiliate – another trusted network
- Ahrefs or SEMrush – for keyword and competitor analysis
To stand out in affiliate marketing, build a strong personal brand and focus on niche topics where you can become an authority. Experiment with different content formats—such as detailed reviews, how-to guides, or video tutorials—to engage your audience. Avoid the common pitfall of over-reliance on a single affiliate program by diversifying your affiliate relationships to smooth out income fluctuations.
4. Online Content Creation & Monetization
From blogging and podcasting to YouTube channels and social media influencing, content creation offers multiple income streams such as ads, sponsorships, and merchandise. With online video consumption in Ireland growing by over 30% in the past year, this is an opportune time to build your audience. Startup costs can start as low as €200 for basic equipment and hosting, though investing in quality gear may require additional funds over time.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Multiple income streams | Requires consistent content creation |
| Creative freedom and personal branding | Income may be slow to start |
| Direct engagement with an audience | Can be time-intensive to build a following |
Tools & Resources:
- WordPress – for blogging and website creation
- YouTube Creator Academy – for video content tips
- Canva – for designing visuals
Standing out as a content creator means finding your unique voice and niche. Focus on high-quality, in-depth content that addresses the specific needs and interests of your target audience. Scale your efforts by repurposing content across multiple platforms and collaborating with other creators. A common challenge is audience engagement — use analytics to understand what content resonates best and refine your approach continuously.
5. Freelancing & Remote Consulting
If you have marketable skills — such as graphic design, programming, digital marketing, or writing — freelancing or remote consulting can offer both flexibility and a steady income. Startup costs are minimal, usually under €200, which covers a professional website and branding. With growing demand for digital skills in Ireland, especially post-pandemic, there is ample opportunity to work with local and international clients.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Flexible work schedule | Income may fluctuate |
| Ability to choose projects | Finding reliable clients can be challenging |
| Opportunity to build a diverse portfolio | Requires constant self-promotion and networking |
Tools & Resources:
- Upwork and Freelancer – to find clients
- LinkedIn – for professional networking
- Trello or Asana – for project management
To scale your freelancing career, focus on building long-term relationships with clients and gradually increasing your rates as you gain more experience. Specialize in a niche where your expertise is in high demand, and consider creating a portfolio website that showcases your best work. One common stumbling block is client acquisition — invest time in networking and ask for referrals from satisfied clients to build a steady stream of work.
6. App & Software Development
Digital transformation is driving a continuous demand for innovative apps and software. Whether developing consumer apps, SaaS platforms, or niche digital tools, the market potential is enormous — global mobile app revenues are forecast to exceed €935 billion by 2025. Depending on the project scope, startup costs can vary significantly, from around €1,000 for a basic app using low-code platforms to tens of thousands for advanced solutions.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High scalability | High competition in popular app categories |
| Opportunity to innovate and solve real-world problems | Requires technical expertise |
| Potential for recurring revenue via subscriptions | Ongoing maintenance and updates are necessary |
Tools & Resources:
- GitHub – for version control and collaboration
- Figma – for design and prototyping
- Firebase – for backend support
For successful scaling in app and software development, focus on user feedback and agile iteration. Stand out by developing unique features that solve real-world problems and consider offering a freemium model to build your user base before monetizing. Many developers face the challenge of staying current with rapidly changing technologies; continuous learning and active participation in developer communities are key to overcoming this.
7. Online Tutoring & Courses
The e-learning industry is booming as more people seek to upskill or explore new hobbies online. Offering online tutoring or courses is an excellent way to monetize your expertise, with the market expected to exceed €375 billion by 2026. Startup costs are generally low — around €300 to €1,000 — for course creation software and initial marketing efforts.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Flexible teaching hours | Highly competitive market |
| Ability to reach a global audience | Requires consistent content updates |
| Multiple revenue options (one-off courses, subscriptions, live sessions) | Marketing your courses can be challenging initially |
Tools & Resources:
- Teachable and Udemy – platforms for hosting courses
- Zoom – for live tutoring sessions
- Khan Academy – for educational inspiration
Differentiate your online tutoring or course offerings by focusing on interactive and engaging content. Consider integrating quizzes, discussion forums, and one-on-one sessions to add value. To scale up, continuously update your material based on student feedback and trends in your field. A common challenge is course visibility — invest in SEO and consider affiliate partnerships with educational platforms to broaden your reach.
8. Digital Marketing Agency
Every business today needs a robust online presence, making digital marketing agencies highly scalable ventures. With digital marketing budgets in Ireland rising by over 25% year-on-year, this field is ripe for new entrants. Startup costs generally fall between €1,000 and €3,000, primarily covering software subscriptions and initial marketing efforts.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High demand across various industries | Requires staying up-to-date with constantly evolving trends |
| Recurring revenue from retainer-based clients | High-pressure environment with tight deadlines |
| Opportunity to build long-term client relationships | Client acquisition can be challenging in competitive markets |
Tools & Resources:
- HubSpot – for inbound marketing and CRM
- Google Ads and Facebook Business – for managing ad campaigns
- Moz or SEMrush – for SEO analytics
- SEO Agency Dublin – to grow your local business online and gain new clients
To scale a digital marketing agency, focus on developing deep expertise in a particular niche or industry to stand out from larger competitors. Building case studies and showcasing measurable results will help attract larger, retainer-based clients. A key sticking point is keeping pace with digital trends — invest in continuous education and consider certifications to maintain credibility.
9. Subscription Box Services
Subscription boxes offer consumers a personalized, curated experience, whether featuring niche Irish foods, artisanal crafts, or wellness products. With the global subscription box market expected to grow at a CAGR of over 18% through 2027, this model is ideal for generating recurring revenue. Startup costs typically range between €1,000 and €3,000, covering product sourcing, website setup, and initial marketing.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Recurring revenue from loyal subscribers | Managing inventory and logistics can be complex |
| Ability to build a unique brand experience | Requires consistent quality and innovation |
| Flexibility to curate niche products | High initial effort to build a subscriber base |
Tools & Resources:
- Cratejoy – a platform designed for subscription box businesses
- Mailchimp – for email marketing
- Stripe – for managing recurring payments
To excel in the subscription box space, focus on personalization and an engaging unboxing experience. Use customer feedback to refine your product mix and consider limited edition boxes to drive excitement. Scaling up may require robust logistics and automation software; plan ahead to manage growth without sacrificing quality.
10. Virtual Assistance Services
Virtual assistance services are in high demand as businesses look to outsource administrative tasks. By providing support in areas such as customer service, social media management, and scheduling, virtual assistants help companies reduce overhead while benefiting from flexible working arrangements. Startup costs are very modest — typically under €200 — to set up a professional website and secure essential tools.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Low overhead costs | Income may vary depending on client workload |
| Flexible working hours | High competition in the virtual assistance market |
| Opportunity to serve a diverse range of clients | Requires excellent time-management and organization |
Tools & Resources:
- Upwork – to connect with potential clients
- Calendly – for scheduling meetings
- Trello – for task management
Differentiate yourself as a virtual assistant by specializing in a particular industry or set of services — such as social media management for small businesses or administrative support for startups. Develop a system for tracking your tasks and time, and consider using testimonials to build trust with prospective clients. Scaling up may involve subcontracting or forming a small team once your client base expands.
11. Print on Demand
Print on demand allows you to sell custom-designed products like t-shirts, mugs, and phone cases without holding inventory. As consumers increasingly seek personalized products, this model minimizes risk while allowing you to focus on design and marketing. Startup costs are generally modest — often between €200 and €500 — for design software and setting up your store on platforms that support print on demand.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Minimal risk with no need for inventory | Lower profit margins due to production costs |
| Flexibility to test different designs/products | Less control over quality and shipping times |
| Easy integration with e-commerce platforms | High competition in popular niches |
Tools & Resources:
- Printful and Printify – for product fulfillment
- Canva – for creating designs
- Shopify – for managing your online store
Focus on creating a strong, cohesive brand identity that resonates with a specific audience to excel in print on demand. Leverage social media and influencer partnerships to showcase your unique designs. A common hurdle is standing out in a saturated market — regularly analyze trends and customer feedback to keep your offerings fresh and innovative.
12. Online Personal Fitness Coaching
As the focus on health and wellness grows, online personal fitness coaching provides a way to reach clients from anywhere while helping them achieve their goals. With increased demand for remote health services, startup costs are generally between €200 and €800 to establish a professional website, obtain certifications, and launch digital marketing efforts.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ability to reach clients nationwide or globally | Requires industry certification and expertise |
| Flexible scheduling and remote delivery | Building trust and a loyal client base takes time |
| Multiple revenue streams (one-on-one sessions, group classes, subscriptions) | Highly competitive fitness market |
Tools & Resources:
- Mindbody – for scheduling and client management
- Zoom – for live workout sessions
- Trainerize – for managing fitness programs and tracking progress
Differentiate your fitness coaching by offering customized programs tailored to individual client needs. Consider integrating wearable technology and progress tracking to provide measurable results. When scaling, explore group classes and digital memberships to maximize your reach. One challenge is maintaining client engagement remotely—regularly update your content and incorporate interactive elements into your sessions.
13. Virtual Event Planning Services
As more companies and individuals move events online, virtual event planning has become a rapidly growing niche. Whether organizing webinars, conferences, or workshops, virtual event planners are in demand to ensure seamless digital experiences. Startup costs typically range from €300 to €1,000, covering website setup, event management software, and marketing efforts.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Growing demand as events move online | Coordination can be complex and time-sensitive |
| Opportunity to work with diverse clients | Requires familiarity with various digital platforms |
| Flexibility to manage multiple events simultaneously | Income can vary based on event frequency and scale |
Tools & Resources:
- Eventbrite – for event ticketing and registration
- Zoom or Hopin – for hosting virtual events
- Trello – for organizing event planning tasks
To stand out in virtual event planning, focus on creating immersive, interactive experiences that go beyond standard webinars. Develop strong vendor and technology partnerships to enhance the quality of your events, and use feedback surveys to continuously improve your service. A common challenge is managing the logistics of multiple platforms; invest in a streamlined event management system to keep everything on track.
FAQ When Setting Up a Business in Ireland
How Do I Register a Business in Ireland?
To register a business in Ireland, first decide on your business structure—such as a sole trader, partnership, or limited company. Next, choose your business name and register with the Companies Registration Office (CRO) by completing the required online forms and submitting the necessary documents. You will also need to register for tax with the Revenue Commissioners. Following these steps ensures your business is legally recognized. For more details, consult the CRO and Revenue websites.
How Do I Start a Business in Ireland as a Foreigner?
Foreigners can start a business in Ireland by following a similar process to that of local entrepreneurs. Begin by selecting a business structure and registering your business with the Companies Registration Office (CRO). As a foreign entrepreneur, you may need to provide extra documentation, such as proof of identity, residency, or a local address. Consulting with a local business advisor can help navigate these additional requirements. Additional guidance is available from the Local Enterprise Office and Enterprise Ireland.
What Startup Grants Can I Get in Ireland?
Ireland offers a range of startup grants to help new businesses. The Local Enterprise Office (LEO) provides mentoring, training, and financial support to small businesses. Enterprise Ireland offers funding and support for innovative startups with global potential, while IDA Ireland assists foreign direct investments. Additionally, various regional grants and government initiatives may be available based on your industry or location. Visit the Local Enterprise Office and Enterprise Ireland websites for the latest eligibility details and application guidelines.
