Ever wondered how to start a business with no money? Today’s article is for you! When I started my copywriting business, I was in debt from my first attempt at entrepreneurship, but was able to grow my copywriting business to multiple 6-figures in its first year, pay off all of my debt, and create a surplus to use for investments, giving back, travel, and more.

I hope these simple starting steps reduce overwhelm and support you in creating financial freedom for yourself—no matter how much you’re starting with.

Keep reading or watch the video below: How to Start a Business with No Money.

How to Start a Business with No Money

While there are lots of businesses to choose from, I personally recommend a copywriting business because:

• There are virtually no startup costs or risks
• All you need is a laptop and internet connection to get started
• You can do it from anywhere on your own schedule
• It’s the path that helped me double my 9 to 5 income and I can share the path how

So if you’re keen to give it a go, here are a few steps to build a copywriting business.

Step 1: Create Writing Samples

First things first, you don’t need a fancy website or expensive design to get started, but you should create a few writing samples so you can begin getting copywriting clients. So grab your computer, open Word or Google Docs, and start writing a few samples. These could be blogs, emails, social media posts, or any other form of content that interests you.

These writing samples serve two crucial purposes. First, they demonstrate your skills when you pitch potential clients. Second, they allow you to showcase your versatility as a writer, making it easier for you to cater to different client needs. So, spend some time crafting these samples, and you’ll feel more prepared when you talk to potential clients.

Step 2: Assemble Your Portfolio

Once you have your writing samples, it’s time to present them in a polished way. Think of it as your portfolio, your virtual storefront. You can create a simple portfolio website on platforms like Squarespace if you would like, or (for a free option) design a PDF using PowerPoint or Google Slides. I used portfolios made in PowerPoint and Google Slides before I ever had a website, and they helped me book all kinds of work. You don’t need an expensive website—just make your samples look visually appealing and professional.

When you pitch a potential client, having a well-organized portfolio ready to send will make a lasting impression. It shows that you take your work seriously and are ready to provide value. Many writers simply pitch asking if work opportunities are available. By including a portfolio that shows what you can do, you’ll make yourself stand out right away and make it more likely to book clients faster.

Step 3: Start Pitching

This is where the rubber meets the road. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and start pitching clients. Many businesses and brands need content writers to fuel their marketing efforts. Attend networking events, reach out to local businesses, and connect with brands online. Offer a free sample or attach your writing samples when you approach them.

Pitching clients won’t cost you a dime, but it can lead to your first projects and, ultimately, income! Whether it’s a local business or an online brand, there’s a vast market waiting for your content writing skills. Consider every business that you drive by on your way home—coffee shops, restaurants, hair salons, fitness centers, non-profit organizations and retailers. Every one of these needs help with content like webpages, blog posts, social media, email newsletters, and more.

There is unlimited opportunity to start a business with no money. You just have to be willing to be brave and stay committed.

Pro Tip: Stay Focused on Writing & Revenue

Here’s one final tip from what I encountered while building my copywriting business. As you begin your journey, it’s essential to stay focused on the core activities that generate revenue, like writing for clients and pitching to prospective clients. Avoid getting bogged down in unnecessary expenses or complicated tasks that don’t directly contribute to your income. For example, you don’t NEED to post on social media or build a website, so avoid behind-the-scenes activities in favor of ones that directly connect you with a business and prospective client.

Once you start earning money from your content writing services, you can gradually invest in improving your branding, design, and other bells and whistles. But initially, all you need is a passion for writing, a computer, and the determination to succeed.

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Starting a business with no money is possible, and I’m living proof of that. By creating writing samples, assembling a professional portfolio, and actively pitching clients, you can generate income only months from now. There’s no need to wait for the perfect moment or spend money you don’t have on unnecessary expenses. The key is to take that first step and believe in yourself.

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