How to Start an Online Business From Scratch (Even as a Beginner)

Starting an online business from scratch sounds overwhelming, right?

Especially when you’ve got a busy life, maybe some kiddos running around, or you're clocking in and out of a 9-to-5 job.

But here’s the truth: building a profitable digital business doesn’t have to be complicated.

In fact, with the right steps and a bit of support, it’s totally doable—even if you've never sold anything online before.

Let’s break it down together.

Below is a simple 5-step roadmap taught inside Rich Girl Academy, our beginner-friendly program built to take you from “stuck” to “sales.”

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💡 Why Starting an Online Business Is Easier Than You Think

You don’t need to be tech-savvy, have a huge social media following, or spend thousands on a website.

All you need is a small digital product, a place to sell it, and a way to talk to the people who need it.

Why it’s a great option:

• Fits easily into a busy schedule
• No inventory or shipping headaches
• High profit margins
• Scalable from your laptop or phone

Perfect for moms, side hustlers, or anyone craving more flexibility and freedom.

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🚀 Step 1: Pick a Simple Digital Product to Sell

The first step?

Choose one product that solves one small problem.

That’s it.

Great beginner-friendly digital products:

• Canva templates (think resumes, planners, social media kits)
• Checklists (like packing lists, business setup guides)
• Mini-courses or how-to guides
• Printables or swipe files

Pro Tip: Don’t try to create something massive.

The more specific and focused the solution, the more likely it will sell.

People want quick wins—not long reads.

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🎨 Step 2: Use Canva to Create Your Digital Product

You don’t need to be a designer.

Canva is your best friend here.

It’s free, easy to use, and made for non-techy creatives.

Here’s how to keep your product simple but impactful:

• Use clean, readable fonts
• Keep the layout easy to follow
• Focus on solving ONE thing clearly
• Use visuals only where it adds value

And hey, if you want to shortcut the process, use a pre-made template.

You can customize it to match your audience and brand without starting from scratch.

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🛍️ Step 3: Set Up a Storefront That Works For You

Now that you’ve got a product, it’s time to sell it!

Your storefront is your digital home—make it easy for people to browse, buy, and download.

Two beginner-friendly options:

• Shopify – Best if you want to grow your product line
• Stan Store – Great for simple, quick setup

Your storefront should include:

• A compelling product description
• A clear price
• Automatic digital delivery setup

Let the tech do the heavy lifting so you can focus on connecting with your audience.

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📣 Step 4: Grow Your Audience with Instagram Threads or TikTok

Worried about having no audience?

Don’t be.

You can build one fast using short, valuable content.

Why Instagram Threads works:

• Casual, conversational style
• Short-form posts build trust quickly
• Easy to post faceless content

Content ideas that work:

• Quick tips related to your product
• Mistakes you made (and what you learned)
• Day-in-the-life posts or behind-the-scenes

You don’t need to dance or show your face.

Just be real and talk to one person who needs your product.

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🤖 Step 5: Add Simple Automation to Scale

Once people are visiting your store, automation turns visitors into buyers—without you being glued to your phone.

Beginner automation options:

• Email Funnel – Use ConvertKit, MailerLite, or Flowdesk
• Manychat – Create chatbot flows right on Instagram

Start with a freebie lead magnet (like a mini guide or checklist), then send helpful follow-up emails or messages.

Keep it conversational and valuable.

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🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Starting Out

Let’s save you from the overwhelm and trial-and-error.

Top beginner mistakes:

• Trying to do too much too soon
• Obsessing over branding before validating your idea
• Waiting until everything is “perfect”
• Constantly switching tools or niches

Remember: Simplicity is your superpower.

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🌟 Real Success Stories from RGA Students

Meet Sarah, a stay-at-home mom who sold her first Canva template within 10 days.

Or Jess, who launched her side hustle while working full-time and made $500 in her first month.

These women didn’t have huge audiences or fancy tools.

They just followed the steps—and believed in progress over perfection.

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🧰 Tools & Resources to Simplify Your Startup Journey

Here are our favorite beginner-friendly tools:

Bonus: Look for tools with free plans when you're just getting started.

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🚀 How RGA Helps You Launch Fast and Simply

Rich Girl Academy is our step-by-step program made for beginners, moms, and side hustlers who are ready to finally start their online business.

Inside Launchpad, you’ll get:

• Done-for-you Canva templates
• Storefront walkthroughs
• Copywriting prompts
• Daily content ideas
• Automation training
• Encouragement every step of the way

You don’t have to figure this out alone.

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❓FAQs About Starting an Online Business From Scratch

Q1: Can I start with zero experience?
Yes! Many students start with no tech or business background.

Q2: Do I need a website to sell?
Nope! Platforms like Stan Store or Shopify make it super easy.

Q3: How long does it take to launch?
You can get your first product up in less than a week.

Q4: What if no one buys?
Focus on one clear problem and promote consistently—you’ll get traction.

Q5: Can I stay anonymous?
Absolutely. Many sellers grow audiences without ever showing their face.

Q6: How much does it cost to get started?
Less than $100 if you use free tools and templates.

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💬 Final Thoughts: You Don’t Need to Be Techy or Famous

You just need a simple plan and the right support.

Start small.

Launch fast.

Keep going.

If you’re ready to turn your idea into income, Rich Girl Academy is here to guide you every step of the way.