The Tribune

The year 2020, and perhaps 2021, will prove to be seasons where entrepreneurship, innovation and creativity will thrive. With thousands of well-established businesses failing under the COVID-19 cloud, and millions being laid-off worldwide, people are being forced into survival mode. The lay-offs, reduced pay and hours will serve as the inspiration some needed to wake up and get moving.

Thousands of Bahamians are already sitting at home and asking the question: How do I start a business that sustains my family with little to no capital? Successful business persons, who began as a small start-up, will encourage budding entrepreneurs to remain in the jobs they have, and to begin trading as a side pursuit. A detailed business plan, strong marketing regime and a thorough analysis of your customer base will go a long way in ensuring future success.

This week, we conclude a two-part series sharing ten great business ideas that are ‘low hanging fruit’ for the recently unemployed or individual seeking to seize a new opportunity.

Here are the final five:

6. Roving agriculturalist/ farming assistant

With a growing emphasis on organic foods and self-sufficiency in food production, many Bahamians are eyeing with interest starting backyard gardens and ‘on the low-farming’. If you have a green thumb and can turn yard space into food producing centres, you might just be in business. Go for it. Prepare yourself with seed samples, equipment packages, learning tips and videos that will help your customers experience success in the short-term.

7. Food delivery/ lunch delivery

If you love food and travelling, a food truck business might be right for you. Food trucks come in all shapes and sizes, serving up a wide range of snacks and cuisines to customers looking for an accessible bite. Take your favourite style of food on the road, travel to work sites and provide affordable meals consistent with the client base. Food trucks and vans have been around for some time, but COVID-19 has given you a great opportunity to up your food truck game. The overhead and upkeep for a truck costs significantly less than owning a restaurant, and you have the added benefit of mobility.

8. Virtual fitness consultant

Everyone is talking about the 15 pounds they put on during the lockdown period. Further exacerbating the excess weight is the closure of gyms and fitness centres. A virtual fitness consultant can provide meal plans, workout plans and schedules, equipment for the workouts and personal visits to ensure that the clients stay on track.

9. Online shopper

Most persons are horrified with the thought of travelling to the United States for the purpose of shopping after this second COVID-19 wave. A designated shopper, who will manage all aspects of the shopping experience for a nominal fee, will be fully embraced during this period. No headache from Customs, hotel accommodations, car rental, milling through store after store. Your personal online shopper allows you to make your selection, and they handle the rest of it.

10. Small manufacturing

From hand sanitizer to face masks, this is the perfect time to begin a small manufacturing business catering to the new needs created by COVID-19. Start small from your home but strategise for expansion. You just might surprise yourself on what opportunities you might find in this new business venture.

• NB: Ian R Ferguson is a talent management and organisational development consultant, having completed graduate studies with regional and international universities. He has served organsations, both locally and globally, providing relevant solutions to their business growth and development issues. He may be contacted at tcconsultants@coralwave.com.