Step 1: Choose Your Niche
Pick a product or category you're passionate about or have knowledge of.
Validate demand with tools like Google Trends, Amazon Best Sellers, or keyword research tools.
Evaluate competition: Look at competitors to find gaps you can fill.
Step 2: Research Your Market
Define your target audience.
Understand their pain points, desires, and buying behavior.
Analyze competitors' pricing, positioning, and reviews.
Step 3: Source or Create Products
Dropshipping: No inventory, supplier ships directly to customers.
Print on Demand: Custom products printed when ordered.
Wholesale: Buy in bulk, store and ship yourself.
Manufacturing: Create your own product from scratch.
Step 4: Set Up Your Online Store
Choose a platform: Shopify, WooCommerce (WordPress), BigCommerce, Wix, etc.
Buy a domain name and get hosting (if not using Shopify).
Design your store: Use a clean, mobile-friendly theme.
Add product pages, about page, contact info, and policies (shipping, returns).
Step 5: Set Up Payment & Shipping
Enable payment gateways: PayPal, Stripe, Apple Pay, etc.
Set up shipping rules: Free shipping, flat rate, or real-time rates.
Consider fulfillment logistics or third-party services.
Step 6: Launch Marketing
Social Media: Start with Instagram, Facebook, TikTok depending on your audience.
Email Marketing: Collect emails with popups and send newsletters.
Content Marketing: Start a blog or YouTube channel related to your niche.
Paid Ads: Try Facebook/Instagram or Google Ads once you have data.
Step 7: Launch and Optimize
Do a soft launch with friends and family.
Collect feedback and reviews.
Use analytics tools (Google Analytics, Meta Pixel) to track performance.
A/B test headlines, images, and offers.
Step 8: Scale Up
Automate what you can (email sequences, fulfillment).
Expand product lines or reach new markets.
Invest in SEO and advanced marketing strategies.