Do you want to start a new business in Mumbai and search for profitable opportunities? If yes, you are in the right place. Here in this article, after in-depth research, we have curated a list of the best and most profitable business ideas in Mumbai that can be started with low investment.
Mumbai is the capital city of Maharashtra and is known for its bustling streets, iconic landmarks, and dynamic business environment. As the financial, commercial, and entertainment hub of India, Mumbai offers a unique blend of traditional businesses and modern startups. Its strategic location, well-connected infrastructure, and diverse population make it a hotspot for entrepreneurs seeking opportunities across various sectors.
List of 45 Business Ideas in Mumbai
Online Business Ideas in Mumbai
1. E-Commerce Store
Start an online store and sell products ranging from fashion and accessories to electronics and home goods. Platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, or Amazon can help you set up your e-commerce business.
2. Start a Blog
If you enjoy sharing your passion, expertise, or experiences, consider starting a blog. Choose a niche that interests you and has an audience, such as travel, food, lifestyle, technology, or personal finance. Create valuable and engaging content to attract readers and monetize your blog through ads, affiliate marketing, sponsored posts, or selling digital products.
Read: How to Make a Website
3. Create Online Courses
There are thousands in Mumbai making millions by offering courses online. If you are an expert in a specific field. consider creating courses online for students. You can launch your website or upload those courses on platforms like Udemy, teachable, etc.
4. Online Tutoring
Capitalize on the growing demand for online education by offering tutoring services in subjects like academics, languages, music, or even specialized skills through platforms like Zoom or Skype.
Read: Best Online Jobs from Home
5. Dropshipping Business
Start a dropshipping business where you partner with suppliers to sell products online without the need for inventory storage. When a customer places an order, the product is directly shipped from the supplier to the customer.
Retail Business Ideas in Mumbai
6. Fashion Boutique
Start a fashion boutique that offers a curated collection of clothing, accessories, and footwear. Focus on a specific niche, such as casual wear, ethnic wear, or designer fashion, and provide personalized shopping experiences to attract customers.
7. Organic Grocery Store
With the growing demand for organic and healthy products, opening an organic grocery store can be a profitable venture. Offer a range of organic produce, pantry staples, and natural products to health-conscious consumers.
8. Pet Supplies Store
Mumbai has a significant pet-loving community. Open a pet supplies store that offers a wide range of pet food, toys, accessories, and grooming products. Provide expert advice on pet care to attract loyal customers.
9. Home Decor and Furnishing Store
Mumbai’s diverse population is always on the lookout for unique home decor and furnishings. Open a retail store that sells a variety of stylish and functional home decor items, furniture, and furnishings to cater to different tastes and preferences.
10. Stationery and Office Supplies Shop
Establish a stationery store that caters to students, professionals, and businesses. Offer a wide range of stationery items, office supplies, art materials, and writing instruments to meet the varied needs of your customers.
Food Business Ideas in Mumbai
11. Street Food Stall
Mumbai is famous for its vibrant street food culture. Set up a street food stall offering popular local snacks like vada pav, pav bhaji, bhel puri, and pani puri. Ensure high-quality ingredients and maintain hygiene to attract food enthusiasts.
Read: Best Street Food Business Ideas
12. Catering Services
With a bustling social scene and numerous events, catering services are in high demand in Mumbai. Provide catering for weddings, parties, corporate events, and more. Offer diverse menus that cater to different cuisines and dietary preferences.
13. Healthy Food Delivery
Capitalize on the health-conscious trend by starting a healthy food delivery business. Prepare and deliver nutritious and balanced meals to busy professionals, fitness enthusiasts, and individuals looking for convenient yet healthy options.
14. Bakery and Confectionery
Open a bakery that specializes in freshly baked goods like bread, cakes, pastries, and cookies. You can also offer customized cakes for special occasions. Incorporate innovative flavours and designs to stand out.
15. Food Truck
Launch a food truck that roams around popular spots in Mumbai. Offer a variety of cuisine options, such as gourmet burgers, sandwiches, fusion dishes, or even ethnic cuisines. Food trucks are a great way to reach a mobile and diverse customer base.
Finance Business Ideas in Mumbai
16. Financial Consulting Services
Offer financial advisory and consulting services to individuals, businesses, and startups. Guide budgeting, investment planning, tax strategies, and financial goal setting. Build a strong reputation for providing sound financial advice.
17. Insurance Brokerage
Start an insurance brokerage firm that helps clients find the right insurance policies to meet their needs. You can specialize in various types of insurance, such as life, health, property, and automobile insurance.
18. Stock Market Investment Consultancy
If you have experience in investing in stocks and have the necessary licenses, start a consultancy firm that offers guidance and advice to individuals interested in investing in the stock market. Provide insights into stock selection, portfolio diversification, risk management, and investment strategies. Offer personalized recommendations based on the client’s financial goals and risk tolerance.
19. Bookkeeping and Accounting Services
Provide bookkeeping, accounting, and tax preparation services to small businesses and startups. Help clients maintain accurate financial records, file taxes, and stay compliant with financial regulations.
20. Financial Technology (FinTech) Startup
Tap into the growing FinTech sector by developing innovative financial technology solutions. This could include creating mobile apps for budgeting and financial tracking, peer-to-peer lending platforms, digital payment solutions, or robo-advisory platforms.
Technology and IT Business Ideas in Mumbai
21. Software Development Company
Establish a software development company that offers custom software solutions to businesses and organizations. Provide services such as web application development, mobile app development, software consulting, and software maintenance. Collaborate with clients to understand their unique requirements and deliver high-quality, scalable software solutions.
22. Digital Marketing Agency
Start a digital marketing agency that helps businesses enhance their online presence and reach their target audience. Offer services such as search engine optimization (SEO), social media marketing, content creation, pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, and email marketing. Create data-driven marketing strategies to drive traffic, engagement, and conversions for clients.
23. Cybersecurity Consulting
Launch a cybersecurity consulting firm that helps businesses protect their sensitive data and digital assets from cyber threats. Offer services like vulnerability assessments, penetration testing, network security, and data encryption. Assist clients in implementing robust cybersecurity measures to safeguard their systems and information.
24. E-Commerce Solutions Provider
Establish an e-commerce solutions company that caters to businesses looking to sell products online. Offer services such as website development, e-commerce platform setup, payment gateway integration, and inventory management systems. Help clients create user-friendly online stores and facilitate seamless transactions.
25. IT Training Institute
Start an IT training institute that provides courses and workshops on various technology-related topics. Offer training in programming languages, web development, data analytics, cloud computing, and more. Provide hands-on learning experiences to students and professionals seeking to enhance their technical skills.
Hospitality and Tourism Business Ideas in Mumbai
26. Boutique Hotel
Create a unique and upscale boutique hotel in Mumbai that offers personalized experiences to travellers. Design the interiors to reflect the city’s culture and provide exceptional amenities and services. Focus on providing personalized hospitality and creating a cozy and memorable stay for guests.
27. Tour Guide Services
Start a tour guide service that offers curated and guided tours of Mumbai’s famous landmarks, historical sites, and cultural attractions. Provide informative and engaging tours that showcase the city’s rich history, diverse culture, and hidden gems.
28. Food Tours and Culinary Experiences
Organize food tours and culinary experiences that allow tourists to explore Mumbai’s vibrant food scene. Offer guided tours to popular street food stalls, local markets, and traditional eateries. Provide hands-on cooking classes and tastings of authentic Mumbai cuisine.
29. Event Planning and Management
Launch an event planning and management company in Mumbai that specializes in organizing corporate events, conferences, weddings, and other special occasions. Create memorable and seamless events by coordinating venues, catering, entertainment, and logistics.
30. Homestay Accommodations
Offer unique homestay accommodations where travellers can experience the warmth of Mumbai’s local culture and hospitality. Partner with local homeowners to provide comfortable and authentic stays for tourists seeking a more personal travel experience.
Entertainment and Media Business Ideas in Mumbai
31. Film Production Company
Establish a film production company that creates and produces movies, documentaries, and short films. Mumbai is known as the “Bollywood” capital of India, making it an ideal location for film production. Collaborate with talented writers, directors, and actors to produce engaging and impactful content.
32. Event Management and Production
Start an event management and production company that specializes in organizing concerts, live shows, exhibitions, and corporate events. Plan and execute memorable events by managing logistics, marketing, ticket sales, and entertainment.
33. Digital Content Creation
Launch a digital content creation studio that produces engaging content for online platforms, including social media, streaming services, and websites. Create videos, podcasts, animations, and graphics to cater to the growing demand for online entertainment.
34. Music Production and Distribution
Set up a music production and distribution company that supports local artists and musicians. Record and produce music albums, singles, and tracks. Additionally, establish digital distribution channels to make the music accessible to a wider audience.
35. Gaming and eSports Hub
Create a gaming and eSports hub that offers a space for gamers to compete, practice, and connect. Organize eSports tournaments, provide gaming equipment and facilities, and offer streaming services to cater to the rising popularity of gaming and competitive eSports in India.
Real Estate and Property Business Ideas in Mumbai
36. Property Management Services
There is a huge demand for property management services in Mumbai. You can offer these services to property owners who need assistance with renting, maintenance, and administration. This could include finding tenants, handling repairs and maintenance, and ensuring legal compliance.
37. Real Estate Consulting
You can start a consulting firm that provides real estate advice to clients looking to buy, sell, or invest in properties. Consider offering insights on market trends, property valuations, legal matters, and investment strategies.
38. Co-working Space and Shared Offices
Establish a co-working space that provides flexible workspaces to freelancers, entrepreneurs, and small businesses. With Mumbai’s bustling business environment, there’s a growing demand for shared office spaces.
39. Property Development
Venture into property development by constructing residential or commercial projects. This could involve acquiring land, obtaining necessary permits, designing the project, and overseeing its construction.
40. Real Estate Brokerage
Launch a real estate brokerage firm in Mumbai to connect buyers and sellers of properties. Act as an intermediary, helping clients navigate the process of buying or selling real estate while earning a commission on successful transactions.
Healthcare and Wellness Business Ideas in Mumbai
41. Health Clinic or Diagnostic Center
Establish a health clinic or diagnostic center that offers a range of medical services, such as consultations, diagnostic tests, vaccinations, and preventive health check-ups. Focus on providing quality healthcare services to the local community.
42. Fitness Center or Gym
Open a fitness center or gym that offers a variety of fitness classes, personal training, and state-of-the-art equipment. Mumbai’s health-conscious population makes it an ideal location for a fitness business.
43. Nutrition and Diet Counseling
Start a nutrition and diet counselling business where you offer personalized dietary guidance to clients. Help them achieve their health and wellness goals through balanced nutrition plans.
44. Spa and Wellness Center
Create a serene spa and wellness center that provides a range of relaxation and rejuvenation services, such as massages, facials, aromatherapy, and yoga classes. Mumbai’s urban lifestyle creates a demand for stress relief and wellness services.
45. Online Health Consultations
Launch an online platform that offers telehealth services, connecting patients with qualified healthcare professionals through virtual consultations. Provide medical advice, prescriptions, and follow-up care from the comfort of their homes.
Part-Time Business Ideas in Mumbai
46. Freelance Services
Leverage your skills in areas such as writing, graphic design, web development, digital marketing, or photography to offer freelance services. You can take on projects on a part-time basis and work from the comfort of your home.
47. Tutoring or Coaching
If you have expertise in a particular subject or skill, consider offering tutoring or coaching services. This could be academic subjects, languages, music, dance, fitness, or any other skill that people are interested in learning.
48. Event Planning
Mumbai is a city of events and celebrations. If you have a knack for planning and organizing, you can offer part-time event planning services for small parties, gatherings, or even corporate events.
49. Content Creation
With the rise of digital platforms, there is a growing demand for content creators. You can start a blog, YouTube channel, or social media account where you share your expertise, experiences, or entertainment content.
50. Food Delivery or Catering
If you enjoy cooking, you can start a part-time food delivery or catering service. You can prepare and deliver homemade meals, and snacks, or even specialize in catering for small events or parties.
Wholesale Business Ideas in Mumbai
51. Garments Wholesale
Mumbai is a fashion hub, making garments wholesale a lucrative opportunity. You can source clothing items such as ethnic wear, western wear, or accessories from manufacturers and sell them to retailers or individual customers.
52. Electronics Wholesale
Mumbai’s bustling electronics market presents an opportunity to start an electronics wholesale business. You can specialize in selling gadgets, mobile accessories, computer hardware, or even home appliances to retailers or small businesses.
53. Jewelry Wholesale
With a rich history of jewellery making, Mumbai is an ideal location for a jewellery wholesale business. You can source a variety of jewellery pieces, from traditional to modern designs, and supply them to retailers or jewellery stores.
54. Stationery and Office Supplies Wholesale
Mumbai’s commercial centers have a high demand for stationery and office supplies. Start a wholesale business offering a wide range of products like pens, paper, office equipment, and other stationery items.
55. Cosmetics and Beauty Products Wholesale
The beauty and cosmetics industry is thriving in Mumbai. Consider starting a wholesale business supplying skincare products, cosmetics, hair care items, or even salon equipment to beauty parlours, salons, and retail stores.
New Business Ideas in Mumbai
56. Urban Farming and Agri-Tourism
With increasing interest in organic and locally grown produce, starting an urban farming venture can be lucrative. You can grow fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs in limited spaces using vertical farming or hydroponics techniques. Additionally, you can combine agri-tourism by offering farm tours, workshops, and farm-to-table experiences.
57. Eco-Friendly Products Store
As environmental awareness grows, opening a store that offers a range of eco-friendly and sustainable products can be a great idea. This could include reusable products, zero-waste essentials, organic cosmetics, and more.
58. Virtual Events and Entertainment
With the rise of digital platforms, there’s a growing demand for virtual events, workshops, and entertainment experiences. You can create a business that offers virtual event planning, online workshops, virtual reality experiences, or even live streaming of events.
59. Health and Wellness Services
Mumbai’s fast-paced lifestyle has led to a surge in demand for health and wellness services. Consider starting a wellness center that offers services such as yoga, meditation, fitness classes, holistic therapies, and wellness retreats.
60. Tech-Based Services for Seniors
Mumbai has a sizable elderly population that often requires assistance and companionship. You can launch a tech-based service that connects trained caregivers, medical professionals, and companions with seniors who need in-home care, health monitoring, and assistance.
Business Ideas with Low Investment in Mumbai
61. Freelance Services
Leverage your skills in areas like writing, graphic design, web development, digital marketing, or social media management to offer freelance services. With minimal investment in a computer and software, you can start your own freelancing business from home.
62. Mobile Food Cart
Mobile food carts selling popular snacks, street food, or beverages can be a profitable venture. The initial investment involves purchasing a cart, ingredients, and necessary permits. Find a strategic location with high foot traffic for maximum visibility.
63. Online Reselling
Start an online reselling business on platforms like eBay, Amazon, or social media. You can source products from wholesalers, manufacturers, or even from your local market. This requires minimal investment in procuring inventory and setting up an online store.
64. Tuition or Coaching Classes
If you excel in a particular subject or skill, consider offering tuition or coaching classes. You can conduct these classes from your home or rent a small space. With a low initial investment in study materials and marketing, you can provide valuable education services.
65. Pet Services
Mumbai’s pet-loving population opens doors for pet-related services. You can offer dog walking, pet grooming, pet sitting, or even pet photography services. Start by networking with pet owners in your neighbourhood and gradually expand your client base.
Is Mumbai a Good Place to Start a Business?
Yes, Mumbai is indeed a favourable location to start a business due to its dynamic economy, robust infrastructure, and diverse consumer base. Here are some data points that highlight why Mumbai is a good place to start a business:
a) Economic Hub
Mumbai is the financial capital of India and home to the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
The city contributes significantly to India’s GDP and is a hub for various industries, including finance, entertainment, manufacturing, and services.
b) Startup Ecosystem
Mumbai has a thriving startup ecosystem, with numerous co-working spaces, accelerators, and incubators supporting new businesses. It is ranked 31st among the top global ecosystems in the Startup Genome Global Startup Ecosystem Report 2023.
c) Consumer Market
With a population of over 20 million, Mumbai offers a vast and diverse consumer market for various products and services.
The city’s cosmopolitan nature ensures a mix of local and global consumer preferences.
d) Infrastructure
Mumbai has a well-developed infrastructure, including transportation networks, communication facilities, and commercial spaces. The presence of major ports and airports facilitates trade and business activities.
e) Access to Talent
The city has a large pool of skilled professionals, including engineers, marketers, designers, and finance experts. Mumbai’s renowned educational institutions produce a steady stream of qualified graduates.
f) Financial Institutions
Mumbai hosts numerous national and international banks, making it easier to access funding, loans, and financial services for your business.
g) Cultural and Entertainment Hub
Mumbai’s vibrant cultural scene and status as the center of the Indian film industry (Bollywood) can provide unique marketing and promotional opportunities for businesses.
h) Global Connectivity
Mumbai’s international airport provides connectivity to major cities worldwide, facilitating international trade and business expansion.
i) Government Support
The Maharashtra state government offers various incentives, subsidies, and policies to promote business and investment in the region.
j) Entrepreneurial Spirit
Mumbai fosters an entrepreneurial spirit, with a history of successful startups and established businesses that have scaled and thrived in the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key industries in Mumbai?
Mumbai has a strong presence in finance, entertainment, media, technology, manufacturing, and retail sectors.
How do I register my business in Mumbai?
Register your business with the Registrar of Companies (RoC) and obtain the necessary licenses and permits.
What is the cost of starting a business in Mumbai?
The cost varies depending on the business type, location, and scale. It includes registration fees, operational expenses, and marketing costs.
How can I find a suitable location for my business?
Research commercial areas and consider factors like foot traffic, accessibility, and proximity to your target audience.
What funding options are available for startups in Mumbai?
Explore angel investors, venture capital firms, bank loans, and government schemes.
How can I attract customers and promote my business in the city?
Utilize digital marketing, social media, and local advertising to reach your target audience.
What are the legal and regulatory requirements for businesses in Mumbai?
Fulfil tax obligations, obtain necessary licenses, and adhere to labour and environmental laws.
How can I tap into Mumbai’s diverse talent pool?
Collaborate with local universities, job portals, and professional networks to hire skilled employees.
What networking opportunities are available for entrepreneurs in Mumbai?
Attend industry events, workshops, and business forums to connect with fellow entrepreneurs and potential clients.
What are the challenges of doing business in Mumbai?
Intense competition, high real estate costs, traffic congestion, and regulatory complexities are common challenges.
Hello, I’m Rupak Chakrabarty, a passionate advocate for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and the driving force behind MUVSI Consulting, where I serve as a dedicated small business coach. With years of experience in the entrepreneurial world and a deep-rooted commitment to helping SMEs thrive, I bring a wealth of knowledge, expertise, and guidance to aspiring and established business owners alike.