There are several small business ideas that require little capital but have the potential for high profits. Here are five examples:

1. Dropshipping: Dropshipping is an e-commerce business model where you sell products online without having to hold inventory. You partner with suppliers who ship the products directly to the customers. This eliminates the need for upfront investment in inventory and storage costs. Platforms like Shopify and Oberlo make it easy to set up a dropshipping store. You can choose profitable niches, such as beauty products, gadgets, or home decor, and market them through social media or targeted advertising.

Example: The success story of Oberlo's founder, Tomas Slimas, who started a dropshipping store and scaled it to over $3 million in annual revenue, demonstrates the potential of this business model.

Reference: Oberlo Success Stories - https://www.oberlo.com/success-stories

2. Digital Products: Creating and selling digital products, such as ebooks, online courses, or software, can be a lucrative business with low startup costs. You can leverage your expertise or passion to create valuable content that people are willing to pay for. Platforms like Teachable or Udemy provide tools to create and sell online courses, while Amazon's Kindle Direct Publishing allows you to self-publish ebooks.

Example: Pat Flynn, the founder of Smart Passive Income, started his online business by creating an ebook and later expanded into other digital products and services. His monthly income now exceeds six figures.

Reference: Smart Passive Income - https://www.smartpassiveincome.com/

3. Freelancing: If you have skills in writing, graphic design, web development, or digital marketing, you can start a freelancing business with minimal investment. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer connect freelancers with clients seeking specific services. You can set your own rates, work remotely, and gradually build a client base.

Example: Gina Horkey, a successful freelancer, started her business by offering virtual assistance services and later expanded into freelance writing. She now earns a six-figure income and teaches others how to start their freelancing careers.

Reference: Horkey Handbook - https://horkeyhandbook.com/

4. Personalized Products: Creating and selling personalized products, such as custom-made jewelry, engraved items, or personalized gifts, can be a profitable business idea. You can start by offering your products on online marketplaces like Etsy or eBay, or even set up your own website. Initial costs include materials and tools needed for production, but they can be kept low by starting small.

Example: A quick search on Etsy reveals numerous successful sellers who specialize in personalized products, such as jewelry with custom initials or personalized home decor items.

Reference: Etsy - https://www.etsy.com/

5. Subscription Boxes: Curated subscription boxes have gained popularity in recent years. You can create a subscription box around a specific theme or niche, such as beauty products, snacks, or pet supplies. By partnering with suppliers and negotiating bulk discounts, you can keep costs low while offering customers a unique and convenient experience. Platforms like Cratejoy provide tools to set up and manage your subscription box business.

Example: Birchbox, a subscription box service that offers beauty and grooming products, started with just $1.4 million in seed funding and quickly grew to over a million subscribers.

Reference: Birchbox - https://www.birchbox.com/

Remember, while these ideas have the potential for high profits, success depends on various factors such as market demand, marketing strategies, and dedication to customer satisfaction. It's important to thoroughly research your chosen business idea and adapt it to your skills and interests for the best chance of success.