1. Find a Problem & Solve It
Every successful business starts with a problem that needs solving. The best ideas come from real-life frustrations—so look around and ask yourself:
- What challenges do students face daily?
- Is there a better, cheaper, or easier way to do something?
- Do you have a skill or talent others would pay for?
Example: A Fullerton College student realized classmates were struggling to find affordable, high-quality resume designs. The solution? TestHornet Designs, a student-run business offering custom resumes at student-friendly prices.
Take Action:
Talk to 5 classmates and ask what product or service would make their life easier. That could be your next business idea!
2. Test Your Idea Before Spending Money
Before you invest time or money, test your idea to see if people are willing to pay for it.
Ways to validate your idea:
- Survey students using Google Forms or Typeform
- Offer a free or discounted version to gauge demand
- Post on Instagram or TikTok to see if people show interest
Example: Thinking about selling handmade jewelry? Post your designs, ask people to vote on their favorites, and offer a pre-order discount.
Take Action:
Create a simple Instagram post about your idea and see how your audience responds!
3. Start Small (And Cheap!)
You don’t need a lot of money to start. Begin with free or low-cost tools:
Free Business Tools:
- Sell on Instagram, Facebook Marketplace, or TikTok
- Create a free website with Wix or Canva Website Builder
- List your business on the Hornet Student Marketplace to get instant visibility
Pro Tip: Start with one product or service, perfect it, and expand later.
4. Make It Official (Optional, but Smart!)
If you’re making consistent income, consider making your business official.
Business Setup Options:
- Stay a sole proprietor (good for freelancers & side hustles)
- Register an LLC (for extra protection)
- Open a business bank account to separate finances
Resources:
Take Action:
Not sure which business type is best for you? Schedule a free consultation with a Small Business Advisor through SCORE.
5. Market Your Business & Get Customers
Now that you have a business, it’s time to spread the word!
Top Free Marketing Strategies:
- Instagram & TikTok – Share behind-the-scenes content & testimonials
- Join local Facebook groups – Great for service-based businesses
- Get listed on the Hornet Student Marketplace
Marketing Challenge:
Post one video today about your product/service and tag #HornetBiz for a chance to get featured!
6. Manage Your Time Wisely
Balancing school and a business can be tough.
Stay organized with Best Time Management Apps:
- Trello – Organize tasks
- Google Calendar – Plan your schedule
- Notion – Keep track of ideas & projects
Pro Tip: Dedicate 30 minutes daily to your business. Consistency beats perfection!
7. Find Funding & Free Resources
You don’t need thousands of dollars to start—there are free and low-cost ways to fund your business!
Top Funding Options for Students:
- Apply for campus startup grants (check Fullerton College’s resources!)
- Crowdfunding – Use GoFundMe or Kickstarter
- Microloans – Some organizations offer 0% interest loans to students
Bonus: Join Entrepreneurship Week at Fullerton College to win grants and business funding! Register here.
Your Turn: Take the First Step!
Starting a business in college can change your future. You’ll gain valuable experience, financial independence, and a head start in your career.
Ready to take action?
Entrepreneurship Week
Come to Entrepreneurship Week –
Register now
Register
Join the Hornet Student Marketplace –
Sign up here!
Stay Connected
Follow @HornetBiz on Instagram for student entrepreneur tips