10+ Best & Profitable Terrible Business Ideas [2023]

"Starting a business in 2023? Don't know where to begin? We've got you covered! Here are the 10+ best and most profitable terrible business ideas that you can start in 2023!"
Newfoundr

By Nick Cotter
Updated Feb 07, 2024

Image of terrible business ideas
This page may feature products from our affiliate partners, which could influence the products we discuss due to potential compensation. Despite this, our evaluations are impartial, based solely on our independent analysis. The content here is intended for informational purposes and should not be seen as legal advice. For professional guidance, consulting with a legal expert is recommended.
What are you waiting for?
Quit that job & start your business with ZenBusiness today.

Hey there, future business moguls! Ever found yourself daydreaming about the most outrageous, seemingly terrible business ideas? You know, the kind that makes your friends laugh and say, "That'll never work!" Well, we're here to tell you, hold onto those ideas! They might just be the next big thing.

We're about to dive into an exciting list of the top 10+ best and profitable 'terrible' business ideas for 2023. These are ideas that might seem absurd at first glance, but with a little creativity and a lot of guts, they've turned into gold mines for their daring inventors.

So, sit back, relax, and let's take a journey into the world of unconventional success. We're hoping to inspire you, educate you, and maybe even make you laugh a little. Who knows? By the end of this article, you might just be ready to take a leap of faith with your own 'terrible' idea!

Ready to challenge the status quo? Let's get started!

Pet Rock Store

A Pet Rock Store is a business concept where people can buy pet rocks and other pet-related items. This could be a fun and creative way to make money, as it would allow customers to find unique and interesting pet rocks to adopt. Here are some of the reasons why this could be a good business idea:

  • It’s an easy business to start and requires little upfront investment.
  • It’s great for all ages – young children, teens, and adults can all find something they love.
  • You can showcase unique pet rocks – each rock has its own unique design, making it an ideal showpiece for customers.
  • You can create a strong community – with customers able to connect with each other through their love of pet rocks.
  • You have the potential to expand into other pet-related areas such as accessories and toys.
image of a Pet Rock Store

Frozen Yogurt That Tastes Like Garbage

A frozen yogurt business that tastes like garbage could be an interesting option for those who appreciate a unique twist on a classic dessert. Here are some of the benefits this type of business could offer:

  • It could be a talking point – customers might find the unusual flavor intriguing, appealing to their adventurous side.
  • It offers something completely different to other frozen yogurt stores.
  • It is likely to generate media attention, which could be great for marketing.
  • It could potentially reach a new demographic of customers that may have been overlooked by traditional frozen yogurt businesses.
Featured Business Formation Partners
image of ZenBusiness logo
ZenBusiness
Turn your business vision into reality with ZenBusiness's streamlined LLC formation and expert support services.
Newfoundrz Rating ★★★★★
image of Northwest Registered Agent logo
Northwest Registered Agent
Secure your business's future with Northwest Registered Agent's personalized LLC formation and privacy-focused expertise.
Newfoundrz Rating ★★★★★
image of Bizee logo
Bizee
Kickstart your business effortlessly with Bizee's comprehensive LLC services and free first-year registered agent support.
Newfoundrz Rating ★★★★★

Examples of successful businesses:

The terrible business industry contains many successful companies. From tech giants to retail stores, here is a list of examples of successful businesses in the terrible business industry:

  • Apple Inc.
  • Walmart
  • Google
  • Microsoft
  • Amazon
  • <

Selling Used Dental Floss

Selling used dental floss can be a profitable and eco-friendly business idea as it offers an affordable and convenient solution for people looking for sustainable alternatives to traditional dental care products. Here are some of the benefits to starting a used dental floss business:

  • Dental floss is a highly sought after product, especially among eco-conscious buyers.
  • It is relatively inexpensive to purchase in bulk, allowing for competitive pricing when selling it.
  • Used dental floss can be reused by customers, thereby reducing their overall dental care costs.
  • The used dental floss can be safely disposed of in environmentally friendly ways such as composting or recycling.

More resources:

Tourist Trips To Chernobyl

A Tourist trip to Chernobyl is a great business idea, as it provides travelers with a unique and memorable experience. It is an opportunity to explore a fascinating part of the world and learn about its history. Here are some reasons why it could make a good business idea:

  • Chernobyl is a historical site, so people are likely to be interested in learning more about its story.
  • The area is relatively untouched since the disaster happened, making it perfect for exploring and sightseeing.
  • It is one of the most famous nuclear disasters in the world, so tourists will be eager to explore and learn more about the site.
  • The area has been declared safe for visitors, making it quite safe for tourists.
  • The area provides great wildlife watching opportunities due to its seclusion from most of the world.
  • Tourists can get an understanding of the consequences of nuclear disasters when they visit Chernobyl.

Life-sized Barbie Doll Factory

A Life-sized Barbie doll factory is a factory that produces life-size dolls of the iconic Barbie doll. This could make an excellent business idea due to the following reasons:

  • The Barbie doll is an iconic and popular product that appeals to customers of all ages.
  • Life-sized dolls are unique, creative, and could have great potential for customization.
  • A life-sized Barbie doll factory could serve a wide range of customer needs and markets, from children’s birthday gifts to adult collectors.
  • This would be a new and innovative solution in the toy industry.

Related business ideas:

Home Shampooing Service

A Home shampooing service is a professional service that goes to people's homes to provide shampoo, treatments, and styling. It is a great business idea because it offers convenient and personalized services, with the added benefit of allowing clients to relax in the comfort of their own home. Here are some benefits of a Home shampooing service:

  • Convenience for clients
  • Added privacy for clients
  • More personalized services
  • Ability to offer a variety of treatments and styles
  • Increase in customer base due to added convenience

High-priced Ketchup Store

A High-priced ketchup store is a business idea focused on selling premium quality ketchup to customers. This could be in a physical store or as an online shop. The differentiating factor in this store would be the significant markup on quality products, specifically ketchup. This business could be successful for the following reasons:

  • Premium Quality Products
  • Unique Selling Point (USP)
  • Potentially High Margins
  • Targeted Consumer Purchases
  • Brand Differentiation

Selling Celebrity Autographs You Make Yourself

Selling celebrity autographs you make yourself is a great business idea because it allows you to create customized products at an affordable price. There is a wide variety of ways to make fake autographs, allowing you to be creative while also making a good profit. Here are some of the benefits of selling celebrity autographs you make yourself:

  • It is a cost-effective way to make money
  • You can customize the autograph to suit your customer
  • You can tap into the celebrity market that has a high demand for autographs
  • You don’t need any special equipment or knowledge to create these autographs
  • You can learn new skills and create unique products

Knock-off Luxury Car Dealership

A Knock-off luxury car dealership is a business that sells cars at a discounted price to the public. This type of dealership offers vehicles from the same makes and models of luxury cars, but at significantly lower prices. This type of dealership specializes in cars that have been lightly used, salvaged or rebuilt. Here are some reasons why this could make a good business idea:

  • The cost of purchasing and stocking vehicles is much lower than in a regular luxury car dealership.
  • The discounted prices offer customers an opportunity to save on the purchase of high-end vehicles.
  • It offers customers the chance to purchase luxury vehicles without having to pay full retail price.
  • It is an attractive option for customers who are looking for quality vehicles at an affordable price.

Door-to-door Toenail Clipping Service

A Door-to-door toenail clipping service is a business that offers to come right to a customer's door and clip their toenails. This could be a great business idea because it would provide an incredibly convenient service for people who don't have the time or ability to take care of their own toes. Here are some of the advantages this service could provide:

  • Convenience – Customers don't need to leave home or even get off the couch to have their toes clipped.
  • Knowledge – The service provider can offer hygiene tips, medical advice, and even just general conversation on the state of feet health.
  • Cost savings – The cost savings of not having to go out for a pedicure (if customers go professionally) or purchase clippers and treatments of their own.
  • Speed – With the right equipment and training, the service can be completed quickly due to no need for travel time.

Newfoundr

Founder and CEO

We're newfoundr.com, dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs succeed. As a small business owner with over five years of experience, I have garnered valuable knowledge and insights across a diverse range of industries. My passion for entrepreneurship drives me to share my expertise with aspiring entrepreneurs, empowering them to turn their business dreams into reality.

Through meticulous research and firsthand experience, I uncover the essential steps, software, tools, and costs associated with launching and maintaining a successful business. By demystifying the complexities of entrepreneurship, I provide the guidance and support needed for others to embark on their journey with confidence.

From assessing market viability and formulating business plans to selecting the right technology and navigating the financial landscape, I am dedicated to helping fellow entrepreneurs overcome challenges and unlock their full potential. As a steadfast advocate for small business success, my mission is to pave the way for a new generation of innovative and driven entrepreneurs who are ready to make their mark on the world.