Is size important? Not these mini machines! If you are considering a new business venture, try to think “small” with these nine small machines that make money.
These machines may look small, but don’t be fooled by them. They can generate some serious income with the right business plan.
With an instant and growing demand for convenience, mini machines are splashing across the industry. From creative vending machines to DIY laser cutting, there’s no shortage of opportunities.
These innovative mini-machine ideas promote low startup costs, passive income opportunities and growing interest in niche markets.
What is a mini machine?
So, what exactly is a mini machine?
Mini machines are small, semi-automated or fully automated. These business machines are often self-service and are perfect for those looking for passive income (think vending machines, photo booths, arcade machines).
Other small machines require more user input. They require most space and are usually responsible for singular functions (think Cricuts, freeze dryers, or drones).
Benefits of the Mini Machine Business
Mini machines are popular with both enthusiasts and small business entrepreneurs. It is attractive for many reasons including:
- Low cost: Mini-machine businesses often have low startup and maintenance costs, which brings profit margins.
- Passive income: Mini machines are one of the best passive income ideas and provide stable income through self-service machines.
- Creative business ideas: There are many mini machines that you can use to drive your business. Find your niche and fill in the gaps in the small machine market!
- Low risk: Depending on the initial investment, mini machines may be offered at a relatively low cost. This will significantly reduce the interests of new companies.
- Scalable: These businesses are easily scalable based on the number of machines you own. Start small and expand your business in the long term to spike your income potential.
Small Machines to Make Money: 9 Business Ideas
Looking for the perfect mini machine for your next business venture? Check out these creative ideas for little machines that make money.
1. CricutCreations
The Cricut is a small but powerful machine. If you’ve never used it before, it’s an electronic cutting machine that can help you create stickers, vinyl decals, engravings and more.
Use this machine to provide print-on-demand services. This is one of the best business ideas for crafters and creatives, making it easy to create custom work on almost any surface.
Sell custom mugs, t-shirts, stationery, wooden signs, or anything you come up with.
2. 3-D printing
With a 3D printer, you can make your ideas come true!
Create profitable business models using 3D printers and sell on-demand designs such as product prototypes and custom gifts.
Creative can sell original designs such as jewelry, home decorations, architectural models and more.
Mini-machine experience also allows you to sell 3D printer design files to future creators!
3. Vending machines
When you think of a small machine that makes money, you’d think of a vending machine.
The vending machine business is one of the best ways to earn passive income. Replenish your vending business machines with products and profits!
Not just snacks, vending machines offer an exciting choice for everything from toys to personal care.
Here are some vending machine ideas:
- Toys are like collectibles, toys, or stickers from surprise boxes
- Snacks such as popcorn, international snacks, sandwiches and more
- Specialty drinks such as bottled boba, iced coffee, and protein shakes
- Desserts such as cake slices, cupcakes, ice cream machines
- Personal care items such as essential toiletries, beauty items, travel miniatures and more
- Electronic devices such as phone chargers, headphones, travel adapters and more
4. Dehydrator or freeze dryer
You can whip exciting merchandise with a dehydrator or freeze dryer. And your customers pay premium for convenience!
Home machines are inexpensive, especially for small operations. Some options to consider are:
- Dehydrated fruit and vegetable chips
- Freeze-dried candy
- Dehydrated pet snacks
- Grind beef or mushrooms
- Dehydration camp meal
- Dried herbs
- Dry Soup Mix
5. embroidery
Hand embroidery can be beautiful and complicated, but it tends to take time and lacks durability.
Embroidery machine makes it easy to create custom embroidery designs. From branded tote bags to monogram memorabilia, there are plenty of options to sell.
6. Drone service
The popularity of drones has opened up a new world of small machinery business ideas. Here are some top drone business ideas:
- Event video shoot
- Real Estate, Resorts and Tourism Bureau Advertisement
- Farm monitoring
- Drone delivery service
- Music Video
- Security System
Once you’ve mastered this mini machine, you can also offer online courses to teach others how to use drones (and profits).
7. Laser cutting
The laser cutter may sound intense, but it is surprisingly easy to use. Plus, it’s one of the best little machines that make money.
These computer-controlled machines can cut complex designs with impressive accuracy.
Unlike Cricut’s Blade, these machines use real lasers to cut. This gives you more freedom of detail and works on more surfaces.
Laser cutters are offered at a higher price range, but the price of the product should reflect that. Some fun ideas include:
- Carving wooden toys like blocks and puzzles
- Custom vent box made from food grade stainless steel
- Carved trophies
- Kitchen tools with surname engraved
- Carved Glass Christmas Ornaments
8. Photo booth
The photo booth returned in a big way. These days, you can hardly go to events without a photo booth of some sort, and for good reason! They are fun and interactive, while providing great memorabilia to their guests.
Create a travel photo booth business and bring portable booths to events such as weddings and block parties.
There is also a market for vintage photo booths where these mini machines gather young demographics.
9. Arcade Games
Arcade games such as classic pinball, claw machines, and on-demand jukeboxes are unique ways to profit from mini machines.
Plus, you don’t need to open an arcade game parlor to make a profit. Some arcade machines are portable and can be rented for special events.
Other games can find permanent locations, from trendy boutiques to up-and-coming cafes.
Things to consider when starting a mini-machine business
Starting a mini-machine business may seem like a less stressful venture, but there are a few considerations you need. Make sure to include these factors in your small business plan.
Return on Investment (ROI)
Always keep ROI in mind when investing in a mini-machine business. Some machines cost a high upfront fee, but the income potential may be worth investing.
If you have uncertain returns, you can also consider cheap machines, such as second-hand options and rentals.
Passive income opportunities
The more you automate your mini-machine, the more chances you have to earn passive monthly income.
Consider how long it takes to manage a small machine business and the areas you can automate to reduce your workload.
maintenance
Maintenance is important regardless of the type of machine you are working with. Consider machine costs for daily repairs, regular inspections and upgrades, if necessary. These factors can have a serious impact on profit margins.
Also consider upkeep when purchasing your machine first, taking into account the supplier’s warranty and satisfaction guarantees.
Legal requirements
One of the first steps in a mini-machine business plan is to outline all legal requirements. This includes business structure, local permits, insurance requirements and rental agreements.
Inventory management
Track inventory levels and inventory costs using inventory management programs such as Zoho Inventory.
Part of the appeal of small aircraft is that they don’t require a lot of space or stock backlogs. Still, you need to plan the amount of storage you need and where it is.
Where to sell
There are many places where you can sell your products online. Markets such as Michaels’ Etsy, Amazon Handmade, Makerplace. You can also use Shopify to build your own e-commerce website. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, so do some research before choosing which platform to use. You can also sell items at your local farmers’ market or craft fair.
I’ll sell your business
No matter where you sell your mini-machine products, you need to spend time marketing your business.
Social media is a great way to spread the word. Create business accounts across major social platforms and encourage users to spread the word into user-generated content.
Learning SEO helps you attract the right target audience to your product, whether you have your own website, blog or use a third-party platform.
Don’t forget that prompt delivery and providing excellent customer service will go a long way in building positive reviews and repaying customers.
Growth potential
I recommend that you have a vision of where your small business will take you.
Consider how to expand this project in the future, expand the range of products, invest in more machines, and create a community centered around your business.
Little Machines to Make Money: The Final Thoughts
Mini machines are the convenience of the future, making it easier than ever to start small businesses with minimal investment. Find your niche in the world of mini machines and see how big your business can grow!
Looking for more small business ideas? Check out this post on 41 small business ideas you can do from home.
