In this episode, Chris Koerner shares his top 7 low-cost business ideas for beginners in the food industry for 2026 🍉. He emphasizes that these ideas are designed to be simple, approachable, and offer high margins, making them perfect for newcomers looking to dive into entrepreneurship.
1. **Grill cleaning**: A service that can be started with minimal equipment, appealing to individuals who barbecue frequently.
Learn more about starting a grill cleaning business here:
https://www.chrisjkoerner.com/newslettersss/newsletter-0051
2. **Mini pancakes**: This trendy treat can capture the attention of food lovers and could easily be marketed through social media.
Check out this mini pancake idea here:
https://x.com/mhp_guy/status/2009705202274934846?s=20
3. **Dehydrated fruit**: A healthy snack option that’s growing in popularity. It requires slightly more equipment but has a good profit margin.
Explore dehydrated fruit opportunities here:
https://x.com/mhp_guy/status/2000296786557354459?s=20
4. **Picnics**: Organizing luxury picnics can become a lucrative venture, especially in scenic areas.
See a picnic business example here:
https://x.com/mhp_guy/status/2010428589360271799
5. **Frozen grapes**: A refreshing summer treat that’s easy to make and sell. Start small and scale up as demand grows.
Learn more about this idea here:
https://x.com/mhp_guy/status/2011495240079696010?s=20
6. **Bakery stands**: Setting up a stall with baked goods can leverage local events and farmers markets.
Get inspired by this bakery stand idea:
https://x.com/mhp_guy/status/1988611735033729269
7. **Watermelon**: Selling creative watermelon-based products can set you apart, especially during hot weather.
See different watermelon business inspirations here:
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/cjkoerner_my-poor-wife-i-cant-even-go-to-a-parade-activity-7346972455653056512-2B7b/
Chris also discusses essential startup costs and profitability for each idea while stressing the importance of testing the market to ensure success. All ideas focus on low start-up costs and high returns, making them ideal for beginners looking to start a business.
For more insights on entrepreneurship, tune in to Chris’s audio podcast on all platforms:
https://toolkit.tkopod.com/podcast
you can also subscribe to Chris’s newsletter for weekly business ideas here:
https://tkopod.com
Join his private community at:
https://TKOwners.com
View Chris’s website:
https://www.chrisjkoerner.com/
By Chris Koerner on The Koerner Office Podcast