By Dr Victor Lemmer – BIP Varsity, IgniteFuture™ Program
Empowering Tomorrow’s Entrepreneurs, Today
Introduction
Yes—you can start a real business before you finish school.
Some of the world’s most successful entrepreneurs began their journey as teenagers, turning small ideas into big opportunities before they ever sat in a university lecture. You don’t need to wait until you’re an adult, have a big bank account, or rent an office space.
All you really need is an idea, a little courage, and a clear set of steps.
Let me show you how.
Step 1: Spot a Problem or Opportunity
Every great business starts with a problem worth solving.
Ask yourself:
- What do people complain about at school?
- What takes too long or costs too much?
- What do my friends, parents, or neighbours always need help with?
- What could make someone’s life easier or more fun?
Real examples from teens:
- “I started a snack stand at soccer practice because kids always forgot to bring food.”
- “I designed custom phone wallpapers because my friends wanted something unique.”
Tip: The best business ideas solve everyday problems—and often, the simpler the better.
Step 2: Choose a Simple Product or Service
Start small. Start affordable. Start quick.
You’re not aiming for perfection—you’re aiming to be helpful.
Ask yourself:
- Can I make it myself? (Bake, sew, design, craft)
- Can I do it myself? (Wash cars, tutor, edit videos, mow lawns)
- Can I resell something people already need?
Starter ideas for teen entrepreneurs:
- Sell digital templates or custom art
- Make beaded jewelry or keyrings
- Offer lawn mowing or pet-sitting
- Host weekend tutoring sessions
- Run a themed Instagram page with small sponsored ads
Step 3: Work Out What It Will Cost
You don’t need thousands of rands to begin—but you do need to understand your numbers.
Break it down:
- What materials or tools do I need?
- How much will I spend versus how much will I charge?
- How many sales do I need to make a profit?
Mini example:
You make bracelets:
- Beads + string = R10 per bracelet
- Selling price = R30
- Profit = R20 per bracelet
When you understand your costs, you’ll always know if you’re moving forward or losing money.
Step 4: Find Your First Customers
Your first customers are closer than you think—at school, in your neighbourhood, on your social media, and among your family and friends.
Ways to get your first sales:
- Create a simple order form (Google Forms, WhatsApp)
- Share on your WhatsApp status or Instagram stories
- Ask friends to post about your product
- Offer a launch-day discount or a “first 10 customers” deal
Top Tip: Ask every happy customer for feedback and referrals—word-of-mouth can be your most powerful marketing tool.
Step 5: Learn, Improve, Repeat
Your first version of the business is only the start.
Learn by doing:
- What worked well?
- What didn’t work?
- What did customers love—or not love?
- What can I improve next time?
Even if your first idea doesn’t take off—you’ve already gained more real-world experience than many adults.
Remember: You don’t need a perfect plan. You just need your first customer.
Ready to Go Bigger?
The IgniteFuture™ Program by BIP Varsity is designed to help young people like you turn small ideas into powerful businesses.
When you join, you’ll learn how to:
- Write a professional business plan
- Price products and manage money
- Build a personal brand and develop leadership skills
- Access expert support and digital tools
Bonus: Sign up now and receive a free mini-course plus a business idea workbook to get started immediately.
Final Words
You don’t have to wait until you’re 18 to be your own boss.
You can start today—right where you are, with what you have.
Your business journey starts now.
Let’s build the future—one young entrepreneur at a time.
