7 Startup Ideas for the Outdoorsy Types

People who love the great outdoors and have a desire to share the experience with others, as well as a desire to start a business, should check out the outdoor company scene. It’s a thriving industry, given the right market, and there’s plenty of room for growth and opportunity.

If you have a cutting-edge idea for a new business in this field, now is as good a time as any to get started in any of the following specialties.

1. Golf Course

Although most people don’t regard golf as the “the great American sport,” it is an essential part of our culture. It’s particularly popular among business executives; professionals meet and conduct deals over the fairways. It can also be a highly relaxing use of time.

Building and managing a golf course is a great business. Look for an area that could use an additional golf course and develop the land accordingly. This is certainly not a cheap startup, but it offers fantastic opportunities for growth; plus, you can spend plenty of time on the course yourself.

2. Sports Complex

Many cities would treat a sports complex as a huge and welcome addition. Parents with children who are athletes but have no sports complex in their part of town must travel, sometimes upwards of an hour, to get to each game.

Building a sports complex in such a region would be incredibly beneficial to the nearby municipalities and would provide excellent opportunities for growth and profit. Obviously, this would be a substantial investment, since you’ll need to handle everything from the landscaping to the lights and equipment. But the industry holds great potential!

3. Niche Farming

It’s not easy to start farming in today’s market unless you inherit land or purchase an existing operation. But you can make a comfortable living and spend your days outdoors if you take up niche farming.

You might grow a few select types of produce or raise a small herd of animals. You could own a horse stable, rent out farm equipment, harvest and manufacture special dairy products, sell produce on the side of the road, or participate in other farming practices.

When you do, you’ll enjoy constant nature and exercise while pursuing your need to make a living.

4. Landscaping

Since landscaping outside of commercial and residential buildings makes a big impression on customers and visitors, it’s a profitable industry to break into. It yields potentially high profits, particularly if you’re good with your hands, have creative ideas, and hire a reliable crew.

The equipment investment at the beginning can be pricey, but it won’t necessarily take that long to build clientele, particularly in areas where landscaping needs are substantial.

5. Tour Guiding

Move to a tourist location like West Yellowstone National Park, Hawaii, Alaska, or other a similarly popular outdoor destination. From there, you can brush up on the history of the area and lead tours.

You’ll get to spend every day amid nature and wildlife, and educating visitors on the environment. It’s a highly relaxing and enjoyable career for the motivated outdoor lover.

6. Pest Control

Pest control is popular in the Midwest and southern part of the country, thanks to the overabundance of insects and rodents in these regions. People will pay good money for extermination services, and you’ll get to work with your hands on a daily basis.

7. Boat Broker

If you live anywhere near a body of water in a highly populated area, you can make a great living selling and repairing boats and yachts. Because boats are best showcased on the water, you’ll likely get to spend a fair amount of your time there.

Getting started involves obtaining a license and building up your inventory. You typically make money on commission, so it’s best if you’re a capable salesperson.