Starting a business in the U.S. Virgin Islands can be rewarding, especially if you identify a niche that meets local needs or leverages your skills. From online-based services to traditional enterprises, here are 100 business ideas in the U.S. Virgin Islands that you can start with relatively low capital.
About the U.S. Virgin Islands
The U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) comprises St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix. With its booming tourism industry, favorable tax incentives, and strategic location, the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) offers a wealth of opportunities for entrepreneurs.
In 2024, the territory welcomed over 2.7 million visitors, marking a significant increase from the previous year. This surge in tourism, coupled with government initiatives to diversify the economy, makes the USVI an attractive destination for starting a business.
The U.S. Virgin Islands, located in the Caribbean Sea, with an economy that is primarily driven by tourism, which accounts for about 60% of the GDP. The islands have also seen growth in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and renewable energy.
The U.S. Virgin Islands Economic Development Authority (USVIEDA) offers various incentives to attract investors, including tax benefits and support for small businesses.
100 Business Ideas in the U.S. Virgin Islands
1. Eco-tourism Agency
Capitalize on the natural beauty of the USVI by offering eco-friendly tours, such as hiking, snorkeling, and wildlife observation, promoting sustainable tourism practices.
2. Boutique Hotel or Guesthouse
With the influx of tourists, there’s a demand for unique accommodations. A boutique hotel offering personalized experiences can attract niche travelers.
3. Water Sports Rental Services
Provide rentals for activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing to cater to adventure-seeking tourists.
4. Local Handicrafts Store
Support local artisans by selling handmade crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs that reflect the culture of the USVI.
5. Organic Farming
Leverage the fertile land to grow organic produce, supplying to local markets and restaurants focusing on farm-to-table concepts.
6. Solar Energy Installation
With abundant sunlight, offering solar panel installation services can help residents and businesses reduce energy costs.
7. Fishing Charter Business
Organize fishing trips for tourists and locals, tapping into the rich marine life surrounding the islands.
8. Mobile Food Truck
Serve local delicacies and international cuisine at popular tourist spots, festivals, and events.
9. Wellness Retreat Center
Establish a center offering yoga, meditation, and holistic therapies to cater to wellness tourists.
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10. Cultural Tour Services
Provide guided tours focusing on the history, music, and traditions of the USVI, enhancing cultural appreciation.
11. Scuba Diving School
Offer diving lessons and certifications, taking advantage of the clear waters and vibrant coral reefs.
12. Event Planning Services
Organize weddings, corporate events, and festivals, capitalizing on the USVI’s popularity as a destination.
13. Bed and Breakfast
Convert a property into a cozy B&B, providing a homely experience for travelers.
14. Specialty Coffee Shop
Open a café serving locally sourced coffee and pastries, creating a community hub for residents and tourists.
15. Language School
Teach languages like English, Spanish, or French to locals and expatriates, facilitating communication in the diverse community.
16. Art Gallery
Showcase local artists’ work, promoting the island’s creative talent and offering art pieces for sale.
17. Digital Marketing Agency
Assist local businesses in establishing an online presence through SEO, social media, and content marketing.
18. Boat Repair Services
Provide maintenance and repair services for the numerous boats and yachts in the region.
19. Health Food Store
Sell organic and health-conscious products to cater to the growing wellness market.
20. Photography Services
Offer professional photography for events, real estate, and tourism marketing.
21. Adventure Tour Company
Organize activities like zip-lining, ATV tours, and hiking expeditions for thrill-seekers.
22. Mobile App Development
Create apps tailored to local needs, such as tourism guides, transportation, or event listings.
23. Travel Agency
Plan customized travel itineraries for visitors, including accommodations, activities, and transportation.
24. Fitness Center
Open a gym offering various fitness classes and personal training sessions.
25. Juice Bar
Serve fresh juices and smoothies made from local fruits, appealing to health-conscious consumers.
26. Car Rental Services
Provide vehicles for tourists to explore the islands at their own pace.
27. Real Estate Agency
Assist clients in buying, selling, or renting properties, tapping into the growing real estate market.
28. Spa and Massage Therapy
Offer relaxation and therapeutic services to residents and visitors seeking rejuvenation.
29. Online Retail Store
Sell local products online, reaching customers beyond the islands.
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30. Language Translation Services
Provide translation and interpretation services for businesses and tourists.
31. Pet Grooming and Boarding
Offer grooming and boarding services for pets, catering to locals and travelers.
32. Landscaping Services
Design and maintain gardens and outdoor spaces for homes and businesses.
33. Taxi and Shuttle Services
Provide reliable transportation for tourists and locals.
34. Cooking Classes
Teach traditional Caribbean cooking to tourists and food enthusiasts.
35. Internet Café
Set up a café offering internet access, printing, and refreshments.
36. Cleaning Services
Offer residential and commercial cleaning services.
37. Graphic Design Studio
Provide design services for branding, marketing materials, and websites.
38. Childcare Services
Open a daycare center or offer babysitting services for working parents.
39. Music School
Teach musical instruments and vocal training to students of all ages.
40. Recycling Center
Promote environmental sustainability by collecting and processing recyclable materials.
41. Bookstore
Sell books, magazines, and stationery, creating a literary hub.
42. IT Support Services
Provide technical support and IT solutions to businesses and individuals.
43. Tattoo and Piercing Studio
Offer body art services, catering to locals and tourists.
44. Surf School
Teach surfing lessons, taking advantage of the island’s beaches.
45. Florist Shop
Sell flowers and arrangements for events and daily purchases.
46. Bicycle Rental Services
Rent bicycles to tourists for eco-friendly exploration.
47. Craft Brewery
Produce and sell locally brewed beers, adding to the island’s culinary offerings.
48. Tattoo Removal Services
Provide laser tattoo removal services, meeting the demand for cosmetic procedures.
49. Mobile Repair Services
Fix smartphones and electronic devices, offering convenience to customers.
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50. Language Translation Services
Offer translation services for documents and conversations in multiple languages.
51. Art Supply Store
Sell art materials and supplies to artists and students.
52. Dance Studio
Teach various dance styles, promoting cultural expression and fitness.
53. Home Renovation Services
Provide remodeling and renovation services for residential properties.
54. Legal Consultancy
Offer legal advice and services to individuals and businesses.
55. Accounting Services
Provide bookkeeping and financial services to local businesses.
56. Courier Services
Offer delivery services for documents and packages.
57. Photography Studio
Set up a studio for portraits, events, and commercial photography.
58. Ice Cream Parlor
Serve a variety of ice cream flavors, appealing to all age groups.
59. Mobile Car Wash
Provide on-the-go car cleaning services at customers’ locations.
60. Interior Design Services
Offer design solutions for homes and commercial spaces.
61. Security Services
Provide security personnel and systems for events and properties.
62. Language Translation Services
Offer translation services for documents and conversations in multiple languages.
63. Jewelry Design and Sales
Create and sell handcrafted jewelry pieces.
64. Drone Photography and Videography
Drone services are in high demand for real estate, weddings, tourism marketing, and events. Entrepreneurs can offer aerial photography packages to capture stunning visuals of the USVI’s scenic beauty, including beaches, resorts, and cruise ships. This business can also cater to construction companies for site inspections or to farmers for crop monitoring.
65. Online Tutoring Services
With the rise in digital learning, starting an online tutoring business can help students in the USVI and beyond. You can teach subjects such as math, science, English, and SAT prep, or offer services for adult learners like ESL (English as a Second Language) or GED training. This business is low-cost and scalable with the right tech setup.
66. Coding Bootcamp
Technology education is a growing need globally, including in island economies. A coding bootcamp teaching skills like web development, Python, data analysis, or mobile app development can empower the local workforce and attract students from other Caribbean nations seeking tech training.
67. Agri-Tourism Farm
Combine agriculture and tourism by offering farm stays, pick-your-own produce experiences, and educational tours. Visitors can learn about local farming techniques, taste fresh tropical produce, and participate in workshops like organic gardening or composting.
68. Sustainable Packaging Production
As the global push for eco-friendly products grows, producing biodegradable packaging for restaurants, stores, and local manufacturers can be a profitable venture. Materials like coconut husks, banana leaves, or recycled paper can be used for creating packaging alternatives.
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69. Coworking Space
A modern coworking space with high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and shared office amenities will appeal to digital nomads, local freelancers, and small startups in the USVI. Adding community events or business mentorship programs could add further value.
70. VR Tourism Experience Center
Set up a center that allows tourists to experience virtual reality tours of historical sites, underwater scenes, or other USVI landmarks. It can also be marketed to cruise ship passengers and local schools for educational purposes.
71. Seaweed Farming
Seaweed is a fast-growing aquaculture industry with uses in cosmetics, fertilizers, pharmaceuticals, and food. Entrepreneurs can farm seaweed in coastal waters and sell it to regional or international markets, promoting sustainable marine practices.
72. Renewable Energy Consultancy
Help businesses and homes transition to green energy by offering assessments, consulting, and solar or wind energy installation referrals. You can also help them qualify for tax credits and incentives offered by the local government.
73. Eco-Friendly Cleaning Services
Launch a cleaning company that uses non-toxic, biodegradable cleaning products for residential and commercial properties. This caters to environmentally conscious consumers and businesses seeking sustainable solutions.
74. Influencer Marketing Agency
Work with local influencers and tourism brands to create and execute promotional campaigns for hotels, restaurants, and events. This type of agency can help connect businesses with online audiences through platforms like Instagram and YouTube.
75. Digital Product Marketplace
Create an online marketplace where creators from the USVI can sell digital products such as eBooks, photography, music, or educational resources. This empowers local talent and opens up passive income opportunities.
76. Aquaponics Farming Business
Aquaponics combines fish farming with hydroponic vegetable growing in a sustainable cycle. This innovative farming method can produce high-quality fish and vegetables with minimal land and water, perfect for island environments.
77. Online Gift Shop
Build an e-commerce store that sells USVI-themed gifts, local art, and handmade products to customers worldwide. Offer shipping services and special packages for holidays or events like weddings or birthdays.
78. Homeschool Curriculum Development
Develop educational content and curriculum packages specifically designed for parents who homeschool their children in the USVI. Focus on culturally relevant material, nature-based learning, and USVI history.
79. Podcast Production Company
With the rise of podcasting, offering services such as editing, marketing, voice-over, and show development can attract clients ranging from influencers to small businesses. This business can be operated remotely and scaled across the Caribbean.
80. Smart Home Installation Services
Install and maintain smart home devices such as security cameras, voice assistants, smart thermostats, and lighting systems. As smart tech becomes more popular, homeowners and business owners will seek professionals for setup and integration.
81. Mobile Veterinary Clinic
Start a mobile unit offering vet services such as vaccinations, check-ups, and basic surgeries to pet owners in rural areas or on different islands. This offers convenience and reduces the need for pet transport.
82. Culinary School
Teach locals and tourists how to cook Caribbean cuisine, pastries, or international dishes. You can offer certificate programs, evening classes, or partner with resorts for culinary experience packages.
83. Specialty Tours for Cruise Visitors
Design short-duration, themed tours for cruise ship visitors such as rum tastings, pirate history walks, or Caribbean dance lessons. These niche experiences can be sold as shore excursions.
84. Agricultural Equipment Leasing
Provide farmers with access to tractors, harvesters, and other essential equipment on a rental basis. This is a practical solution for small-scale farms that can’t afford large machinery upfront.
85. Business Incubator or Accelerator
Create a space to support startups and entrepreneurs with mentorship, resources, training, and networking opportunities. Focus on tech, tourism, and local product manufacturing sectors.
86. Custom Furniture Business
Build and sell handcrafted furniture made from local wood and materials. Offer custom designs for homes, hotels, or restaurants seeking unique décor that reflects Caribbean culture.
87. Island-Based Subscription Boxes
Curate subscription boxes featuring local goods like spices, beauty products, snacks, and artisan crafts. Market the service to mainland U.S. customers interested in Caribbean culture and products.
88. Green Construction Services
Specialize in sustainable construction techniques using eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient designs. This appeals to environmentally conscious clients and aligns with building codes promoting sustainability.
89. Online Course Creation
Develop and sell online courses on topics such as Caribbean cooking, history, language (e.g., Patois), or entrepreneurship. Platforms like Teachable or Udemy can be used to reach international students.
90. Custom Software Development
Provide software solutions tailored to local business needs such as reservation systems, point-of-sale tools, or logistics platforms. This business can be operated remotely and marketed regionally.
91. Hydroponic Vegetable Farm
Grow leafy greens, herbs, and tomatoes in a controlled, soil-free system, making year-round agriculture possible even in limited space. Supply local restaurants and stores with fresh produce.
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92. Language Translation App
Develop a mobile app that helps tourists and locals translate between English, Spanish, and other Caribbean languages. Include voice translation and local slang features for added utility.
93. Agricultural Training Institute
Open a center that teaches modern farming techniques, organic practices, and agribusiness skills to locals, youths, and aspiring entrepreneurs. Partner with government and NGOs for support.
94. Boat-to-Table Seafood Restaurant
Serve freshly caught seafood from local fishermen in a themed restaurant setting. Highlight the connection between ocean sustainability and fine dining.
95. Educational YouTube Channel
Create video content on USVI history, culture, nature, or science tailored to students and tourists. Monetize through ads, sponsorships, and merchandise sales.
96. Rainwater Harvesting System Installation
Install systems that collect and purify rainwater for residential or commercial use. This is especially useful in remote or dry areas and promotes water conservation.
97. Community Garden and Market
Organize a local garden that residents can participate in and harvest from, with an adjoining farmers market to sell extra produce and homemade products.
98. Elderly Care and Home Support Services
Offer services like meal prep, home cleaning, and medical transport for the elderly. With an aging population, there’s increasing demand for home care support.
99. IT Training and Certification Center
Provide tech education programs and certifications like CompTIA, Cisco, or Google Career Certificates. This builds the local workforce and opens job opportunities in tech sectors.
100. Island History Museum or Cultural Center
Establish a center dedicated to showcasing the rich history, folklore, and traditions of the USVI. Include interactive exhibits, local storytelling, and cultural performances for tourists and students.
This list of 100 profitable business ideas in the U.S. Virgin Islands spans multiple industries and reflects the region’s growing opportunities. With the right planning, creativity, and market research, entrepreneurs can successfully launch ventures that thrive in the unique Caribbean environment.
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