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.

Read Also: How Adedayo Adegoke is Helping Students Stay in School with Affordable Financing

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.

Read Also: Arnold Nyendwa, the Entrepreneur Behind Africa’s First Stainless Steel Stove

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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