50 Best Business ideas You Can Start in Michigan Today

Michigan, located in the Great Lakes region of the United States, is known for its diverse landscapes, thriving economy, and rich cultural heritage.

With an estimated population of around 10 million people, Michigan is the tenth most populous state in the country. Its largest city, Detroit, serves as a major hub for industry, commerce, and culture.

Michigan has a diverse economy, with key industries including automotive manufacturing, agriculture, tourism, and technology.

The state is home to the “Big Three” automobile manufacturers—General Motors, Ford, and Chrysler—which have historically played a significant role in driving economic growth.

Agriculture also plays a vital role in Michigan’s economy, with the state being a leading producer of crops such as corn, soybeans, cherries, and apples.

Michigan’s natural beauty is another defining feature, with expansive forests, picturesque lakeshores, and abundant wildlife. The state is home to over 11,000 inland lakes and borders four of the five Great Lakes, making it a popular destination for outdoor recreation enthusiasts.

Notable natural attractions include Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Mackinac Island, and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

When it comes to starting a business, there are several business ideas you can start in Michigan. Interestingly, Michigan comes 6th for the cost of doing business, up from 9th last year in the United States.

Best Business ideas to Start in Michigan

1. Jet Ski Rental Business

This business is ideal to start in Michigan because Michigan has 3,288 miles of coastline. That is the longest freshwater coastline in the U.S. and the second longest coastline in the U.S. next to Alaska, according to Michigan.gov.

All you need to do to make your jet ski business profitable is to make sure you have some of the best and latest jet skis under your inventory, and that your jet ski business is well-positioned in a location that attracts loads of tourists and visitors.

2. Snow Plowing Business

Snow plowing business naturally thrives in most cities in Michigan. Available data shows that annually, some cities in Michigan get snowfall ranging from 100 to 158 inches!

The entire upper peninsula of Michigan is known for having massive snowfalls every year. While the U.S. average snowfall is around 28 inches, the upper peninsula of Michigan often gets over 200 inches of snow in many of its towns and cities.

3. Private Tour Guide Business

The reason why the private tour guide business or any tour-related business thrives in Michigan is because one of the most captivating aspects of Michigan is its breathtaking natural beauty.

The state is surrounded by four of the five Great Lakes, offering stunning vistas and endless opportunities for water-based activities.

A private tour guide business takes groups or people on excursions outside while guiding them through historical monuments, museums, and other locations. Tour guides typically have pertinent cultural, historical, and practical information that they may impart to travelers.

4. Boat Rental Business

A boat rental business is a company or enterprise that offers the service of renting boats to individuals or groups for a specific period.

Just like any other rental business, if you want to maximize profits for your boat rental business, you should make sure you position your boat rental business in a location that welcomes tourists and visitors, and also, you must make sure you have different types and sizes of boats under your rental business.

5. Beachfront Resort or Campground

When a state has 3,288 miles of coastline of freshwater which happens to be the longest freshwater coastline in the U.S. and the second longest coastline in the U.S. next to Alaska, it is only natural for businesses such as beachfront resorts or campgrounds to thrive in such state.

If you are looking for a profitable business idea to start in Michigan, you may want to consider opening a beachfront resort or campground that offers accommodations such as cabins, RV sites, and tent camping options. Provide amenities and recreational activities for guests to enjoy along the freshwater shoreline.

6. Water Sports Equipment Rental

Trust me, with miles of freshwater shoreline, starting a business that offers the rental of water sports equipment such as kayaks, paddleboards, canoes, jet skis, wakeboards, water skis, windsurfing boards, surfboards, snorkeling gear, and inner tubes can be lucrative.

Your water sports equipment rental business can cater to tourists and also locals looking to enjoy recreational activities on the water.

7. Automobile Dealership Business

The reason why you should choose to start an automobile dealership business in Michigan is because the state is home to the “Big Three” automobile manufacturers—General Motors, Ford, and Chrysler—which have historically played a significant role in driving economic growth.

Of course, as an automobile dealership business owner, your market will be beyond the state of Michigan, you will be able to get a good deal from these three automobile giants, and then become their distributor in different countries of the world.

8. Christmas Tree Farming Business

Michigan is the third-largest grower of Christmas trees with 60,520 acres (245 km2) of land dedicated to Christmas tree farming in 2007. This goes to show that a Christmas tree-farming business is bound to thrive in Michigan. Interestingly, there is a large global market for Christmas trees hence you should be able to maximize your Christmas tree business if you engage in exporting Christmas trees to other countries of the world. Although Christmas tree farming is considered a seasonal business, but it is indeed a business that can fetch you additional income. This kind of business is suitable for those who are looking to build multiple streams of income.

9. Winter Jacket Sales

The reason why the sales of winter jackets are high in Michigan is because of how cold Michigan can get. Available data shows that with an average temperature of 46.7 Fº, Michigan is the tenth coldest state in the US. If you can get a well-positioned store in any of the major cities in Michigan, in addition to your online store, you will be able to maximize sales and profits when you start your winter jacket sales business in Michigan. Just make sure you have different types, sizes, and styles of winter jackets under your inventory, and you will be able to meet the needs of your target market.

10. Security Consulting Business

If you are a trained security expert, and you are looking to start your own business in Michigan, you can consider becoming a security consultant. Being a security consultant means that there are no restrictions to the industry you can operate because everybody and organization need security, especially in cities like Detroit and Kalamazoo which happen to be the most dangerous city in Michigan.

11. Coffee Truck Business

The fact that it can get really cold in Michigan means that a coffee truck business is bound to thrive here. A coffee truck business is a mobile coffee shop that operates from a specially designed and equipped vehicle, typically a truck or a van. These coffee trucks are often used to sell various coffee-based beverages, such as espresso, cappuccino, lattes, iced coffee, and other specialty coffee drinks, as well as tea and other non-coffee beverages. In addition to drinks, some coffee truck businesses may also offer snacks, pastries, and other light refreshments to complement the coffee offerings.

12. Indoor Inflatable Play Center Business

An indoor inflatable play center business is a type of recreational facility designed for children and families to enjoy inflatable structures and play in a safe and controlled environment. Indoor inflatable play centers are typically housed within a building, making them suitable for year-round operation regardless of weather conditions. They provide a fun and exciting space for children to burn off energy, engage in physical activity, and socialize with other kids

13. Luxury Picnic Business

Michigan is one of the states that attracts several tourists annually hence a luxury picnic business is one of the best businesses you can start in the state. Available data shows that about 124.8 million visitors traveled to Michigan in 2018, spending $25.7 billion in the state.

A luxury picnic business is a specialized service that offers curated and high-end picnic experiences for clients. Instead of a traditional, casual picnic, a luxury picnic business elevates the concept by providing premium setups, elegant decor, gourmet food and drinks, and a comfortable and picturesque environment for clients to enjoy. This type of business usually caters to special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, marriage proposals, romantic dates, bridal showers, corporate events, and more.

14. Taxidermy Business

Michigan is known for having a variety of interesting fauna, including moose, cougars, bears, birds, deer and so much more. A taxidermy business is an enterprise that specializes in preserving and mounting animal specimens to create lifelike displays. Taxidermists use a combination of artistic skill, scientific knowledge, and technical expertise to recreate animals in realistic poses and expressions.

15. Hospice Business

A hospice business is a type of healthcare organization that provides end-of-life care and support for patients who are terminally ill or have a serious illness with a limited life expectancy. Hospice businesses focus on providing comfort and managing pain and symptoms, rather than curative treatment. Before you can start a hospice business in Michigan, you are expected to meet certain requirements, and the regulating authority in the state must approve the facility you want to start the business.

16. Medical Courier Business

According to the Michigan Health and Hospital Association, Michigan’s healthcare industry has a total economic impact of $65 billion per year—greater than any other industry in the state. This goes to show that a medical courier business will thrive in the state. A medical courier service is a type of courier service that transports medical equipment, supplies, specimens, and sensitive papers between medical facilities, hospitals, clinics, laboratories, and other healthcare providers. Medical courier services are critical in the healthcare business because they provide a quick, dependable, and secure transit alternative for time-critical medicinal supplies.

17. Drive Thru Liquor Store

Available data shows that Michiganders drank nearly 23.5 gallons of alcohol per person – 79% was beer (18.5 gallons per person), about 12% was wine (2.7 gallons per person) and the rest was liquor and mixed spirit drinks (a combined 2.3 gallons per person). It goes to show that if you start a drive-thru liquor store, you may not struggle to break even. A drive-thru liquor store is a retail store where customers can purchase alcoholic beverages without leaving their vehicle. Drive-thru liquor stores typically have a selection of beverages on display or in coolers that customers can choose from.

18. Limo Business

A limo business is a company that provides luxury transportation services using limousines or other high-end vehicles. These services are often used for special occasions or events such as weddings, proms, business meetings, airport transportation, or private tours. A limo business may offer different types of limousines such as stretch limos, SUV limos, party buses, or exotic cars to cater to different customer preferences and needs. Limo businesses are known to hire professional chauffeurs who are trained to provide exceptional customer service and ensure a safe and comfortable ride for their clients.

19. Waste Recycling Business

Michigan is one of the states in the United States to encourages people to go into recycling. This is why utilizing 50 percent and recycling 30 percent of Michigan’s MSW by 2025 is established to guide policy decisions toward an aggressive yet achievable goal. A waste recycling business is a company that collects, processes, and sells recyclable materials to be reused in the manufacturing of new products. This may involve sorting, cleaning, and processing materials such as paper, plastic, glass, and metal. Recycling businesses can range from small-scale operations that collect and sell materials locally, to large corporations that operate globally and have advanced technologies for processing and sorting materials.

20. Vending Machine Business

A vending machine business involves owning and operating vending machines that dispense a variety of products such as snacks, beverages, coffee, and other items. The business owner purchases or leases vending machines and places them in high-traffic locations, such as office buildings, schools, hospitals, or shopping centers, where people can easily access them. All you need to do to maximize profit from this business is to strategically position all your vending machines and to regularly stock the vending machines with products.

21. Private Duty Nurse Business

If you are a nurse, or someone with qualifications and experience in the healthcare industry, one of the best businesses you can start in Michigan is a private duty nurse business. A private-duty nursing business provides expert nursing care and medical assistance to patients in their homes or other private settings. Private duty nurses give one-on-one care and support to patients of all ages who need ongoing medical care or have complicated medical needs. Private duty nursing firms are mostly privately owned and operated, and they may employ licensed practical nurses (LPNs) or registered nurses (RNs) who are trained and skilled in delivering specialized care to patients with a variety of medical diseases.

22. Botox Clinic

A Botox business is a type of business that offers Botox treatments to clients who want to reduce the appearance of wrinkles or fine lines on their faces. Botox is a brand name for a type of botulinum toxin, a protein that can be injected into the skin to temporarily paralyze muscles, leading to a smoother and more youthful appearance. Botox businesses can be operated by licensed medical professionals, such as dermatologists, plastic surgeons, or nurse practitioners, who are trained and certified to administer Botox injections.

23. Bungee Workout Business

One of the most profitable businesses you can start in Michigan is a bungee workout business. This is so because an estimated 35.0 percent of Michigan adults are classified as overweight and an additional 32.5 percent are classified as obese hence, they will be more than willing to patronize any business that will help them overcome obesity. A bungee workout business is a type of fitness business that offers bungee workouts as a form of exercise. Bungee workouts involve using bungee cords or resistance bands that are attached to a harness worn by the participant. The cords provide resistance and support, allowing the participant to perform various exercises such as jumping, lunging, and squatting.

24. Open a Butcher Shop

A butcher shop is a retail establishment that sells meat products, including beef, pork, lamb, poultry, and sometimes fish. Butcher shops are often known for their high-quality, fresh meats, and may offer a wide range of cuts and varieties, such as steaks, roasts, ground meat, sausages, and more. Butcher shops may also offer specialty products, such as cured meats, smoked meats, or prepared dishes like meat pies or stews. Some butcher shops may also offer services such as meat processing, custom cuts, or meat preparation for events or special occasions.

25. Concierge Nurse Business

The fact that Michigan’s healthcare industry has a total economic impact of $65 billion per year makes a concierge nurse business bound to succeed in the state. A concierge nurse business is a type of healthcare service that provides personalized, one-on-one medical care to clients in the comfort of their own homes or workplaces. The services offered by a concierge nurse business are typically tailored to the specific needs of each client and can include a wide range of medical and non-medical services such as health assessments, medication management, wound care, chronic disease management, and lifestyle coaching.

26. Start a Cruise Line Business

A cruise line is a company that operates ships that are designed for leisure travel on the ocean, river, or other waterways. These ships typically offer passengers a variety of activities and amenities, such as dining, entertainment, and recreational activities, while traveling to multiple destinations. Cruise lines operate on a scheduled itinerary, with stops at various ports of call along the way, and offer a range of cruise durations, from short weekend getaways to multi-week voyages. Interestingly, the cruise industry is a significant part of the tourism and travel sector, with many different cruise lines offering a variety of experiences to cater to different types of travelers.

27. Jail Commissary Business

Michigan has 88 jails in 83 counties. The jail population in 2019 was 17,020. This is an indication that starting a jail commissary business will thrive in Michigan. A jail commissary business is a retail operation that sells items to inmates who are incarcerated in jails or prisons. Inmates are typically allowed to purchase items from the commissary using funds that they have either earned through work programs or received from friends or family. The commissary may sell a variety of items, such as food and snacks, hygiene products, clothing, electronics, and other items that are allowed in the facility.

28. Mining Company

Michigan has a variety of economically valuable minerals, including the obvious ones like iron and copper, but also the more obscure ones like gypsum, clay, marl, limestone, and peat (among others). This shows that a mining company is one of the best businesses to start in Michigan. A mining company is a business that is involved in the exploration, extraction, processing, and sale of minerals, metals, and other materials that are found in the earth’s crust.

29. Protein Bar Business

A protein bar business is a business that specializes in producing and selling protein bars, which are snack bars made with ingredients that are high in protein. Protein bars are typically marketed to individuals who are looking to increase their protein intake, such as athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and people who are trying to lose weight. Protein bar companies may offer a range of different flavors and types of bars, including those that are gluten-free, vegan, or made with organic ingredients.

30. Sea Moss Business

The reason why you should consider starting a sea moss business in Michigan is because Michigan has 3,288 miles of coastline. That’s the longest freshwater coastline in the U.S. and the second longest coastline in the U.S. next to Alaska, according to Michigan.gov. A sea moss business is a company that sells products made from or containing sea moss. Sea moss, also known as Irish moss, is a type of seaweed that is commonly found in the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea. It has become popular in recent years due to its numerous health benefits, including its ability to boost the immune system, improve digestion, and support skin health.

31. Self-Defense Products Business

Because cities like Detroit and Kalamazoo are prone to crime means that starting a self-defense products business in Michigan is a good idea. A self-defense products business is a type of company that sells various products designed to help people protect themselves from potential threats or harm. These products can range from pepper sprays, stun guns, personal alarms, and even self-defense training materials. These businesses often cater to a wide range of customers, including women, seniors, and individuals who live or work in high-risk areas.

32. Senior Moving Business

Senior moving business is yet another profitable business you can start in Michigan, and this is so because Michigan is aging, and fast. The state has more than 2 million residents over age 60, representing about 25% of the state’s population, and 37% of Michigan residents are 50 and older. Michiganders 85 and older are the fastest-growing age group of all. A senior moving business is a type of moving company that specializes in helping seniors and their families transition from their current home to a new residence, such as a retirement community, assisted living facility, or smaller home. Senior moving businesses provide a range of services tailored to the unique needs of seniors, including downsizing, packing and organizing, transportation, and unpacking and setting up in the new location.

33. Swimwear Line Business

A swimwear line business is a company that designs, produces, and sells a collection of swimwear. This type of business can range from small, independent startups to large corporations that distribute their products globally. A swimwear line business typically creates various styles of swimsuits for both men and women, which may include bikinis, one-piece swimsuits, tankinis, swim trunks, board shorts, rash guards, and more. The company may also design and sell complementary beachwear and accessories, such as cover-ups, hats, sunglasses, and beach bags.

34. Wellness Retreat Business

A wellness retreat business is a type of business that provides individuals with an opportunity to escape their daily routine and engage in activities and programs that promote health, relaxation, and personal growth. These retreats often take place in scenic locations such as beaches, mountains, or forests and offer a variety of services such as yoga, meditation, spa treatments, healthy meals, and outdoor activities. Wellness retreat businesses may also offer workshops and classes on various topics related to health and wellness, such as nutrition, stress management, and mindfulness.

35. Agriculture Business

Another business idea that you should consider starting in Michigan, is the agriculture business. The reason why you should consider starting an agriculture business is simply because a wide variety of commodity crops, fruits, and vegetables are grown in Michigan, making it second only to California among US states in the diversity of its agriculture. The state has 54,800 farms utilizing 10,000,000 acres (40,000 km2) of land which sold $6.49 billion worth of products in 2010. The most valuable agricultural product is milk. Leading crops include corn, soybeans, flowers, wheat, sugar beets, and potatoes.

36. Tech Support Business

As far back as 2002, Michigan ranked fourth in the U.S. in high-tech employment with 568,000 high-tech workers, which includes 70,000 in the automotive industry. This goes to show that a tech support business is ideal to start in Michigan. A tech support business provides technical assistance and support to individuals and organizations in solving their computer, software, and technology-related issues. This type of business typically offers services such as troubleshooting, diagnosis, repair, installation, and maintenance of computer hardware, software, and networking equipment. Tech support businesses may operate as a standalone service, or as part of a larger IT company that provides a range of technology services.

37. Alkaline Water Business

An alkaline water business is a type of business that sells water that has a pH level higher than 7, which is considered to be alkaline. Alkaline water is believed to have various health benefits, including improving hydration, boosting the immune system, and neutralizing acid in the body. There are different ways to make alkaline water, including adding alkaline minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium to the water or using an ionizer to raise the pH level. An alkaline water business may sell bottled alkaline water or offer alkaline water dispensers for customers to refill their containers.

38. Apartment Turnover Business

As of January 31, 2024, the Michigan housing market has a total of 24,191 properties available for sale. Additionally, 6,730 new listings entered the market during the same period, highlighting the dynamic nature of the real estate landscape in the state. This indicates that an apartment turnover business is suitable to start in Michigan. An apartment turnover business specializes in preparing rental units for new tenants after the previous ones have moved out. This involves a range of tasks such as cleaning the unit, repairing any damages, repainting or touching up walls, replacing fixtures, and ensuring that all appliances and utilities are in good working order. This type of service is often employed by property management companies, landlords, and real estate agents to help streamline the process of moving tenants in and out of rental properties.

39. Energy Healing Business

An energy healing business is a type of business that offers services aimed at improving the energy flow within a person’s body, to promote physical, emotional, and spiritual healing. Energy healing is a holistic practice that involves the manipulation and balancing of the body’s energy fields, with techniques such as Reiki, acupuncture, and chakra healing. An energy healing business may offer a range of services, such as individual healing sessions, group workshops, and training programs for individuals who wish to become energy healers themselves.

40. Concrete Polishing Business

The fact that the construction market is growing in Michigan means that concrete polishing will do well in the state. A concrete polishing business specializes in refining and enhancing the appearance of concrete surfaces. Concrete polishing involves using mechanical tools and abrasive materials to grind, hone, and polish the surface of a concrete floor or other concrete structures. The process can also involve applying protective coatings or sealants to increase the longevity and resistance of the polished concrete surface. Interestingly, Michigan was second in the U.S. in 2004 for new corporate facilities and expansions. From 1997 to 2004, Michigan was the only state to top the 10,000 mark for the number of major new developments.

41. Zero Waste Grocery Store

If you are interested in starting a business that aligns with Michigan’s policy on waste reduction, then you may want to consider opening a zero-waste grocery store. A zero-waste grocery store is a type of business that focuses on reducing waste and promoting sustainability in the grocery shopping experience. The concept revolves around minimizing the amount of packaging and single-use plastics typically associated with traditional grocery stores. The goal is to provide customers with an eco-friendly shopping experience by offering products in bulk or reusable containers.

42. Golf Cart Rental Business

Michigan boasts of having over 650 golf courses making it one of the best states to start a golf cart rental business. A golf cart rental business is a type of business that rents out golf carts to individuals or groups who want to use them for transportation or leisure purposes. Golf carts are small vehicles designed to carry golfers and their equipment around a golf course, but they can also be used for other purposes such as transportation in residential communities, hotels, resorts, and amusement parks.

43. Legal Document Preparation Business

Another profitable business you can start in Michigan is legal document preparation. A legal document preparation business is a type of business that assists individuals who need help preparing legal documents. Legal document preparation businesses offer services such as drafting and formatting legal documents, preparing legal forms, and reviewing and editing legal documents. Typically, legal document preparation businesses are not law firms and do not provide legal advice. Instead, they assist clients in filling out forms and other legal documents correctly and in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

44. Property Preservation Business

A property preservation business is a company that provides a range of services to maintain and protect properties that are in the process of foreclosure, vacant, or abandoned. These properties may be residential or commercial and include homes, apartment buildings, retail spaces, and other types of real estate. The services provided by a property preservation company may include securing the property to prevent unauthorized access, removing debris, repairing or replacing damaged fixtures or appliances, cleaning the interior and exterior of the property, and maintaining the landscaping.

45. Water Restoration Business

One of the best business ideas you can start in Michigan is a water restoration business. This business is ideal to start in Michigan because available research shows that more than 360000 Michigan properties have at least a 26% chance of being severely affected by flooding in the next 30 years. A water restoration business, also known as a water damage restoration business, is a company that specializes in mitigating and restoring properties that have been affected by water damage. Water damage can occur due to various reasons such as floods, plumbing leaks, burst pipes, storms, or fire suppression efforts.

46. Waterproofing Business

A waterproofing business is a company that specializes in providing solutions to prevent water intrusion and protect buildings or structures from water damage. Waterproofing involves applying various techniques, materials, and systems to create barriers that prevent water from seeping into the building or structure. Some common waterproofing methods include the application of sealants, coatings, membranes, and drainage systems.

47. Foreclosure Cleaning Business

A foreclosure cleaning business, also known as a REO (Real Estate Owned) cleaning business, is a type of service that specializes in cleaning and maintaining properties that have been foreclosed upon by banks or other lending institutions. When a property is foreclosed, it often requires cleaning and restoration before it can be put back on the market or sold to new owners. Foreclosure cleaning businesses offer a range of services to ensure that foreclosed properties are in good condition and ready for sale.

48. Hotel Furniture Liquidation Business

Michigan boasts of having quite several hotels making the state an ideal state to start a hotel furniture liquidation business. A hotel furniture liquidation business specializes in the buying and selling of furniture and other assets from hotels that are undergoing renovation, refurbishment, or closure. Hotel furniture liquidation businesses purchase the furniture and fixtures from hotels at a discounted price and then sell them to other hotels, businesses, or individuals who need high-quality furniture at a more affordable price. Hotel furniture liquidation businesses may also provide services such as furniture removal, storage, and delivery.

49. Casinos (Gambling Business)

One of the profitable business ideas you can start in Michigan is to open a casino. On December 20, 2019, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed a package of bills into law effectively legalizing online gambling activities in Michigan, which allowed commercial and tribal casinos to apply for internet gaming licenses. A casino is a facility for certain types of gambling. Casinos are often built near or combined with hotels, resorts, restaurants, retail shops, cruise ships, and other tourist attractions. Some casinos are also known for hosting live entertainment, such as stand-up comedy, concerts, and sports.

50. Livestock Farming Business

Available studies show that livestock in the state included 78,000 sheep, a million cattle, a million hogs, and more than three million chickens. Livestock products accounted for 38% of the value of agricultural products while crops accounted for the majority. If you are planning to start livestock farming in Michigan, then you should consider starting the business in places such as Kent County, Ottawa County, Allegan County, or Gratiot County. These areas offer favorable agricultural conditions and infrastructure for livestock operations.