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20 Sole Proprietorship Examples from Business Owners in 2025

20 Sole Proprietorship Examples from Business Owners in 2025

Last Updated: October 23, 2025
19 min read
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Reviewed by
Mohammod Munir

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You already know what a sole proprietorship is, but figuring out if it fits your business is a different question. A lot of new freelancers and small business owners feel the same. 

Studies show that over 80% of American small businesses are run by one person with no employees. Hence, we’ll look at real sole proprietorship examples so you can see how others make it work, what to expect, and when it might be time to grow.

20 Famous Sole Proprietorship Examples to Use in Real Life 

A sole proprietorship can look completely different depending on the industry. It could be from someone designing logos at home to a baker running a single storefront. 

Here are 20 relatable examples of sole proprietorship, showcasing the diversity and flexibility of this business structure.

1. Freelance Writer or Copywriter

One of the most famous sole proprietorship examples is freelance writing. It’s also one of the simplest ways to run a one-person business. You find clients, agree on rates, and deliver work. There’s no paperwork or partners, just your skill and consistency. 

Most writers start part-time and transition to a steady income as they establish a few client relationships. It’s low-cost to start and easy to manage. But it’s also all on you – from finding clients to handling invoices and taxes. 

Pros

  • Cheap to start and easy to run
  • Total control over schedule and projects
  • Direct client relationships
  • Work from anywhere
  • Scales as your skill and reputation grow

Cons

  • Income can be unpredictable
  • You handle everything alone 
  • No legal separation from personal assets
  • Risk of burnout if workload grows too fast

2. AI Prompt Engineer

An AI Prompt Engineer helps small businesses use tools like ChatGPT and Midjourney for writing, marketing, and customer support. Here, you not only create prompts but also show how to think with AI. 

It’s practical work that helps real businesses save time and appear smarter online. One day, you might help a café write better ads. The next day, you’re teaching a coach how to reply to clients faster. 

Pros

  • Very low startup cost – just your skill and a laptop
  • Can work remote or mix local clients
  • Demand keeps growing as more people use AI
  • Builds steady, trusted client relationships

Cons

  • You have to keep learning as tools change fast
  • Pricing your service can be tricky in a new field
  • Success depends on your reputation and ability to teach

3. Photographer

When it comes to examples of single or sole proprietorship, a photography business is one of the easiest ways to start. All you really need is a camera, editing tools, and a few clients. Many photographers keep things simple by staying self-employed. 

They manage their own taxes, work with clients directly, and take on projects that fit their style and schedule. 

Pros

  • You control your work, pricing, and schedule
  • Taxes are simple to file under your own income
  • You can take on any kind of shoot you want
  • Easy to pause or grow when you’re ready

Cons

  • You’re personally responsible if something goes wrong
  • Gear and insurance cost money upfront
  • Some clients may see it as less formal than a company

4. Graphic or Web Designer

Many graphic and web designers start out as sole proprietors because it’s easy and flexible. You don’t need investors or an office to begin. Just a computer, design software, and the skill to help clients build their brand. 

Some start as a side gig while working another job, then grow into full-time work once they find steady clients. Since most of the work is digital, it’s low-risk and inexpensive to run.

Pros

  • You set your own rates and choose your projects
  • Startup costs are small – mostly your laptop and tools
  • You can work from anywhere with internet access
  • Taxes are simple since your business income is your personal income
  • Easy to grow from freelance work into a full business

Cons

  • You’re personally responsible if a client doesn’t pay or sues
  • Income can be unpredictable at first
  • You marketing, contracts, taxes yourself
  • Easy to get overwhelmed

5. YouTubers

YouTube is listed as one of the trending sole proprietorship examples in the US or anywhere in the world. 

They start out alone with a phone or camera, sharing what they know or love. Over time, it becomes a real business. They write scripts, record videos, edit, and post, all by themselves. 

Income usually comes from ads, sponsorships, or memberships. Because there’s no company involved, a YouTuber is a sole proprietor by default. 

Pros

  • Full control over content and schedule
  • Minimal startup capital with basic tools
  • Global audience potential
  • Can turn personal interests into income

Cons

  • Income can be unstable
  • Pressure to stay consistent and creative
  • No legal separation if issues come up
  • Risk of burnout from handling everything alone

6. Personal Trainer

Being a personal trainer is one of the most practical ways to start a sole proprietorship. 

You can train people at home, work out of local gyms, or run online sessions. Most trainers begin with a few clients and basic gear, then build a reputation through results and trust. 

Since you’re the business, your income depends on how well you connect with clients, train them, and manage your time. Some stay solo for years, while others expand into small studios once demand grows.

Pros

  • You set your own hours and rates
  • Low cost to start, mostly your skills and basic equipment
  • Close, long-term relationships with clients
  • Can teach in person or online
  • Easy to grow later into a small gym or team

Cons

  • You’re personally responsible if something goes wrong
  • No paid breaks or benefits
  • Busy seasons and quiet months can make income uneven

7. Tutor or Educator

Teaching is another good example of proprietorship that works well as a one-person business. 

Many tutors begin by helping classmates, neighbors, or local students and later move online. It’s flexible, simple to start, and ideal for anyone who likes teaching in a personal way. 

You can work from home, meet students in a library, or teach over video calls. Besides, subjects can range from school lessons to language or test prep. 

For most tutors, it’s an easy way to earn while sharing what they know.

Pros

  • Affordable to launch
  • You set your own hours and choose what to teach
  • Fewer risks than most service jobs
  • Can grow into an online course or small tutoring team later

Cons

  • Income can slow down during school breaks
  • Finding and keeping students takes steady effort
  • No legal shield for personal assets

8. Baker or Caterer

If you’re thinking about starting a small business, a baking or catering service is a great example. However, it can be both thrilling and tiring. First, you have to plan the menus and buy the supplies. Then, you take orders and handle the deliveries. 

Many people begin in a small way, for instance, by baking at home or cooking for friends’ parties. Over time, when the workload gets bigger, many owners register as an LLC to hire help or cover liability. 

But at the start, it’s usually just you, your recipes, and your hustle.

Pros

  • Easy to start with little money or paperwork
  • You control every detail of your business
  • Close connection with customers builds trust
  • Flexible hours that fit around your life

Cons

  • You’re personally responsible if something goes wrong
  • Income can drop during slow months
  • You’ll need local permits and food safety licenses
  • Growth means spending more on gear, staff, and insurance

9. Landscaper or Gardener

Landscaping is one of the most common one-person businesses. It usually starts small with mowing lawns, trimming trees, or planting gardens for neighbors. The setup is simple, too. You just need basic tools, a few steady clients, and word of mouth. 

You’ll handle everything from the work, the calls, to the money. It’s hands-on work that gives you visible results and steady income through regular clients. Some landscapers stay solo for years because they like the independence. 

Others grow by hiring a helper or two once they’ve built a name in their area.

Pros

  • Easy to start with low upfront costs
  • Builds steady local clients through trust
  • You control your own schedule and workload
  • Regular repeat jobs create stable income
  • Can grow into a small team later

Cons

  • Physically tiring and weather dependent
  • Full personal liability for accidents or damage
  • Income slows down in off-seasons
  • Must handle permits and insurance on your own

10. Consultant

Consulting fits the sole proprietorship model really well. 

Most consultants work on their own, offering advice in areas they know well, like business, IT, or marketing. You don’t need an office or a big team to start. 

In fact, a laptop, a few clients, and your skillset are enough. You control your schedule, rates, and projects. But that freedom also means you carry all the weight yourself. If something goes wrong with a client or contract, it’s on you. 

Many start this way to keep things simple and later form an LLC once they begin taking bigger projects.

Pros

  • Easy to start with little setup or cost
  • Can work from home or anywhere
  • Your knowledge is your main asset
  • You decide how much you work and who you work with
  • Simple tax filing since income goes on your own return

Cons

  • You’re personally responsible for any legal or money problems
  • Income can go up and down depending on clients
  • Hard to grow unless you hire help or change structure
  • Some clients prefer to hire registered companies

11. Virtual Assistant (VA)

A Virtual Assistant is a good example of a one-person business. Most start from home, helping clients with scheduling, email, research, or small admin jobs. Some handle customer support, others manage content or bookkeeping. 

Likewise, you set your own hours, choose clients you like, and work anywhere there’s Wi-Fi. As your experience grows, you can charge more or focus on one niche. 

But being a VA also means you’re the whole team, including the boss, the worker, and the accountant, all in one.

Pros

  • Low setup cost
  • You decide when and how much to work
  • Skills improve quickly through hands-on projects
  • You can grow at your own pace or stay small by choice

Cons

  • Unstable income
  • You handle taxes, contracts, and client issues yourself
  • No benefits like paid leave or health insurance
  • Staying competitive takes effort and reliability

12. Event Planner

Being an event planner fits perfectly with a sole proprietorship. You plan and manage everything yourself, like weddings, small business events, fundraisers, or family celebrations. 

It’s hands-on work where you coordinate vendors, manage budgets, and keep clients calm when things get hectic. Many planners start small, using their homes as offices, then grow into an LLC when they hire help or take on bigger clients.

Pros

  • Low barrier to entry and easy to start from home
  • Flexible hours and creative freedom
  • Builds strong client relationships through word of mouth
  • Good option for people-focused entrepreneurs
  • Easy to expand later into a full agency

Cons

  • High stress and responsibility during events
  • Income can be seasonal or unpredictable
  • Liability risk if something goes wrong (insurance is a must)
  • Long hours, especially on weekends
  • Hard to scale without a team or formal structure

13. Online Seller or E-commerce Store Owner

Selling products online is one of the most common ways to start a business on your own. Many people list handmade items on Etsy, resell collectables on eBay, or build a small Shopify store around a niche idea. 

It’s an easy entry point for anyone who wants to work from home and learn how business works without heavy costs or a formal setup. You handle everything yourself, from pricing and marketing to packaging and delivery. 

And once sales grow, you can always switch to an LLC for better protection.

Pros

  • Low cost to start and easy to manage alone
  • Can sell worldwide using Etsy, eBay, or Shopify
  • Flexible schedule and complete control over operations
  • Lets you test ideas before committing to a larger setup

Cons

  • You’re responsible for all orders, refunds, and shipping issues
  • Personal liability for customer disputes or debts
  • High competition in most product categories

14. Housekeeper or Cleaning Service Provider

A cleaning business often starts small with one person, a few clients, and basic supplies. Many begin part-time, then turn it into full-time work once they build trust with regular customers. Besides, it’s honest work that rewards reliability and good word-of-mouth. 

Moreover, you don’t need fancy equipment or a big budget, just consistency and care. Over time, some cleaners choose to register an LLC when they hire staff or take on larger jobs

Pros

  • Low startup cost and easy to begin
  • Flexible hours and steady local demand
  • Builds lasting client relationships
  • Simple setup with full control

Cons

  • Physically demanding work
  • You’re responsible if something goes wrong
  • Income depends on keeping regular clients
  • Hard to grow without extra help

15. Appliance Repair Technician

This business as a sole proprietor makes sense if you’re good with tools and like helping people face-to-face. You fix common household appliances like fridges, washers, and air conditioners, usually at the customer’s home. 

The best part is, your work stays steady because something always breaks. And if you show up on time, charge fairly, and do a clean job, people remember your name and call again.

Pros

  • Low setup costs and simple to run
  • Steady demand in most neighborhoods
  • Builds trust and repeat clients fast
  • You see real results from your work
  • Freedom to choose your rates and hours

Cons

  • Physical labor and odd-hour jobs
  • Some repairs need certification or training
  • Income can vary with season and competition
  • You’re personally liable if something goes wrong

16. Plumber

A plumbing sole proprietorship is a one-person setup built on skill and trust. It’s usually a local plumber handling repairs, maintenance, and small installations for homes or offices. The owner handles everything, from booking jobs and fixing leaks to collecting payments. 

Many start solo, working hard to build a name in the community. Some stay independent for the freedom, while others grow into an LLC once demand increases. 

Pros

  • Easy to start with basic tools and experience
  • Builds loyal clients through consistent service
  • Freedom to choose rates, jobs, and hours
  • Can grow into a larger business over time

Cons

  • Personal liability for accidents or unpaid bills
  • Income can rise and fall with the seasons
  • Physically demanding and time-intensive
  • Harder to land big contracts without a team or license

17. Painter

A painter running a sole proprietorship usually works for local homeowners or small businesses. You do the quotes, supplies, scheduling, and finishing each job. 

With a few tools and reliable skills, you can make a living doing honest work while keeping full control over your schedule and earnings.

Pros

  • Requires little upfront investment
  • Flexible schedule and full control over prices and clients
  • Strong potential for repeat and referral work
  • Quick cash flow once projects begin

Cons

  • Work slows down during bad weather or off-seasons
  • Physically demanding, especially for larger projects
  • No legal separation between business and personal assets
  • Must handle all marketing and client outreach alone

18. Fence Installer 

A fence installer could be one of the successful sole proprietorship examples. You help people keep their property safe, add privacy, or make their yard look better by installing wood, vinyl, or chain-link fences. 

However, you might need a local license. The better your estimates and workmanship, the more your name spreads. Every job you complete successfully builds your reputation, which ultimately becomes the foundation of your business.

Pros

  • Easy to start with basic tools and training
  • Steady demand from homeowners and builders
  • You set your own schedule and take local jobs
  • Clients often pay right after the job is done

Cons

  • Hard, physical work in all kinds of weather
  • You’re fully responsible for any damage or accidents
  • Tough to grow without hiring extra hands

19. Independent Accountant or Financial Planner

If you help people manage money, handle taxes, or plan for the future, working as a sole proprietor just makes sense. You set your own schedule, choose your clients, and report income under your own name. 

Additionally, you don’t need to register a firm or hire staff unless you want to. Most accountants and planners start this way before expanding into a larger practice.

Pros

  • You choose who to work with and what to charge
  • Easy to start with almost no paperwork
  • Taxes are filed under your personal return
  • You can work remotely or part-time
  • Builds close, lasting relationships with clients

Cons

  • You’re personally liable if something goes wrong
  • Hard to get large financing or scale fast
  • Growth depends on your own time and capacity
  • You handle all admin, marketing, and taxes yourself
  • Busy seasons can be exhausting

20. Micro-Wedding and Elopement Planner 

A micro-wedding and elopement planner helps couples plan small, personal ceremonies with fewer than 20 guests. You find the right spot, hire a photographer, organize a meal, and keep everything on schedule. It suits someone who likes both creativity and structure. 

As a sole proprietorship, it’s easy to run. You work with your own list of vendors, set your hours, and decide which clients to take on. 

Pros

  • Low entry cost compared to large-scale weddings
  • Flexible hours and creative freedom
  • Real emotional connection with clients
  • Rewarding when everything runs smoothly

Cons

  • Work can slow down outside wedding season
  • Reputation and word of mouth matter a lot
  • Handling vendors alone can be exhausting
  • Clients’ emotions can add pressure

What are the Advantages of Sole Proprietorships?

Now, let’s see the benefits you can get from a sole proprietorship business. 

  • One-person Ownership: It’s just you. You own it, you run it, and you’re responsible for it. Every client, sale, or idea starts and ends with you.
  • Full Control: You make every call, like what to sell, how to price it, and how your business looks to the world. You don’t need approval from anyone else.
  • Easy Setup: There’s not much paperwork. You can start the moment you find your first customer. Usually, you only need a license or permit to begin.
  • Simple Taxation: You and your business are one for tax purposes. Whatever you earn goes on your personal tax return, which keeps things straightforward.
  • Low Cost of Entry: It doesn’t take much to start. This setup works best for freelancers, creators, and side hustlers who want to earn without too many formal steps.

Knowing these features helps you see why so many small businesses start this way.

When a Sole Proprietorship Might Not Be Right for You

Every setup has its limits. A sole proprietorship is simple and gives you full control, but it also comes with a few tough realities that can catch you off guard. Here’s what to watch for if you’re running your business solo.

  • You’re Personally on the Hook for Everything: There’s no legal wall between you and the business. If someone sues or you can’t pay a bill, your personal savings or property could be at risk.
  • Unlimited Liability: The catch is that your business and personal finances are the same. If the business owes money, you owe money.
  • Raising Money isn’t Easy: Banks and investors usually prefer dealing with registered businesses. That makes it harder for a sole proprietor to get loans or attract funding.
  • Growth Has Limits: You can’t add partners or investors without changing your structure. It can make expansion or hiring tougher down the road.
  • Clients may Take You Less Seriously: Some customers see sole proprietorships as less official than LLCs or corporations. That’s why it becomes harder to land bigger projects.
  • The Business Ends When You Do: If you step away, retire, or pass away, your business stops with you. There’s no built-in way to transfer ownership.

4 Famous Sole Proprietorship Examples in the World That Grew Big

Big companies often start small – with one person, one idea, and a lot of persistence. These examples show how a single owner can build something lasting through focus and hard work. 

1. Jeff Bezos 

Before Amazon became the largest sole proprietorships in the world, Jeff Bezos was packing and shipping books from his garage in 1994. He listed the titles himself, answered emails, and managed every sale. 

Running it as a sole proprietor gave him full control to test ideas and learn fast. That early, hands-on approach shaped how Amazon still values speed and customer trust today.

2. Sam Walton 

Sam Walton began with one small store in Arkansas. He knew his customers, greeted them daily, and kept prices low because he understood what mattered to them.  

As a sole proprietor, he could make decisions quickly and focus on serving people first. That local shop became the first step toward Walmart’s huge retail network and eventually, a leading sole proprietorship examples of companies.

3. Vera Wang 

Vera Wang started by designing wedding dresses for friends in her apartment. Working alone, she controlled every detail and built a reputation for personal service. 

Her small design studio slowly grew as more brides came looking for something different. That personal touch helped turn her name into one of the most trusted in fashion.

4. Martha Stewart 

Martha Stewart ran a small catering business out of her basement kitchen. She cooked, planned events, and decorated everything herself. Her attention to detail and consistency helped her business grow beyond local events. 

That same mindset carried over when she built her publishing and TV brand to turn practical home skills into a household name.

Final Words

Sole proprietorship examples remind us that most businesses start small. Just one person, one skill, one idea. Whether you write, bake, coach, or design, this path gives you control and teaches you how real business works. 

If you’re running things solo, Agency Handy can make the work easier. It keeps your projects, invoices, clients, and time tracking in one place. It’s an all-in-one platform to manage your business like a pro while keeping that independence.

FAQs

What is a sole proprietorship?

A sole proprietorship is the simplest way to own and run a business without any partners, boards, or paperwork. The company and the owner are legally the same person. That means the money you make, the debts you take, and the risks you face all belong to you personally.

Can a freelancer be a sole proprietor?

Yes. Freelancers like writers, designers, or consultants are often sole proprietors by default. They earn income independently, pay taxes under their own name, and don’t need to register a formal business unless they use a brand name or hire staff.

How can I handle taxes under a sole proprietorships?

You can manage taxes under Sole Proprietorships by filing Form 1040 with Schedule C to report business income, expenses, and profits as part of your personal tax return. All earnings are taxed through the owner’s individual income.

What government regulations do sole proprietorships need to follow?

For a sole proprietorship, government regulations are generally less strict. That said, you should still check with your local authorities about required licenses or permits. In the end, the compliance process is quite simple and requires minimal paperwork to manage.

What’s the difference between a sole proprietor and self-employed?

Both manage their own income, but a sole proprietor runs an unincorporated business under their name. Meanwhile, “self-employed” is a broader term that covers freelancers, gig workers, and independent contractors of any kind.

Do I need to register a sole proprietorship with my state?

Usually, no. A sole proprietorship is the default structure for one-person businesses. You only register if you’re using a trade name (DBA) or need specific licenses or permits to operate legally in your state.

Can a sole proprietor have employees?

Yes. A sole proprietor can hire employees or contractors. You’ll need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for payroll and tax filing, but ownership and liability still rest entirely with you.

When should I convert my sole proprietorship to an LLC?

Consider switching when your business grows, you hire staff, or face liability risks. An LLC protects personal assets, adds credibility, and offers tax flexibility once your income or exposure increases.

Shompod Hossain
Written by

Shompod Hossain

Shompod Hossain is a writer who loves digging into how people and businesses work together—especially in SaaS industry. He’s been at it for over three years. Outside of writing, he’s usually listening to music, catching up on the news, or thinking through the latest in politics.

Read more posts by Shompod Hossain

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