Online business networking community

Small business owners and sole traders who want referrals and contacts but cannot attend in-person meetings, such as regional or home-based operators.

Monthly or annual membership fees, with optional paid guest-expert sessions or sponsor spots. Costs are low, so revenue depends on how many members you keep.

• Hosting online meetings
• Community building and moderating
• Simple marketing on social media and LinkedIn

• Public liability or professional indemnity insurance, check what suits an online community
• Privacy obligations when you hold members' details, check the Australian Privacy Principles and what applies to your business
• Check GST registration once your turnover reaches the threshold
• Online groups can go quiet, so plan regular events to keep members engaged

Startup costs are typically around $200 to $1,500, depending on the platforms and tools you choose and how much you spend on marketing. These are estimates, so start small and test interest before paying for extras.

Monthly revenue is typically around $200 to $2,000, depending on member numbers and the fee you charge. Online groups can go quiet, so plan regular events. Allow at least about 5 hours a week to host and moderate.

Check which public liability or professional indemnity insurance suits an online community. Check the Australian Privacy Principles and what applies to you when holding members' details, and check GST registration once your turnover reaches the threshold.