Mahjong club with its own space

Hobby players, retirees, friend groups, and people who want to learn. Some groups also rent the space for private parties.

Drop-in session fees, monthly memberships, beginner classes, private table rentals for groups and parties, and drinks or snacks.

• Knowing the main mahjong styles (American, Chinese, Riichi, etc.)
• Welcoming people and building a community
• Scheduling and basic bookkeeping

• Gambling laws: charge for space and time, not a cut of money played for, and check your state's rules
• Zoning, certificate of occupancy and any business license your city or county requires
• Health department permit if you prepare or serve food, and an alcohol license if you plan to serve drinks
• General liability insurance and lease terms, since rent is a fixed monthly cost even in slow months
• Check whether your state charges sales tax on admissions or memberships

Startup costs are typically around $12,000 to $55,000, depending on your space, tables, sets and seating. Rent is a fixed monthly cost even in slow months, so check your lease terms carefully before you commit.

Monthly revenue is typically around $4,000 to $18,000, depending on session fees, memberships, lessons and private party rentals. This is an estimate of revenue before rent and other costs, and results will vary by location.

Check your state's gambling rules and charge for space and time, not a cut of money played for. Also check zoning, certificate of occupancy, business licenses, and health or alcohol permits if you serve food or drinks.