Local tack and saddle shop

Local horse owners, lesson barns and riders, trainers, 4-H and pony club families, and show competitors.

Retail markup on products, commission on consigned used tack, and fees for repairs, fittings or custom orders.

• Strong horse and tack knowledge
• Retail sales and stock buying
• Basic leather care or repair (helpful)
• Bookkeeping and managing inventory

• Check your city or county for a business license, zoning approval and any signage rules
• Register with your state for a seller's permit and sales tax
• Get general liability and property insurance, and workers' compensation once you hire
• Inventory is expensive and slow to sell, especially saddles, so avoid overbuying
• Competition from online shops and farm supply stores means you need a clear local niche or service

Startup costs are typically around $40,000 to $150,000, depending on your location, shop fit-out and how much inventory you buy. These are estimates, and saddles in particular can tie up a lot of money, so avoid overbuying.

Monthly revenue is typically around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on your location, stock, services such as fitting and repairs, and local competition. This is an estimate of revenue, not profit, so budget for rent and inventory.

Check your city or county for a business license, zoning approval and signage rules. Also register with your state for a seller's permit and sales tax, and look into general liability and property insurance, plus workers' compensation if you hire.