Many would-be entrepreneurs assume that starting a business means going all in—quitting your job, diving into startup life, and hoping for the best. But here’s the truth most people don’t talk about: 80% of U.S. businesses are “non-employer” businesses, according to the Small Business Administration (SBA). That means they have no employees beyond the owner. Many of these are part-time ventures started by folks who still have full-time jobs. And guess what? That’s not just okay—it’s often the smartest way to begin.
My own journey into entrepreneurship didn’t begin with a grand business plan or a massive leap of faith. It started when I felt underemployed working for Digital Equipment Corporation and decided to become an Invisible Fencing dealer as a part-time side hustle. I was still collecting a steady paycheck “working for the man,” but I was also dipping my toes into entrepreneurship, learning how to operate a business in real time—without risking everything.
What I learned during that time was priceless.
Instead of just reading business books or taking courses, I got real-world experience. I learned how to deal with customers, manage inventory, keep basic financials, and navigate marketing—all while still maintaining the financial safety net of my job. That low-risk environment gave me the space to make mistakes, experiment, and grow my confidence.
And I’m not alone. Many successful entrepreneurs start just like this:
A graphic designer freelancing on nights and weekends
A teacher selling educational printables on Etsy
A tradesperson flipping equipment part-time on eBay
A bartender launching a mobile bartending service for events
These aren’t just hobbies—they’re legit businesses that allow people to test the waters and build business skills that will serve them if and when they decide to scale up.
In fact, many side hustles never grow into full-time businesses, and that’s perfectly fine. Not every business needs to be your main gig. A part-time business can serve as a valuable secondary income stream or a creative outlet. For others, it can be a stepping stone to something bigger.
If you’re considering entrepreneurship but feel overwhelmed by the risks, consider a part-time business as your entrepreneurial training wheels. It’s a low-pressure way to figure out what you’re good at, what the market needs, and what business model might work best for you.
And here’s a bonus: by building your business while still employed, you’re showing a trait every great entrepreneur needs—discipline. It takes serious effort to come home from work and then work on your own dream. But that effort pays off by giving you clarity, skills, and momentum.
There’s no shame in starting small. In fact, it might be the most sustainable way to build something that lasts.
