A global pandemic may seem like an unlikely time to start a new business. The upheaval caused by the virus has caused many businesses to either change tactics or shut their doors forever. However, this is also the right time for entrepreneurs to get creative and launch relevant business ideas.
Social distancing is the new normal and people are reducing or completely avoiding physical contact. In these challenging circumstances, technology has provided powerful solutions for a broad range of industries. Entrepreneurs who harness the power of technology to provide essential (and non-essential) solutions can have a lasting impact.
Here are seven smart startup ideas you can use to kickstart your business during the COVID-19 pandemic.
1. Remote healthcare
Telehealth was already a growing field but the global pandemic has pushed it firmly to the forefront. As healthcare facilities are overwhelmed by the pandemic, patients who require regular care are reluctant to visit in person. A telehealth platform enables doctors and nurses to offer care and consultation to patients — especially the elderly — within the safety of their own homes.
To establish a high-quality telehealth platform, you will need to maintain a centralized database of all your medical hardware and software. Automate, streamline, and protect your data as mandated by HIPAA regulations by installing a powerful IT asset management software.
2. Virtual Learning platforms
Currently, millions of educational institutions across the globe have transitioned to online learning to protect their students, staff, and community. According to the World Economic Forum, there has been a significant surge in the use of online learning tools after the pandemic.
However, even before the pandemic disrupted traditional education, virtual learning was on the rise. An effective eLearning platform offers students accessibility and convenience and is the future.
3. Food Delivery Services
With restaurants either closed or open in a limited capacity, more people are ordering their favorite meals online. Eateries are offering takeaway services and it is not surprising that food delivery services are thriving at this time.
Services like Deliveroo, Postmates, and UberEats are all experiencing increased demand. Likewise, there has been a major spike in the use of online apps for grocery delivery services as people prefer to have their essentials delivered instead of stepping out.
4. Digital Fitness
Another trend that was already gaining popularity and is now the need of the hour is online fitness and wellness programs. As gyms and yoga studios are forced to shut down or see memberships dwindle, online classes are the go-to solution. Existing businesses are switching clients to digital fitness and online yoga and wellness apps are gaining popularity.
5. ECommerce
This is a booming time for eCommerce. Case in point: According to a Quantum Metric report, online sales have surged 52% from the year-ago period, and the number of online shoppers has increased by 8.8% since the start of the pandemic.
Whether you are launching your eCommerce platform or taking your brick and mortar store online, there has never been a better time. With more people shopping online, specialized and niche growth opportunities will also appear.
6. Coronavirus cleaning and decontaminating services
As the world cautiously opens up after the first major impact of the virus, there will be an increased need for specialized cleaning services for homes and businesses. Airlines, restaurants, retail, and offices, etc. all need to ensure sanitized spaces.
Fortune reports that the “Coronavours cleaning boom is coming.” Whether you expand your cleaning service or introduce a new one, COVID-19 cleanups will require specialized equipment, certified clean-up technicians, and biohazard disposal methods. Your job here is to enable online bookings for a streamlined schedule and become part of the solution.
7. Online gaming
With people quarantined inside their homes, they are looking for different ways to entertain themselves. A popular option: online gaming. According to Verizon, U.S. video game usage spiked up by 75 percent in March as people were stuck indoors. With sophisticated technology creating enhanced virtual experiences for gamers, this is a trend that will not slow down anytime soon.
