7 Ways to Make Money From Your Phone or Laptop Without Capital

Once upon a time, starting a business meant renting a shop, hiring staff, and spending a fortune before earning your first naira.

Today, all you need is an internet connection, a device, and the skills you already have to make money. The rising expenses and stagnant salaries, side hustles have become more than just extra income, they’re a safety net and a launchpad for financial independence.

The truth is, many successful entrepreneurs didn’t start with huge funding or an inheritance. 

They began with an idea, a skill, and the determination to make it work. Here are some tried-and-tested ways you can earn money right from your phone or laptop, without spending a single kobo upfront.

Freelance Writing and Content Creation

If you can write clearly and meet deadlines, businesses are looking for you. From blog posts to social media captions, content is the fuel that keeps brands visible. 

Start by creating a few sample pieces in areas you know well, such as lifestyle, tech, or finance and use freelance platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Contently to connect with clients. The better your work, the more likely you are to get referrals and bigger projects.

Virtual Assistant Services

Small business owners often drown in admin work managing emails, scheduling meetings, conducting research, or updating social media. 

If you’re organised and tech-savvy, you can step in as their go-to support. Specialising in a niche like real estate, e-commerce, or health coaching can help you stand out from other virtual assistants.

Online Tutoring and Course Creation

Whether you’re great at graphic design, coding, or even cooking, there’s someone willing to learn from you. You can offer one-on-one tutoring through platforms like Zoom or create an online course once and sell it repeatedly. The global e-learning market is booming, so your skills, no matter how simple they seem could become a long-term source of income.

Social Media Management for Small Businesses

Many business owners know they need to be on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook but they simply don’t have the time or the know-how. 

If you understand how to create engaging posts, track performance, and maintain a consistent brand voice, you can step in as their social media manager. Picking a niche you enjoy like food, fashion, or fitness makes the work more fun and rewarding.

Affiliate Marketing and Product Recommendations

If you enjoy sharing useful products or services, affiliate marketing allows you to earn a commission every time someone buys through your link. The trick is to promote only what you truly trust and use. Over time, you can build a loyal audience who values your recommendations, turning your content into a steady income stream.

Dropshipping and E-Commerce Consulting

With dropshipping, you sell products online without storing inventory, your supplier ships directly to the customer. 

This model works best when you focus on solving a real problem for a targeted audience. Alternatively, if you already understand e-commerce, you can help others set up their online shops, optimise listings, and run ads.

Digital Marketing and SEO Services

A lot of businesses have websites but struggle to attract customers. If you can learn the basics of SEO, paid advertising, or email marketing, you can fill that gap. 

By improving site visibility and running targeted campaigns, you can deliver measurable results and keep clients coming back for more.