Best Online Courses for Starting a Business

Starting a business can feel scary, especially if you don't have experience in business or management. But with online learning, you don't need a business degree to become a business owner. You will find many helpful courses online that can teach you everything from setting up your business to handling money and finding customers.

Whether you want to open a small shop, work as a freelancer, or build an online brand, these online courses can give you the skills and confidence to start. Here, we'll look at the best online courses to start a business in 2025. Most are flexible, great for beginners, and even cheap or free.

1. Starting Businesses in Developing Countries : Harvard (edX)

This course is great if you want to learn how businesses can solve actual problems. It focuses on practical solutions in countries that don't have many resources.

Why it's helpful:

• Teaches you creative problem-solving for business
• Gives you a global business owner's perspective
• Shares real examples from different parts of the world

Price: Free (you can pay for a certificate if you want)

Length: 6 weeks (3–5 hours per week)

2. Starting Your Own Business:  Coursera (Michigan State University)

A step-by-step course for beginners that covers everything you need to know to start your own business, from checking if your idea is good to planning and branding.

You will learn:

• Checking if a business idea is viable
• Writing a business plan
• Legal steps to set up a business

Cost: Free trial available (then a monthly fee)

Length: About 4–6 weeks

3. Business Basics: Wharton (Coursera)

If you want to understand core business skills like marketing, finance, and operations more deeply, this course is a great pick.

Topics include:

• Business strategy
• Basic financial accounting
• Marketing basics
• How businesses run and lead

Cost: Free to join (you can pay for a certificate if you want)

Length: 5 months (flexible timing)

4. Launch and Grow a Great Podcast : Skillshare

This course is perfect if you want to start a business based on creating content. Podcasting is a great way to build a brand and get dedicated fans.

Why it's important for business:

• Shows you how to build your online presence
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• Good for anyone looking to make money from their content or build a personal brand

Cost: Free using Skillshare trial

Length: At your own pace (1–2 hours)

5. Google Digital Garage : Fundamentals of Digital Marketing

No business can thrive today without some digital marketing know-how. This free Google course covers everything from making your website appear higher in searches (SEO) to social media and email marketing.

You will learn about:

• How to get seen online
• How to draw in more customers
• Tips for making online ads and using Google tools

Cost: Free (with certificate)

Length: 40 hours (at your own pace)

6. Dropshipping and Online Store Basics : Udemy

This course is perfect for anyone who wants to run an online shop without holding inventory. Dropshipping lets you sell products directly from the supplier to the customer.

Topics include:

• How to set up your Shopify or WooCommerce store
• Finding good suppliers
• Getting your shop noticed using ads and social media

Cost: Often discounted (starts at $15)

Length: 5–10 hours (learn anytime)

7. Startup Basics : Y Combinator

This course is perfect for anyone wanting to build tech startups or online platforms. Created by a top startup investor, it's packed with honest advice from successful founders.

You will learn:

• How to build a business that can grow big
• Tips for getting funding and pitching your idea
• Advice from mentors and a global startup network

Cost: Free

Length: Ongoing (at your own pace)

8. Build a Business You Love : CreativeLive

If you are an aspiring entrepreneur and want to turn your hobby into a business, this course is all about building a business from scratch using your talents.

Good for:

• Artists, writers, crafters, photographers, and makers
• How to price your work
• How to brand your creative business

Cost: Paid (with access to all classes)

Length: Varies by lesson

How to Choose the Right Course

• With so many courses available, it's important to pick one that fits your goals, budget, and how you like to learn. Here are some tips:
• Choose a topic that matches your business idea. If you're launching a fashion brand, look for courses on selling online and branding.
• Check reviews and ratings to ensure the course is reliable and useful.
• If you are unsure, start with free classes. You can always pay later for certificates or extra features.
• Set aside time to learn. Even an hour a day can help.