12 Unique Ways to Make Money Online
Looking for online income ideas that aren’t already saturated? You’re not alone. While everyone’s heard of freelancing, dropshipping, and affiliate marketing, there are dozens of under-the-radar side hustles that real people are using right now to earn serious income online. Here are 12 of the most unique and lesser-known digital side hustles gaining traction in 2025 and how you can start one today.
1. Prompt Engineering for AI Tools
AI is only as good as the prompts it’s given and smart creators are cashing in by selling well-structured prompts for tools like ChatGPT, MidJourney, and Claude. These prompts can generate everything from viral content ideas to entire business plans.
How to Start: Study prompt frameworks on sites like PromptBase, experiment with different tools, and start listing prompts for sale or offering custom prompt services to marketers, writers, or entrepreneurs.
2. Audio Description Writing
As accessibility becomes more prioritized online, content creators and brands are hiring freelancers to write audio descriptions for videos, making content accessible for visually impaired audiences.
How to Start: Learn the basics of descriptive audio (YouTube has free training), then pitch your services on Rev, Upwork, or directly to YouTubers and video editors.
3. Online Memory Coach
Yes, people are hiring memory coaches to help them retain names, prep for exams, or even memorize speeches. It’s niche, but incredibly in demand among students, professionals, and older adults.
How to Start: Learn memory techniques (start with the Method of Loci), create simple Zoom coaching packages, or teach via Gumroad, Udemy, or Ko-fi.
4. Game Testing with Feedback Reports
Indie game developers are eager for detailed feedback before releasing new games. If you love gaming and can write structured, helpful feedback, this is a fun and flexible gig.
How to Start: Sign up for itch.io, indie game Discord servers, or look for calls on Reddit communities like r/Playtesters. Offer feedback reports in exchange for a fee or free access to games.
5. Micro SaaS Ownership
A Micro SaaS is a tiny software-as-a-service business you can run solo. Think of tools like budget trackers, quiz generators, or writing aids. Once built, they run on autopilot.
How to Start: Use platforms like Softr or Bubble to build without code, and sell via Gumroad, Shopify, or Lemon Squeezy. You can even buy small SaaS tools on Acquire and improve them.
6. Digital Pattern Design (for Sewing or 3D Printing)
Creators are buying downloadable patterns to use with 3D printers or sewing machines. If you can create precise, creative designs, there’s money to be made in niche marketplaces.
How to Start: Use tools like Adobe Illustrator or Tinkercad, list your designs on Etsy, MakerWorld, or Cults3D, and promote via crafting Facebook groups or Pinterest.
7. Niche AI Dataset Curation
Companies building AI tools need very specific training data. From dialects to hand gestures to niche product reviews. Curation means organizing, labeling, or collecting this data.
How to Start: Join platforms like Scale AI, Remotasks, or Appen. You can also pitch custom dataset services to AI startups in your niche.
8. Voice Cloning Consultant
Creators are looking for clean voice samples to train AI voice tools. If you know how to prep recordings or use tools like ElevenLabs or Descript, you can offer cloning or editing services.
How to Start: Learn the basics of voice modeling, then pitch services on Fiverr, YouTube communities, or creator Discords.
9. Bug Bounty Side Hustling
If you have a knack for breaking things (in a good way), cybersecurity platforms will pay you to find vulnerabilities in apps, websites, and software. Rewards depend on severity.
How to Start: Create a free account on HackerOne or Bugcrowd. Start small, take free training, and work your way up to higher bounties.
10. AR Filter Designer
Augmented reality filters are everywhere on Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok and creators are hiring developers to build branded or aesthetic filters to boost engagement.
How to Start: Use free tools like Lens Studio. Start by creating your own filters, then pitch your work to influencers, coaches, or local brands.
11. Twitter (X) Ghostwriter
There’s a booming market for ghostwriting viral Twitter (X) threads for influencers, founders, and personal brands. If you’re witty and understand engagement psychology, this is gold.
How to Start: Practice writing viral content, then pitch thread packages or monthly content calendars to creators in DMs or via Gumroad.
12. Digital Download Curator (Affiliate Style)
Instead of making your own products, curate and promote digital downloads created by others and earn affiliate income. Think planners, guides, templates, or Notion dashboards.
How to Start: Join affiliate programs on Etsy, Creative Market, or individual sellers on Gumroad. Share curated lists on Pinterest, TikTok, or your blog.
The beauty of side hustles in 2025 is that there are so many unique niches to explore. Whether you’re a tech-savvy creator or just a curious beginner with a phone, there’s likely something on this list that fits your strengths. Pick one, start small, and experiment your way to income.