Chickens are not only a great addition to any backyard, but they can also be an excellent source of income. Whether you sell eggs, meat, or feathers, there are many ways to boost your bank account with chickens.
In this article, we will discuss a few business ideas for homesteaders. We’ll also touch on a few entrepreneur basics, like establishing an LLC and finding local vendors. Let’s get started!
Popular Business Ideas for Homesteaders
If you have the time and dedication for entrepreneurship, consider one (or more) of these business ideas. Each is rising in demand!
Selling Eggs
One of the most common ways to make money from chickens is by selling eggs. Chicken eggs are in high demand, and when you sell them directly to customers, you can charge a premium price.
All you need is a chicken coop and a few laying hens to get started. Once your hens start laying eggs, you can collect them and sell them at local farmer’s markets or door-to-door. If you want to reach a wider audience, you can also sell your eggs online.
Selling Meat
It’s not for everyone, but selling chicken meat can be a lucrative venture. You’ll need to raise broiler chickens, ideally slaughtered at six to seven weeks old and yielding about six pounds of meat per bird. To ensure your chicken meat is of the highest quality, be sure to raise healthy birds in clean conditions.
Selling Feathers
Chicken feathers are used in various products, including pillows, quilts, and fly fishing lures. To start selling feathers, you’ll need to pluck them from your birds (live or slaughtered). Once you have a good supply of feathers, you can sell them online or at craft fairs.
Also Read: A Beginner’s Guide to Establishing a Chicken Processing Plant
Learn the Basics of Entrepreneurship
You don’t have to launch a full-fledged business to make money from your backyard chickens. But you might be surprised by how much local demand you drum up after you start. Learning foundational business practices can help you prepare to scale your operations smoothly.
Writing a Business Plan
When starting a small business, it’s crucial to have a solid business plan in place. This document will outline your goals and strategies for the next several years. you’ll need to update your business plan regularly to reflect changes in the market and your business.
Choosing a Legal Structure
When starting a small business, you need to choose a legal structure. The most common structures are sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, and limited liability company (LLC). An LLC offers the benefits of liability protection and tax flexibility, among others.
Fortunately, you don’t have to navigate this stage alone; many online services will do the heavy lifting of establishing your LLC. Take time to find the best LLC formation service for you.
Creating a Visual Identity
A visual identity is key for any small business. It helps customers remember your brand and distinguishes you from competitors. Your visual identity should include a logo, colors, and typeface.
Promoting Your Brand
You must promote your brand to build long-term success. Online marketing, social media, and print advertising are some of the most common marketing channels. Identify the best ones for your business and target your audience appropriately.
Finding Vendors and Stores
Once you’ve created a product, you must find stores or vendors to sell it. Start by contacting local businesses and asking if they’re interested in carrying your product. You can also use online marketplaces to reach a wider audience, as well as sell at your local farmers’ market.
Conclusion
There are many ways to make money from backyard chickens. Whether you sell eggs, meat, or feathers, there’s an opportunity for you to capitalize on this growing trend. What’s more, raising chickens is a great way to get started in the entrepreneurial world, as it will teach you basic practices like writing a business plan and forming an LLC. So if you’re looking for a way to monetize your homestead and learn valuable business skills, raising chickens will do the trick!
