Coming up with a business idea can feel like staring at a blank page. Maybe you’re passionate about something but not sure how it could become a business. Maybe you want to start a side hustle but don’t know what kind. Or maybe you’re simply stuck and looking for inspiration.
Before you dive into research, validation, or business planning, sometimes you just need help getting that first idea to land. This guide shares a mix of tools, some classic, some online, some powered by artificial intelligence that can help get your creative wheels turning.
Traditional Tools That Still Work
1. Mind Mapping
Mind mapping is a classic tool for a reason. It helps you visually connect ideas and branch off into new directions. Start with a word in the center (like “fitness” or “sustainability”) and branch outward with problems, services, products, and customer types.
Tool Suggestion
MindMeister – A digital option if you prefer something online and collaborative.
Use it when
You have a general interest area but no specific business idea yet.
2. The “Problem List” Exercise
Write down things that frustrate you or others in your day-to-day life. Annoying apps, inconvenient store hours, expensive services, time-wasting routines. Problems often make the best starting point for viable business ideas.
Tool Suggestion
Notion or Google Docs – Keep an ongoing “problem journal” and review it once a week.
Use it when
You’re observant or spend time talking with others about pain points.
3. Business Model Tear-Downs
Look at businesses you admire or use often and ask:
- What do they sell
- Who do they sell to
- How do they make money
- What would make it better or more affordable
This can help you create spin-off or complementary business ideas.
Tool Suggestion
Business Model Canvas – Link to Video Series?
Use it when
You’re inspired by existing businesses but want to create something with your own spin.
AI-Powered and Online Ideation Tools
4. ChatGPT
One of the fastest ways to get idea momentum. You can prompt ChatGPT with a few details about your interests, skills, or values and get curated business ideas back in seconds.
Try prompts like
- “Give me 10 business ideas for newcomers in Saskatchewan with a background in customer service”
- “List business ideas related to eco-friendly home goods for Gen Z buyers”
Tool Suggestion
ChatGPT – Free and simple to start with.
Use it when
You want a fast, creative jumpstart or want to think outside the box.
(Also see our full guide on Using ChatGPT in Your Business).
5. Exploding Topics
This site surfaces trends before they hit the mainstream. You can browse categories like health, software, ecommerce, or fashion and find rising keywords and interest areas.
Tool Suggestion
explodingtopics.com
Use it when
You’re looking to build in a growing market or get ahead of a wave.
6. AnswerThePublic
This search tool shows questions people are asking online. It helps you understand what problems are top of mind. Search a topic like “meal prep” or “personal budgeting” and see what people want to know.
Tool Suggestion
answerthepublic.com
Use it when
You’re customer-focused and want to design something around a known need.
7. Pinterest Search
Don’t overlook Pinterest. It’s a goldmine for visual idea discovery. Search something broad like “DIY business ideas” or “home-based wellness brands” and explore boards, infographics, and pin collections.
Tool Suggestion
pinterest.ca
Use it when
You’re visually inspired or exploring product ideas.
Bonus Tools to Explore
Here are a few more idea-generating tools worth exploring, depending on your style:
- Google Trends
Great for seeing how search interest changes over time. Use it to compare two topics or spot seasonality. - Product Hunt
Browse the newest digital products, apps, and tools. See what’s launching and what problems they’re solving. - TrendHunter
More consumer-focused than Exploding Topics, with sections on food, fashion, wellness, and retail trends.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need a perfect idea. You just need one you’re willing to explore.
Some of the best businesses started from tiny frustrations, niche communities, or personal obsessions. The tools in this article are meant to help you start, not to give you every answer. Once you have a few promising concepts, the next step is to test and assess them. That’s where our Assessing an Idea guide can help.
If you want someone to talk things through, book an appointment with an advisor HERE
