What's Hot for 2007? Could 2007 be the year to start the business of your dreams? Let our online Hot List be your guide.

By Kristin Edelhauser

Opinions expressed by BIZ Experiences contributors are their own.

Overall, 2006 was a good year for small business, with 671,800 new firms jumping into the small-biz scene. And recent studies show that about two-thirds of those new companies can expect to last at least two years. So how can you ensure that your company is a survivor? It helps if you already have an interest in the kind of business you want to start--pet supplies, online marketing services or a wine store, for instance--but you also need to be sure there's a demand for that service or product. Our online Hot Center will help you figure that out. We've uncovered the latest and greatest trends that are catching on across the nation, and listed them by category, including everything from Environmentally Friendly Businesses to Senior Services.

Have a passion for food? Why not look into starting an upscale hamburger restaurant? Is fitness your forte? Learn more about creating your own niche gym. Would you like to make the world more eco-conscious? Start a green products office. No matter who you are, you're bound to find a hot trend for '07 that sparks your interest.

Don't have a particular interest in mind? That's OK. Here are some new trends emerging that could be right for you:

  • Bluetooth technology is popular right now, and experts say the popularity of the device will skyrocket over the next few years. From push advertising to mobile commerce, the sky's the limit with this trend.
  • Party planning for teens is making a big impact on the event planning industry, as parents are going all out to make sure their teens celebrate their 16th birthdays or bar mitzvahs in style. If you already own an event planning company, teen parties are definitely a category you'll want to add to your services. If you're just starting up, you could choose to focus on a single aspect of teen parties, like security or entertainment.
  • Specialty coffee was an $11 billion industry in 2005, up about $1.5 million from 2004, and the industry's continuing to grow. So why not follow this trend and start your own coffeehouse? Experts agree that people aren't just flocking to coffeehouses for the coffee, but for the social aspect and a sense of belonging.

Let's say you're big on creativity but low on cash as the New Year rolls around. What's a cash-poor BIZ Experiencesial wannabe to do? Check out our list of low-cost startup ideas. You'll find financing tips along with startup tools to get you on your way. From freelancing your expertise to becoming a creativity consultant to starting a virtual assistant business, the possibilities are endless. We're sure you'll find something to spark your interest and get your BIZ Experiencesial venture started in '07.

As BIZ Experiences.com's staff writer, Kristin Edelhauser writer features, blogs and other pieces for the site. She previously worked as a writer and researcher for the NBC San Diego affiliate.

Want to be an BIZ Experiences Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Business Ideas

70 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2025

We put together a list of the best, most profitable small business ideas for BIZ Experiencess to pursue in 2025.

Science & Technology

OpenAI's Latest Move Is a Game Changer — Here's How Smart Solopreneurs Are Turning It Into Profit

OpenAI's latest AI tool acts like a full-time assistant, helping solopreneurs save time, find leads and grow their business without hiring.

Social Media

How To Start a Youtube Channel: Step-by-Step Guide

YouTube can be a valuable way to grow your audience. If you're ready to create content, read more about starting a business YouTube Channel.

Money & Finance

These Are the Expected Retirement Ages By Generation, From Gen Z to Boomers — and the Average Savings Anticipated. How Do Yours Compare?

Many Americans say inflation prevents them from saving enough and fear they won't reach their financial goals.

Starting a Business

I Built a $20 Million Company by Age 22 While Still in College. Here's How I Did It and What I Learned Along the Way.

Wealth-building in your early twenties isn't about playing it safe; it's about exploiting the one time in life when having nothing to lose gives you everything to gain.

Business Solutions

Boost Team Productivity and Security With Windows 11 Pro, Now $15 for Life

Ideal for BIZ Experiencess and small-business owners who are looking to streamline their PC setup.