Using the data available, we can assess the small business potential of the metaverse. In its prime, Second Life had a blossoming economy of small businesses. People have taken advantage of this by creating side hustles, and some have even been able to turn them into full-time jobs.
In most virtual worlds, people enter the digital environment with an avatar. As our avatars, they can do everything that we can in reality, and more. In addition to eating, sleeping, and seeking entertainment, they go on vacation, work, socialize, and form romantic relationships. Luckily, you will be right there to meet those needs.
Your metaverse business doesn’t have to be intricate. Even something as simple as opening a coffee shop on a busy street can be very successful. One of the biggest benefits of operating a business in the metaverse is that you will earn in-game currency. The money can be kept as a cryptocurrency or cashed out into fiat money. You can generate additional income by hosting events like stand-up comedy and live music jams. Coffee shops also make great meeting places. You can offer other businesses and users a job board at your coffee shop or rent out space for advertising.
If you want, you can always go the Second World route and customize high-end items. There is no reason why you can’t be the Gucci of the metaverse. The interesting thing about virtual worlds is that users build emotional ties with their avatars. They perceive them as a better reflection of themselves. Popmundo, a popular virtual roleplaying community that allowed users to become rockstars, was a great example of this. In spite of not making any actual music, you could manage your bands' artistic and financial affairs. People were willing to pay for VIP services just to have better avatars. Users spending irresponsible money on/as their avatar is a relatively rare occurrence and one you shouldn't exploit. For the average user, buying some items for your avatar here and there is quite common. Most people will want items that not every other user has. You can play this angle and make a decent amount of money.
The coffee shop and the custom item boutique are just two examples of small businesses that could thrive in a virtual world.
You are only limited by your own imagination. Nevertheless, you may be compelled by the metaverse businesses without wanting to hold an entire operation. The good news is that you don't have to start a business, you can just invest in one. Towards that end, we will explore the business side of the metaverse.