Start smart without spending a ton — here’s a list of beginner tools that are either free or seriously affordable.
You don’t need fancy tools or a big budget to start a business. Most beginners waste time trying to find the “perfect” software or setup—when in reality, a few free or low-cost tools can get you moving fast. Here’s a short list of beginner-friendly tools to help you stay organized, create content, and manage your business like a pro.
Organization & Planning
- Trello.com – Simple, visual boards for managing your to-do lists and projects. Free and beginner-friendly.
- Notion.so – All-in-one workspace for planning, notes, and business tracking. Free for individuals.
- Google Calendar – Great for setting reminders, planning your week, and staying consistent.
Use one of these to start organizing your ideas before you get overwhelmed.
Content Creation & Graphics
- Canva.com – Free drag-and-drop graphic design tool. Great for social posts, flyers, business cards, and more.
- Remove.bg – Instantly removes backgrounds from images. Free for basic use.
- Unsplash.com – High-quality, royalty-free images you can use in your branding or social media.
These tools make your content look clean and professional without hiring a designer.
Communication & Scheduling
- Zoom.us – Free video calls for meetings, interviews, or virtual work.
- Calendly.com – Lets clients or customers book time with you without the back-and-forth emails. Free basic plan.
- ProtonMail.com – A secure, free email provider you can use to create a clean business email address.
These tools help you look more professional and stay connected without paying for pricey software.
Money & Invoicing
- WaveApps.com – 100% free invoicing and accounting software. Great for freelancers and small business owners.
- PayPal.com – Easy way to send and receive payments. Free to set up (fees apply per transaction).
- Wise.com – Great for international payments if you ever work with clients outside your country. Low fees and transparent rates.
You don’t need a full accounting system when starting out — just a way to track money and get paid reliably.
You don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars on fancy software to get started. These tools can help you stay organized, look professional, and move forward without draining your wallet. The First Real Steps includes even more beginner-friendly tips and walks you through how to use tools like these in real-world business situations.