How to Start a Web Design Business from Scratch (No Experience Needed)

You might assume that you need a formal education in web design or years of freelancing experience to break into the industry. But the truth is, you don’t. With the right tools and approach, anyone can get started — no coding required.

Today, nearly every small business needs a website. Yet millions still don’t have one, and most business owners would rather hire someone to do it for them than try to build it themselves. This creates a massive opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs like you.

Whether you're looking to start fresh or scale your existing web design business, this guide will show you exactly how to do it — from choosing the right platform to landing your first client and generating recurring revenue.

 

Why Start a Web Design Business?

Starting a web design business isn’t just possible — it’s one of the smartest and most scalable ways to earn income online. Whether you’re building a side hustle or pursuing a full-time career, web design offers a rare mix of low startup costs, high demand, and recurring revenue. Here’s why more people are jumping into this field and finding success:

Growing Demand from Small Businesses

There are over 30 million small businesses in the U.S. alone — and nearly 40% still don’t have a website. Even among those that do, many have outdated designs or poor mobile performance. These businesses are actively seeking affordable, done-for-you solutions.
 

Low Startup Costs Compared to Other Online Businesses

Unlike dropshipping, coaching, or content creation, you don’t need inventory, a big social following, or months of brand building. With the right platform (like SiteSwan), you can launch in days, not months — and often with less than $300 upfront.
 

Recurring Revenue Potential

Web design isn’t just a one-time gig. You can charge monthly fees for:

• Website hosting
   
• Ongoing maintenance
   
• SEO services
   
• Reputation management
   
• Social media marketing
   

This means reliable, recurring income with every new client.

Work from Anywhere, Anytime

As long as you have internet access, you can manage your business from home, a coworking space, or a beachside café. Web design offers true lifestyle flexibility.


 

What You Need to Start a Web Design Business from Scratch

You don’t need a fancy degree, expensive software, or years of experience to get started. With just a few basic tools and the right platform, you can be up and running in no time. Here’s exactly what you’ll need to launch your web design business from scratch — even if you’re starting with zero technical skills:
 

No Coding or Design Experience? No Problem.

Thanks to modern platforms like SiteSwan, you don’t need to write code or be a Photoshop pro. SiteSwan’s drag-and-drop builder and pre-designed industry-specific themes make it easy for anyone to create beautiful, mobile-friendly websites in minutes.
 

Key Tools and Platforms
 

• Website builder (SiteSwan is ideal — more below)
  The backbone of your business — choose a user-friendly platform like SiteSwan that allows you to build professional websites without coding.
   
• Business email address
  Use a branded email (like you@yourcompany.com) to appear more professional and build trust with potential clients.
   
• Simple logo (Can be done with Canva or Fiverr)
  A clean, recognizable logo helps establish your brand identity. You can create one yourself using free tools like Canva or hire a freelancer for a low cost.
   
• Domain name for your agency
  Secure a domain that matches your business name. It will serve as the web address for your own agency’s marketing site.
   
• Basic invoicing or client billing system (SiteSwan includes built-in billing)
  You’ll need a way to invoice clients and collect payments. SiteSwan simplifies this with integrated client billing tools, so you can manage everything in one place.

 

Basic Business Setup
 

Before you land your first client, you’ll want to lay the groundwork for your business. This doesn’t have to be complicated, but a few simple steps will help you look professional, stay organized, and set yourself up for success.
 

• Choose a Business Name
  Pick a name that’s memorable, professional, and relevant to the services you offer. It should be easy to spell and available as a .com domain. You can check availability using CheapNEasyDomains or GoDaddy.
   
• Secure Your Domain and Create Your Website
  Once you have a name, register the domain and set up your agency’s website. With SiteSwan, this is fast and easy — you’ll get a pre-built marketing website included with your account, so you can customize and launch in minutes.
   
• Consider Forming an LLC or Corporation
  While not required to get started, forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or other legal entity can protect your personal assets and give your business more credibility. You can file directly through your state’s official website or use affordable services like LegalZoom, Incfile, or Northwest Registered Agent.
   
• Apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number)
  If you decide to incorporate, you’ll want to apply for a free EIN through the IRS. This acts like a Social Security number for your business and is often required for opening a bank account or filing taxes. You can apply online here: IRS EIN Application
   
• Open a Business Bank Account
  Keeping your business and personal finances separate is key. A business bank account makes it easier to track income and expenses, manage client payments, and appear more professional. Online banks like Bluevine, Novo, and Mercury offer no-fee business checking accounts with fast approval and excellent tools for digital entrepreneurs.
   

By handling these foundational steps early on, you’ll not only appear more legitimate to clients — you'll also make tax time and business growth much easier down the road.


 

Step-by-Step Guide to Launching Your Web Design Business

Now that you have the basics in place, it’s time to launch your business and start landing clients. Whether you're starting part-time or going all-in, the steps below will guide you through building, promoting, and growing your web design business from the ground up — even if you’re doing it solo.

 

Step 1 – Choose the Right Website Builder

Your success depends on the tools you use. SiteSwan is specifically built for entrepreneurs and agencies looking to start and scale a web design business.
Key features include:
 

• Pre-designed themes for 300+ industries
   
• Drag-and-drop builder (no coding)
   
• White-label branding
   
• Client billing system
   
• Built-in Local Prospecting Tool to find leads in your area
   

Step 2 – Set Up Your Own Website

Your agency website is your #1 sales tool. Use your SiteSwan reseller site to:
 

• Introduce your services
   
• Showcase sample sites or themes
   
• Highlight pricing
   
• Include testimonials and contact form
   

No need to start from scratch — SiteSwan gives you everything preloaded and ready to customize.

Step 3 – Identify and Target Local Clients

Use SiteSwan’s Local Prospecting Tool to discover businesses in your area that need a website. Great targets include:
 

• Contractors
   
• Restaurants
   
• Salons & spas
   
• Auto services
   
• Local events
   

You can also check Google for businesses with no site or only a Facebook page.
 

Step 4 – Build Demo Sites to Show Prospects

SiteSwan lets you create personalized mockups in 60 seconds. Showing a potential client a demo of their future website dramatically increases your chances of closing the deal.

 

Step 5 – Pitch and Close Your First Client

Approach local businesses by email, phone, or in person. Show them their demo, explain the value, and offer an affordable upfront fee (e.g., $499) plus a low monthly (e.g., $99–$199) for ongoing hosting and support.

Use SiteSwan’s templates and sales scripts to make your outreach easier.

 

Step 6 – Deliver and Launch the Website

Once the client says yes, you can customize their site with photos, business info, and branding. Most sites can be launched in under 2 hours.

 

Step 7 – Offer Ongoing Services and Upsells

Don’t stop at the website! Offer add-on services such as:
 

• Local SEO
   
• Social Media Management
   
• Online Reviews & Reputation Management
   
• Google Business Profile Setup
   
• Email marketing
   

These services can double or triple your monthly income per client.

Let’s break it down with conservative numbers:
Imagine you charge your clients $1,000 upfront to build their website and $100/month to maintain it. Here's how much you could earn:
 

Thousands of entrepreneurs trust SiteSwan because it’s more than just a website builder — it’s a business-in-a-box. Here's what sets it apart:
 

• ✅ Designed for Resellers (not DIY users)
   
• ✅ No tech skills needed
   
• ✅ Pre-built industry-specific templates
   
• ✅ Sales tools and demo creation
   
• ✅ White-label branding
   
• ✅ Built-in billing
   
• ✅ Local Prospecting Tool to find leads
   
• ✅ Training, coaching & 14-Day Launch Plan
   

Whether you're starting part-time or aiming to scale, SiteSwan gives you everything you need to succeed.

Do I need to know how to code?

Not at all. SiteSwan’s builder is drag-and-drop and uses pre-designed templates.

 

Can I do this part-time?

Yes! Many resellers start while working full-time. You can build and manage sites on nights or weekends.

 

What if I don’t have clients yet?

SiteSwan gives you a built-in Local Prospecting Tool to help you find and pitch local businesses fast.

 

How fast can I start making money?

With SiteSwan’s 14-Day Launch Plan, many resellers land their first paying client in under 2 weeks.

Starting a web design business from scratch is more achievable than ever — even if you have no experience. With a platform like SiteSwan, you can launch quickly, start earning real money, and build a business you’re proud of.

Ready to take the leap?

👉 Get Started with SiteSwan

This is your opportunity to build a future on your own terms.