I run a website to help unemployed people so I have my finger on the pulse of the economy somewhat. The economy is in rough shape. Jobs are hard to come by so it only makes sense that a lot of people would be looking for business opportunities that are easy and inexpensive to start up.

In starting a business, the first thing you have to consider is what you can provide that people need or want -- and that they will pay to get. Everyone has different skills to bring to the table so your business could be anything from setting up wireless networks to cleaning gutters so the water can drain off rooftops.

One business that I know anyone could start is soap making. Everyone needs soap. Everyone buys soap. Best of all, anyone can make soap. Nowadays with all the anger toward Wall Street and big corporations, it should be a cinch to convince people to "buy local." One could also sell your soap on the Internet.

Starting a soap-making business could be done for a couple of hundred dollars. (You could start smaller than that but your profits and profit margin would be smaller -- you need to buy your materials wholesale and in quantity.) Make one batch, sell it, and put the profits into the next batch. Over time, it is totally scalable and, as with anything else, a soap maker will improve their skills and refine their manufacturing process over time. With hard work, you could have a big company with employees after just a year or two, starting from your kitchen.

After you get good at making soap, you could expand your product line into shampoos and household cleaning agents like laundry detergents. Before long, you could be a tycoon!

How would one go about selling their soap after it was made? Well, first of all you would have to think about packaging. This part is pretty easy. You can make it rustic. Just print some labels and wrap them around each bar. Second, you have to find distribution outlets. Try flea markets, farmers' markets, and small, independent health foods and craft shops in your area. Also give the Internet a shot. It is inexpensive to get set up on those popular online auction sites, and people do buy. Make sure to account for shipping costs if you do it this way!

If you are unemployed and can't find a "buyer" for your skills in this market, you might want to try making your own soap. If nothing else, it's a great way to make your own holiday gifts.