Last Updated on October 18, 2024 by Arif Chowdhury

Hold on a sec, did you know that your passion for family history can turn into cold hard cash?

Stuck thinking about how to actually make money helping others discover their roots?

Here’s the truth: The genealogy market is absolutely exploding.

According to recent studies, the global genealogy products and services market is expected to reach $18.9 billion by 2027, with a CAGR of 11.3%.

Why Start a Genealogy Research Business Now?

Let’s cut straight to the facts: The pandemic sparked a massive interest in family history research, with a 37% increase in genealogy website traffic in 2020 alone.

DNA testing companies have collected data from over 100 million people worldwide.

This isn’t just a trend – it’s a growing industry with massive profit potential.

The Business Model Breakdown

Core Services to Offer:

• Family tree research and documentation
• DNA test result interpretation
• Historical document retrieval
• Family history books and presentations
• Immigration history research
• Heir finding services

Premium Add-ons:

• Rush research services
• Video documentary production
• Family reunion planning
• Ancestral location tours (virtual or in-person)
• Private coaching sessions

Getting Started: The No-Fluff Guide

Step 1: Build Your Foundation

Don’t waste time on fancy business cards.

Focus on these critical elements:

• Get certified (recommended, not required)
• Choose a niche market
• Set up a professional website
• Create service packages
• Establish your pricing structure

Step 2: Set Up Your Tech Stack

Keep it simple:

• Genealogy software (start with free versions)
• Cloud storage for documents
• Project management tool
• Scheduling software
• Invoicing system

Step 3: Price Your Services Right

Here’s the real talk on pricing:

Basic Package: $75-150/hour

• Initial consultation
• Basic family tree research
• Digital documentation

Premium Package: $200-500/hour

• Deep ancestral research
• DNA analysis
• Custom family history book

VIP Package: $1000+

• Complete family history
• Video documentaries
• Personal presentations

Marketing That Actually Works

Digital Presence

Stop throwing money at random ads.

Focus on:

• Creating helpful YouTube content
• Building an email list
• Being active in genealogy Facebook groups
• Starting a simple blog

Offline Marketing

Old school still works:

• Local historical societies
• Libraries
• Senior centers
• Family reunion organizers

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Don’t make these rookie mistakes:

• Underpricing your services
• Taking on too many clients at once
• Not setting clear project boundaries
• Forgetting to back up research data
• Skipping client contracts

Scaling Your Business

When you’re ready to grow:

1. Hire research assistants
2. Create digital products
3. Offer group workshops
4. Develop online courses
5. Create membership programs

Tips for Success

What Works:

• Specializing in specific ethnicities or regions
• Creating detailed research reports
• Building strategic partnerships
• Offering satisfaction guarantees
• Maintaining organized research systems

What Doesn’t:

• Trying to serve everyone
• Copying competitors’ prices
• Working without contracts
• Neglecting to follow up with clients

Revenue Streams to Consider

Think beyond basic research:

• Monthly subscription services
• Digital courses and workshops
• Research templates and guides
• Speaking engagements
• Coaching programs

Client Management

Keep it professional:

• Set clear expectations
• Use research agreements
• Provide regular updates
• Document everything
• Follow up after project completion

Final Thoughts

The genealogy research business is booming, but success comes down to execution.

Focus on delivering value, building systems, and growing strategically.

Start small, perfect your process, then scale.

Remember: This industry is about helping people connect with their roots – the money follows naturally.