Key takeaways
- Choose a business name that is memorable, easy to pronounce, and stands out from competitors. Consider using creative word combinations, location references, founder names, or descriptive terms related to your industry.
- Test potential names thoroughly by checking trademark databases, domain availability, and social media usernames. Get feedback from friends, family, and target customers.
- Pick a name that allows room to grow and evolve over time. Avoid overly trendy or limiting names. The best names capture the essence of your brand while remaining flexible.
Ms. Juliet said, "A rose by any other name would smell as sweet." No offense to our star-crossed lover, but would it really sound as good as rose if we called it something else? Therein lies the element of starting a business that trips up many would-be entrepreneurs. What the heck to name your business. Perhaps business name ideas have you stuck in the mud too.
Well, let's get you unstuck so you can start that business already. Below, I'll share not just business name ideas, but also some tips for picking one that will work best for your unique company.
And if you're still searching after browsing these ideas, GoDaddy Airo can help generate even more business name suggestions based on keywords about your business vision.
Let's dive into finding that perfect name that captures exactly who you are and what you do.
Business name ideas by type
Just like there’s more than one way to start a business, there’s more than one approach to naming one. Maybe you want something completely unique that stands out from the crowd.
Or perhaps you’d rather go with something that tells people exactly what you do, and where you do it.
Let’s explore different types of business names to help you find the style that fits your vision.
Unique business name ideas
Want your business to stand out from the crowd, and make a fabulous first impression?
Unique business names often use:
- Made-up words - lookin’ at you Google, Kleenex, and Kodak
- Unexpected combinations - like YouTube, DoorDash or Impossible Foods
- Creative spellings that make people stop and take notice - think Lyft, Tumblr, or MNTN
When done right, these names can become powerful brand assets that are both memorable and trademarkable. Of course, having someone like Ryan Reynolds backing you can help your name really blow up - MNTN and Maximum Effort anyone?
Then again, even if you don’t have Deadpool on speed dial, here’s how to make your business name uniquely yours:
First, you can try to create new words by combining relevant terms.
You could also draw inspiration from mythology or ancient languages. For example, Xerox is actually based on Xerography - a technical term derived from Greek roots 'xeros' meaning 'dry' and 'graphos' meaning 'writing' - which brilliantly captures the essence of the photocopying process while creating a memorable, cutting-edge brand name.
Other options include using unexpected word combinations or modifying existing words in creative ways. Or you could simply choose words that tell a story - like Whole Foods or U-haul.
Check out these unique business name ideas:
- NexaBloom: perfect for a modern florist or growth consultancy
- EchoCraft: great for a sound studio or artisan marketplace
- ZenithWave: ideal for a tech innovator or wellness brand
- LunaVista: beautiful for a photography studio or nighttime tour company
- PixelPioneer: perfect for a digital design agency
- AetherNest: great for a meditation app or co-working space
- VividQuest: ideal for an adventure tourism company
- MosaicMinds: perfect for a creative consulting firm
- SolsticeSage: great for a spiritual wellness brand
- QuantumHaven: ideal for a tech security company
These names demonstrate how thinking outside the box can create distinctive, memorable brands that stand apart from the competition while remaining flexible enough to grow with your business.
Creative and catchy business name ideas
Ever get a song stuck in your head? That’s what we’re aiming for with creative and catchy business names (minus the annoying part where you can’t quit humming it, of course).
Creative and catchy company names often use clever wordplay, rhyming, or alliteration to make your business instantly memorable and fun to say out loud.
Think about names like Dunkin’ Donuts, Krispy Kreme, or Chuck E. Cheese – they’re fun to say, and hard to forget.
There’s a kind of secret sauce to coming up with a catchy name. And, it often comes down to sound.
You could try something like:
- Rhyming words – like StubHub or Piggly Wiggly
- Alliteration – think Best Buy or Coca-Cola
- Fun word combinations – like Pinterest or Instagram
- Playful phrasing – like Trader Joe’s or Five Guys
The key is making it fun and natural to say out loud. Nobody wants to stumble over their words when telling friends about their favorite new business.
For example, PayPal took two simple words and created something that perfectly describes their service - Pay a Pal. Get it?
It’s easy to understand, and it’s also super easy to remember.
Let’s explore some creative and catchy name ideas:
- Buzz and Bloom: perfect for a garden center or social media agency
- Chuckle and Charm: great for a children’s boutique
- Whisker Wares: ideal for a pet supply store
- Twist and Taste: perfect for a fusion restaurant
- Flicker and Fable: great for a bookstore or creative writing school
- SnazzyNest: ideal for a home decor shop
- Bold and Breezy: perfect for a beachwear brand
- Doodle and Dream: great for an art supply store or creative agency
- Sizzle and Pop: ideal for a cooking school or kitchen supply store
- Glimmer and Grit: perfect for a jewelry maker or fitness studio
With these playful yet professional names, you can create an instant connection with customers while making your brand easy to remember and share.
Smart business name ideas
Sometimes the best business names that are also Smarter than a Fifth Grader do double duty – they’re both memorable and meaningful.
Think about Amazon, named after the world’s largest river. The name suggests the vast selection they planned to offer.
Or how about Tesla? This name honors a brilliant inventor while positioning the company as an innovative force in the automotive industry.
When you’re thinking about smart company names, you might want to include these elements:
- Hint at your value proposition – like LinkedIn
- Reference your industry expertise – think Intel
- Suggest thought leadership – Apple is great at this
- Point to innovation – I personally can’t help but think of Microsoft (microcomputer + software)
- Include subtle wordplay – like Buffer
The trick for creating a smart brand name is finding that sweet spot between being too obvious and too obscure.
For instance, Netflix clearly combines “internet” and “flicks.” The name creates a perfect description of their original service that was still flexible enough to grow with the company.
Remember when you had to rent your flicks on the net, and wait for them to arrive by mail? Now, you can stream your flicks on the net! Did I just age myself too much? Moving on!
Here are some smart business name ideas to inspire you:
- CleverNest: perfect for an innovative home solutions company
- Insightful Innovations: great for a consulting firm
- Strategic Synergy: ideal for a business advisory service
- BrightBridge Solutions: perfect for a problem-solving consultancy
- SavvySphere: great for a digital marketing agency
- IntellectHub: ideal for an educational technology company
- Nimble Nexus: perfect for an agile project management firm
- ThinkTank Ventures: great for a business incubator
- WiseWave Consulting: ideal for a strategic planning service
- Pinnacle Perspectives: perfect for a market research firm
These clever names strike the perfect balance between meaningful and memorable, giving your business an intelligent foundation for building long-term brand recognition.
Location-based business name ideas
Looking to put your business on the map – literally?
Location-based brand names aren’t just about slapping your city name onto your business (though hey, worked for Chicago Pizza!).
They’re about creating a connection with your community, and making it crystal clear where to find you – or at least the location of the roots of your company.
Think about successful examples like Brooklyn Brewery, Seattle’s Best Coffee, or Kentucky Fried Chicken – these names turned their locations into part of their brand identity. And, they didn’t have to stay in their locations to become a success!
There are several ways to include your location in your business name.
For example, you could:
- Use your city or neighborhood – like Minneapolis Moline
- Reference local landmarks – think North River Roasters
- Include regional features – like Mountain Equipment Co-op (though now it’s known by the name 1077 Holdings Co-Operative)
- Add geographic elements – similar to Bank of the Ozarks (now known as Bank OZK)
- Incorporate local culture – like Outer Banks Boarding Company
Just remember to think about your future growth plans.
Will that hyper-local name still work if you expand to other areas? For instance, Arizona Iced Tea didn’t let their name stop them from becoming a national brand.
After all, you can pay homage to your origins, but still expand nationwide (or even worldwide!) if you want to.
Here are some fun location-inspired business name ideas:
- Sunnyvale Sweets: perfect for a local bakery
- Riverbend Café: great for a riverside coffee shop
- Mountain Peak Outfitters: ideal for an outdoor gear store
- Coastal Breeze Boutique: perfect for a beachside fashion store
- Maplewood Market: great for a neighborhood grocery
- Bayview Brews: ideal for a waterfront brewery
- Downtown Deli: perfect for an urban sandwich shop
- Prairie Grove Designs: great for a regional interior designer
- Lakeside Living: ideal for a local real estate agency
- Urban Oasis Spa: perfect for a city wellness center
Whether you stay local or expand globally, these location-inspired names help root your business in the community while leaving room for future growth.
Product-based business name ideas
Sometimes the best way to tell people what you do is to, well, tell them what you do! Or in this case - what you sell.
But that doesn’t mean your name has to be boring. Take The Cheesecake Factory – they started with cheesecakes, and built an empire.
Or The Container Store – it couldn’t be clearer about what they sell, right?
Even Burger King tells you exactly what they’re serving up - and that they think they’re pretty good at it. You have to believe that to call yourself a “king” of anything. Right?
Here’s how to make your product the star of your name:
- Lead with your signature item – like Pizza Hut
- Highlight quality – think Best Buy
- Showcase specialty – The Vitamin Shoppe is a prime example of this
- Focus on benefits – Whole Foods or Planet Fitness both come to mind here
- Add a creative twist – like Build-A-Bear Workshop
It’s also important to remember to give yourself some wiggle room to grow. After all, General Motors sounds a lot more flexible than “The Model T Car Company” would have been!
Let’s explore some product-focused name ideas:
- EcoEssentials: perfect for sustainable product shop
- Crafted Comforts: great for handmade home goods
- Charmed Creations: ideal for a jewelry maker
- Purely Pampered: perfect for natural beauty products
- Gourmet Goodies: great for specialty foods
- Trendy Treasures: ideal for a fashion boutique
- Bold Brew Co.: perfect for a coffee roaster
- Stylish Solutions: great for organizing products
- Vibrant Vessels: ideal for handmade pottery
- Whimsical Wares: perfect for unique gift items
These product-focused names show how you can highlight what you sell while maintaining enough flexibility to evolve your offerings over time.
Business name ideas by industry
Not every industry is created equal when it comes to naming your business. What works for a photography studio might feel out of place for a construction company.
Let’s dive into some industry-specific naming ideas that’ll help you find the perfect fit for your field.
Cleaning business name ideas
Want to make your cleaning business name sparkle? The best cleaning business names often play on words related to cleanliness, freshness, and efficiency – without getting too cheesy about it. Though a little cheese can work – just look at “You’ve Got Maids” cleaning services!
When naming a cleaning business, consider words that convey:
- Professionalism – because you’re often in people’s homes or offices
- Trustworthiness – crucial for this industry
- Quality of service – what sets you apart
- Efficiency – everyone wants their space cleaned thoroughly and quickly
- Environmental consciousness – if you use green cleaning methods
Here are some squeaky-clean business name ideas:
- Sparkle and Shine Cleaners: perfect for a comprehensive cleaning service
- Pristine Spaces: great for a minimalist, detail-oriented approach
- Fresh Start Cleaning Co.: ideal for residential cleaning services
- Spotless Solutions: perfect for commercial cleaning contracts
- Crystal Clear Cleaners: great for window and surface specialists
- NeatNest Services: ideal for home organization and cleaning
- Dazzle and Dust: perfect for adding a touch of flair to cleaning services
- Tidy Up Crew: great for team-based cleaning services
- Green Gleam Cleaners: ideal for eco-friendly cleaning services
- Effortless Clean Team: perfect for hassle-free cleaning solutions
These names combine professionalism with a touch of creativity, making them memorable while still conveying the quality and reliability that cleaning service customers look for.
Freelance/Entrepreneur business name ideas
Naming a freelance business or entrepreneurial venture is a bit like creating your own personal brand – because that’s exactly what you’re doing!
You want something that showcases your professional expertise while still capturing your unique approach.
Think about successful examples like Gary Vaynerchuk becoming “GaryVee” or how Marie Forleo built her entire empire under her own name - I know I’m not the only one subscribed to MarieTV.
When naming a freelance or entrepreneurial business, consider:
- Your personal brand identity
- The services you offer
- Room for growth and evolution
- Professional credibility
- Your target market’s expectations
Let’s look at some freelance business name ideas that mean business:
- Freelance Fusion: perfect for a collaborative freelance network
- Entrepreneurial Edge: great for business consulting services
- Creative Catalyst Co.: ideal for innovation consulting
- Venture Visionaries: perfect for startup advisors
- Solo Success Studio: great for independent business coaching
- Innovative Impact: ideal for transformative business services
- Dynamic Dreamers: perfect for creative entrepreneurship
- Freestyle Solutions: great for adaptable business services
- Passion Project Co.: ideal for purpose-driven ventures
- Nimble Nomads: perfect for digital nomad services
These names blend professionalism with innovation, creating memorable brands that speak to both creativity and business acumen.
Construction business name ideas
Building a construction brand name? You’ll want something that conveys strength, reliability, and professionalism.
You wouldn’t build a house without a solid foundation, and your brand shouldn’t be built without one either. The company name you come up with should inspire confidence in your potential clients.
Think about successful companies in the construction space like Caterpillar or John Deere – names that have become synonymous with quality construction and reliability.
A strong construction business name should suggest:
- Durability and strength
- Professional expertise
- Reliability and trust
- Quality craftsmanship
- Industry experience
Consider these construction-ready name ideas:
- Solid Foundations Co.: perfect for a full-service construction firm
- Precision Builders: great for detail-oriented construction work
- Skyline Construction Group: ideal for commercial construction
- Titan Structures: perfect for large-scale projects
- Crafted Construction Solutions: great for custom building work
- Cornerstone Contractors: ideal for residential construction
- Elevate Building Services: perfect for modern construction projects
- Blueprint Innovations: great for design-build firms
- Prime Construction Partners: ideal for construction management
- Sturdy Frame Works: perfect for structural specialists
These names combine strength with professionalism, creating memorable brands that inspire confidence in your construction expertise.
Agency name ideas
Naming an agency is like creating the perfect elevator pitch. Your brand name idea should sound creative enough to intrigue potential clients. But you also need to sound professional enough to handle their business.
Whether you’re in advertising, marketing, PR, or design, your name needs to signal both innovation and reliability.
Just look at successful agencies like Ogilvy, which used its founder’s name to build an empire. Or Grey Advertising, which got its name from the color of their office walls (no joke!).
A winning agency name should communicate:
- Creative capability
- Strategic thinking
- Industry expertise
- Innovation mindset
- Professional credibility
Some agencies take the playful route like Huge Inc. or Big Spaceship (now called SPCSHP). On the other hand, some agencies opt for more traditional names (like McKinsey and Company). What matters is matching your name to your target market and agency personality.
If you need some inspo, here are some agency-worthy business name ideas:
- Catalyst Creative Agency: perfect for driving transformative change
- Visionary Ventures: great for forward-thinking strategy
- Nexus Agency Group: ideal for integrated services
- Elevate Strategies: perfect for performance-focused solutions
- Pulse Agency: great for trend-setting creative work
- Synergy Solutions: ideal for collaborative approaches
- Impact Insights Agency: perfect for results-driven campaigns
- Apex Creative Collective: great for creative teamwork
- Innovate Agency: ideal for cutting-edge solutions
- Momentum Marketing Group: perfect for growth-focused strategies
These names blend creativity with professionalism, creating memorable brands that signal both innovative thinking and strategic excellence.
Craft/handmade business name ideas
Naming a craft or handmade business is all about capturing that special touch that makes handcrafted items so appealing.
Your brand name should reflect the care, creativity, and uniqueness that goes into every piece you create.
Look at successful handmade businesses like Uncommon Goods or iCraft. These are good business names because they’ve managed to capture the essence of unique, handcrafted items in their names.
When naming a craft or handmade business, think about:
- The personal nature of handmade items
- The artisanal quality of your work
- Your specific craft or medium
- The story behind your creations
- The emotional connection with customers
After all, people who buy handmade items aren’t just looking for products – they’re looking for pieces with personality and soul.
Get crafty with these business name suggestions:
- Artisan Alley: perfect for a multi-artist marketplace
- Crafted Charm: great for handmade jewelry and accessories
- Handmade Haven: ideal for artisanal home goods
- Whimsy and Willow: perfect for whimsical handcrafted items
- The Cozy Craft Co.: great for handmade comfort items
- Stitch and Stone Studio: ideal for mixed media crafts
- Rustic Roots Creations: perfect for traditional craftwork
- Dabble and Design: great for creative workshops and products
- Heartfelt Handmade: ideal for personalized gifts
- Creative Curiosities: perfect for unique handcrafted items
These names weave together creativity and craftsmanship, creating memorable brands that highlight the special nature of handmade goods.
Multiservice business name ideas
What do you do when you’re offering multiple services under one roof?
When this is the case, your business name needs to be as flexible as you are.
With the first iteration of my own brand, I chose the name More Than Photographs because, well, I was selling more than photographs. I was selling writing, and photography services.
Think about successful examples like TaskRabbit or Thumbtack – they chose names broad enough to cover everything from handyman work to personal assistance, yet specific enough to be memorable.
The trick with a multiservice business name is keeping it:
- Broad enough to cover all your services
- Specific enough to be meaningful
- Professional but approachable
- Easy to remember
- Scalable as you grow
After all, you don’t want to paint yourself into a corner when you might add more services later. We can again look at Amazon – they started with books, but chose a name that didn’t confine them to a box.
Here are some versatile name ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- All-in-One Solutions: perfect for comprehensive service packages
- Versatile Ventures: great for diverse business services
- MultiTask Masters: ideal for multiple service offerings
- Complete Care Co.: perfect for full-service solutions
- OmniService Hub: great for centralized service delivery
- Diverse Dynamics: ideal for adaptable business services
- Total Service Spectrum: perfect for wide-ranging capabilities
- Unified Solutions Group: great for integrated service approaches
- FlexiServe Enterprises: ideal for flexible service options
- Full Spectrum Services: perfect for comprehensive solutions
These names emphasize versatility and comprehensive service while maintaining a professional, trustworthy image that appeals to clients seeking multiple solutions under one roof.
Photography business name ideas
Looking to capture a picture perfect name for your photography business?
The care you take in getting the right angle for every image should also go into your business name. It needs to frame your style and expertise just right.
Whether you’re shooting weddings like The Knot’s top photographers or creating corporate headshots, your name should develop your brand as clearly as your images.
A great photography business name can focus on:
- Your photography style
- The moments you capture
- Your artistic perspective
- Technical expertise
- The emotions you evoke
If you’re lucky, your name can become synonymous with your unique style of work. Just like photographer Henri Cartier-Bresson became known for “The Decisive Moment” or how Annie Leibovitz built her personal brand into an empire.
Here are some picture-perfect name ideas:
- Lens and Light Photography: perfect for professional studio work
- Moments Captured Studio: great for event photography
- Timeless Frames: ideal for portrait photography
- Candid Clicks: perfect for documentary-style shoots
- Shutter and Soul: great for emotive photography
- Vivid Visions Photography: ideal for vibrant artistic shots
- Picture Perfect Moments: perfect for special event photography
- Creative Capture Co.: great for innovative photo concepts
- Dreamy Exposure: ideal for romantic and ethereal styles
- Ethereal Images: perfect for artistic fine art photography
Each of these names frames what’s special about the photography business while leaving room for creative growth – kind of like having the perfect zoom lens for every situation!
How to choose a business name
Picking your business name doesn’t have to be a painful experience. You can have fun with it, and the good news is that no matter what name you choose, you can always change it.
I mean how many times have we seen the name of popular brands change? Is it Facebook or is it Meta? Is it Weight Watchers or is it just WW?
My point is that even though you shouldn’t go into business planning to change your brand name many times, if you decide you don’t like it anymore, you can change it.
That said, let’s help you come up with a business name idea you like enough to at least launch your brand in the first place. Let’s break it down into manageable steps that’ll help you find the perfect name for your venture.
Think about your goals
Where do you see your business in five, ten, or even twenty years?
Your business name should have enough room to grow with your ambitions. Again, I’ve gotta bring up how Jeff Bezos chose “Amazon” because he envisioned it becoming as vast as the world’s largest river. (Spoiler alert: mission accomplished!)
So, when considering company names, ask yourself:
- What’s your long-term vision?
- Might you expand your products or services?
- Could you move into new geographic areas?
- Will you want to sell the business someday?
- Could your industry evolve significantly?
Consider your audience
Your business name needs to resonate with the people who’ll actually use your products or services.
A law firm called “Legally Blonde” might get attention, but probably not the kind that attracts serious corporate clients. And, let’s be honest - it could also land you in legal trouble, considering the name is associated with a movie and a musical!
Additional questions to ask yourself are:
- Who are your ideal customers?
- What tone appeals to them?
- What names do they trust?
- What values matter to them?
- What might turn them off?
Make it memorable
Being forgettable isn’t an option if you have any hope of becoming successful.
Your name needs to stick in people’s minds – and, for the right reasons.
Think about brands like Nike (named after the Greek goddess of victory) or Apple (chosen for its simplicity and friendly appeal).
Aim for a name that’s:
- Easy to pronounce
- Simple to spell
- Distinct from competitors
- Meaningful or intriguing
- Natural to share in conversation
If possible, you should also choose a business name that has a matching domain name. More on that below.
Top tips for choosing a business name
I know, I’ve thrown a lot at you already, but now it’s time to take all these business name ideas, and pick one already! Before you fall head over heels in love with a name though, let’s consider a few more important things.
Naming concerns:
- Pronunciation and spelling: Test the name's pronounceability by asking friends, family, or potential customers to say it out loud. It’s best to avoid names that are easily misheard or misspelled.
- Distinctiveness and originality: The name you choose should be researched thoroughly to ensure it doesn’t sound too similar to existing business names in your industry. You also want to aim for a name that stands out from competitors.
- Trademark considerations: I hate to pull the legal card again, but this could keep you from getting sued. I highly recommend using trademark databases to verify name availability, and consider consulting an intellectual property lawyer before choosing your business name. And, be prepared to modify the name if trademark conflicts exist.
- Geographic limitations: It’s best to avoid names that might have unintended meanings in other languages or in different regions of the country (or world!). Even though you might only be thinking about running your business in the United States, it never hurts to think about potential international expansion
- Industry relevance: While I admit this is not 100% necessary, it could be helpful to choose a name that reflects or hints at your business's core services. You could consider how your chosen name communicates your brand's value proposition.
For example, it’s pretty clear that Frankie’s Ghostwriting Studio sells, well, ghostwritten content. But, Sally’s Word Emporium might not reflect that it sells the same service.
- Potential negative connotations: Similar to the geographic limitations and cultural misunderstanding, it’s important to research your potential company’s name for potential meanings or associations. It might be a good idea to ask diverse groups of people for their immediate impressions.
You could also check a source like the urban dictionary and other slang reference sources to confirm there’s nothing inappropriate about the name you have chosen.
This is why you might want to avoid names with unintended humorous or offensive interpretations - it could get your business off on the wrong foot and kill your reputation before you even make your first sale.
- Trendiness: Some things age like wine, and others age like milk. To that end, I recommend being cautious of names that feel too trendy or of-the-moment. It’s best to aim for timeless business name ideas rather than names that could be dated as quickly as you order your business cards!
- Acronyms and initials: While it worked for IKEA, you might want to test your acronym's readability and potential alternative meanings if you choose to make this your business name. Ensure the initials don't create unfortunate combinations, and check that it’s easy to remember and pronounce. And, at the risk of sounding like a broken record, verify the acronym doesn't have negative associations.
- Personal names: Think about whether a personal name fits your business model. Using your own name often works well for consultants, lawyers, speakers, and personal brands. But for product-based businesses, and tech companies, it’s less effective.
- Domain name availability: While you’re considering all the possibilities for your business name, it’s a good idea to check domain name availability. Whenever possible, you should use a .com extension, but you could consider alternative domain extensions if primary options are taken. Again though - going back to the legal side of things - if the .com domain is taken, it might be a good idea to visit alternative business name ideas.
Settling on a business name idea - check availability and test it out
Found a business name you love? Awesome! Now, let's make sure it's actually available and will resonate with your audience. Here's a streamlined process to validate your business name choice:
Check availability
- Start with these essential searches:
- Search your Secretary of State's business registry to verify state-level availability
- Check the USPTO trademark database to avoid legal conflicts
- Look up domain name availability on sites like GoDaddy
- Search social media platforms to ensure you can secure consistent usernames
- Run a thorough Google search to spot similar existing businesses
Pro tip: Don't stop at exact matches – look for similar names that could cause confusion.
If someone already has "Byte Tech," naming yourself "Bite Tech" probably isn't wise.
Verify legal requirements
Remember to check:
- Local business registries and county clerk records
- Industry-specific requirements (some sectors have special naming rules)
- Professional licensing boards if your industry requires credentials
- International trademarks if you plan to expand globally
Test it out with your audience
Get feedback from the people who matter most:
- Share the name with friends and family for first impressions
- Ask potential customers what they think through quick surveys
- Test pronunciation by having people read it aloud
- Check for unintended meanings in other languages
- Consider how it sounds over the phone
Use online tools to test it out as well. Take advantage of these resources:
- Business name generators for alternatives
- PickFu or similar platforms for quick audience feedback
- Social media polls to gauge public reaction
- Online trademark search tools
- Domain name variation finders
It’s worth noting that even if a name is technically available, that doesn't automatically mean it's the best choice. Make sure it's not just available, but truly right for your business.
Don't rush this process – it's much easier to choose the right name now than to rebrand later. And if you need help, consider consulting with a legal professional who can guide you through the trademark process and help spot potential issues before they become problems.
Pro tip: Keep a spreadsheet of your top choices and track their availability across all these channels.
Sometimes your second or third choice ends up being the better option once you've done all your homework.
Real business name examples
As we wind things down, let’s explore some real business names, and why they work so well in their industry. Let’s look at three successful businesses that nailed their naming strategy.
Each one demonstrates different approaches to creating a memorable, effective business name that perfectly suits their industry and mission. These examples show how the right name can become a powerful asset for your brand.
Example 1: Apple
Apple represents a masterclass in choosing a simple, unexpected name for a technology company. By selecting a common word from nature rather than a technical term, the company created an identity that would help define their brand for decades to come.
Why it’s a great business name
- Simple and unexpected for a tech company, making it instantly memorable
- Creates a warm, friendly feel in contrast to typical tech industry names
- Works globally due to easy pronunciation across languages
- Suggests fresh thinking and natural simplicity
- Versatile enough to expand beyond computers to other consumer electronics
Example 2: Impossible Foods
Founded in 2011, Impossible Foods chose a name that directly challenges what people think is possible. By calling their plant-based meat alternatives “impossible,” they turned skepticism into their greatest marketing asset. The name itself sparks curiosity and conversation about their innovative products.
Why it’s a great business name
- Bold and provocative, creating immediate intrigue
- Makes a clear statement about breaking boundaries in food technology
- Memorable and conversation-starting
- Transforms potential doubt into brand strength
- Perfect for social media and word-of-mouth marketing
- Emphasizes the company’s innovative approach to food.
Example 3: Zoom
When Eric Yuan founded Zoom in 2011, he wanted a name that would convey speed, simplicity, and connection. The one-syllable word “Zoom” perfectly captures the instant nature of video communication while being incredibly easy to remember and say in any language.
Why it’s a great business name
- Dynamic and action-oriented
- Instantly communicates speed and efficiency
- Easy to pronounce and remember globally
- Works well as both a noun and verb (“Let’s Zoom”)
- Suggests movement and progress
- Simple enough to become part of everyday vocabulary
These three examples show how different naming strategies can work across various industries, from simple and approachable to bold and challenging to dynamic and descriptive. Each name perfectly aligns with its company’s mission while remaining memorable and distinct in its market.
LLC name ideas
While you’re brainstorming your business name, don’t forget about your LLC name! That is, if you choose to make your business an LLC.
Though they can be the same, your LLC name is your official legal entity name and requires special considerations.
Before finalizing your choice, check out GoDaddy's How to start an LLC guide for full details.
Here are some LLC name approaches to consider:
- Professional Services: Smith Consulting, LLC
- Creative Studios: Bright Ideas Creative Group, LLC
- Retail Business: Urban Market Solutions, LLC
- Online Business: Digital Dynamics Enterprises, LLC
- Local Services: Metro Property Management, LLC
- Tech Company: NextGen Innovations, LLC
- Marketing Agency: Impact Strategy Partners, LLC
- Health Services: Wellness Works International, LLC
- Food Business: Fresh Fare Holdings, LLC
- Educational Services: Learning Lab Solutions, LLC
Keep in mind, your LLC name must include “LLC,” “L.L.C.,” or “Limited Liability Company,” and can’t include words that could confuse it with a government agency.
Start your journey with a great business name
Choosing the perfect business name is both an art and a science. Whether you opt for something unique like “Spotify,” descriptive like “Impossible Foods,” or location-based like “Brooklyn Brewery,” your name should reflect your brand’s personality while being memorable and practical.
Don’t forget to:
- Keep it simple and memorable
- Check availability thoroughly
- Test it with your target audience
- Think about long-term growth
- Ensure it works across all platforms
Need more inspiration? Try Godaddy’s business name generator to spark some creative ideas. The perfect name is out there – you just need to find it!
Business name idea FAQs
What is a good name for a company?
A good company name is memorable, easy to pronounce, reflects your brand’s essence, and stands out in your industry. It should be unique, meaningful, and resonate with your target audience while avoiding complexity or potential misinterpretations.
How do I come up with a catchy business name?
Brainstorm by combining words, using wordplay, exploring industry-related terms, or creating a meaningful acronym. Consider your brand’s personality, values, and target market. Test potential names with friends, colleagues, and potential customers for feedback.
Can I change my business name later on?
Yes, you can change your business name, but it involves legal steps like updating registration, licenses, tax documents, website, and marketing materials. Consider the potential costs and brand recognition impact before making the change.
What are good LLC name ideas?
Good LLC names reflect professionalism while clearly identifying your business type. Consider using industry-specific terms, location indicators, or your core services. Always include “LLC” or “Limited Liability Company” and check state requirements for naming restrictions.
What are good business name ideas?
Good business name ideas are distinctive, memorable, and relevant to your industry. Consider using descriptive terms, founder names, invented words, metaphorical references, and/or playful combinations.
What should I name my brand?
Name your brand by identifying your core values, understanding your target audience, and checking name availability. Don’t forget to ensure domain and social media handles are free, and test for pronunciation and potential misinterpretations.