How to create and sell Excel/Google Sheets templates

Think your spreadsheet skills are just for office work? Think again. If you know how to whip up a great spreadsheet, you're sitting on a potential revenue opportunity.

Excel templates (or Google Sheets, if that’s your preference) are digital products you create once and sell repeatedly, with no additional costs. Businesses and individuals alike are willing to pay for well-made, problem-solving templates. With Sherpo, selling these templates is easier than ever.

Here’s how you can create and sell your first Excel/Sheets template without feeling overwhelmed.

Why sell Excel templates?

Excel templates are all about solving problems. Think budgeting tools, sales trackers, fitness programs, financial models, or project management planners. The best part? Once you create a template, it becomes a passive income stream. Sell it again and again without extra effort.

Here’s why it’s worth your time:

Low upfront cost – All you need is Excel (or Google Sheets, which is free) and your creativity and skills.
High demand – People want quick, professional-looking solutions for everyday challenges.
Flexibility – You can create templates in your niche, whether it's finance, fitness, or social media.
Scalable income – Reach a global audience without worrying about inventory or shipping.

Step 1: Identify a problem

Start with the question: What’s a common task people want to simplify?

Budgeting: Monthly expense trackers, personal savings plans.
Planning: Project timelines, event planners, or content calendars.
Tracking: Habit trackers, fitness logs, or sales performance charts.

Research inspiration:

Browse popular marketplaces like Etsy or Gumroad.
Check forums and social media groups, like Reddit, where people discuss their struggles.

Step 2: Design your template

Now comes the fun part—creating your masterpiece. Follow these tips to make a killer template:

Keep it user-friendly: Use clear labels, avoid clutter, and add an instructions tab or a short video to showcase how it works. On Sherpo, you can include this in the downloadable files or as the product's preview poster.
Automate wisely: Add formulas to calculate totals, averages, or other metrics.
Make it pretty: Use color coding, charts, and clean formatting.

Example: A “Monthly Budget Tracker” might include:

Sections for income, expenses, and savings.
Automated calculations to show how much money remains after expenses.
A chart visualizing spending categories.

Test your template by inputting sample data to ensure everything works flawlessly. The best way to ensure quality? Use it yourself!

Step 3: Package and brand it

Your template isn’t just a file; it’s a product. Make it shine:

Choose a name: Be clear and specific. Example: “Freelancer Income Tracker”.
Create a preview: Share screenshots or short demo videos showcasing its features.
Write a description: Highlight its benefits. (e.g., “Save hours tracking your freelance earnings with this easy-to-use template!”)

Step 4: Sell it online

When it comes to selling, your primary alternatives are Gumroad, Etsy, and Sherpo. Our (biased) suggestion is Sherpo, which makes selling digital products a breeze, with the industry's lowest fees and most comprehensive plan.

Here’s why Sherpo is the perfect platform for your templates:

Easy to set up: You can build a professional-looking sales page in minutes.
Usage-based pricing: Start for free and pay just 5% of sales on Sherpo Flex.
White-label: Appear professional to your audience.

Pro tip: On Sherpo, you can bundle additional downloads for extra value. For example, a “Budgeting Kit” might include a monthly tracker, debt repayment planner, and savings goal sheet. You can also use Sherpo Plus to distribute free content and gather leads or important feedback.

Step 5: Set your price

Pricing depends on complexity and audience.

Basic templates: $10–$30
Advanced templates with automation: $50+
Bundles: Offer discounts for multi-template packs (e.g., 3 templates for $75).

Test different price points and adjust based on customer feedback.

Step 6: Promote your template

Nobody will buy your template if they don’t know it exists. Here’s how to spread the word:

Content marketing: Post sneak peeks or videos of your template in action. Explain what problems it solves.
YouTube tutorials: Show people how to use your template and link to your store.
Social media ads: Reach new users with targeted ads.

Step 7: Deliver and support

Once you make a sale, ensure your customers have a smooth experience. Include an easy-to-follow setup guide or an instructions sheet within the template. Respond to customer questions promptly to build trust and encourage repeat purchases.

Start selling your templates today!

With Sherpo, creating and selling Excel templates is simple, scalable, and rewarding. You can build a business around your skills and help others solve problems.

Ready to start? Head over to Sherpo and transform your spreadsheet skills into a thriving online store, for free.