The amount needed to start dropshipping can vary depending on several factors such as the type of products you want to sell, the platform you choose, marketing expenses, and other business-related costs. However, here is a breakdown of the potential costs involved in starting a dropshipping business:

1. E-commerce Platform: To set up an online store for dropshipping, you will need an e-commerce platform. Some popular options include Shopify, WooCommerce, and BigCommerce. These platforms have different pricing plans, starting from around $29 to $299 per month, depending on the features and services you require.

2. Domain and Hosting: You will need a domain name (your website's address) and hosting services to make your dropshipping store accessible online. Domain prices can range from $10 to $50 per year, while hosting costs can start from $3 to $30 per month, depending on the provider and package you choose.

3. Product Sourcing: Dropshipping involves partnering with suppliers who handle inventory and shipping. Many suppliers are available through online marketplaces like AliExpress, Oberlo, and Spocket, where you can find products to sell in your store. These suppliers offer various pricing options, but typically, you can find products with a considerable profit margin.

4. Marketing and Advertising: To attract customers and drive traffic to your store, you may need to invest in marketing and advertising. This can include strategies like social media ads, influencer collaborations, search engine optimization (SEO), and email marketing. The cost of marketing can vary significantly depending on your approach and budget. For example, Facebook ads can start from a few dollars per day, while hiring an influencer might range from $100 to $1000 per post.

5. Additional Tools and Services: Depending on your business needs, you may require additional tools and services such as graphic design software, email marketing platforms, customer support solutions, and analytics tools. These costs can vary, but it's important to consider them for efficient store management and growth.

It's worth noting that the initial investment for dropshipping can be relatively low compared to traditional retail businesses. However, it's crucial to allocate sufficient funds for marketing and advertising to ensure your store's visibility and success.

References:
- Shopify: https://www.shopify.com/pricing
- WooCommerce: https://woocommerce.com/pricing/
- BigCommerce: https://www.bigcommerce.com/pricing/
- Oberlo: https://www.oberlo.com/pricing
- Spocket: https://www.spocket.co/pricing
- AliExpress: https://www.aliexpress.com/
- Facebook Ads: https://www.facebook.com/business/ads
- Influencer Marketing Hub: https://influencermarketinghub.com/influencer-marketing-pricing/
- Mailchimp: https://mailchimp.com/pricing/
- Adobe Creative Cloud: https://www.adobe.com/creativecloud/plans.html