Are you trying to find Kenyan small business ideas that require little startup capital? Here is a list of some of the top Kenyan businesses that have great profit margins and can be started by any ambitious person with little capital.
1. Selling second-hand clothing (Mitumba)
In Kenya, there is a ready market for mitumba clothing. For you to start this business and be able to make a good profit you need to focus on selling good quality clothes. It is quite expensive to purchase high-quality mitumba clothing depending on the source. starting Capital ranges between Ksh30k and Ksh50k for grade-A clothes. You can also purchase less expensive bale which costs less than Ksh15k though this consists of low-quality clothes.
2. Small Bakery
Starting a small bakery business is a profitable business idea you can explore especially if you have a passion for cooking. starting a bakery allows you to serve niche markets and express culinary creativity without taking on the financial burden of opening a restaurant. This business requires at least Ksh60k capital. the requirement consists of a license, Pans, An oven, Mixers, a Cake decoration kit, and ingredients.
3. Car Wash
The car wash business is one of the most thriving businesses in Kenya. You can start a sustainable and highly profitable car wash business with as low as Ksh50k. Before starting a carwash business you need to, do proper market research, choose the right location, Identify the type of equipment you need, do proper marketing of your business, and hire the right staff. The requirements required to start a car wash company consist of:
- Leasing Land space,
- A car wash business license
- A pressure washer,
- Vacuum cleaner,
- Wax and polish,
- Alloy wheel cleaner,
- Car Shampoo,
- A wash mitt,
- Microfiber clothes.
4. Mobile Money Agents
The mobile money agency involves third-party delivery of financial services to customers. Safaricom M-Pesa, Airtel Money, Orange Money, and Essar YuCash are the four mobile money service providers in Kenya. To launch into the mobile money company business, you need to have an initial float. Float can be any amount depending on your capabilities. Your revenue comes from commissions earned on deposits and withdrawals of money. In this business, all you need is a phone, float, rental costs, and a strategic location.
5. Printing & Photocopy Business
Printing & Photocopy Businesses are inexpensive to start and the barriers to starting this business are few. Contrary to popular belief that digital technologies will destroy paper-based businesses, that has not yet happened. With at least Ksh50,000, you can launch your own printing and photocopying business. all you need is the license, rental, and equipment. You start this company by buying less expensive equipment and you can improve as business picks. The equipments include:
- Single business permit
- Safety license
- Kopiken License
- Standard 3 in 1 Photocopier( printer, scanner)
- Laminator
- Binding machine
- Stationery
- Small office printer
- A regular-size copier
6. Gas Refill Business
Liquefied Petroleum Gas has become an essential requirement in most households. Due to urbanization and its effectiveness, the gas industry in Kenya is expanding quickly. To succeed in the gas refill business, location is crucial. In Kenya, the gas industry thrives in every county as long as you find a key site with a significant population. Many Kenyans, even in remote areas, now prefer cooking with gas since it is clean, quick, and more affordable. To start this business you need at least Ksh60k capital. Some of the requirements consist of:
- Premises rent
- Single business permit
- ERC license
- Gas cylinders stock
- Metallic grill for storage
- Weighing scale
- Fire extinguisher
7. Laundry services
Starting a laundry business in an urban center is a perfect idea for income generation. By having the ideal business atmosphere and making a wise site choice, you will succeed in this market. You can start this business with at least Ksh50k. The advantage of this business is you can run it in your own backyard to avoid much cost. when you run it in your backyard all you need is an Ordinary front loading machine, A Dryer, Iron Box and Ironing Board, and Detergents. If you want to start a big laundry business requirements consist of:
- Washing machine
- Iron machine
- Furniture
- Business licenses and permits
- Folding stand or table
- Ironing table
- Interior layout
- Rent
8. Hardware
Starting a hardware business can be challenging, but with the right information, you will succeed. With the increase in construction, you can start and run a successful hardware business in Kenya. The trick is observing the competitors and some main secrets in the hardware business. All you need to do is conduct Market Research, look for a good Place to Start and Run the Hardware, take business permits, and stock the requirements. The trick is to start with a smaller stock of each item and progress as you make sales. hardware products that you can sell include:
- Cement
- Steel bars and rods
- Plumbing materials
- Door hinges
- Flooring tiles
- Welding rods, plumbing materials
- Nails
9. Movie Shop
The movie shop business is increasingly becoming a profitable venture to start in Kenya. Many people prefer to entertain themselves by watching movies and television series. With at least Ksh50k you can successfully set up a movie shop and bring it to stability. A movie shop requires equipment, licenses, overheads, and movies. You are required to choose a good location for your business and have business permits, and equipment. some of the equipment required include:
- CD Burning Software
- Computer Desktop
- MSK License
- Business Permit
- KFCB License
- External hard disk
- Rental costs
10. Day Care Business
Over the past few years, the number of working women has increased dramatically, driving up the need for high-quality childcare services. You can create a job for yourself out of this small business idea with potentially huge returns in revenue. Although the task of raising children carries a great deal of responsibility and demands substantial dedication. You must be ready to contribute significantly to the children’s entire growth. You can start this business at your home or rent a room to enhance fast reach. The basic equipment and appliances you may need to start a daycare include:
- Toys like dolls
- Playground equipment like used car tires
- Furniture like couches, and nap mats
- Basic education materials like story books and charts
11. Firewood selling business
If you want to work from home and earn a little extra money, starting a firewood business can be a fantastic idea. People use firewood for their fireplaces, grills, and bonfires when they go camping. In the country’s forested areas, firewood is a commodity that is widely available. However, this same resource is scarce in open places where farms, schools, and upcoming trading centers fight for the little space.
12. Selling ice cream
ice cream business can be very profitable. This business can be operated from a cart, truck, or storefront depending on your budget. For you to run an ice cream business you first need to do research on this business, take a license, gather equipment, and market your business. Some of the basic requirements include:
- freezers
- dry storage
- fudge warmers
- soft serve machines
- blenders
- ice cream dipping cabinet
- sinks
13. Popcorn Business
Popcorn business is a profitable business if run well. Consuming popcorn is fun, and making it is simple. it can be consumed anywhere, including while traveling, unwinding at home, or watching a movie, among other situations. This business performs well depending on the location. some of the requirements to start this business include:
- popcorn machine
- popcorn seeds
- vendor’s license
- few utensils for serving
- packaging materials
