20 Best Businesses to Start with Less Than 15K in Kenya.

Starting a business in Kenya doesn’t require a large capital investment. With a modest budget of Ksh 15,000 or less, you can embark on various entrepreneurial ventures. Here are twenty business ideas that you can start with limited funds and the potential to grow significantly.

1. Mobile Phone Repair

With the increasing use of smartphones, mobile phone repair services are in high demand. Invest in basic repair tools and gain skills through online courses or apprenticeships. You can start by offering your services to friends and family before expanding to a wider market.

2. Fruit Vending

Fruit vending is a simple and profitable business. Purchase fresh fruits from wholesalers and sell them in high-traffic areas such as markets and bus stops. This business requires minimal investment and can generate steady daily income.

3. House Cleaning Services

Urban areas in Kenya have a high demand for house cleaning services. Invest in cleaning supplies and market your services to busy professionals and families. With dedication and excellent service, you can quickly build a loyal customer base.

4. Selling Secondhand Clothes (Mitumba)

Mitumba, or secondhand clothing, is a popular business in Kenya. You can start small by buying individual pieces from larger sellers and reselling them at a profit. As you grow, you can invest in bales of clothes to increase your inventory and profit margins.

5. Online Freelancing

If you have skills in writing, graphic design, web development, or digital marketing, consider freelancing online. Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr offer numerous opportunities. Use your budget for internet costs and to purchase any necessary software.

6. Baking and Pastry Making

If you enjoy baking, turn your passion into a business. Start by making cakes, cookies, and pastries from home and selling them to neighbors and local shops. With good marketing and quality products, you can quickly expand your customer base.

7. Car Wash Services

A small car wash setup can be started with less than Ksh 15,000. Choose a location with high vehicle traffic, invest in basic washing equipment, and offer competitive prices. Providing excellent service will help you attract regular customers.

8. Graphic Design

If you have a knack for design, offer graphic design services. Invest in design software and market your services online and through social media. You can create logos, business cards, brochures, and social media graphics for small businesses.

9. Blogging and Vlogging

Starting a blog or YouTube channel can be a lucrative business if you create engaging content. Use your budget for a domain name, hosting, and marketing. With consistent and quality content, you can attract a large audience and monetize through ads and sponsorships.

10. Perfume Refilling

Perfume refilling is a growing business in urban areas. Purchase high-quality fragrance oils and bottles, and offer refilling services at a fraction of the cost of branded perfumes. Market your business through social media and word-of-mouth.

11. Selling Fresh Juice

Fresh juice is always in demand, especially in hot weather. Invest in a good juicer and buy fruits in bulk. Set up a stall in a busy area and offer a variety of juices. This business has low startup costs and can generate good daily income.

12. Event Planning

If you are organized and enjoy planning, consider starting an event planning business. With an initial investment in marketing materials and a small website, you can begin offering your services for birthdays, weddings, and corporate events.

13. Tutoring Services

Offer tutoring services in subjects you excel in. You can start by tutoring students in your neighborhood or offering online sessions. Use your budget for advertising and educational materials.

14. Photography

If you have a camera and a passion for photography, start offering photography services. Specialize in events, portraits, or product photography. Build a portfolio and market your services online to attract clients.

15. Cosmetics and Beauty Products

Reselling cosmetics and beauty products is a profitable business. Purchase products in bulk from wholesalers and sell them at a markup. Use social media to market your products and offer delivery services to reach more customers.

16. Jewelry Making

Create handmade jewelry and sell it online or at local markets. Invest in materials and tools, and use your creativity to design unique pieces. With good marketing, you can build a loyal customer base.

17. Selling Snacks

Prepare and sell snacks such as mandazi, samosas, and crisps. Set up a small stand in a busy area or supply local shops and offices. This business has low startup costs and can generate a steady income.

18. Virtual Assistant

Offer virtual assistant services to businesses and entrepreneurs. Tasks can include managing emails, scheduling appointments, and handling social media. Use your budget for internet costs and any necessary software.

19. Soap Making

Homemade soap is a popular product. Learn the basics of soap making, invest in ingredients, and create unique products. Market your soaps through social media and local markets.

20. Selling Fresh Vegetables

Start a small vegetable-selling business. Purchase fresh vegetables from farmers and sell them at a local market or set up a delivery service. This business requires minimal investment and can be highly profitable.

Conclusion

With as little as Ksh 15,000, you can start a profitable business in Kenya. The key is to choose a venture that aligns with your skills and interests and to be dedicated to providing excellent service. With hard work and perseverance, you can grow your small investment into a successful business.