29 Best Small Business Ideas in Kenya in with Little Money

Kenya is a land of opportunity with a rapidly growing economy. Anyone can start any kind of business in Kenya, not necessarily in Nairobi but across the country. All thanks to devolution. If you are not sure which business ideas to go for in 2024 in Kenya, then read this post to the end to learn about all small business ideas in Kenya that are profitable and would make you money regardless of the town you are in.

Let’s get started, shall we?

What is a small business idea?

A small business idea is a business opportunity with a limited amount of start-up capital. These businesses can be started with little money and can grow to become profitable ventures.

Many small business ideas can be successful in Kenya. Some of the most popular industries for small businesses include agriculture, manufacturing, retail, and services.

a). Agribusiness ideas in Kenya.

Agriculture is a very important industry in Kenya. Small businesses that deal in agriculture can be very successful. One of the most popular agricultural products in Kenya is tea. Tea production is a very lucrative business, and many small businesses deal in tea production alone.

b). Retail business ideas in Kenya.

Retail is another popular industry for small businesses in Kenya. Small businesses that deal in retail can be very successful. Retailers sell a wide variety of goods, including clothes, food, and electronics. Retailers can also open their shops or sell their goods online.

c). Service business ideas in Kenya.

Services are also a popular industry for small businesses in Kenya. Services businesses can include anything from home repairs to taxi services. Many small businesses deal in services, and they can be very successful.

How much do you need to start a small business in Kenya?

Starting a small business in Kenya requires very little money. You can start a business with as little as 10K. Many businesses can be started with this amount of money, such as a mobile hair salon or a small grocery store.

Of course, the amount of money you need to start your business will depend on the type of business you want to start.

If you want to open a restaurant, for example, you will need more money than if you want to start a mobile hair salon. But even with a restaurant, you can get started with a very small amount of money if you are creative.

There are many other opportunities for small businesses in Kenya. With a little bit of money, you can start a business that has the potential to grow and succeed.

What do I need to start a small business in Kenya?

Starting a small business in Kenya does not require a lot of money. Neither are there lots of legal processes involved.

Many businesses can be started with just a small amount of capital and without a business name registration certificate.

One of the best small business ideas in Kenya is starting a laundry service. This can be done with just a few washing machines and a small space to set up the business.

Another great idea is starting a catering business. This can be done with just a few kitchen appliances and some basic cooking skills.

If you don’t have enough capital and resources, you can also start a small business in Kenya by becoming a freelancer.

Many online platforms allow freelancers to find work. All you need to start freelancing is a computer and an internet connection.

Here are our top 29 Small Business Ideas in Kenya in 2024 to start with Little Money.

1). Office Supply Business

If you live in Kenya, there are plenty of business opportunities that you can take advantage of. One of the best business ideas is to start an office supply business.

This type of business is in high demand, especially in larger cities like Nairobi. Many businesses and organizations need office supplies regularly.

To start this type of business, you will need to have a good understanding of the Kenyan market. You will also need to find reliable suppliers of office supplies.

Another important aspect of this business is customer service. You will need to make sure that your customers are satisfied with the products and services that you provide.

If you are looking for a business that has high potential, starting an office supply business is a great option. With the right planning and execution, you can be successful in this industry.

2). Red Earth Worms Business Idea in Kenya

Do you have a green thumb? If so, then why not start a business raising red earthworms?

This is a great business idea for those who want to be their boss and work from home. All you need is a bit of space in your backyard, some soil, and some red earthworms.

If you live in an area with a lot of rainfall, then this business will be especially successful. The worms will thrive in wet conditions and will reproduce quickly.

You can sell the worms to local farmers or fishing bait shops. There is a large demand for earthworms, so you should be able to make a good profit from this business.

Starting a red earthworm farm is a great way to earn extra income while doing something you enjoy. So if you are looking for a new business idea, consider starting your worm farm today!

3). Start a Shoemaking Business in Kenya

Kenya is a beautiful country with a rich culture and history. The people of Kenya are extremely friendly and welcoming, and the country has a lot to offer tourists.

Shoemaking is one of the oldest industries in Kenya, and it is still going strong today. Many shoemakers in Kenya produce high-quality shoes that are exported all over the world.

If you are interested in starting your own shoemaking business, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First of all, you will need to find a good location for your workshop. It should be easily accessible for your customers and close to other businesses that your customers may frequent.

You will also need to invest in some good quality tools and equipment. Shoemaking is a skilled trade, so it is important to have the right tools to do the job properly.

Once you have everything set up, you can start marketing your business and attracting customers. There are many ways to do this, including online marketing, word-of-mouth advertising, and print advertising.

Starting your own shoemaking business in Kenya is a great way to tap into the growing demand for high-quality shoes.

4). Small Bakery Business Idea

 

Starting a small bakery business in Kenya is a great business idea. There are many opportunities for growth and expansion. The demand for baked goods is always high, and there is a growing market for specialty and artisanal products.

Like with all the other profitable small business ideas in Kenya, there are a few things to keep in mind when starting a small bakery business in Kenya.

First, you will need to find a good location.

The bakery should be situated in a busy area with good foot traffic.

Second, you will need to have a reliable source of supplies.

Baking ingredients can be expensive, so it is important to find a supplier that offers competitive prices.

Third, you will need to have a solid marketing plan.

There are many ways to market a bakery, but social media marketing is particularly effective in Kenya.

If you are passionate about baking and have a business head, then starting a small bakery business in Kenya is the perfect opportunity for you!

5). Soap-Making Business Idea

Soap-making is a great business idea for those who want to be their boss and have a creative streak. Kenya has a growing demand for soap, as more and more people are looking for ways to improve their hygiene.

There are many different types of soap that you can make, from liquid soaps to bar soaps. You can also add different scents and colors to your soaps to make them unique.

To get started, you will need to invest in some quality soap-making supplies. Once you have the supplies, you can start experimenting with different recipes until you find one that you like.

Once you have perfected your recipe, you can start selling your soaps at local markets or online. This is a great business idea for those who are passionate about soap making and want to share their creations with the world!

6). Rabbit Farming Business

Rabbit farming is a profitable business in Kenya. It requires low investment and space, and it has a high demand for meat.

Rabbit farming is a great way to earn an income from home. It is a relatively easy business to start, and it does not require a lot of space or equipment.

The main costs associated with rabbit farming are the purchase of rabbits and their food. Rabbits can be purchased from local breeders or online.

The best way to market rabbit meat is to sell it directly to restaurants and butcher shops. This will ensure that you get the best price for your product.

Rabbit farming is a highly profitable business, and it is a great way to earn an income in Kenya.

7). Fish Farming Business

Kenya is blessed with a variety of natural resources, making it a great place to start a business. One of the most promising business sectors in Kenya is fish farming.

Fish farming involves raising fish in tanks or ponds for commercial purposes. It is a lucrative business venture that can be quite profitable.

Many different types of fish can be farmed in Kenya, including tilapia, catfish, and salmon. The demand for fish is always high, making fish farming a very viable business option.

If you are thinking about starting a fish farming business in Kenya, there are a few things you need to know. First, you need to have a good business plan. This will help you determine the feasibility of your business and also give you a roadmap to follow.

Second, you need to find the right location for your farm. The location of your farm will determine the type of fish you can raise and also the costs involved.

Third, you need to get the necessary permits and licenses from the government. This is important to operate legally.

Fourth, you need to make sure you have the right equipment for your farm. This includes things like tanks, and pumps, for serving and draining fresh water on your farm.

8). Distilled Water Refilling Business

With the current drinking water crisis in Kenya, many people are turning to distilled water as a safe and reliable option. If you’re looking for a business opportunity with high potential, starting a distilled water refilling station could be the perfect solution.

There are many benefits to starting this type of business. For one, it is a much-needed service that will help to alleviate the drinking water crisis. Secondly, it is a relatively low-cost business to start up, and thirdly, it has the potential to be highly profitable.

To get started, you will need to invest in a quality distillation unit. You can either purchase one outright or lease one from a company. Once you have your unit, set up a shop in a location that is convenient for customers.

Promote your business through word-of-mouth and advertising. You can also offer discounts or loyalty programs to encourage customers to keep coming back.

With hard work and dedication, your distilled water refilling station can be a success!

9). LPG Gas Business

LPG gas is one of the most widely used energy sources in Kenya. It is used for cooking, heating, and other industrial applications.

Starting an LPG gas business can be a great way to tap into this growing market. There are a few things you need to keep in mind before starting your business.

First, you need to obtain an LPG gas license from the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC). This will allow you to import, store, and distribute LPG gas in Kenya.

Second, you need to find a reliable supplier of LPG gas. Many companies supply LPG gas in Kenya, so make sure to do your research before selecting one.

Third, you need to set up a distribution network for your LPG gas. You can either distribute it through a network of retailers or direct sales.

Fourth, you need to price your LPG gas competitively. Many factors go into pricing LPG gas, so make sure to do your homework before setting your prices.

Fifth, you need to promote your business. Make sure to let people know about your business and what you have to offer. You can do this through online marketing.

10). Wholesale Business

There are many opportunities for starting a wholesale business in Kenya. One of the most popular Small Business Ideas in Kenya is to start a wholesale business selling products to retailers.

Another option is to start a wholesale business that provides products and services to businesses. This could include everything from office supplies to catering services.

There are also opportunities for starting a wholesale business that exports products to other countries. This could involve exporting Kenyan coffee or tea to foreign markets.

11). Retail Business – Low-Cost Small Business Ideas in Kenya

The retail business is one of the most popular businesses in Kenya. This is because it is a very lucrative business with a lot of growth potential.

There are many different types of retail businesses that you can start in Kenya. Some of the most popular ones include grocery stores, clothing stores, and home improvement stores.

Starting a retail business in Kenya can be a very rewarding experience. However, it is important to do your research before starting one. This is because there are many different factors that you need to consider before starting your own business.

It is important to choose a location for your business that is convenient for your customers. You also need to make sure that you have a good business plan in place.

If you are looking for a retail business that has a high growth potential, then starting a grocery store might be the right option for you.

Another good option for starting a retail business in Kenya is starting a clothing store. Clothing stores are always in demand, especially in urban areas.

They offer a wide range of products that customers need and they are also relatively easy to set up.

12). Poultry Business

 

Poultry farming in Kenya is one of the most lucrative agriculture businesses. Kenya’s climate is ideal for poultry farming and the demand for chicken and eggs is always high.

Poultry farming does not require a lot of land and can be started on a small scale. You will need to build a chicken coop and buy some chicks. You can get chicks from local poultry farmers or hatcheries.

The most important thing in poultry farming is to ensure that your chickens are healthy. This means regular vaccinations and deworming. You also need to provide them with clean water and fresh food.

Poultry farming can be a very profitable business. If you start on a small scale, you can expand your operation as your profits increase. There is a large market for chicken and eggs in Kenya, so you will never have trouble selling your products.

13). Hardware Business

In Kenya, there are many opportunities for those who want to start a hardware business.

Numerous hardware stores in Kenya sell everything from construction materials to plumbing supplies.

If you are looking for a hardware business idea, consider opening a store that specializes in selling construction materials. This can be a profitable business venture as there is always a demand for construction materials in Kenya.

Another option is to open a store that specializes in selling plumbing supplies. This can also be a lucrative business venture as plumbing supplies are always needed in Kenya.

No matter what type of hardware store you decide to open, make sure that you provide quality products and excellent customer service. These are the two keys to success in any business venture.

14). Mpesa Business – One of The Easy to Start Small Business Ideas in Kenya

M-Pesa is a mobile money transfer service that allows users to send and receive money using their mobile phones. The service was launched in Kenya in 2007 and has since grown to become one of the most popular financial services in the country.

There are some ways that you can start a business using M-Pesa. One option is to become an M-Pesa agent. This involves setting up a shop where people can come to send and receive money.

Another option is to provide other financial services such as airtime top-ups and bill payments using M-Pesa. This can be done by setting up an online platform or by becoming an authorized dealer for M-Pesa.

If you have a good understanding of how M-Pesa works, you can also offer consulting and training services to help businesses get started with using the service.

15). Taxi Business

If you’re looking for a business idea with potential in Kenya, starting a taxi business could be a great option. With a population of over 48 million people, there’s a huge demand for transportation services.

Starting a taxi business can be expensive, but there are ways to reduce the costs. For example, you could start by operating only during daytime hours or by targeting a specific market (such as businesses or tourists).

To succeed in the taxi business, it’s important to provide excellent customer service. This includes being punctual, friendly, and offering competitive rates. You should also keep your car clean and in good condition.

If you’re interested in starting a taxi business in Kenya, here are some tips to get you started:

16). Restaurant Business – Profitable Small Business Ideas in Kenya

If you’re looking for a business idea in Kenya, why not consider starting a restaurant? The country’s food and beverage industry is growing rapidly, and there’s plenty of room for new businesses to get a piece of the pie.

Of course, starting any business comes with its challenges, but if you do your research and put together a solid business plan, there’s no reason why your restaurant can’t be a success.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when starting a restaurant business in Kenya:

17). Nail Salon Business

A nail salon business is a very lucrative business idea in Kenya. It is a popular business among women and can be started with a small investment.

There are many reasons why a nail salon business is a good idea in Kenya. First of all, it is a country with a large population of women. This means that there is a large potential customer base for your business.

Another reason why this business idea is a good one is that it is relatively easy to set up. All you need is a small space, some basic equipment, and some initial start-up capital.

The most important thing to remember when starting any business is to have a clear plan and goal in mind. With a nail salon business, your goal should be to provide high-quality services at affordable prices. This will help you attract and retain customers.

If you are looking for a profitable business idea in Kenya with little startup cost, then starting a nail salon business is worth considering!

18). Water Vending Business

Water vending machines are becoming increasingly popular in Kenya as they offer a convenient and affordable way to get clean drinking water.

There are many different types of water vending machines available on the market, so it is important to do your research before you purchase one. You will need to decide what type of machine best suits your needs and budget.

The most important thing to remember when starting a water vending business is to ensure that you have a reliable source of clean water. This can be from a borehole, well, or even rainwater harvesting.

Once you have your machine set up, all you need to do is promote it to potential customers. You can do this through flyers, posters, or even by word of mouth.

A water vending business is a great way to provide clean drinking water to people in Kenya and can be a very profitable venture.

19). Agrovet Business – One of The Best Small Business Ideas in Kenya

Agriculture is one of the most important sectors in Kenya, and agro vet businesses play a vital role in supporting farmers and ensuring food security. There are many different types of agrovet businesses, from small-scale operations to large commercial enterprises.

One of the best things about starting an agrovet business is that there is a lot of scope for growth and expansion. You can start small and then scale up your operation as your client base grows. There are also many different niches you can focus on, from livestock feed to agricultural supplies.

Another great thing about agrovet businesses is that they are usually highly profitable. This is because there is a constant demand for their products and services, and margins can be high. If you are looking for a business with good potential for growth and profitability, an agrovet business is a great option.

If you are thinking of starting an agrovet business, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Firstly, you need to have a good understanding of the Kenyan market and the needs of farmers.

Secondly, you need to have access to quality products and suppliers. And thirdly, you need to have a solid marketing strategy in place.

20). Boda Boda Business

Boda bodas are becoming increasingly popular in Kenya as a mode of transport. The business is relatively easy to set up and can be profitable if done correctly.

Some things to consider before starting a boda boda business include:

– Getting the proper licenses and permits from the government.

– Buying or leasing a motorcycle that is in good condition.

– Finding a good location to operate from. This could be a busy street corner or near a market.

– Hiring reliable and trustworthy drivers.

– Providing customers with helmets and making sure they are wearing them correctly.

If you are looking for a business that is relatively easy to set up and has the potential to be profitable, then starting a boda boda business could be a good option for you.

21). Real Estate Business

Real estate is one of the most popular businesses in Kenya. The industry has been growing steadily over the years, and there are many opportunities for investors.

There are several reasons why real estate is a good business to get into.

First, the demand for housing is always high, and there is a constant need for new homes and office space.

Second, the government offers incentives for developers, which makes it easier to get started in the business.

Third, real estate values usually appreciate over time, so it is a good long-term investment.

If you are thinking of starting a real estate business in Kenya, there are a few things you need to consider.

Real estate can be a very profitable business, but it requires careful planning and execution. If you are willing to put in the work, it can be a great way to earn a good income.

22). Laundry Business

The laundry business is one of the most profitable businesses in Kenya. Most people are looking for laundry services that are affordable and convenient.

If you are thinking of starting a laundry business, here are a few tips to help you get started:

1. Find a good location: The location of your laundry business is very important. You need to find a place where there is a high demand for laundry services.

2. Buy quality equipment: To provide good quality services, you need to invest in quality equipment. Some of the equipment you will need includes washing machines, dryers, ironing boards, and clothes hangers.

3. Train your staff: It is important to train your staff on how to use the equipment and how to provide good customer service. This will ensure that your customers are satisfied with the services they receive.

4. Promote your business: Make sure you promote your business so that people are aware of your services. You can do this by creating flyers and posters and distributing them in your local area.

5. charging competitive rates: To attract customers, you need to charge competitive rates for your services. Compare your rates with other laundry businesses in your area

23). Computer Repair and Maintenance

In Kenya, there is a growing demand for computer repair and maintenance services. This is because more and more people are using computers for their work, studies, and personal life.

If you have the skills to fix computers, then you can start a business that provides these services. There are many opportunities in this field, and you can even start your computer repair shop.

You will need to invest in some tools and equipment, and it would be helpful if you have some experience in computer repairs. You can also offer other services such as data recovery, virus removal, and software installation.

With the right marketing, you can attract both individual and corporate clients. This is a great business idea for those who are looking for a steady income.

24). Baby Sitting Business

Starting a babysitting business in Kenya can be a great way to earn some extra income. many families are looking for reliable and trustworthy people to care for their children while they are at work or out of the house.

To start a babysitting business, you will need to be at least 18 years old and have experience caring for children. You will also need to be able to provide a safe and clean environment for the children in your care.

If you are interested in starting a babysitting business, there are a few things you will need to do to get started.

First, you will need to create a business plan. This will help you determine what services you will offer, how much you will charge, and how you will market your business.

Next, you will need to obtain the necessary licenses and permits from the government. Once you have everything in place, you can start advertising your business and finding clients.

Starting a babysitting business can be a great way to earn some extra income. With some planning and effort, you can soon be running a successful business!

25). Career Counseling

There are many career counseling businesses you can start in Kenya. If you have a background in human resources or counseling, you can start a business that helps people find the right career path.

You can also start a business that provides resume writing services, interview coaching, and job search assistance among other career-related Small Business Ideas in Kenya.

This type of business is especially helpful for recent graduates or people who are looking for a career change.

Another option is to start a business that helps people with job placement. This can involve working with companies to fill open positions or helping individuals find the right job for their skills.

Whatever type of career counseling business you decide to start, make sure you market your services to the right audience. Career counseling is a service that is in high demand, so there is plenty of potential for your business to be successful.

26). Content Creator

There are many business ideas that you can pursue in Kenya. If you are looking for a way to make money, consider becoming a content creator. You can create videos, blog posts, or even podcasts that focus on Kenyan topics.

This is a great way to share your knowledge with others and to also earn an income. You can promote your business through social media or online advertising.

If you are creative and have a passion for Kenyan culture, then this could be the perfect business idea for you!

27). Direct Mail Service Consulting

There are many opportunities for entrepreneurs in the direct mail service industry. With a little creativity and hard work, you can start a successful direct mail service business in Kenya.

One of the best things about starting a direct mail service business is that it doesn’t require a lot of start-up capital. You can start small and grow your business as your client base expands.

Another great thing about this type of business is that it provides an essential service to businesses and individuals. Direct mail services are used by businesses to reach their target market, and by individuals to stay in touch with family and friends.

If you’re looking for a business opportunity that has the potential for growth and profitability, a direct mail service business is a great option.

28). Copy Writing

If you are good with words and have a way with them, you could start a copywriting business. Many businesses need copywriters to produce content for their websites, brochures, and other marketing materials.

Copywriting is a very important skill in the modern world. With so much competition, businesses need to be able to stand out from the crowd. A good copywriter can help to make a business more visible and more successful.

There are many courses available that can teach you the skills you need to be a successful copywriter. Alternatively, you could learn on the job by working as a freelance copywriter for different companies.

Either way, if you have a knack for words, this could be a great business idea for you.

29). Sell Second-Hand Clothes

The second-hand clothes business is one of the Small Business Ideas in Kenya that requires little capital to start.

There is a huge demand for second-hand clothes in Kenya, as many people cannot afford to buy new clothes. You can source your stock from friends, family, and local charity shops.

To get started, you will need to set up a stall in a busy market or street. Make sure that your prices are competitive, and don’t be afraid to bargain with customers!

Once you have established yourself, you can start to think about expanding your business. You could open a shop, or start an online store. There are many possibilities!

Conclusion – Small Business Ideas in Kenya to Start With Little Capital

Kenya has lots of opportunities for anyone who wants to start a small business idea with or without money, with or without experience. All you have to do is seek to find the best small business ideas that fit your requirements and start.

It might not be very easy getting clients at the beginning but as we say in Kenya, trust the process and keep marketing your business. It’s never that serious you will survive the hard part.