How to Start a Business in Kenya with Little Capital

 

Most companies in Kenya depend on favorable technological and economic conditions.  Because of the country's good security, road infrastructure, and devolution, you can start


2022-12-31 12:32:04
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Most companies in Kenya depend on favorable technological and economic conditions.  Because of the country's good security, road infrastructure, and devolution, you can start a business in almost every part of the country. The country is also a strategic and vibrant business hub for the East Africa region. 

That’s why it grabs both foreigners and residents equally making many business empires thrive. In this segment, we're going to list down  8 business ideas with little capital in Kenya.

Let’s get started!

1.  Movie shop

The demand for western films has unlocked other lucrative business opportunities like movie shops.  With 50k you can build a movie shop and bring it to stability.  But ensure you’ve movies, equipment, overheads, and licenses.

The 3 most popular licenses are:

1.    Video/ Film Regulatory Licenses

2.    Single business permit

3.    Public Performance License

Other equipment includes a movie duplicator, a computer, an internet connection, and empty DVDs with 50 rims costing Ksh 500.  Typically, a movie range between Ksh 800 to Ksh 1500.  You may also need:

A few pieces of furniture

Woofers and LED TV.  

Envelopes and movie posters for packing movies

Here is what your budget might look like:

  • KFCB License - Ksh3,000
  • External hard disk - Ksh5,000
  • CD Burning Software - Ksh5,000
  • Desktop Computer - Ksh15,000
  • MSK License - Ksh4,000
  • Rental expenses -Ksh15,000
  • Business Permit - Ksh3,000

The above budget isn't conclusive. The overheads will depend on your location. So, the overall cost will depend on where you buy your equipment, which can make the budget more or less Ksh 50k.

Also Read: Small-Business-Ideas-for-Anyone-Who-Wants-to-Open-Their-Own-Business

2.  Hardware  

Hardware is a high-demand business in Kenya. To earn handsomely, analyze what your competitors are doing differently.  The research will also help know fast-moving products. 

Overheads and rent rely on the business location while the single business permit will cost you Ksh 10,000 annually.  Other equipment includes a KRA ETR machine, especially for tax payment basis.  Here are some of the fast-moving products:

Nails

Cement

Plumbing materials and welding rods

Steel rods and bars

Floor tiles

Plumping materials

Door hinges

3.  Providing laundry services

Laundry services are one of the most profitable businesses to start in Kenya with little capital. You just need to identify a favorable place along the busy streets.  Aside from licenses and overheads like water, rent, and electricity, you'll need to outsource other equipment, like:

Detergents

Ordinary front-loading machine

Ironing Board and Iron Box

A Dryer-Ksh 22000

4.    Home Bakery   

Starting a home bakery business doesn’t require a huge amount of capital.  To accomplish it, identify a niche and purchase equipment to start your business right away.  Here are some of the baking tools and equipment: 

Raw materials

Pans

Cake decoration kit

An oven

Mixers

Raw materials like sugar, eggs, and flour can be expensive, so purchase them in large quantities at wholesalers.

5.  Selling Second Clothes (Mitumba)   

Mitumba business is another profitable business to start in Kenya with little capital.  Although the business requires little capital, make sure you focus on quality to grab customers’ attention and boost your sales.

The trick is to source quality second clothes and sells them at a pocket-friendly price.  Based on your source, you may spend between Ksh 40 to Ksh 50k especially for a grade A / crème bale or Camera.

Brand new mitumba is sold at higher prices compared to the cheaper bale.

6.  Car wash

Start a profitable and suitable car wash business with as little as Ksh 50k. Here are the important requirements:

Microfiber clothes

Car Shampoo

Alloy wheel cleaner

A wash mitt

Leasing land space

Wax and polish

A pressure washer

Vacuum cleaner

A car wash business license

Auto shops have important equipment. With your limited budget, it's important to conduct a window shop to compare quotes for every item.

7.  Catering Services 

A catering business is one of the most profitable businesses to do in Kenya with little capital. You just need expertise and passion to start this lucrative and sustainable business.  Because of its competitive nature, hire a professional to help you purchase the right equipment. In doing so, you'll attract many customers and take your savings to the next level.  Here are some of the equipment you should consider:

Pans and pots

Oven

Backup generator

Cooler

Further, make sure you’ve a single business permit to avoid issues in the future. However, overhead costs will vary based on your location. And if you set your business in your home, you may downsize some expenses and enjoy the returns quickly.

8.  Mobile money agency

The mobile money agency is popularly known as agency banking. Kenya's leading agency banking is Airtel Money, Equity, and Mpesa.  You just need an initial float to start this profitable business.  Although many starts with huge amounts, Ksh 50k is sustainable.

Commissions that you get from withdrawals and money deposits are your gains.  The trick to setting up this business is to identify a strategic location. Make sure you adhere to following the guidelines to reap more. Here are examples:

·         Establish a good reputation to grab customer loyalty.

·         Adhere to regulations and terms guiding mobile banking.              

 

bsp; Because of the country's good security, road infrastructure, and devolution, you can start a business in almost every part of the country. The country is also a strategic and vibrant business hub for the East Africa region. 

That’s why it grabs both foreigners and residents

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