Kenya is one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies, with a youthful and entrepreneurial population. While formal jobs are limited, small businesses continue to thrive and sustain millions of households. Whether you’re in Nairobi, Kisumu, Eldoret, or a rural area, opportunities exist in agriculture, retail, technology, and services.
This guide breaks down 10 profitable small business ideas in Kenya you can start in 2025 with little capital and grow into a steady source of income.
1. Agribusiness (Farming & Value Addition)
Agriculture remains the backbone of Kenya’s economy. Even with limited land, agribusiness can generate significant returns if done strategically.
- Startup Cost: From Ksh 10,000 (for small poultry or vegetable farming) to millions for larger farms.
- Profit Potential: High demand for food ensures steady income. Poultry farmers, for example, can make Ksh 30,000+ monthly.
- Ideas within agribusiness:
- Poultry farming (eggs & meat)
- Dairy farming (milk supply)
- Greenhouse vegetable farming
- Beekeeping & honey production
- Value addition (e.g., making yoghurt, packaged flour, juice)
- Tip for Success: Start small, specialize, and target niche markets like hotels, schools, or urban families.
2. Mitumba Business (Second-Hand Clothes)
Mitumba (second-hand clothes) is one of Kenya’s most lucrative ventures because fashion is an everyday need.
- Startup Cost: Ksh 5,000–20,000 (for a bale of clothes).
- Profit Potential: Depending on location, you can double or triple your investment in days.
- Best Markets: Gikomba (Nairobi), Eldoret, Mombasa, Kisumu.
- Tip for Success: Open your bale during peak hours (“camera” selection attracts buyers). You can also sell via Instagram, TikTok, or WhatsApp.
3. Mobile Money & Agency Banking
Kenya runs on M-Pesa, and agency banking is booming. Millions of Kenyans depend on these services daily.
- Startup Cost: Ksh 50,000–150,000 (float + branding + approvals).
- Profit Potential: Agents earn from commissions on withdrawals, deposits, and bill payments. Busy areas can generate Ksh 1,000–5,000 daily.
- Tip for Success: Combine services — M-Pesa, Airtel Money, Equity, KCB, and betting paybill services to maximize profits.
4. Food Joints (Hotels, Kibandas & Fast Food)
Food is a basic need, and Kenyans love affordable meals. From kibandas (small eateries) to fast-food joints, the business thrives everywhere.
- Startup Cost: Ksh 20,000–100,000 depending on size.
- Popular Meals: Chapati, beans, ugali, nyama choma, pilau, chips, mandazi.
- Profit Potential: A small kibanda in a busy town can generate Ksh 2,000–5,000 daily.
- Tip for Success: Maintain hygiene, use fresh ingredients, and keep prices affordable.
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5. Boda Boda Business (Motorbike Transport)
The boda boda sector employs over 1.5 million Kenyans. It remains one of the fastest ways to make money in both towns and villages.
- Startup Cost: Ksh 120,000–150,000 (new motorbike) or less for second-hand.
- Profit Potential: Riders earn Ksh 1,000–2,500 per day.
- Tip for Success: Hire a trustworthy rider if you don’t plan to ride yourself. Register with boda boda groups for security.
6. Online Freelancing
The digital economy is booming, and Kenyans are making money online through freelancing platforms.
- Popular Skills: Writing, transcription, graphic design, programming, social media management.
- Platforms: Upwork, Fiverr, PeoplePerHour, local agencies.
- Startup Cost: Internet connection + laptop.
- Profit Potential: Skilled freelancers can make Ksh 50,000–200,000 monthly.
- Tip for Success: Start with free tutorials (YouTube, Coursera), build a portfolio, and apply consistently.
7. Cyber Café & Printing Services
Even with smartphones, Kenyans still need cyber services — from printing CVs to KRA PIN registration.
- Startup Cost: Ksh 100,000–250,000 (computers, printer, rent, internet).
- Services Offered: Printing, photocopying, lamination, typing, online services (HELB, eCitizen, NSSF).
- Profit Potential: Daily income of Ksh 1,000–5,000 depending on location.
- Tip for Success: Position near schools, universities, or government offices.
8. Real Estate Brokerage
You don’t need to own property to make money in real estate. Acting as a broker can be highly rewarding.
- Startup Cost: Almost zero — just networking and marketing.
- Profit Potential: Commissions from land, rentals, or houses sold/rented (often 5%–10%). A single deal can earn Ksh 50,000+.
- Tip for Success: Build trust, use social media for advertising, and partner with legit property owners.
9. Car Wash Business
With more Kenyans buying cars, demand for car wash services is rising.
- Startup Cost: Ksh 100,000–200,000 (machine, water supply, space).
- Profit Potential: A busy car wash can earn Ksh 3,000–10,000 daily.
- Tip for Success: Add extras like vacuuming, engine wash, or lounge services to stand out.
10. Beauty & Cosmetic Business
Kenyans, especially youth, spend heavily on beauty and grooming. From salons to beauty shops, the opportunities are endless.
- Startup Cost: Ksh 20,000–150,000 depending on scale.
- Popular Products/Services: Wigs, braiding, nails, skincare, barber services.
- Profit Potential: High repeat customers, especially in urban areas. A salon can make Ksh 50,000–100,000 monthly.
- Tip for Success: Keep up with trends, offer mobile salon services, and stock affordable yet quality products.