20 business ideas of businesses to start in Kenya with little or no capital

 Starting a business in Kenya with little or no capital is possible with creativity, resourcefulness, and leveraging free or low-cost resources. Here are 20 business ideas to consider:

Service-Based Businesses (Require Skills, Not Capital)

1. Freelance Writing & Blogging – Write articles for websites, newspapers, or start your own blog.
2. Social Media Management – Manage social media accounts for small businesses.
3. Graphic Design – Create logos, posters, and marketing materials using free tools like Canva.
4. Event Planning – Offer coordination services for weddings, parties, and corporate events.
5. Tutoring & Coaching – Teach academic subjects, music, fitness, or other skills.
6. Photography & Videography – Start with a smartphone, then upgrade to a camera.
7. Laundry & Ironing Services – Offer to clean and press clothes for neighbors.
8. Errand & Delivery Services – Help people with shopping, parcel delivery, or home services.

Online & Digital Businesses (Low Startup Costs)

9. YouTube Channel & Vlogging – Create content around a niche like travel, beauty, or tech.
10. Dropshipping – Sell products online without holding inventory.
11. Affiliate Marketing – Earn commissions by promoting products on platforms like Jumia and Amazon.
12. Online Course Creation – Teach skills on platforms like Udemy or Gumroad.
13. Virtual Assistant Services – Provide admin support to businesses remotely.
14. App & Website Testing – Earn money by testing apps and websites for companies.

Small-Scale Retail & Home-Based Businesses

15. Homemade Snacks & Baking – Sell mandazi, chapati, or cakes from home.
16. Soap & Detergent Making – Make and sell homemade cleaning products.
17. Thrift Business (Mitumba) – Start selling second-hand clothes with as little as Ksh 1,000.
18. Urban Farming – Grow and sell vegetables like sukuma wiki, spinach, or mushrooms.
19. Homemade Beauty Products – Make and sell natural skincare items like body oils or soaps.
20. Mobile Phone Repair & Accessories Selling – Offer phone repair services and sell accessories like chargers and screen protectors.