30 Profitable Business Ideas You Can Start with Under KSh 50,000 in Kenya (2026 Guide)

Starting a business in Kenya doesn’t require a fortune. With as little as KSh 50,000, you can launch a profitable venture that generates steady income and grows over time. Whether you’re looking to supplement your salary, become your own boss, or build long-term wealth, this comprehensive guide explores 30 viable business ideas perfectly suited for the Kenyan market in 2026.

Why Start a Small Business in Kenya?

Kenya’s entrepreneurial ecosystem continues to thrive, with increasing internet penetration, mobile money adoption, and a growing middle class. The flexibility of starting small allows you to test markets, learn valuable skills, and scale gradually without overwhelming financial risk.

30 Profitable Business Ideas Under KSh 50,000

1. Mobile Money Agent (M-Pesa, Airtel Money)

Startup Cost: KSh 30,000 – 50,000

Become a mobile money agent and earn commissions on every transaction. With Kenya’s high mobile money usage, this business guarantees daily customers. You’ll need a float, registration fees, and a small kiosk or space.

Profit Potential: KSh 30,000 – 100,000 monthly depending on location and transaction volume.

2. Mitumba (Second-Hand Clothes) Business

Startup Cost: KSh 20,000 – 50,000

Buy bales of second-hand clothing from Gikomba or other wholesale markets and resell at a profit. You can operate from a stall, open-air market, or even online through social media.

Profit Potential: 100-300% markup on quality items.

3. Poultry Farming (Layers or Broilers)

Startup Cost: KSh 30,000 – 50,000

Start with 50-100 chicks and raise them for eggs or meat. With proper care, poultry farming offers quick returns. You can sell eggs locally or supply to hotels and shops.

Profit Potential: KSh 20,000 – 60,000 monthly from layers.

4. Grocery Kiosk

Startup Cost: KSh 25,000 – 45,000

Open a small grocery shop stocking essentials like flour, sugar, oil, soap, and milk. Position your kiosk in residential areas where convenience matters.

Profit Potential: KSh 20,000 – 50,000 monthly with good location and stock management.

5. Phone Accessories and Repair

Startup Cost: KSh 20,000 – 40,000

Sell phone cases, screen protectors, chargers, and earphones while offering basic repair services like screen replacement. This business thrives in busy areas and near colleges.

Profit Potential: KSh 25,000 – 70,000 monthly.

6. Boda Boda Business

Startup Cost: KSh 40,000 – 50,000 (deposit for hire purchase)

You can buy a motorcycle through hire purchase with a reasonable deposit. Operate it yourself or hire a rider and earn daily income.

Profit Potential: KSh 800 – 2,000 daily revenue.

7. Online Reselling (Dropshipping)

Startup Cost: KSh 5,000 – 15,000

Source products from suppliers and resell them online through social media or e-commerce platforms without holding inventory. Focus on trending items like fashion, electronics, or home goods.

Profit Potential: Variable, depending on marketing skills and product selection.

8. Freelance Writing and Content Creation

Startup Cost: KSh 0 – 10,000

If you have writing skills, offer services on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or directly to Kenyan businesses. You only need a laptop and internet connection.

Profit Potential: KSh 30,000 – 150,000+ monthly for skilled writers.

9. Chapati and Snacks Vending

Startup Cost: KSh 15,000 – 30,000

Prepare and sell chapatis, mandazis, samosas, or bhajias in busy areas during lunch hours or evenings. Food businesses have high demand and quick turnover.

Profit Potential: KSh 1,000 – 3,000 daily.

10. Car Wash Services

Startup Cost: KSh 20,000 – 40,000

Start a mobile or stationary car wash business. You’ll need basic equipment like pressure washers, detergents, and towels. Target residential estates or office complexes.

Profit Potential: KSh 30,000 – 80,000 monthly.

11. Cereals and Grains Business

Startup Cost: KSh 30,000 – 50,000

Buy cereals like maize, beans, and rice in bulk from farmers or markets, then package and resell them. You can operate from a shop or market stall.

Profit Potential: 20-40% profit margin per sale.

12. Event Decoration

Startup Cost: KSh 25,000 – 45,000

Offer decoration services for weddings, birthdays, and corporate events. Start with basic supplies like balloons, drapes, and flowers, then expand as you grow.

Profit Potential: KSh 5,000 – 30,000 per event.

13. Barbershop

Startup Cost: KSh 35,000 – 50,000

Open a simple barbershop in a strategic location. You’ll need chairs, mirrors, clippers, and basic grooming tools. High foot traffic areas work best.

Profit Potential: KSh 40,000 – 100,000 monthly.

14. Social Media Management

Startup Cost: KSh 5,000 – 15,000

Help businesses manage their social media presence. Many Kenyan SMEs need this service but lack the time or expertise to do it themselves.

Profit Potential: KSh 10,000 – 50,000 per client monthly.

15. Rabbit Farming

Startup Cost: KSh 20,000 – 40,000

Rabbits multiply quickly and have growing demand for meat. Start with a few breeding pairs and sell to hotels, butcheries, or individual customers.

Profit Potential: KSh 15,000 – 45,000 monthly.

16. Graphic Design Services

Startup Cost: KSh 10,000 – 25,000

Offer logo design, flyers, banners, and branding services to local businesses. You’ll need design software and a decent laptop.

Profit Potential: KSh 25,000 – 100,000+ monthly.

17. Shoe Repair and Shoeshine

Startup Cost: KSh 10,000 – 20,000

Set up a shoe repair and shoeshine stand in busy areas like CBD, bus stations, or office complexes. The demand is constant, and overhead costs are low.

Profit Potential: KSh 800 – 2,500 daily.

18. Juice and Smoothie Vending

Startup Cost: KSh 25,000 – 45,000

Sell fresh fruit juices and smoothies in high-traffic areas. Focus on health-conscious customers in gyms, offices, or schools.

Profit Potential: KSh 1,500 – 4,000 daily.

19. Photography Services

Startup Cost: KSh 35,000 – 50,000 (for a basic camera)

Offer photography services for events, portraits, and product shoots. Start with a basic DSLR camera and build your portfolio.

Profit Potential: KSh 5,000 – 40,000 per event.

20. Beekeeping (Honey Production)

Startup Cost: KSh 20,000 – 40,000

Start with a few beehives and produce honey for local markets. Organic honey commands premium prices in urban areas.

Profit Potential: KSh 20,000 – 60,000 per harvest cycle.

21. Tutoring and Coaching Classes

Startup Cost: KSh 5,000 – 15,000

Offer tutoring services in subjects you excel at, either at home or online. Parents are always looking for quality tutors for their children.

Profit Potential: KSh 15,000 – 60,000 monthly.

22. Beauty and Cosmetics Shop

Startup Cost: KSh 25,000 – 50,000

Stock beauty products like makeup, skincare items, wigs, and hair extensions. Target areas with high female traffic or sell online.

Profit Potential: KSh 20,000 – 70,000 monthly.

23. Tailoring and Alterations

Startup Cost: KSh 30,000 – 50,000

If you can sew, start a tailoring business. Offer custom clothing, alterations, and uniform making. Schools and corporate clients provide steady orders.

Profit Potential: KSh 25,000 – 80,000 monthly.

24. Cleaning Services

Startup Cost: KSh 15,000 – 30,000

Offer residential or commercial cleaning services. You’ll need basic cleaning supplies and can start solo before hiring help.

Profit Potential: KSh 30,000 – 90,000 monthly.

25. Fish Farming (Aquaculture)

Startup Cost: KSh 30,000 – 50,000

Start with a small pond or tanks and raise tilapia or catfish. Fish farming is profitable with proper management and has ready market demand.

Profit Potential: KSh 20,000 – 70,000 per harvest cycle.

26. Bookshop or Stationery Business

Startup Cost: KSh 25,000 – 45,000

Open a small bookshop near schools or colleges. Stock textbooks, stationery, and printing services for better returns.

Profit Potential: KSh 20,000 – 60,000 monthly, higher during school opening terms.

27. Baking Business

Startup Cost: KSh 20,000 – 40,000

Bake cakes, bread, cookies, and pastries from home and supply to shops, offices, or sell directly to customers. Build a reputation for quality.

Profit Potential: KSh 25,000 – 80,000 monthly.

28. Gas Refilling Station

Startup Cost: KSh 40,000 – 50,000

Partner with gas suppliers to operate a refilling station. With more Kenyans using gas for cooking, this business has consistent demand.

Profit Potential: KSh 30,000 – 90,000 monthly.

29. Childcare Services (Daycare)

Startup Cost: KSh 30,000 – 50,000

If you love children and have space at home, start a small daycare. Working parents need reliable childcare solutions.

Profit Potential: KSh 40,000 – 120,000 monthly depending on capacity.

30. Virtual Assistant Services

Startup Cost: KSh 5,000 – 15,000

Offer administrative support to businesses remotely. Tasks include email management, scheduling, data entry, and customer service.

Profit Potential: KSh 20,000 – 80,000 monthly.

Tips for Starting Your Business Successfully

1. Research Your Market: Understand your customers, competitors, and location before investing.

2. Start Small, Think Big: Begin with what you can afford and reinvest profits to grow.

3. Focus on Quality: Deliver excellent products or services to build a loyal customer base.

4. Leverage Social Media: Use platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp to market for free.

5. Keep Records: Track income and expenses to understand your profitability.

6. Register Your Business: Consider registering with relevant authorities for credibility and legal protection.

7. Network Actively: Build relationships with suppliers, customers, and fellow entrepreneurs.

8. Be Patient: Most businesses take time to become profitable. Stay consistent and adaptable.

Final Thoughts

Starting a business with KSh 50,000 or less is entirely possible in Kenya’s dynamic economy. The key is choosing something aligned with your skills, interests, and local market demand. Whether you opt for mobile money services, poultry farming, or online freelancing, success comes from dedication, smart planning, and continuous learning.

Take the first step today, and remember that every successful business started with someone brave enough to begin. Which of these 30 business ideas resonates with you? Start planning, take action, and build the financial freedom you deserve in 2026.

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