Profitable businesses in Kenya to start with 100k

Introduction

Starting a business with around 100,000 Kenyan shillings (KES) is very doable in Kenya. The market leans toward service-based and low-overhead ventures that can be operated from home or with a small storefront. Here are practical, cash-lean ideas and how to get them off the ground.

Top ideas to start with 100k KSH

Idea 1: Mobile car wash and detailing

• What it is: On-demand cleaning and detailing for cars at parking lots, shopping centers, or customers' homes.
• Start-up costs: basic kit (buckets, brushes, soaps, microfiber towels, wax), marketing materials ~ 20,000–40,000 KES.
• Why it works: People value convenience and vehicle appearance. Requires minimal space and can scale with repeat customers.
• Getting paid: Cash or mobile money (M-Pesa, etc.).

Idea 2: Home-based cleaning and laundry services

• What it is: Cleaning homes or small offices; laundry and ironing services.
• Start-up costs: supplies and detergents ~ 5,000–15,000 KES; a basic transport option if needed.
• Why it works: Steady demand from busy households and small businesses.
• Growth: Hire 1–2 helpers as demand grows.

Idea 3: Micro retail kiosk for essentials

• What it is: A small storefront or pop-up stall selling everyday items (snacks, beverages, household basics).
• Start-up costs: inventory, shelving, and a rental or stall space ~ 40,000–100,000 KES depending on location.
• How to keep costs low: start with a tight SKU, use supplier credit, and leverage wholesale purchases.

Idea 4: Food-based micro-business

• What it is: Simple foods from a home kitchen or small stall (mandazi, muffins, fried potatoes, snacks).
• Start-up costs: kitchen equipment, utensils, initial stock ~ 20,000–60,000 KES; licenses as required by county.
• Why it works: Low entry barrier and high daily demand in markets and neighborhoods.

Idea 5: Digital services for small businesses

• What it is: Social media management, basic graphic design, or virtual assistant tasks for local SMEs.
• Start-up costs: a decent phone/computer and internet; roughly 10,000–40,000 KES if you already have equipment.
• Why it works: Demand is growing as businesses go online; scalable by taking on more clients.

Getting started: quick steps

1. Pick one idea that matches your skills and local demand.
2. Do quick market checks: visit neighborhoods, talk to potential customers, scan prices.
3. Register a simple business name and get any required licenses.
4. Source reliable suppliers and set up a basic pricing model.
5. Set up mobile payments (M-Pesa, Airtel Money) and basic marketing (WhatsApp, Facebook).
6. Start with a soft launch and collect feedback to improve.

Risks and considerations

• Licensing and compliance: check county requirements for food, cleaning, or kiosk operations.
• Cash flow: keep a simple record of income and expenses and set aside for taxes and reinvestment.
• Competition and location: proximity to target customers matters; differentiate with service quality.
• Seasonal demand: plan for fluctuations and consider multiple revenue streams.

Next steps

• Draft a one-page business plan for your chosen idea.
• Create a 30-day marketing plan and a basic budget.
• Set up a simple bookkeeping method and monitor cash flow weekly.