Starting a business is an exciting journey, but when you are working with a tight budget, it can feel overwhelming. You may ask yourself, “Can I really do this without millions in the bank?” The truth is, you can—especially in Kenya, where small businesses are thriving.
In fact, 98% of businesses in Kenya are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), according to a tracker by the Central Bank of Kenya. This sector is the heartbeat of our economy, creating jobs and driving innovation. So if you are thinking about starting something of your own, you are definitely not alone.
The key to success lies in starting small, focusing on your skills, and tapping into what your community needs. Here are some businesses that are ideal for anyone looking to get started on a budget.
1. Online Consulting and Coaching
If you have expertise in a particular area—be it business, health, education, or even fitness—you can start offering consulting or coaching services online. The demand for professional advice is growing, especially as more people turn to digital solutions.
“There is a huge opportunity in Kenya for consultants who understand the local context,” says Benedict Dhadho, an entrepreneur who successfully pivoted his IT consulting business online. “The beauty of online consulting is that it requires little upfront investment, just your knowledge and a good internet connection.”
The best part? This is a field where your impact grows with time. As businesses and individuals seek strategies to navigate challenges—whether it is adapting to market shifts, pursuing personal development goals, or thriving in competitive spaces—the need for online services continues to expand.
You can leverage platforms like Zoom, LinkedIn, or even Instagram to connect with clients locally and globally, breaking geographical barriers to offer value. With the right digital tools and consistency, even small beginnings can turn into impactful ventures.
What’s more, at @iBizAfrica, we are always on the lookout for mentors, trainers, and coaches from various fields to support the entrepreneurs in our community. If you are passionate about sharing your knowledge and making a difference, we would love to have you onboard! Click here to learn more and apply to be part of our vibrant network.
Pro Tip: Start by offering free webinars, bite-sized insights, or tips on your social media to build trust and credibility with potential clients. It’s a simple yet effective way to showcase your expertise and attract your first clients while creating a meaningful online presence.
2. Social Media Management
Social media is no longer optional for businesses—it is a must. Small businesses need help to manage their online presence. If you are tech-savvy and understand the dynamics of different platforms, this could be the perfect business for you.
Did you know that over 10.5 million Kenyans are active on social media? That is a massive potential market for businesses, and they know they need to be visible where their customers are. For many, this visibility requires consistent content creation, audience engagement, and staying updated with platform trends—all areas where a skilled social media manager can make a difference.
“Social media is the modern-day billboard,” says Melanie Hapisu, founder of Digipath Africa, a social enterprise that thrives on digital marketing. “It is cost-effective, and with the right strategies, businesses can see quick returns.”
Beyond creating posts, social media management often involves crafting a cohesive brand voice, analyzing performance metrics, and running targeted ad campaigns to boost reach. With the rise of influencer marketing and interactive content like stories, polls, and live videos, businesses are willing to invest in professionals who can navigate these tools effectively. Whether you are helping a shop launch its first Instagram page or strategizing for a growing e-commerce brand, the opportunities are endless.
Pro Tip: Start by offering your services to local businesses or entrepreneurs in your community. A well-executed project can quickly become a portfolio piece that showcases your skills. Once you have built a solid reputation, scale by reaching out to larger clients or specializing in niche areas like paid advertising, analytics, or influencer collaborations.
3. Event Planning
From weddings to corporate events, Kenyans love to celebrate, and there is always something to plan! Event planning is an exciting business opportunity for those who are organized, creative, and thrive under pressure. What is even better—it requires minimal capital to get started, making it accessible for budding entrepreneurs.
The numbers speak for themselves. According to Statista, revenue in Kenya’s Event Tickets market is expected to hit $41.90 million in 2024, with steady growth over the years, reaching $47.99 million by 2028. Sports events alone are projected to bring in $29.83 million in 2024. This shows that whether it is sports, concerts, or celebrations, people are spending money on events, and the market is only growing. From birthdays and graduations to high-profile corporate functions, the demand for both personal and professional event planning remains steady throughout the year.
This means there is plenty of opportunity for event planners. Whether it is small parties, grand weddings, or corporate conferences, there is a niche for everyone. The key is building strong relationships with suppliers like caterers, decorators, photographers, and venues, as they play a big role in the success of any event. Once you are known for delivering quality and paying attention to the little details, word-of-mouth referrals will naturally help your business grow.
Pro Tip: Start with small events in your estate or even family events to build experience and credibility. Showcase your work on social media to attract more clients. As your portfolio grows and you develop connections with suppliers and clients, you can scale up to larger events and charge higher fees for your expertise.
4. Freelance Writing or Graphic Design
If you have a knack for writing or design, freelance work in these fields could be your perfect fit. With the digital marketing industry booming, there is an ever-growing demand for fresh, engaging content and eye-catching creative designs. From blogs to websites and social media campaigns, businesses are constantly on the lookout for talented individuals to help them stand out in the crowded digital space.
Freelance platforms like Upwork and Fiverr are excellent starting points for building a client base and gaining experience. However, do not overlook the opportunities closer to home—local demand for quality content creators is on the rise. Small businesses, startups, and even NGOs in Kenya are increasingly seeking professionals who understand their unique needs.
“When I first started, I did not need fancy equipment—just my laptop and a good internet connection,” says Paul Shikala, a freelance graphic designer based in Nairobi. “The best part of freelancing is the flexibility. You get to choose your clients, set your rates, and work from anywhere.”
This field’s appeal lies not just in its flexibility but in its scalability. As industries continue to embrace digital transformation, the need for high-quality written and visual content is exploding. According to an article by the New York Times Licensing, 70% of businesses are increasing their investment in content creation as it becomes a central strategy for driving customer engagement and growth. From creating compelling brand stories to designing visually stunning marketing assets, the possibilities are endless.
Pro Tip: Build a portfolio of sample work, even if it is just for friends or personal projects, and showcase it on platforms like Behance, Dribbble, or even a personal website. This will not only help potential clients see your capabilities but also make you stand out in a competitive market.
5. Cleaning Services
Kenya’s growing urban population and expanding real estate sector have created a strong and consistent demand for cleaning services. According to the UN Habitat, approximately 50% of Kenyans will live in urban areas by 2030, contributing to the rapid growth of new residential and commercial properties. As cities like Nairobi and Mombasa continue to expand, new buildings, offices, and residential complexes are rising, and with them, the need for cleaning services. In fact, with each new development, it is almost inevitable that a laundry or cleaning service will pop up nearby, catering to the increasing demand for convenient, reliable services. This trend presents a great opportunity for entrepreneurs to tap into the market and provide much-needed solutions.
Once you have established your client base, the business can offer a steady, recurring income, making it a reliable source of revenue. Unlike many industries where projects are one-offs, cleaning contracts tend to be ongoing, creating consistent cash flow and providing long-term financial stability.
Pro Tip: Focus on exceptional service and building strong, long-term relationships with your clients. Word of mouth will quickly become your best marketing tool, as satisfied customers are often eager to recommend businesses they trust. Consistently delivering quality service will keep clients coming back and attract new ones through glowing referrals.
The beauty of starting a business on a budget is that it allows you to test your ideas without taking on significant financial risk. Many of the most successful entrepreneurs did not start with millions—they started with passion, a smart idea, and the drive to succeed.
Whether it is online consulting, social media management, or event planning, the opportunities are there. You do not have to go it alone—tap into networks like @iBizAfrica, which provide mentorship, resources, and community to help entrepreneurs thrive. With the right mindset, the right tools, and the right support, you can build a business that sustains itself.