February 28, 2025
Starting a business with Ksh 100,000 in Kenya requires choosing a venture that balances low startup costs with high potential returns.
From bustling urban centers to vibrant rural landscapes, the country is brimming with potential for innovative ventures that cater to the diverse needs of its population.
Whether tapping into the e-commerce market, exploring the potential of agribusiness, or leveraging mobile technology, the four distinctive traits of highly profitable businesses in Kenya are:
These businesses leverage innovative solutions and quickly adapt to changing market conditions, through new technologies, business models, or customer engagement strategies.
They prioritize customer satisfaction by understanding and meeting the specific needs and preferences of their target market, building loyalty and repeat business.
These ventures utilize scalable models that allow timely growth and efficient expansion, tapping into new markets and opportunities without compromising on quality or service.
They implement robust risk management practices to navigate economic, regulatory, and operational challenges, ensuring sustainability and long-term success.
With this in mind, here’s a list of the most profitable businesses you can start with 100k in Kenya.
Affordable clothing appeals to a large segment of the population.
You can start small by sourcing a bale of mitumba clothes at around Ksh 10,000–20,000.
Good-quality items sell fast, especially in high-traffic areas.
Ksh 50,000 for bales, Ksh 30,000 for rent/stall, and Ksh 20,000 for marketing and setup.
Clothes bought for Ksh 100–200 can sell for Ksh 300–500, giving high returns.
Tip: Target specific niches like children’s clothes, shoes, or office wear to stand out.
Constant need from households, restaurants, and food vendors.
Chickens don’t require much space or expensive feeds for small-scale farming.
Ksh 50,000 for chicks, Ksh 30,000 for housing, and Ksh 20,000 for feeds and vaccination.
Layers produce eggs daily, generating steady income, while broilers grow quickly for sale within 6–8 weeks.
Tip: Start with 100–150 chickens and expand as you build market connections.
More people are choosing fresh juice over sodas.
Positioned near schools, offices, or busy streets, this business thrives.
Ksh 30,000 for a juicer/blender and equipment, Ksh 50,000 for fruits and snacks, and Ksh 20,000 for marketing and branding.
Fresh juice has high profit margins, with a glass costing Ksh 20 to make and selling for Ksh 50–80.
Tip: Offer combo deals (e.g., juice + samosa) to attract more customers.
Kenya’s cashless economy ensures constant demand for mobile money services.
You earn commissions on deposits, withdrawals, and bill payments.
Ksh 50,000 for an agency float, Ksh 30,000 for licenses, and Ksh 20,000 for a kiosk setup.
Agents typically earn 0.5–1% commission per transaction, adding up quickly in busy locations.
Tip: Choose high-traffic areas like markets, bus stops, or near universities for better visibility.
Urban car owners need affordable car cleaning services.
Many customers return weekly or bi-weekly.
Ksh 50,000 for a high-pressure washing machine, Ksh 30,000 for water tanks, and Ksh 20,000 for soap, branding, and marketing.
Charging Ksh 200–500 per car can generate substantial income daily in high-traffic areas.
Tip: Add extra services like tire polishing or interior cleaning for upselling.
Bread, cakes, and pastries are consumed daily.
You can start from home to save on rent.
Ksh 40,000 for an oven, Ksh 30,000 for ingredients, and Ksh 30,000 for packaging and branding.
A cake costing Ksh 500 to make can sell for Ksh 1,000–2,000.
Tip: Start with orders for birthdays and events, then scale to supplying local shops.
Accessories like chargers, phone cases, earphones, and screen protectors sell fast.
Bulk buying reduces startup expenses.
Ksh 60,000 for stock and Ksh 40,000 for a stall and marketing.
Items bought for Ksh 50–200 wholesale can sell for Ksh 200–1,000.
Tip: Locate your shop in busy areas like shopping malls, bus stops, or near universities.
Weddings, birthdays, and corporate events happen year-round.
Start small and expand as demand grows.
Ksh 40,000 for décor materials and equipment, Ksh 30,000 for marketing, and Ksh 30,000 for transport and logistics.
Event decoration fees can range from Ksh 10,000–50,000 per event.
Tip: Build a portfolio by offering discounts for your first clients and showcasing your work online.
Busy professionals prefer outsourcing cleaning services.
Monthly or weekly contracts with offices and homes.
Ksh 40,000 for cleaning equipment, Ksh 30,000 for branding and advertising, and Ksh 30,000 for transport.
Charge Ksh 1,500–5,000 per session, depending on the scope.
Tip: Focus on niche markets like office cleaning, carpet cleaning, or post-construction cleaning.
Most online businesses don’t require physical space.
Remote services like writing, graphic design, and tutoring are in demand.
Initial Investment
Ksh 20,000 for a laptop, Ksh 30,000 for internet and tools, and Ksh 50,000 for training and marketing.
Freelancers can earn Ksh 1,000–10,000 per project, depending on the skill level.
Tip: Offer niche services like social media management or SEO content writing.
Each of these businesses offers high-profit potential, but success depends on your location, target market, and execution.
Start with thorough research, focus on excellent customer service, and reinvest profits to grow your venture.