Top 5 Most Profitable Businesses in Kenya to Start with 100K (2025)

Many aspiring entrepreneurs in Kenya believe that starting a business requires millions of shillings. However, with Ksh 100,000, you can launch a highly profitable venture in 2025—if you choose the right industry.

Kenya’s economy is evolving, with increasing opportunities in agriculture, retail, services, and digital businesses.

In this article, we’ll explore five proven business ideas that require 100K or less to start. Plus, we’ll highlight real-life case studies of Kenyans who have built successful businesses with small capital.

Top 5 Most Profitable Businesses in Kenya to Start with 100K (2025)

1. Agribusiness (Poultry or Vegetable Farming)

2. Mitumba (Second-Hand Clothes) Business

3. Car Wash Business

4. Online Freelancing (Writing, Graphics, or Digital Marketing)

5. Small Fast Food or Snacks Business

1. Agribusiness (Poultry or Vegetable Farming)

Why It’s Profitable

With Kenya’s growing population, food demand continues to rise. Poultry farming and vegetable production have high-profit margins and consistent market demand.

Estimated Startup Costs:

• 200 chicks (Ksh 15,000)
• Feeds & supplements (Ksh 30,000)
• Poultry housing (Ksh 30,000)
• Miscellaneous (Ksh 5,000)

Total: Ksh 80,000 - 100,000

Profit Potential

• A broiler chicken matures in 6-8 weeks, selling for Ksh 500 each.
• Selling 200 chickens = Ksh 100,000 in revenue per cycle.
• Net profit after expenses: Ksh 30,000 - 40,000 per cycle.

Case Study: James from Nakuru

James, a 28-year-old graduate, started a poultry farm with Ksh 95,000 in 2023. By 2024, he had expanded his farm to over 1,500 chickens, selling to local hotels and supermarkets. His business now generates over Ksh 150,000 per month.

2. Mitumba (Second-Hand Clothes) Business

Why It’s Profitable

The mitumba industry thrives in Kenya because people prefer affordable, stylish clothes over expensive retail options.

Estimated Startup Costs:

• Bale of mitumba clothes (Ksh 30,000 - 50,000)
• Licensing & permits (Ksh 10,000)
• Marketing & transport (Ksh 20,000)
• Miscellaneous (Ksh 10,000)

Total: Ksh 80,000 - 100,000

Profit Potential

• Selling each item at Ksh 300 - 800
• Potential earnings per bale: Ksh 90,000 - 150,000
• Net profit per month: Ksh 40,000 - 60,000

Case Study: Sarah from Nairobi

Sarah started selling mitumba shoes in Gikomba Market with just Ksh 80,000. She used social media marketing (Instagram & WhatsApp) to attract online buyers. Today, she owns a physical shop in Nairobi CBD and ships clothes across Kenya.

3. Car Wash Business

Why It’s Profitable

With more cars on the road, car wash services are in high demand, especially in urban areas.

Estimated Startup Costs:

• Car wash machine (Ksh 40,000)
• Water storage tank (Ksh 20,000)
• Rent (Ksh 20,000)
• Detergents & equipment (Ksh 10,000)

Total: Ksh 90,000 - 100,000

Profit Potential

• Average charge per car: Ksh 300 - 500
• Daily customers: 15 - 30
• Monthly revenue: Ksh 135,000 - 300,000
• Net profit: Ksh 70,000 - 150,000

Case Study: Kevin from Mombasa

Kevin, a former Uber driver, started a mobile car wash service in 2023 with Ksh 90,000. By targeting high-traffic areas, he now earns over Ksh 120,000 per month and has expanded into car detailing.

4. Online Freelancing (Writing, Graphics, or Digital Marketing)

Why It’s Profitable

The gig economy is booming! Kenyans are making money online through freelance writing, graphic design, and digital marketing.

Estimated Startup Costs:

• Laptop (Ksh 50,000)
• Internet (Ksh 5,000 per month)
• Training courses (Ksh 20,000)
• Marketing (Ksh 10,000)

Total: Ksh 80,000 - 100,000

Profit Potential

• Writing: Ksh 3 - 10 per word
• Graphic design: Ksh 3,000 - 10,000 per project
• Digital marketing: Ksh 20,000 - 100,000 per client
• Monthly income: Ksh 50,000 - 300,000+

Case Study: Brenda from Kisumu

Brenda lost her job in 2022 but used Ksh 80,000 to train in SEO writing. Within six months, she was earning Ksh 150,000 per month from clients on Upwork & Fiverr.

5. Small Fast Food or Snacks Business

Why It’s Profitable

Food is a necessity, and Kenyans love affordable, tasty street food. Popular items include smokies, fries, chapati, and fresh juice.

Estimated Startup Costs:

• Cooking equipment (Ksh 40,000)
• Ingredients & supplies (Ksh 30,000)
• Rent & licenses (Ksh 20,000)
• Marketing (Ksh 10,000)

Total: Ksh 90,000 - 100,000

Profit Potential

• Smokies & eggs: Ksh 30 - 50 per piece
• Fries: Ksh 100 - 200 per serving
• Juice: Ksh 100 - 250 per glass
• Monthly revenue: Ksh 120,000 - 250,000
• Net profit: Ksh 50,000 - 150,000

Case Study: Peter from Eldoret

Peter started a chapati & tea kiosk with Ksh 95,000 in 2024. By 2025, he had opened a second location, employing five people and earning Ksh 200,000+ per month.

5 profitable Businesses You can start with 100k in Kenya in 2025

Conclusion

Starting a profitable business in Kenya with 100K is possible—you just need the right strategy and execution. Whether it’s agribusiness, mitumba, car washing, freelancing, or fast food, the key to success is market research, quality service, and consistency.

FAQ

1. What are the best businesses to start with 100K in Kenya?

With Ksh 100,000, you can venture into several profitable businesses in Kenya, such as:

• Poultry Farming: Starting with approximately 200 chicks, you can establish a small-scale poultry farm.
• Mitumba (Second-Hand Clothes) Business: Purchasing a bale of quality second-hand clothes can yield quick profits in high-demand areas.
• Small Fast-Food Joint: Selling popular items like fries, smokies, and samosas in a busy location can be lucrative.
• M-Pesa Agency: With a float of around Ksh 100,000, you can earn commissions by facilitating transactions.

• Car Wash Business: Setting up a car wash in a high-traffic area can attract a steady stream of customers.

2. How can I start a business in Kenya with 100K?

To start a business in Kenya with Ksh 100,000:

• Market Research: Identify in-demand products or services in your target area.
• Business Plan: Outline your business goals, target market, budget, and marketing strategies.
• Licensing: Obtain necessary permits and licenses from local authorities.
• Location: Choose a strategic location that attracts your target customers.
• Budgeting: Allocate funds for inventory, equipment, rent, and initial marketing.

3. Which business is most profitable in Kenya?

Profitability varies based on location, demand, and management. However, businesses like agribusiness (e.g., poultry farming), retail of second-hand clothes (mitumba), and mobile money agencies (M-Pesa) have shown high profitability due to consistent demand.

4. What licenses are required to start a small business in Kenya?

The required licenses depend on the type of business but generally include:

• Single Business Permit: Issued by the county government.
• Health Certificate: For businesses dealing with food.
• Food Handling Certificate: For employees in food-related businesses.
• Fire Safety Certificate: Ensures the business premises meet fire safety standards.

5. How can I ensure my small business succeeds in Kenya?

To enhance the success of your small business:

• Quality Products/Services: Offer high-quality offerings to satisfy customers.
• Customer Service: Provide excellent service to encourage repeat business.
• Marketing: Utilize both traditional and digital marketing strategies to reach a wider audience.
• Financial Management: Keep accurate records and manage expenses wisely.
• Adaptability: Stay informed about market trends and adapt accordingly.