Think you need thousands of shillings to start a business? Think again.

In 2025, resourcefulness is more valuable than capital.

Thousands of Kenyans are launching profitable side hustles and full-time businesses with less than KSh 5,000 — and some, with just a smartphone and internet connection. Whether you're a student, stay-at-home parent, or employed but looking for extra income, this guide will walk you through how to get started — even when you're broke.

Is It Really Possible?

Yes, it is. Many successful businesses started with:

Skills, not money.

A smartphone and social media.

Friends and family as first clients.

Free tools from the internet.

You don’t need everything. You just need to start. Focus on offering value, and the money will follow.

“You don’t need money. You need a money-making mindset.”

Step-by-Step: How to Start With Nothing

1. Identify a Skill or Solution You Can Offer

Start by asking yourself:

What do people often ask me for help with?

What skills or hobbies do I already have?

Is there something I can teach, create, or fix?

Some of the best businesses are built around skills like writing, baking, photography, social media management, tutoring, or even running errands.

You already have something valuable. Package it. Offer it. Charge for it.

2. Start With What You Have

Don’t wait to rent an office or buy expensive equipment. Use what’s in your hands:

Your smartphone for marketing, design, and communication.

Free apps like Canva (for design), CapCut (for video editing), and Google Docs.

Your home as your first workspace or delivery base.

Instead of saying, "I’ll start when I have a laptop," say, "I’ll start with my phone now."

3. Offer Services Before Products

Products often require stock and capital. Services require skills and time — not money.

For example:

Offer to write CVs or resumes.

Offer cleaning services, tutoring, or hair braiding.

Run social media pages for small businesses.

Start home delivery services or freelance errands.

With services, you get paid upfront, then reinvest later to expand.

4. Use Free Platforms to Market

You don't need to pay for ads at the beginning. Social media is your free billboard.

Start with:

WhatsApp Business (use auto-replies and a catalog)

Facebook Marketplace (great for local reach).

TikTok and Instagram Reels (especially for visual services and youth-focused content).

Post consistently. Show your work. Share behind-the-scenes, results, and testimonials.

Branding tip: Use your name and face — people trust people.

5. Ask for Help the Smart Way

It’s okay to ask for help, but offer value first. Instead of asking for financial support, offer your service for free to friends or family in exchange for a testimonial or referral.

Say things like:

“Hey, I’ve started designing posters. Can I do your next birthday poster for free?”

Once they see your work, they’ll tell others — and that’s how you grow without spending on ads.

Examples of Businesses That Need Little or No Capital

Here are a few real examples you can start with almost nothing:

TikTok Content Creation – Use your phone to create content for yourself or businesses.

Freelance Writing – Offer writing services for websites or CVs.

Home Baking – Start with ingredients in your kitchen and sell to neighbors or online.

Tutoring Online – Teach via Zoom or Google Meet using your phone or shared Wi-Fi.

Errand Running Services – Help busy people with shopping, parcel pickup, etc.

Every idea starts small. Your first job might earn you KSh 500 — but it can grow into KSh 5,000 a week.