Kenya is a land of opportunity with many untapped business ideas that can be profitable with the right approach.
You can explore car wash businesses, which are in high demand due to the increasing number of car owners.
Another great idea is starting an e-commerce business, as the online market in Kenya is growing rapidly.
Untapped business ideas in Kenya
Table of contents
- 1) eCommerce for rural areas
- 2) Agribusiness and value addition
- 3) Mobile money and fintech solutions
- 4) Renewable energy solutions
- 5) Home decor and improvement
- 6) Fitness equipment and accessories
- 7) Hiring and talent acquisition services
- 8) Delivery services
- 9) Shelf space rentals
- 10) Virtual office
- 11) Virtual fitness classes and training
- 12) Web and graphic design services
- 13) Career coaching
- 14) Social media coaching
- 15) Wines and spirits online delivery
- 16) Become a YouTuber
- 17) Wearables tech
- 18) Subscription business models
- 19) Cybersecurity and data storage
- 20) Telemedicine
- 21) Online learning
1) eCommerce for rural areas
Rural Kenya is still largely underserved by e-commerce. Creating an online marketplace that caters specifically to the needs of rural communities can be highly profitable.
Focus on essential goods, agricultural inputs, and affordable electronics. You can leverage mobile money for payments and local courier services for delivery.
Example: Kilimall has made significant inroads in urban areas but there’s still a large market in rural regions that can be tapped.
Actionable steps:
- Identify essential goods: Determine what products are most needed in rural areas, such as farming tools, seeds, household items, and basic electronics.
- Partner with local couriers: Establish relationships with local courier services to ensure timely and reliable delivery.
- Utilize mobile money: Make use of mobile money services like M-Pesa to facilitate secure and convenient transactions.
2) Agribusiness and value addition
![21 Untapped Business Ideas in Kenya with Examples (Emerging) 1 Untapped business Ideas in Kenya Agriculture Value Addition Kakuzi](https://money.ke/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/untapped-business-ideas-in-kenya-agriculture-value-addition-kakuzi.webp)
Agriculture is a backbone of Kenya’s economy, yet many agricultural products are sold in raw form. There’s a huge potential in value addition.
Example: Kakuzi has successfully ventured into value-added products like avocado oil.
Actionable steps:
- Fruit processing: Establish a small-scale fruit processing plant to produce juices, jams, and dried fruits. This adds value to raw fruits and creates higher profit margins.
- Herbal medicine: Develop products from local medicinal plants and herbs, capitalizing on the growing interest in natural remedies.
- Organic farming: Offer organic produce to health-conscious consumers who are willing to pay a premium for pesticide-free products.
3) Mobile money and fintech solutions
While Kenya is renowned for its mobile money innovation, there are still gaps in financial services for small businesses and remote areas.
Developing apps or services that enhance mobile banking, provide microloans, or improve financial literacy can be lucrative.
Actionable steps:
- Mobile banking apps: Create apps that offer enhanced banking services, such as savings plans, loan applications, and financial advice.
- Microloans: Develop platforms that provide small loans to entrepreneurs and small business owners who lack access to traditional banking.
- Financial literacy programs: Offer educational programs to teach people how to manage their finances, save money, and invest wisely.
4) Renewable energy solutions
There’s a growing demand for clean and affordable energy solutions in Kenya.
Actionable steps:
- Solar energy: Sell and install solar panels for homes and businesses, providing an alternative to unreliable grid electricity.
- Biogas production: Convert organic waste into biogas for cooking and lighting, reducing reliance on firewood and charcoal.
- Wind energy: Develop small-scale wind turbines for rural electrification, especially in areas with consistent wind patterns.
5) Home decor and improvement
![21 Untapped Business Ideas in Kenya with Examples (Emerging) 2 Home interior business Prime House Interiors](https://money.ke/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/home-interior-business-prime-house-interiors.webp)
The demand for stylish and functional home decor is growing. Start a business that offers unique and locally made home improvement products.
Example: Prime House Interiors offers a wide range of home improvement products.
Actionable steps:
- Furniture design: Create custom furniture pieces using locally sourced materials.
- Interior decoration services: Offer personalized home decor consultations and services.
- DIY kits: Sell kits for home improvement projects, including tools and instructions.
6) Fitness equipment and accessories
With the rising interest in health and fitness, there’s a growing market for fitness equipment and accessories.
Example: Alpha Fitness provides a range of fitness equipment online.
Actionable Steps:
- Home gym equipment: Sell a range of home workout gear, from dumbbells to treadmills.
- Fitness accessories: Offer items like yoga mats, resistance bands, and fitness trackers.
- Online store: Create an e-commerce platform for fitness products.
7) Hiring and talent acquisition services
Many businesses struggle to find the right talent. Offering specialized hiring and recruitment services can bridge this gap.
Example: BrighterMonday is a leading online job portal in East Africa.
Actionable Steps:
- Recruitment agencies: Provide comprehensive hiring services for various industries.
- Job boards: Develop an online platform where employers can post jobs and job seekers can find opportunities.
- Talent assessments: Offer services like skill testing and personality assessments to help match candidates with the right jobs.
8) Delivery services
The need for efficient delivery services is ever-growing, especially with the rise of e-commerce.
Example: Sendy offers on-demand delivery services in Kenya.
Actionable steps:
- Local courier services: Provide reliable delivery services for online retailers and small businesses.
- Food delivery: Start a service that delivers food from restaurants to customers’ doorsteps.
- Package delivery: Offer affordable and fast delivery of packages for individuals and businesses.
9) Shelf space rentals
Small businesses often struggle to find shelf space in large retail stores. Offering rental shelf space can help these businesses get their products in front of customers.
Example: Kiosk Buddy connects vendors with available shelf space in shops and stores.
Actionable steps:
- Retail partnerships: Partner with local stores to provide shelf space for small businesses.
- Marketing services: Offer additional marketing services to help small businesses promote their products.
- Flexible rental terms: Provide flexible rental terms to make it easier for small businesses to afford shelf space.
10) Virtual office
With more businesses moving online, there’s a growing need for virtual office services.
Example: Nairobi Garage offers flexible office solutions, including virtual office services.
Actionable steps:
- Mail handling: Provide a mailing address and mail handling services for businesses without a physical office.
- Virtual receptionist: Offer virtual receptionist services to handle calls and inquiries.
- Meeting rooms: Provide access to meeting rooms for businesses that need occasional physical space.
11) Virtual fitness classes and training
The demand for online fitness classes has surged, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Example: Fit Kenya offers online fitness classes and personal training.
Actionable steps:
- Live classes: Offer live streaming fitness classes for various workout types, such as yoga, pilates, and HIIT.
- On-demand videos: Create a library of workout videos that customers can access anytime.
- Personal training: Provide virtual personal training sessions for customized fitness plans.
12) Web and graphic design services
Many businesses need professional web and graphic design services to enhance their online presence.
Example: BRCK is known for its innovative design and tech solutions.
Actionable steps:
- Website development: Offer services to create and maintain professional websites.
- Graphic design: Provide design services for logos, branding, marketing materials, and more.
- SEO services: Enhance websites to rank better on search engines.
13) Career coaching
Career coaching services can help individuals navigate their career paths and achieve their professional goals.
Example: Career Connections offers professional development and career coaching services.
Actionable steps:
- Resume building: Assist clients in creating effective resumes and cover letters.
- Interview preparation: Provide coaching for job interviews, including mock interviews and feedback.
- Career planning: Help clients set and achieve career goals through personalized plans.
14) Social media coaching
Businesses are increasingly using social media for marketing, but many need guidance to do it effectively.
Example: The Global Leadership Institute offers social media management and coaching services.
Actionable steps:
- Strategy development: Help businesses develop and implement effective social media strategies.
- Content creation: Teach businesses how to create engaging content for various social media platforms.
- Analytics and reporting: Show businesses how to use social media analytics to measure success and improve their strategies.
15) Wines and spirits online delivery
Online delivery of wines and spirits is a growing market as consumers seek convenience.
Example: Jays Wines offers an extensive selection of wines and spirits for online delivery.
Actionable Steps:
- Online store: Set up an e-commerce platform for selling wines and spirits.
- Delivery service: Provide fast and reliable delivery services to customers.
- Special offers: Offer promotions and discounts to attract and retain customers.
16) Become a YouTuber
YouTube offers a platform for content creators to share their talents and make money.
Example: Wode Maya is a successful African YouTuber with millions of subscribers.
Actionable steps:
- Content creation: Create engaging and original content in a niche you are passionate about.
- Monetization: Use YouTube’s monetization options like ads, memberships, and merchandise.
- Promotion: Promote your channel through social media and collaborations with other YouTubers.
17) Wearables tech
The market for wearable technology is growing rapidly. These are smart devices that can be worn on the body and include fitness trackers, smartwatches, and health monitors.
Example: Nairobi-based BRCK has been exploring the tech space with innovative solutions, though not specifically wearables, the tech market is ripe for expansion.
Actionable steps:
- Market research: Identify the specific needs of the local market and tailor products accordingly.
- Distribution partnerships: Work with local retailers and e-commerce platforms to distribute wearable tech devices.
- Customer education: Run campaigns to educate potential customers on the benefits and uses of wearable technology.
18) Subscription business models
Subscription services are becoming increasingly popular as they provide a steady revenue stream and build customer loyalty. This can include anything from meal kits to beauty products.
Example: Soko provides a subscription-based model for handcrafted jewelry.
Actionable Steps:
- Identify a niche: Find a product or service that can be offered on a subscription basis, such as meal delivery, grooming products, or educational content.
- Create value: Ensure your subscription service offers value to customers through convenience, cost savings, or exclusive access.
- Marketing strategy: Use social media, email marketing, and partnerships to attract and retain subscribers.
19) Cybersecurity and data storage
As more businesses go digital, the need for robust cybersecurity measures and reliable data storage solutions is increasing.
Example: Serianu provides cybersecurity services across Africa, addressing the growing threat of cybercrime.
Actionable Steps:
- Cybersecurity services: Offer services such as network security, data encryption, and threat analysis to businesses.
- Data storage solutions: Provide cloud storage services that are secure and easily accessible.
- Training programs: Offer cybersecurity training for businesses to help them protect their data and systems.
20) Telemedicine
Telemedicine allows healthcare providers to consult with patients remotely, which is particularly useful in rural areas where access to medical facilities is limited.
Example: MyDawa offers an online pharmacy service, which can be integrated with telemedicine consultations.
Actionable Steps:
- Develop a platform: Create an app or website where patients can book consultations and communicate with healthcare providers.
- Partner with healthcare providers: Collaborate with doctors, clinics, and hospitals to offer a wide range of medical services.
- Educate users: Run awareness campaigns to educate people about the benefits and convenience of telemedicine.
21) Online learning
With the increasing demand for flexible and accessible education, online learning platforms are becoming more popular.
Example: eLimu is a leading digital educational content provider in Kenya.
Actionable Steps:
- Course development: Create engaging and interactive online courses on various subjects, from academics to professional skills.
- Partnerships: Partner with educational institutions and professionals to offer accredited courses.
- Marketing: Use social media, email campaigns, and SEO to attract students to your platform.
Final thoughts on emerging business ideas in Kenya
Kenya offers a dynamic environment for entrepreneurs with countless opportunities in various sectors.
By tapping into these emerging business ideas, you can capitalize on Kenya’s growing economy and diverse market needs.
Research each opportunity thoroughly and consider the specific needs and preferences of your target audience to increase your chances of success.
Keep an eye on established businesses for inspiration and guidance on best practices.