Low-Cost Business Ideas You Can Start Today
Starting a business doesn’t always require a lot of money — what you really need is creativity, consistency, and skill. Whether you’re a student, a stay-at-home parent, or someone looking for extra income, there are many low-cost business ideas you can begin with little or no capital.
Here are some profitable business ideas you can start today — right from your home.
🧼 1. Liquid Soap or Detergent Production
Soap-making is one of the easiest and most profitable small businesses to start.
You only need a few ingredients like caustic soda, SLS, perfume, color, and water.
Why it works: Everyone needs soap — from homes to restaurants and offices.
Start small by selling to neighbors, then expand to local shops and schools.
💡 Estimated startup cost: ₦5,000–₦10,000 (or about $10–$20)
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🧁 2. Home Baking or Snack Business
If you enjoy baking cakes, chin-chin, or meat pies, you can turn that passion into profit.
Use your home kitchen to start, and promote your products on WhatsApp or Instagram.
Why it works: Food sells fast — especially if it tastes good and looks attractive.
💡 Estimated startup cost: ₦10,000–₦20,000 (for ingredients and packaging)
💇 3. Hair Braiding or Barbing
If you have a skill in hairstyling, you can start right from your living room or balcony.
You don’t need a full salon setup at first — just a few basic tools and good customer service.
Why it works: People always want to look good, and personal care services never go out of demand.
💡 Estimated startup cost: ₦8,000–₦15,000 (for basic tools)
🎨 4. Graphic Design and Branding
With free tools like Canva or Photopea, you can design logos, flyers, and business cards for people.
Start by practicing and offering your services to small businesses in your area.
Why it works: Every business needs digital graphics — and many can’t afford professionals, so you fill the gap.
💡 Estimated startup cost: Almost free (a smartphone or laptop + internet)
🛍️ 5. Mini Online Store (E-commerce Reselling)
You can sell products online without owning a shop.
Buy items in bulk or from wholesalers and resell them through Instagram, Facebook, or WhatsApp.
Popular niches include fashion accessories, perfumes, skincare, and gadgets.
Why it works: Online buying is increasing, and you can start from your phone.
💡 Estimated startup cost: ₦10,000–₦25,000 (for first batch of items)
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🧴 6. Perfume and Air Freshener Production
Homemade perfumes and air fresheners are easy to make and in high demand.
You just need fragrance oils, bottles, and a good name for your brand.
Why it works: People love smelling good, and businesses need air fresheners too.
💡 Estimated startup cost: ₦7,000–₦15,000
✍️ 7. Freelance Writing or Content Creation
If you love writing or creating videos, you can earn online by writing blog posts, product descriptions, or short social media content.
You can also start a YouTube or TikTok page around your skill and grow followers.
Why it works: Businesses always need content to grow their online presence.
💡 Estimated startup cost: Free (a phone and internet connection)
👕 8. Thrift Clothing (Okrika) Business
Buy fairly used clothes (okrika) in bales or pieces and resell them for profit.
Wash, repackage, and take clear pictures to post online.
Why it works: Affordable fashion is always in demand, especially among students and young adults.
💡 Estimated startup cost: ₦15,000–₦30,000
📱 9. Social Media Management
If you’re good at posting online, you can help businesses manage their Instagram or Facebook pages.
Create content, post regularly, and respond to customers.
Why it works: Many small business owners are busy and need help maintaining their pages.
💡 Estimated startup cost: Free (a smartphone and data)
🎥 10. Smartphone Photography or Videography
With good lighting and editing apps, your phone can take professional-quality photos and videos.
Offer your service for birthdays, products, or events.
Why it works: Every business and person wants clean photos for promotion or memories.
💡 Estimated startup cost: ₦0–₦10,000 (for lighting and editing tools)