Becoming your own boss is not an impossible dream – it depends on the right attitude to turn a little money into more money. We have listed our top Kasi business ideas that can help you make money fast in South Africa. Above all else, remember it's determination, dedication and a lot of hard work that will help you on your way to financial freedom.
Entrepreneur Valerie Pole grabbed the public’s imagination when she started 1 000 Beautiful Bracelets from a R1 000 she received from 702/CapeTalk presenter Bruce Whitfield in an entrepreneurship competition on The Money Show. She then wrote a book about it, to help others who’d like to do the same.
Start small! If you aim to own a large car wash business, for example, you can start with little more than a bucket and a rag. If you work hard and accumulate money, you can reinvest it in growing the business. You shouldn’t wait for access to finance to get started.
“You need to get your hands dirty to gain that experience”
A Business in demand in South Africa. Are you keen to be your own boss? Do you want to go out there and help grow the economy? Here are some small business ideas you can start with limited funds:
Mobile lunch service
Are you a whizz in a kitchen? Close to an office or business park? Then with a cooler box and some lunch ingredients, you could be the next great restaurateur. Many people do not have the time to make lunches, so if you can supply them with one on their doorstop, you could be filling a much needed gap.
Consultancy
What are you skilled in? Are you a social media guru? Have you been practicing law for a while? By using the talents and skills you have developed so far, you could start a consultancy giving clients advice on how to do something you are an expert on.
Freelance writer, editor or proofreader
With the growth in the market to create books in all the official South African languages, the demand for freelance writers, editors and proofreaders has increased. There are many online websites where you can apply for writing and editing opportunities. If you are a wizard with words, there’s work for you.
Personal assistant
Many people nowadays do not have time to do the simple everyday tasks. They are also willing to pay good money for someone else to do these things for them. These tasks can range from picking up dry cleaning to making suppers.
Grow and sell produce
Organic food has become the rage recently as people are becoming more conscious of the food they put into their bodies. You can start a vegetable patch on a metre by metre piece of ground. The produce can be sold to your neighbors and friends. They will love to support you, and know that they are able to put good and healthy food into their bodies.
Tutor
Do you know how to play a musical instrument, have a knack for languages, are an IT guru? You could teach people these skills that you are proficient in. Believe it or not, but there are still people who cannot use a computer – now there’s an opportunity.
Mobile laundry service
With the busyness of corporate life, many people do not have the time to sort out their laundry. Do you have access to a washing machine and iron? You could make money by collecting the washing and bringing it back neatly washed and ironed.
Sewing and alterations
If you are handy with a sewing machine and know how to make basic alterations to clothing, you could be well on your way to making some cash. There are many people who have a favorite pair of trousers or a skirt that needs to be hemmed or have a button reattached.
By using social media and word of mouth, you can let your friends and family know about the new business venture you are embarking on. So, go out there and work towards making your dream a reality.
Freelance Web Developer
If you have a knack for all things digital, particularly web development, then this may be the break you need. With the right tools, building a website can cost almost next to nothing. A good CMS such as WordPress is completely free and has integrated support for a large depository of free plugins that add additional functionality to your website such as a payment gateway. Check out our payment gateway with the lowest transaction rates in SA.
Of course, any website you build needs have a place to live. Although there are free options available to host your website, we recommend going with affordable hosting providers such as GoDaddy, costing as little as R35.00/mo. Most hosting providers will also let you register a domain, making it convenient to set you on your way to building a website.
If you're new to web development, we recommend you upskill yourself with many free training materials available online, and put what you leaned to the test with your newly acquired hosting provider. In no time you will be on your way to utilizing your skills to building beautiful professional websites. These skills you can use to set up your very own eCommerce store, or build one for a client.
Sell Products Online
If you have a hobby or skill that you can turn into a product, you can start an online business. You can sell items on platforms like Etsy, eBay, or Amazon, or you can set up your own website and sell directly to customers.
Offer Services
If you have a specific skill or expertise, you can offer your services as a freelancer. This could be writing, editing, graphic design, web development, photography, or any number of other skills. You can find work through online platforms such as Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer, or you can market yourself directly to potential clients.
Start a Blog
If you have a passion for a particular topic, you can start a blog and monetize it through advertising, sponsored content, and selling products or services. It takes time and dedication to build up a successful blog, but it can be a rewarding business venture for those who are willing to put in the work.
Sell Handmade or Artisan Products
If you have a talent for crafting or creating handmade products, you can sell your items online or at local craft fairs or markets.
Offer Pet-Sitting or Dog-Walking Services
If you love animals, you can start a pet-sitting or dog-walking business. You can offer your services to busy pet owners who need someone to take care of their animals while they're at work or on holiday.
Sell Products or Services at Local Markets or Fairs
If you have a product or service that you can offer in person, you can set up a stall at local markets or fairs. This can be a great way to reach a new audience and get your business off the ground.
Starting a business with a small budget requires creativity, hard work, and dedication. With the right idea and a solid plan, you can turn your R1000 into the foundation of a successful business.
Offer House Cleaning or Maid Services to Busy Homeowners
If you have experience cleaning and organizing, consider starting a business offering house cleaning or maid services to busy homeowners. You can use R1000 to purchase supplies and equipment, such as cleaning solutions and a vacuum cleaner.
Sell Gently Used Clothing or Accessories at A Thrift Store or Online
If you enjoy fashion and have an eye for finding unique pieces, consider starting a business selling gently used clothing or accessories. You can use R1000 to purchase inventory and create a basic website or online store.
Start a Photography Business, Specializing in Events, Portraits, or Product Photography
If you have a passion for photography, consider starting a business offering event, portrait, or product photography services. You can use R1000 to purchase a camera and other basic equipment, such as a tripod and lighting gear.
Offer Tutor or Academic Coaching Services to Students in Your Community
If you have expertise in a particular subject area or enjoy helping others learn, consider starting a business offering tutor or academic coaching services to students in your community. You can use R1000 to create flyers and business cards to promote your services.
Sell Organic or Specialty Produce at A Farmer's Market or to Local Restaurants
If you have access to fresh, high-quality produce, consider starting a business selling it at a farmer's market or to local restaurants. You can use R1000 to purchase seeds or seedlings and any necessary equipment, such as a small greenhouse or containers for transporting produce.
Need a Card Machine for Your Business?
Take a look at our card machines range and choose which is most suited for your business.
Need More Ideas?
Still not sure what business is suited for you? Read 15 Small Business Ideas and see if anything peeks your interest there.
Need Complete Guide to Building an eCommerce Website?
Together with skilled experts in the field, we have put together The Hitchhiker’s Guide to Making Money Online, the ultimate guide to set you on your way to starting an online business.
