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Get Compliant from Anywhere, Easy and Fast!

Table of Contents

  • Starting a Business

Top 10 Business Ideas You Can Start in South Africa in 2024 with R100k or Less

top 10 businesses to start in SA

Want to Start a Business, but Have no Ideas? Discover 10 Business Ideas for Under R100k

South Africa, is home to hundreds and thousands of Entrepreneurs. The new year brings new opportunities, 2024 presents a great platform for those with a burning desire to start their own business in South Africa. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need a massive investment or bank account to kickstart your entrepreneurial journey. If you’re looking to start a business that offers both profitability and practicality, you’ve come to the right place.

How to start 10 inexpensive businesses in SA (Key takeaways):

  • 10 business ideas specifically for South Africa that require less than R100k to start.
  • Actionable insights on how to initiate a business with minimal investment.
  • Advantages and Disadvantages of each business idea.
  • Realistic estimates of startup costs and potential monthly earnings.
  • How expert guidance can streamline the daunting process of business registration in South Africa.

So let's get right into it.

1. Mobile Carwash Service

Start-up Costs:

Approximately R20,000 to R40,000 for equipment and cleaning supplies (excluding the vehicle to get to clients).

Why start a car wash business in South Africa?

With the hectic lifestyles of many individuals in SA, a mobile car wash solves the need for convenient services. It eliminates the hassle of finding time to visit a car wash, (not to mention avoiding the inconvenience of waitingan hour at the carwash) making it an attractive option for busy professionals and save-time seekers alike.

What you need to get started in the car wash game?

High-pressure washer, cleaning supplies, including a vacuum, a reliable vehicle, and basic marketing materials (Facebook Page, flyers, Google Business Listing and more).

mobile carwash business

Exploring the Pros and Cons of Mobile Car Washes

Advantages

Disadvantages

  • Low Overhead: not having to have a physical location will minimise overhead costs.

Weather Dependency: Outdoor services are highly dependent on weather conditions, affecting daily operations.

  • Convenience: Targets busy individuals who prefer on-the-go car cleaning services.

Competition: The market may be saturated, leading to intense competition for clients.

  • Repeat Business: Establishing regular clients can lead to consistent revenue.

Equipment Maintenance: Regular maintenance of cleaning equipment is necessary, incurring additional costs.

Factors Influencing Earnings:

Number of clients served, pricing strategy, and operational efficiency.

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2. Online Retail Store

Online Store Start-up Costs:

Approximately R30,000 to R50,000. This will include the cost for an E-commerce platform subscription, Your product inventory, a professional website as well as your Digital marketing budget for initial campaigns.

Why start an online store in South Africa?

E-commerce has witnessed tremendous growth, and starting an online retail store allows you to tap into a global market. It’s a cost-effective way to reach customers without the overhead costs associated with a physical store.

What you need to get started online?

E-commerce platform (like Shopify), product inventory (you would need to do some market research), professional website, and an effective digital marketing strategy.

Potential Monthly Earnings:

R5,000 to R50,000

Factors Influencing Earnings:

Product selection, marketing effectiveness, and customer base.
online retail business

Exploring the Pros and Cons of Online Retail stores

AdvantagesDisadvantages
  • Global Reach: Can tap into a global market without the constraints of a physical storefront.
High Competition: The e-commerce space is competitive, requiring effective marketing to stand out.
  • Flexibility: Operating online allows for a flexible work schedule and remote management
Logistics: Managing shipping and delivery can be complex, leading to potential customer dissatisfaction.
  • Scalability: Easily scale the business by adding more products or expanding product lines.
Technology Dependence: Reliance on technology poses the risk of technical issues affecting the business.

3. Freelance Writing or Graphic Design Services

Freelance Start-up Costs:

Approximately R10,000 to R20,000. This can cover the necessary software tools, Professional website/portfolio as well as your Marketing and advertising for initial promotion.

Why Freelance Work Online?

If you have writing or graphic design skills, consider offering your services on freelancing platforms like Fiverr (This is open to South Africans) and is a great way to start freelancing as they match you with clients who are looking for your specific skills. The initial investment can be minimal – a good laptop and software – allowing you to build a clientele and work from the comfort of your home.

What you need to get started with Freelancing?

A good laptop, necessary software tools, a portfolio showcasing your work, and an online presence on freelancing platforms.

Potential Monthly Earnings:

R5,000 to R50,000

Factors Influencing Earnings:

Volume of projects, pricing per project, and client base.

start a business

Exploring the Pros and Cons of Freelance Services

Advantages

Disadvantages

  • Flexibility: Allows for flexible working hours and the ability to work from anywhere.

Freelance Writing or Graphic Design Services:

   – Income Variability: Income may fluctuate, especially for freelancers, making financial planning challenging.

  • Low Entry Barrier: Requires minimal upfront investment, mainly in a good laptop and software

Client Dependence: Relying on a few major clients may pose a risk if they reduce or stop their orders.

  • Diverse Clientele: Can work with clients from various industries and locations.

Project Uncertainty: Projects may be sporadic, and securing consistent work can be challenging.

4. Event Planning and Coordination

Start-up Costs of an Event Management Company:

Approximately R20,000 to R40,000. This can cover networking events and business cards, Basic office setup, Marketing materials and iInitial online presence launch.

Why start an Event Management Business?

South Africans love to celebrate. Whether it’s 21st birthdays, matric ball celebrations, you name it. Event planning has great potential to be a thriving business in SA. With a knack for organisation and creativity, you can start a small event planning business. Networking with local vendors and leveraging social media can help you establish your presence in the market.

What you need to get started for Event Management?

Networking skills, a basic office setup, an online presence, and initial investments in marketing materials. If you want to take the event planning a step further and start supplying party decor etc for hire, you would need to consider additional setup costs like stock and storage for your stock as well as delivery costs. Having a business plan can be helpful in this instance. The event planning and coordination is a good starting point from which you can expand on.

Potential Monthly Earnings:

R10,000 to R50,000

Factors Influencing Earnings:

Number of events planned, service fees, and vendor negotiations.
event planning busines

Exploring the Pros and Cons of Event Planning

Advantages

Disadvantages

  • Creativity: Provides an outlet for creative expression and event design.

Stressful Timelines: Events often have tight deadlines, leading to stressful work periods.

  • Networking Opportunities: Involves building relationships with vendors and clients, contributing to business growth.

Dependence on Vendors: Reliance on vendors may lead to complications if they don’t meet expectations

  • High Demand: Events are frequent, leading to a consistent demand for planning services

Seasonal Demand: Demand may vary seasonally, impacting income consistency.

5. Fitness Coaching or Personal Training

Fitness Coaching Start-up Costs:

Approximately R15,000 to R30,000. This can cover Fitness certifications (If you don’t already have one) Basic fitness equipment and your online presence and marketing.

Why start a fitness business?

The health and wellness industry is booming. A Personal Trainer in South Africa usually costs between R200 and R1000 per workout session, so it can be quite profitable once you start building a client base. Become a certified fitness coach or personal trainer and offer your services to individuals or small groups. With a small investment in equipment and marketing materials, you can help others achieve their fitness goals while building a sustainable business.

What you need to get started in Coaching?

Fitness certifications, basic fitness equipment, an online presence, and marketing materials.

Potential Monthly Earnings:

R5,000 to R50,000

Factors Influencing Earnings:

Number of clients, pricing strategy, and session frequency.

fitness coach

Exploring the Pros and Cons of Fitness Coaching

Advantages

Disadvantages

  • Growing Industry: The health and wellness industry is expanding, offering ample opportunities.

Income Dependency: Income is directly tied to the number of clients, and fluctuations may occur.

  • Personal Fulfillment: Allows for the fulfillment of helping others achieve their fitness goals.

Client Retention: Retaining clients can be challenging in a competitive fitness industry.

  • Variety of Services: Can offer personalized training sessions, group classes, or online coaching.

Equipment Costs: Investing in quality fitness equipment can be expensive

6. Dropshipping Business

Start-up Costs for Dropshipping:

Approximately R20,000 to R40,000 for your E-commerce platform subscription, Website development and Initial marketing budget for advertising.

Why start drop shipping as a business?

I think by now we’ve all heard about dropshipping. And there’s a reason why it’s still trending. Yes! Dropshipping is still worth the investment in 2024. As consumers increasingly turn to online shopping for convenience, Leverage the power of e-commerce without the hassle of having to handle any inventory. Start a dropshipping business, where you partner with suppliers to fulfil orders. The initial investment goes into creating a user-friendly website and marketing your products.

What you need to get started in Dropshipping?

E-commerce platform, reliable suppliers, a website, and a digital marketing strategy.

Potential Monthly Earnings:

R5,000 to R50,000

Factors Influencing Earnings:

Product selection, marketing efficiency, and order volume.

droppshipping business online

Exploring the Pros and Cons of Dropshipping

Advantages

Disadvantages

  • Low Risk: Minimizes the risk associated with holding inventory.

  – Quality Control: Lack of control over product quality and fulfillment may impact customer satisfaction.

  • Wide Product Range: Can sell a diverse range of products without the need for a physical warehouse.

  – Supplier Dependence: Dependence on suppliers can lead to disruptions if they face issues.

  • Time Efficiency: Focuses on marketing and customer service rather than inventory management.

  – Market Saturation: Some niches may be oversaturated, making it challenging to stand out.

Are you Looking to Start a Business in 2024?

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7. Mobile Food Truck

Start-up Costs of a Food Truck:

Approximately R50,000 to R80,000 to cover your Food truck purchase or rent, cooking equipment and permits as well as quality ingredients for initial menu.

Why start a Food Truck?

If there’s one thing we know about South Africans, it is that we love our food!..Most South Africans have a diverse palate, and a wide variety of mobile food trucks are gaining popularity. From bunny chows, Tacos or waffles, Investing in a food truck will allow you to offer unique and delicious cuisines at various locations. From seaside locations to events like weddings or twenty-first birthdays, your mobile kitchen can attract customers looking for a quick and tasty meal.

What you need to get started?

A food truck, cooking equipment, permits, and an engaging menu with high-quality ingredients.

Potential Monthly Earnings:

R10,000 to R50,000

Factors Influencing Earnings:

Popularity of locations, pricing strategy, and operational efficiency.
mobile food truck business

Exploring the Pros and Cons of Food Truck

Advantages

Disadvantages

  • Versatility: Can move to different locations, targeting diverse customer bases.

  – Location Challenges: Success depends on finding optimal locations, which can be unpredictable.

  • Lower Initial Investment: Compared to establishing a brick-and-mortar restaurant, a food truck has lower startup costs.

  – Seasonal Influence: Seasonal variations may affect customer turnout.

  • Creative Menu Options: Allows for experimenting with unique and diverse menu offerings.

  – Operating Costs: Fuel, permits, and maintenance contribute to operational expenses.

8. Social Media Management/Content Creation

Social media Management Start-up Costs:

Approximately R10,000 to R20,000 for Social media management tools, content creation tools and marketing materials for initial promotion.

Why start a Content Creation Business?

Small businesses often struggle with maintaining a strong online presence. If you’re savvy with social media, offer your services as a social media manager. Invest in basic tools for content creation and scheduling, and help businesses increase their online visibility.

What you need to get started in Social Media?

Social media management tools, content creation skills, a professional online presence, and initial marketing efforts.

Potential Monthly Earnings:

R5,000 to R30,000

Factors Influencing Earnings:

Number of clients, service fees, and operational efficiency.
social media managament

Exploring the Pros and Cons of Social Media Management

Advantages

Disadvantages

  • High Demand: Small businesses increasingly recognize the importance of a strong social media presence.

  – High Competition: Numerous social media managers create a competitive market.

  • Remote Work: Can be managed from anywhere, offering flexibility.

  – Algorithm Changes: Changes in social media algorithms can affect content visibility.

  • Scalability: As the client base grows, services can be scaled up.

  – Client Expectations: Managing client expectations and delivering results can be challenging.

9. Language Tutoring

Tutoring Start-up Costs:

Approximately R5,000 to R15,000 for Study materials,language proficiency certification and online presence and marketing.

Why start a Language Tutoring Company?

With South Africa’s multicultural society, language tutoring is in demand. If you’re proficient in your first or second language, offer tutoring services to individuals or small groups. Invest in study materials and marketing to reach potential students.

What you need to get started?

Study materials, language proficiency certification, an online presence, and marketing materials.

Potential Monthly Earnings:

R5,000 to R30,000

Factors Influencing Earnings:

Hourly rates, number of students, and session frequency.
language tutoring

Exploring the Pros and Cons of Language Tutoring

Advantages

Disadvantages

  • Cultural Connection: Provides an 
  • opportunity to share language and cultural insights.

Market Saturation: Popular languages may have high competition among tutors.

  • Flexible Schedule: Can offer tutoring sessions at times convenient for both the tutor and the student.

Variable Demand: Demand may fluctuate based on factors like exams or travel trends.

  • Individual or Group Sessions: Can cater to individual students or small groups.

Scheduling Challenges: Coordinating schedules with students can be complex.

10. Home Renovation Services

Start-up Costs of Renovation Services:

Approximately R30,000 to R50,000 for Basic tools, transportation (if not already owned) and marketing and advertising for initial promotion.

Why start a Renovation Company?

South Africans are investing more and more into building their dream homes, making their at home living environment more comfortable – feeling like their dream holiday home!

If you have skills in carpentry, plumbing, or electrical work, consider starting a home renovation business. With a worthwhile investment in tools and marketing, you can offer your services to homeowners looking to upgrade their living spaces.

What you need to get started to offer Renovation Services?

Basic tools, skills in carpentry, plumbing, or electrical work, reliable transportation, and initial marketing efforts.

Potential Monthly Earnings:

R10,000 to R50,000

Factors Influencing Earnings:

Number of projects, project pricing, and operational efficiency.
home renovations

Exploring the Pros and Cons of Home Renovation Services

AdvantagesDisadvantages
  • Steady Demand: Homeownership ensures a consistent demand for renovation services.
Regulatory Compliance: Navigating building codes and regulations can be complex.Luckily, we can help.
  • Skill-Based Business: Capitalizes on skills in carpentry, plumbing, or electrical work.
 High Initial Investment: Quality tools and equipment can be costly.
  • Client Satisfaction: Successful renovations lead to satisfied clients and potential referrals.
Seasonal Demand: Renovation projects may be more common during certain seasons.

What we learned from starting a business in South Africa?

As you embark on the exciting journey of entrepreneurship, remember that the road to success is paved with dedication, creativity, and a commitment to delivering value to your customers. The exciting prospect of turning your business dreams into reality awaits in our South African economy, and the time to seize this opportunity is now.

However, we understand that with the thrill of starting a new business comes the inevitable red tape and legalities. The good news? You don’t have to navigate this complex terrain alone. Our team is here to be your guide through the intricacies of business registration, compliance, and even tax-saving strategies in South Africa. Let us handle the paperwork while you focus on what you do best – building and growing your business.

We’re not just about overcoming hurdles; we’re your partners in achieving entrepreneurial success. Simply start with a FREE consultation with one of our experienced business advisors. Call us now at 0800 007 269 (Toll-Free) and let’s kickstart your journey together. Don’t let the red tape hold you back – let’s make your business thrive!

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