In Kenyan campuses’ vibrant and dynamic environment, students increasingly recognize the potential of combining their academic pursuits and entrepreneurial initiatives.
College students venturing into business enjoy financial independence, besides developing critical skills through practical experiences, and building networks for post-graduation success.
Whether tapping into the digital marketplace, offering personalized services, or starting an e-commerce store, Campus presents an ideal platform to experiment, learn, and grow as an entrepreneur.
Ready to turn your free time into a profitable venture? Here are 10 business ideas for campus students in Kenya.
1. Photography
Photography is a lucrative business requiring minimal startup costs if you own a camera already.
With the vibrancy of campus life, there are lots of events and moments that students love to capture. They include graduation ceremonies, talent shows, social gatherings, photoshoots, etc.
Note that there’s a growing demand for photographers with the rise of social media and digital marketing.
How to get started:
- Start by offering free services to friends to build a portfolio
- Use free photo editing apps like PicsArt or Pixlr before transitioning to professional tools like Adobe Photoshop.
- Network with influencers and event organizers to get regular gigs during your free time.
You may consider selling your photos as stock images online, for passive income as your business grows.
2. Videography
Videography complements photography and offers additional opportunities for creative expression.
The demand for video content is increasing, especially with the growth of social media platforms like YouTube and Instagram.
How to get started:
- Use a good phone camera or invest in a basic video camera
- Learn video editing with tools like Adobe Premiere Pro
- Offer to shoot promotional videos for local businesses or events.
As your videography business thrives, create a stock footage portfolio to sell online. You can also establish a company to handle video content for events or businesses.
3. Graphic Design
Graphic design is more than just creating aesthetically pleasing images, it is a powerful tool for communication that transcends language barriers. Thus, the demand for visual content by businesses, in today’s digital age.
This business creates a lucrative opportunity for campus students to tap into various markets and build a sustainable business.
As a designer, you can venture into branding and identity design (logos, business cards, etc.), marketing and promotional materials (flyers&posters, email templates, social media graphics, etc), digital design (infographics, web, and app design), and print design (book covers, packaging design, brochures and catalogs).
You don’t need an extensive background in art or design but a passion for creativity and a willingness to learn.
How to get started:
- Start with simple tools like Canva to create designs.
- Offer services to campus organizations or local businesses.
- Build a portfolio to showcase your work and appeal to potential customers.
Success in graphic design often hinges on your ability to network and attract clients. You can build a robust client base by joining local meetups, online forums, and groups.
4. Makeup Artistry
The beauty industry in Kenya is booming, with a significant demand for makeup artists.
Campus students love to appear glamorous as they attend events like parties, photo shoots, etc., and this is where your makeup services come in.
Since it is a service business, you would not need a lot of capital to start it, especially if you already have the know-how and skills to apply makeup.
How to get started:
- Invest in quality makeup products and practice on friends.
- Use social media to showcase your work and attract clients.
- Network with other beauty professionals to get referrals.
To expand your business, work with local celebrities or on commercial projects. Also, provide tutorials or classes to other students interested in makeup at an affordable price.
5. Mobile Hairdressing and Barber Services
Hairdressing is another viable business for campus students in Kenya given the high expenditure on hair care among Kenyan women.
Many students also prefer to get haircuts on, or near campus due to convenience and affordability.
How to get started:
- Learn basic hairdressing and barbering skills from YouTube tutorials.
- Invest in basic barbering and hairdressing equipment.
- Offer discounts to attract your first clients.
- Visit hostels to provide on-demand hair services.
- Market your services through word of mouth, social media, and referrals.
With the potential growth of your business, specialize in complex hairstyles and haircuts for higher pay. Also, offer additional grooming services like beard trims, facials, manicures, and pedicures.
6. Freelance Writing
Freelance writing is a flexible job that can be done anywhere. You only need a laptop/smartphone and internet connectivity.
If you are a campus student with strong writing skills, you can create articles, blog posts, or academic papers.
So, how do you get started:
- Sign up on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr to find writing gigs.
- Specialize in niches like travel, personal finance, and technology to stand out.
- Build a portfolio of your writing work, to obtain writing gigs and attract higher-paying clients.
Later, start your blog to generate passive income through ads, sponsored posts, and affiliate marketing. In addition, pitch writing services to businesses that need content for their website and marketing materials.
See also: Unique business ideas for ladies in kenya
7. E-Commerce Dropshipping
Dropshipping is a low-risk way to start an online business without holding inventory.
You sell products through your online store, and a third-party supplier handles the inventory and shipping.
How to get started:
- Choose a niche and set up an online store using platforms like Jumia, Shopify, or Woocommerce.
- Partner with reliable suppliers who offer dropshipping services.
- Market your store through social media and search engine optimization (SEO) to attract customers.
With time, expand your product range to include high-demand items. Automate processes and outsource tasks, then focus on marketing and customer service.
8. DIY Handmade Crafts
There’s something uniquely appealing about handmade crafts; the sense of authenticity and personal touch that factory-made products can’t replicate. This makes handmade crafts highly sought after, for gifts, home décor, fashion accessories, etc.
Starting a DIY handmade craft does not require a massive investment. You need a few basic tools and materials to create a range of products that appeal to different markets.
How to get started:
- Identify a niche you enjoy and are skilled at, gather tools and materials, and practice.
- Market your crafts on social media, E-commerce websites, Etsy, etc. Local markets and pop-up shops also offer effective marketing opportunities for your crafts.
- Offer customized orders for individuals or corporate gifts.
Later on, broaden your product range to incorporate seasonal items and gifts.
9. Laundry Services
Many students struggle with chores like laundry. Offering laundry services at affordable rates is undeniably a convenient and profitable business to venture in, on campus.
How to get started:
- Purchase laundry supplies including detergents, bleach, fabric softener, etc. If possible, invest in a washing machine.
- Offer pick-up and delivery services to make it convenient for students.
- Market your services through campus bulletin boards and social media.
With potential growth in your business, introduce dry cleaning and ironing services. You may also hire additional help to manage an increased workload.
10. Baking and Selling Cakes
If you are a passionate baker, it’s time to turn your passion into a profitable venture as a college student.
You can cater to events like birthdays, farewell parties, and weddings among other celebrations on campus, and beyond.
How to get started:
- Invest in basic baking equipment including ovens, mixers, baking pans, measuring equipment, cake decorating equipment, etc.
- Start by baking cakes for friends and family to build your reputation.
- Use social media to showcase your cakes and attract clients.
With potential growth, expand your business to incorporate pastries and desserts. Collaborate with event planners to supply cakes for larger events.
Summary
Starting a business as a campus student presents many benefits including financial independence, practical experience, and the potential to create a lasting career.
The above business ideas fit into the busy lifestyle of a college student, require minimal startup capital, and serve a ready market on campus.
By leveraging your skills, passion, and the available campus market, you can turn these ideas into profitable ventures and set up yourself for future success.