I've been thinking about starting something small, maybe online, but I keep wondering if my idea is even worth it. Should I wait until I have more money, or can I start with just my phone and a little M-Pesa float? I'd love to hear what has worked for you.
Honestly, you can start today with just your phone and a small M-Pesa float. People are making real money reselling things like clothes, phone accessories, or even farm produce through WhatsApp and Instagram. The trick is to pick one small thing, test it with a few customers, and let them tell you what they need next. What kind of stuff are you interested in selling?
As a student, I can tell you this, the "wait until I have more money" thing is a trap. I know people who started selling smokies and chips from their hostel room with just a phone and a small M-Pesa float, and now they're supplying to nearby hostels. If you're not into physical goods, consider doing simple phone-related services for people who aren't techy, like helping them back up contacts, set up mobile banking, or even design simple flyers using free apps like Canva. Hata wewe, what's that one thing you're already good at?
True, you don't need much to start. I'd add: think about what people around you already keep asking for, like eggs, airtime, or even someone to help with simple phone setups. That's usually the easiest way to get your first few customers without a big investment. What's something you already know or have access to that neighbors or friends seem to need all the time?
That's solid advice already. I'd just add: don't wait until you have "enough money" because that day never comes. I started my boutique with five dresses and a M-Pesa till number, then reinvested every shilling that came in. The main thing is to keep your money moving, not sitting. What's one item you could buy and flip this weekend?
Honestly, all the advice above is spot on. The phone-and-M-Pesa approach works. One thing I'd add: if you're comfortable with your phone, offer to teach older people in your area how to use M-Pesa or send voice notes. It costs you nothing, and people are often willing to pay a small fee for that help. Have you noticed anyone near you struggling with their phone?
Love the advice already shared. One thing I'd add as someone who helps small businesses with their books: even with just a phone and M-Pesa, start tracking every shilling you put in and every shilling that comes back. Just a simple note in your phone. That way, if you try flipping airtime or eggs this weekend, you'll know for sure whether you made a profit or just moved money around. Keeps you from guessing. Any idea what your first test item might be?
Hey, you've gotten some solid suggestions here. One thing that might help: before you spend even that first shilling, ask five people if they'd actually pay for what you're offering. Their honest answers will save you time and help you pick the right thing to test.