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Cheap Businesses You Can Start with N1,000,000 in Nigeria

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| Updated:
January 9, 2025
Businesses You Can Start With N1000000
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Starting a business in Nigeria with a capital of N1000000 is an achievable goal for entrepreneurs. With careful planning, strategic execution, and the right business idea, this amount can set the foundation for a profitable venture. In this article, we’ll discuss 20 lucrative businesses you can start with N1000000, along with tips on starting and marketing strategies to increase sales.

Top 20 Businesses You Can Start with N1000000 in Nigeria.

Below are top 20 businesses you can start with N1000000 in Nigeria today:

1. Real Estate Business

The Real Estate industry offers significant opportunities, even for small-scale investors.

With N1000000, you can start as a property agent, invest in small plots of land, or develop rental spaces in high-demand areas.

How to Start

  • Market Research: Carry out market research to discover areas with high property appreciation.
  • Business Registration: Register your business with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to gain credibility.
  • Collaborate with Property owners and buyers: Partner with property owners and buyers to increase your reach.

Marketing Strategies

  • Use social media platforms to showcase available properties.
  • Partner with local agents for a wider reach.
  • Offer referral bonuses to clients.

2. Cooking Gas Business

The cooking gas business is essential due to high demand from households and businesses. Starting a small refill station or distribution outlet is feasible within this budget.

How to Start

  • Choose a location: Rent a secure location with high foot traffic.
  • Get Equipped: Purchase essential equipment like gas cylinders and a filling machine.
  • Obtain Permits: Obtain necessary permits from regulatory agencies.

Marketing Strategies

  • Promote your business in local communities.
  • Offer delivery services to gain loyal customers.
  • Provide discounts on bulk purchases.

3. Logistics Business

The recent increase in e-commerce in Nigeria has created a massive demand for logistics services. This business involves delivering goods for businesses and individuals.

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How to Start

  • Transportation system: Invest in a reliable vehicle or motorbike for deliveries.
  • Getting booked: Set up an online booking system to ease the process for your customers and to increase your reach.
  • Collaboration: Partner with e-commerce platforms to gain a wider reach.

Marketing Strategies

  • Advertise through social media and flyers.
  • Offer discounts and limited promotional offers to increase sales.
  • Ensure timely and efficient delivery to build trust.

4. Bakery

Bakeries are a profitable venture due to the consistent demand for bread, cakes, and pastries. With a budget as low as N1000000 you can set up a small-scale bakery.

How to Start

  • Get a space: Rent a space and purchase baking equipment.
  • Draw a Business Plan: Create a comprehensive business plan that outlines your goals, target audience, product offerings, pricing, marketing plan, and includes your financial budget.
  • Certifications: Obtain necessary food safety certifications and permits.
  • Curate your recipes: Develop unique recipes to attract customers.

Marketing Strategies

  • Partner with local supermarkets and vendors.
  • Use Instagram and other social media platforms to showcase your baked goods.
  • Offer free samples during community events.

5. Mini Mart

A mini mart also known as a convenience store, is a small retail outlet that offers a variety of everyday products. These typically include convenience foods, snacks, groceries, drinks, and toiletries.

Mini marts cater to daily consumer needs, making them a steady source of income.

See also: How To Start a successful Super Market Business in Nigeria

How to Start

  • Location: Rent a strategic location in a residential area.
  • Stocking up your mini mart: Stock essential items like groceries and toiletries.
  • Human Resources: Employ staff to ensure smooth operations.

Marketing Strategies

  • Run promotions and discounts for first-time customers.
  • Offer loyalty cards for frequent buyers.
  • Use signage to attract walk-in customers.

6. Catering Services

Catering involves the preparation and delivery of food for clients at different venues, including hotels, restaurants, offices, concerts, and various events.

Starting a catering business can be very profitable because there is always a demand for delicious meals at events. The great news is that you can launch this venture with an investment as low as N1000000.

How to Start

  • Get Equipped: Purchase cooking equipment and hire skilled cooks.
  • Gain recognition: Build your reputation and gain recognition by catering for small events initially.
  • Branding: Invest in great food presentation and packaging.

Marketing Strategies

  • Partner with event planners to gain wider reach.
  • Use social media platforms such as Instagram and Facebook to promote your business and share customer testimonials.
  • Offer free tasting sessions for potential clients.

7. Sales of Building Materials

Selling building materials like cement, tiles, and roofing sheets is lucrative due to Nigeria’s growing construction industry.

See also:  How to Start a Lucrative Block Industry Business in Nigeria

How to Start

  • Choose a Location: Rent a warehouse or shop in a construction-prone area.
  • Sourcing Materials: Purchase building materials from reputable and reliable manufacturers or suppliers.
  • Collaboration: Build a good rapport and partner with contractors and builders to gain new customers.

Marketing Strategies

  • Provide discounts for bulk purchases.
  • Use social media to display available stock.
  • Offer delivery services to sites.

8. Printing Press

In Nigeria, the demand for high-quality printed materials like banners, flyers, and business cards remains strong. A printing press business provides essential services to schools, small businesses, religious organisations, and individuals hosting events.

With an initial investment of N1000000, you can start a small-scale printing press.

See also: A Step-by-Step guide on how to start your own Printing business e-book

How to Start

  • Equipment: Purchase essential equipment like printers and laminators.
  • Get a space: Rent a space in a commercial area.
  • Train staff: Get your staff trained to improve the quality of services rendered.

Marketing Strategies

  • Distribute flyers to local businesses.
  • Offer discounts for bulk printing orders.
  • Create a portfolio to showcase past work.

9. Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Services

A laundry service provides specialized services that deals with the washing, drying, and typically the ironing of clothing items.

Due to the increase in busy professionals outsourcing their laundry needs, the laundry service is a profitable business option.

How to Start

  • Get a space and equipment: Rent a space and purchase washing machines.
  • Delivery: Offer pick-up and delivery services.
  • Product selection: Ensure good detergents are used to avoid ruining clothes.

Marketing Strategies

  • Provide discounts for referrals.
  • Distribute flyers in residential areas.
  • Create a loyalty programme for regular customers.

10. Fish Farming

Fish farming, commonly known as fishery in Nigeria, is the practice of breeding and raising fish in controlled environments for commercial purposes. This venture can be highly profitable and sustainable if done correctly. It is also one of the businesses you can start in Nigeria with as low as N1000000.

There are various types of fish farming in Nigeria which includes Catfish farming, Tilapia fish farming, and Hatchery.

See also: A step-by-step guide to start the fish farming business in Nigeria e-book.

How to Start

  • Get Trained: Training is the cornerstone of building a successful and sustainable business. It equips you with the necessary technical skills needed to run the fish farm. This includes training on pond construction, water quality management, feeding practices, and disease control.
  • Choose the best ponds: Selecting the perfect fish pond demands thorough planning. You can invest in earthen ponds, concrete ponds or tarpaulin tanks.
  • Stock your pond: Purchase fingerlings from reliable hatcheries to ensure healthy stock. Do not over stock the ponds to avoid overcrowding and stress among the fish.
  • Feeds: When choosing their feeds, choose high-quality, nutrient-rich feeds to promote rapid growth and good health. Feed the fish regularly and monitor their feeding habits to prevent wastage and ensure adequate nutrition.

Marketing Strategies

  • Partner with local traders, supermarkets, restaurants, and hotels to drive sales. Also consider selling directly to consumers or through online platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and TikTok.
  • You can process fish into smoked fish, or dried fish to add value to your services and increase sales.
  • Offering promotions and discounts helps draw in new customers and keep existing ones.

11. Daycare Centre

The daycare business is a thriving industry driven by the increasing need for working parents to secure safe and nurturing environments for their children.

It involves providing quality care, learning, and recreational activities for kids. This business offers a steady income and opportunities for growth, especially in urban and suburban areas with a high population of young families.

For more tips on how to set up your daycare business, check out our step-by-step guide e-book.

How to Start

  • Location: Choose a safe and spacious facility.
  • Getting Staffed: Hire trained caregivers and teachers.
  • Equiment: Invest in learning and play equipment.

Marketing Strategies

  • Partner with local schools for referrals.
  • Use social media to showcase the facility’s amenities.
  • Organise open days for parents.

12. Home Decor Store

The home decor business is an exciting venture, driven by the increasing desire of Nigerians to beautify their living and working spaces.

It involves the sale of decorative items like curtains, rugs, vases, and art pieces.

The business offers high-profit margins, especially when catering to clients seeking aesthetic upgrades.

How to Start

  • Stocking Up: Purchase a variety of decor items, including curtains, rugs, and art pieces.
  • Item Display: Arrange and display items attractively in your store to attract customers.
  • Collaboration: Partner with interior designers and other vendors to increase sales.

Marketing Strategies

  • Create a catalogue of your products.
  • Use various social media platforms such as Instagram for digital marketing.
  • Offer seasonal discounts and promotional offers.

13. Cassava Farming

Cassava farming is an important sector in Nigeria’s agricultural sector, as cassava serves as a staple crop and raw material for products like garri, starch, and flour.

The profitability and versatility of cassava makes it a lucrative business idea for entrepreneurs.

See also: A step-by-step guide on how to start your own cassava farming business

How to Start

  • Farm Site: Secure farmland and purchase high-yield cassava stems.
  • Human Resources: Hire labour for planting and harvesting.
  • Value: Explore value-added processing.

Marketing Strategies

  • Supply to local markets and processors.
  • Partner with agro-export companies.
  • Promote your farm’s products online.

14. Cleaning Services

Cleaning services have become an essential part of modern life, especially with the increase in urbanisation and busy lifestyles. The demand for both residential and commercial cleaning services is on the rise, making it a lucrative business opportunity.

You can venture into residential cleaning, commercial cleaning, specialized cleaning or industrial cleaning. Cleaning services is currently in high demand and one of the businesses you can start with as low N1000000 in Nigeria.

How to Start

  • Equipment and Supplies: Purchase cleaning equipment and supplies.
  • Trainings: Train staff on efficient cleaning techniques.
  • Brand Identity: Build a professional image with uniforms and branding.

Marketing Strategies

  • Partner with property managers to gain contracts.
  • Use digital marketing platforms such as Google My Business to gain visibility.
  • Offer competitive pricing for to attract new customers and retain old customers.

15. Event Planning and Decoration

Event planning and decoration is a an exciting and fulfilling field. It involves planning events and designing venues for people. For weddings, corporate events, birthday parties, and other special occasions, event planning and decoration are always priorities.

This industry relies on creativity, attention to detail, and strong organizational skills. With proper planning and execution, event planning can be a profitable venture.

How to Start

  • Collaboration: Partner with vendors like caterers and DJs to reach more clients.
  • Portfolio : Build recognition and reputation by managing small events for a start.
  • Materials: Invest in colorful and quality decoration materials.

Marketing Strategies

  • Use your social media channels to showcase event highlights.
  • Offer discounts for referrals.
  • Partner with event venues for recommendations.

16. Local Snacks Production

The production of local snacks like chin chin, plantain chips, and puff-puff is a profitable venture in Nigeria, due to the consistent demand for these snacks at events, schools, and households.

The relatively low cost of raw materials and high-profit margins make this business a smart choice for entrepreneurs.

How to Start

  • Get equipped: Purchase equipment for production and packaging.
  • Compliance: Ensure compliance with health regulations such as NAFDAC.
  • Create your Recipe: Develop unique flavours to attract customers.

Marketing Strategies

  • Sell to supermarkets and vendors.
  • Use Instagram to promote your products.
  • Offer free samples in strategic locations.

17. Stationery and Office Supplies

The stationery and office supplies business thrive in urban areas and near schools or business hubs. With a start-up capital of N1000000, you can cater to the growing demand for items like notebooks, pens, and office essentials.

This business has a broad customer base, including students, offices, and small businesses, ensuring consistent sales and potential for growth.

How to Start

  • Essential Items: Stock essential items like pens, notebooks, and printers.
  • Choose a good location: Rent a shop close to your target market.
  • Supplies: Source quality supplies from reliable manufacturers and wholesalers.

Marketing Strategies

  • Offer discounts for bulk purchases.
  • Supply directly to offices and schools.
  • Advertise on local notice boards.

18. Sports Viewing Centre

With Nigerians’ passion for football, a sports viewing centre is a profitable venture.

How to Start

  • Get a Space: Rent a space and invest in a projector and chairs.
  • Statelite Subscription: Subscribe to satellite sports channels and ensure that you renew your subscriptions timely.
  • Conducive Environment: Ensure your environment is comfortable for your viewers.

Marketing Strategies

  • Run promotions during major tournaments.
  • Partner with beverage companies for sponsorship.
  • Advertise on social media and local radio stations.

19. Pet Supply Store

A pet supply store provides essential items for pet owners, including food, grooming supplies, and toys. This is a growing niche in urban areas of Nigeria.

How to Start

  • Store location : Rent a shop in urban and pet-friendly neighbourhoods.
  • Products: Source quality products from wholesalers or manufacturers.
  • Varieties: Offer a variety of items for different pets, including dogs, cats, and birds.

Marketing Strategies

  • Partner with veterinary clinics to recommend your store.
  • Advertise on social media using cute pet photos and promotions.
  • Offer discounts for first-time buyers.

20. Thrift Store

Thrift stores are popular for selling quality second-hand items like clothing, accessories, and household items. They attract customers looking for affordable options.

How to Start

  • Get a shop: Secure a shop in a high-traffic area.
  • Source Items: Get items from clearance sales, donations, or wholesale suppliers. Ensure that items are neat and usable.

Marketing Strategies

  • Use social media platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and Facebook to showcase unique finds.
  • Organise and partake in pop-up sales or community events.
  • Offer loyalty programmes for repeat customers.

Key Takeaways From Businesses You Can Start with N1000000 in Nigeria

  • Plan and Research Thoroughly: Investing N1000000 in a business requires careful planning and market research. Understand your target audience and competitors to identify opportunities.
  • Choose a Business That Matches Your Skills: Invest in a business that aligns with your interests and expertise for better chances of success. Passion and knowledge in a specific area can give you a competitive edge.
  • Use Marketing Strategies: Develop creative and cost-effective marketing campaigns. Utilise social media platforms, partnerships, and referral programs to attract and retain customers.
  • Prioritise Customer Satisfaction: Build strong customer relationships by offering quality products and exceptional service. Happy customers often become repeat buyers and provide valuable referrals.
  • Focus on Financial Management: Allocate your capital wisely by budgeting for essentials like inventory, marketing, and operational costs. Monitor expenses and maintain a financial plan to sustain and grow your business.
  • Stay Updated: The business environment is dynamic; adapt to changes and explore innovative solutions. Keep learning and networking to stay ahead of industry trends.

Conclusion

Starting a business with N1000000 in Nigeria is not only possible but can also lead to significant financial freedom when done right. From real estate and logistics to local snacks and fish farming, the opportunities are vast and diverse.

By selecting a business that aligns with your passion and skills, conducting thorough market research, and adopting innovative marketing strategies, you can build a sustainable and profitable venture.

Ready to begin? Start by registering your business today through our Business Registration Services and gain credibility in the marketplace, access professional advice tailored to your business needs with the Ask An Expert service, equip yourself with tools, templates, and resources from the Entrepreneurs.ng Shop to streamline your operations and marketing.

Enroll in the Entrepreneurs Success Blueprint Programme to gain comprehensive knowledge and tools for starting and growing your business.

Don’t wait! Start your journey to entrepreneurship now and take control of your financial future. Subscribe to the Entrepreneurs.ng newsletter for more business insights and opportunities.

FAQs on Businesses You Can Start with N1000000 in Nigeria.

What are the best businesses you can start with N1000000 in Nigeria?

Some of the best options include real estate, logistics, local snacks production, and fish farming. These businesses offer high returns with manageable risks.

What business can you start with N1000000 in Nigeria that requires minimal experience?

Businesses like thrift stores, mini marts, and local snacks production are beginner-friendly and require minimal expertise to start.

Can N1000000 be enough to scale a small business in Nigeria?

Yes, N1000000 can cover initial setup costs and provide room for growth if allocated wisely. Focus on reinvesting profits to expand operations.

What are good marketing strategies for businesses you can start with N1000000?

Take advantage of social media advertising, partner with complementary businesses, offer loyalty programs, and utilise word-of-mouth referrals to boost sales and visibility.

How can I ensure profitability in my business?

Focus on providing quality products or services, building strong customer relationships, and maintaining effective cost management strategies.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Rebecca Ogunbayo

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