Most Profitable Small Businesses to Start in Zambia (2025 Edition)

Zambia’s entrepreneurial spirit is thriving. From the busy streets of Lusaka to the rural trading centers of Mongu and Kasama, small businesses are becoming the backbone of local economies. But while many Zambians want to start a business, not all small ventures are created equal. The key question becomes: what are the most profitable small businesses to start in Zambia today?

This comprehensive guide reveals the top high-return business ideas tailored to Zambia’s unique economy, culture, and consumer needs. Whether you’re starting with limited capital or ready to scale up, these businesses have proven profitable in both urban and rural settings.

What Makes a Business Profitable in Zambia?

Before we dive into the business ideas, it’s important to understand the traits of high-profit small businesses in Zambia:

• High Demand: Products or services people use daily (e.g., food, airtime, data).

• Low Overhead: Businesses that don’t need expensive equipment or large inventory.

• Repeat Customers: Recurring transactions drive sustainable income.

• Scalability: Ability to expand from K1,000 to K10,000 and beyond.

• Adaptability: Can operate in various provinces or via digital tools.

Top 15 Most Profitable Small Businesses to Start in Zambia

These ideas combine low-to-medium startup costs with high revenue potential — if executed correctly.

1. Poultry Farming (Broilers & Layers)

Startup Capital: ZMW 3,000–10,000
Why It’s Profitable:

• High demand for chicken and eggs

• Fast turnaround (broilers ready in 6 weeks)

• Eggs sell daily = steady cash flow

Add-Ons: Sell manure, start your own hatchery, supply to restaurants

Tip: Use WhatsApp or Facebook to advertise and build local clientele.

2. Mobile Money Booth (MTN, Airtel, Zamtel)

Startup Capital: ZMW 1,000–3,000 (float + booth)
Why It’s Profitable:

• High transaction volume

• Commissions earned on every deposit, withdrawal, and airtime sale

• Can combine with other services (e.g., SIM cards, snacks)

Daily Earnings Potential: ZMW 100–300 in busy areas

Location Tip: Place your booth near markets, bus stations, or schools.

Meanwhile, you can also check out our guide on: What Businesses Are Profitable in Zambia? A 2025 Guide to Smart Investment Opportunities

And: Affordable Internet Providers in Zambia: 2025 Guide to Fast and Budget-Friendly Connectivity

3. Salon or Barber Shop

Startup Capital: ZMW 2,000–6,000
Why It’s Profitable:

• Hair grows every day = consistent demand

• Add-on services (haircuts, dreadlocks, tinting, braiding) boost profits

• High markup on beauty products

Bonus: Home service or mobile barbering adds convenience = higher charges

Tools Needed: Clippers, mirror, chairs, generator (optional)

4. Fast Food & Street Food Business

Startup Capital: ZMW 1,500–4,000
Why It’s Profitable:

• Zambians eat out often, especially in towns

• Snacks like fritters, meat pies, roasted maize, and sausage sell fast

• High margin on food (low cost, high price)

Daily Profit Potential: ZMW 200–500 or more

Tip: Partner with delivery apps like AfriDelivery or advertise on TikTok/WhatsApp.

Meanwhile, you can also check out our guide on: Popular Local Food Delivery Apps in Zambia: 2025 Guide to Ordering Meals on the Go

5. Mobile Phone Accessories & Repairs

Startup Capital: ZMW 3,000–7,000
Why It’s Profitable:

• Over 10 million mobile phone users in Zambia

• Chargers, covers, headphones sell daily

• Repairs (screens, batteries, ports) offer huge margins

Upsell: Add services like mobile banking, phone unlocking, or app installs

Location Tip: Bus stops, markets, near mobile booths or universities

6. Online Freelancing or Content Creation

Startup Capital: ZMW 0–3,000
Why It’s Profitable:

• Work from home, earn in USD

• Offer services like writing, graphic design, video editing

• Global demand on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer

Income Potential: USD 100–1,000+ monthly

Bonus: No rent, inventory, or staff required

7. Car Wash & Auto Detailing

Startup Capital: ZMW 2,000–8,000
Why It’s Profitable:

• Many Zambians own cars but lack time to clean them

• Low-cost setup with buckets, water supply, and staff

• Add services like engine wash, upholstery, waxing

Best Locations: Near malls, offices, or busy junctions

Marketing Tip: Offer a loyalty card (5 washes = 1 free)

8. Grocery & Kantemba Shop

Startup Capital: ZMW 3,000–10,000
Why It’s Profitable:

• Sells daily essentials (sugar, salt, eggs, cooking oil)

• Constant foot traffic

• High turnover even with small margins

Add Value: Sell fresh produce, offer mobile money, or sell airtime

Tip: Build trust with customers — credit (kaloba) increases retention.

Meanwhile, you can also check out our guide on: How to Start a Small Business with Low Capital in Zambia: A 2025 Entrepreneur’s Guide to Thriving on a Budget

9. Pig Farming

Startup Capital: ZMW 5,000–12,000
Why It’s Profitable:

• Pigs mature quickly (5–6 months)

• High litter size (8–12 piglets per birth)

• Pork demand rising in towns

Bonus: Sell to butcheries, hotels, or directly to consumers

Note: Requires basic animal health knowledge

10. Printing & Photocopying Services

Startup Capital: ZMW 3,000–8,000
Why It’s Profitable:

• Schools, colleges, and offices constantly need printing services

• Add typing, CV writing, business cards, ID photo printing

• Good margins on paper-based services

Hotspot Locations: Near schools, UNZA, CBU, Evelyn Hone, or civic centers

11. Rental Business (Chairs, Tents, Sound Systems)

Startup Capital: ZMW 4,000–15,000
Why It’s Profitable:

• Every weekend has a wedding, funeral, or church gathering

• Rent out once, keep earning for years

• High return on low operational costs

Marketing Tip: List your service on Facebook and local event planners’ groups.

12. Selling Charcoal or Firewood

Startup Capital: ZMW 500–2,500
Why It’s Profitable:

• High demand in low-income areas

• Daily sales with low input

• Easily transported by wheelbarrow, bicycle, or small vehicle

Tip: Sell in sacks or pre-packed bundles for convenience

Note: Ensure legal and sustainable sourcing to avoid fines.

13. Baking Business (Home-Based or Mobile)

Startup Capital: ZMW 800–3,000
Why It’s Profitable:

• Cakes, cupcakes, and scones sell well at events and offices

• High markup on flour-based goods

• Operate from home and deliver via motorcycle or bicycle

Popular Niches: Birthday cakes, corporate orders, baby showers

Bonus: Offer lessons to increase income

14. Beekeeping & Honey Production

Startup Capital: ZMW 2,500–5,000
Why It’s Profitable:

• Zambian honey is in high demand locally and abroad

• Low maintenance after setup

• Organic honey sells for premium prices

Add-Ons: Beeswax, royal jelly, natural cosmetics

Tip: Join a cooperative or get training from forestry offices

Meanwhile, you can also check out our guide on: Top 20 Unique Business Ideas for Rural Areas in Zambia (2025 Guide)

15. Fish Farming (Tilapia or Catfish)

Startup Capital: ZMW 4,000–10,000
Why It’s Profitable:

• Protein demand is high; fish is a preferred option

• Short production cycle

• Sell to restaurants, homes, or market traders

Tip: Dig small ponds or use tanks for urban fish farming

Extra Revenue: Offer fish fries on weekends

Tips to Maximize Profitability in Any Small Business

No matter which business you choose, these strategies will help you succeed faster:

• Start small but smart — test your idea before going big

• Market consistently — word of mouth + social media = growth

• Keep records — track every kwacha in and out

• Offer excellent service — Zambians value trust and consistency

• Use mobile money — simplify payments for your customers

• Reinvest profits — don’t spend too soon; scale first

• Diversify income — add related services or products as you grow

Final Thoughts: Build Wealth, Not Just Income

In Zambia, profitability doesn’t depend on how big you start — it depends on how smart you operate. With small capital, the right mindset, and a good location, you can build a sustainable business that supports your family and your future.

Whether you’re starting in a township, rural village, or busy town center, the most profitable small businesses in Zambia are within reach — if you’re ready to take the first step.