7 Cheap Businesses Ideas for Aspiring Entrepreneurs in 2025

In today’s world, starting a business no longer requires a massive investment or a formal office. With creativity, strategy, and a little startup capital, many low-cost businesses remain under the radar—but have the potential to generate serious income.

These aren’t your typical “start a blog” or “sell on Amazon” ideas. These are less saturated opportunities that often go unnoticed but can bring you steady profits if approached correctly.

Here are 7 cheap businesses Ideas for Aspiring Entrepreneurs in 2025:

1. Mobile Car Wash and Detailing Service

Startup Cost: ₦30,000–₦100,000 ($20–$70)

Forget building a car wash station—people are increasingly looking for convenient, at-home services, and mobile car washing is booming. All you need is:

• Buckets, sponges, soaps, and microfiber cloths

• Portable water source or waterless wash formula

• A bicycle or small vehicle to move around

Why it works:

• Most people don’t have time to visit a car wash.

• High repeat business potential.

• You can charge premium for detailing services.

Potential Monthly Profit:

₦100,000–₦300,000+ depending on your customer base and area.

2. Selling Frozen Foods from Home

Startup Cost: ₦50,000–₦200,000 ($35–$140)

If you have a freezer and a small corner of your house, you can turn it into a mini frozen food business. Sell items like:

• Frozen chicken, turkey, fish, and snail

• Soups and stews (already cooked)

• Packaged vegetables or blended pepper mix

Why it works:

• Busy people want convenient, ready-to-cook ingredients.

• You don’t need a shop—just a good network and referrals.

Tip:

Advertise on WhatsApp status, Facebook groups, and through word of mouth.

3. Recharge Card and Data Reselling Business

Startup Cost: ₦5,000–₦20,000 ($3–$14)

This is one of the cheapest businesses to start in Nigeria or any country with a mobile market. You earn commissions by selling:

• Airtime top-ups

• Data bundles

• Cable TV subscriptions (DSTV, GOtv)

• Electricity token (prepaid)

Why it works:

• Everyone uses airtime and data.

• No shop needed—you can sell from your phone.

• Customers are loyal if you’re reliable.

Tools needed:

• Smartphone

• A trusted VTU (Virtual Top-Up) platform like Clubkonnect, VTpass, or TopUp Africa

4. Laundry Pickup and Delivery Service

Startup Cost: ₦20,000–₦100,000 ($14–$70)

Don’t start a laundry shop—start a laundry logistics service. Partner with local laundromats and offer to:

• Pick up and deliver customers’ laundry

• Charge a small fee per delivery

• Add a convenience charge and keep the profit

Why it works:

• Saves time for working professionals.

• You don’t need washing machines—just transportation and coordination.

Bonus:

Eventually, you can scale into your own full-service laundry operation.

5. E-Waste Collection and Resale: Cheap Businesses

Startup Cost: ₦10,000–₦50,000 ($7–$35)

Most people have old, broken phones, computers, and electronics lying around. You can:

• Buy broken electronics in bulk at cheap prices

• Sell them to repair technicians or recyclers

• Break down parts and resell valuable components (screens, batteries, metals)

Why it works:

• Low competition and high demand in electronics repair markets.

• Many people will even give you their e-waste for free.

Target:

Schools, offices, tech hubs, and individuals with old gadgets.

6. Mini Home-Based Smoothie/Juice Bar

Startup Cost: ₦30,000–₦80,000 ($21–$56)

If you have a blender, fruits, and a cooler, you can launch a healthy drinks business from your kitchen. Offer:

• Smoothies (banana, pineapple, tiger nut, etc.)

• Fresh fruit juices (no preservatives)

• Detox blends and meal replacements

Why it works:

• Health-conscious lifestyles are trending.

• You can market on social media and deliver locally.

• High-profit margin per cup (₦500–₦1,500)

Marketing Tips: Cheap Businesses

Start on WhatsApp and Instagram, and offer referral discounts.

7. Urban Snail Farming (Backyard Snail Business)

Startup Cost: ₦20,000–₦60,000 ($14–$42)

Snail farming is one of the most underrated agribusinesses with very low risk and high returns. All you need is:

• A small enclosed space (backyard or cage)

• Snail breeds (Achatina marginata is common in Nigeria)

• Basic knowledge of snail feeding and moisture control

Why it works:

• Snails are in high demand, especially during festive seasons.

• They multiply quickly and require little space and food.

Profit Potential: Cheap Businesses

You can sell in bulk to restaurants, markets, or individuals. One snail sells for ₦300–₦1,000+.

Final Thoughts: Cheap Businesses

You don’t need millions to start a profitable business—just the right idea, a bit of capital, and the drive to make it work. The businesses above are low-cost, low-risk, and low-competition, yet full of potential.