Small Businesses with Low Start-up Costs in the Philippines (P30,000.00 and below)

Most of the time, a small business does not necessarily mean small capital. Many small business start with a cost of around P300,000.00, very hard to procure for someone who earns around P35,000.00 per month, let alone for those who earn less.

But there are some gems here and there that can earn you quite a lot if you mix in a lot of hard work, street smarts and a bit of research to your P30,000.00.

Here are some ideas for small businesses with low start-up costs, P30,000.00 and below.

1. Food Carts

Of course, we are passionate when it comes to food stalls and this first on the list. Food carts are small kiosks you can put almost anywhere. Our company, Silver Ace, have food carts for franchise exactly P30,000.00, which includes initial inventory. You can man the food cart and locate the stall in front of your house to remove some costs.

2. Lugawan

Have you ever wondered why there is a Pinoy slang, “tubong lugaw”? It is because lugaw earns more than five times its cost. Now that is impressive. If you know a place where people wake up and rush in the morning, set up a lugaw business there and you will see why the simple rice porridge is one of the best Pinoy small business there is. On the top of my head, I can think that lugaw would be a great business at jeepney terminals, near schools and inside low to middle class homes.

3. Selling Things via Social Media

Social media has created a new business opportunities for Filipinos. Since Pinoys love social media, there is a market for impulse buying of visually appealing products. Products like couple’s shirts, custom pillows, cakes and cookies now have a new marketing channel in Facebook and Instagram. Buying a few statement shirts from Divi and selling them at a mark-up on FB won’t cost you above P10,000.00. Selling is easy too, as long as you take good pictures.

4. Purified Water Business

Guess what? Reverse osmosis water purification system costs less than P15k. You can use the remaining money to se up your store and you will be starting your very own water purification business.

5. Bookkeeping Services

A bit of knowledge with the Philippine taxation system is a good side job too. You can offer up bookkeeping services once a week to small business owners (like small shops and restaurants). Use the money to take up bookkeeping seminars or hire an accountant to part time every weekend for you. A bit of networking and you will have your very first client who wants to outsource this very boring clerical job!