Last updated on March 2nd, 2024 at 05:29 pm
Are you looking for business ideas to start with 500k in Uganda?
In this blog post, we will explore 19 profitable business ideas that you can start with a capital of 500,000 Ugandan shillings.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced entrepreneur, these ideas have the potential to help you generate income and achieve financial independence.
Let’s dive right in!
Here is list of most profitable business you can start with 500k in Uganda
- Restaurant
- Car wash/ night parking
- Home cleaning
- Barbershop
- Rice and posho
- Phone charging and gadget Business
- Sale of Bedsheets and Pillowcases
- Shoe selling
- Chapati making
- Muchomo selling join
- Football kibanda
- Selling breakfast/ simple lunch
- Selling ready-to-eat fruits or greens
- Selling good quality Owino (used clothes) or Nabugabo clothes
- Photocopying and printing
- Supply movies to offices
- Fish Farming
- Open a Salon
- Dress Designing
- Bakery
Business to start with 500k in Uganda include:
1. Restaurant
Starting a small restaurant can be a great business idea with 500k. You can serve affordable and delicious local dishes that cater to the needs of your target market. With proper planning and management, your restaurant can become a popular spot for food lovers in your area.
2. Car wash/night parking
Setting up a car wash and night parking facility can be a lucrative business venture. Many people in Uganda own vehicles and are constantly in need of car wash services. Offering additional services such as night parking can attract more customers and increase your revenue streams.
3. Home cleaning
In today’s busy world, many people are willing to pay for professional home cleaning services. With 500k, you can invest in cleaning equipment and hire a small team to provide quality cleaning services to households in your area. Marketing your services effectively can help you attract clients and grow your business.
4. Barbershop
Opening a barbershop is another profitable business idea. Men in Uganda regularly visit barbershops for grooming services. By creating a comfortable and welcoming environment, providing skilled barbers, and offering competitive prices, you can establish a loyal customer base and generate steady income.
5. Rice and posho
Ugandans consume rice and posho on a daily basis. With 500k, you can start a small business selling these staple foods. By sourcing quality products, offering competitive prices, and ensuring consistent availability, you can attract customers and build a profitable business.
6. Phone charging and gadget business
In today’s digital age, phone charging and gadget businesses are in high demand. With a small investment, you can set up a charging station where people can charge their phones and other electronic devices. You can also sell phone accessories and other gadgets to supplement your income.
7. Sale of Bedsheets and Pillowcases
Starting a business selling bedsheets and pillowcases can be a profitable venture. With 500k, you can source quality bedding products and market them to individuals, hotels, and guesthouses. Providing a variety of designs and sizes can help you cater to the diverse needs of your customers.
8. Shoe selling( is good Business to start with 500k in Uganda)
Ugandans have a strong affinity for fashionable footwear. With 500k, you can start a shoe-selling business, either online or in a physical store. By sourcing stylish and affordable shoes, targeting the right audience, and providing excellent customer service, you can establish a successful venture.
9. Chapati making
Chapatis are a popular food item in Uganda. With 500k, you can start a chapati-making business. You can sell freshly made chapatis to individuals, schools, and offices. Offering delivery services and maintaining consistent quality can help you attract and retain customers.
10. Muchomo selling joint
Muchomo, or grilled meat, is a favorite delicacy in Uganda. Starting a muchomo selling joint can be a profitable business idea. By offering a variety of grilled meats, creating a pleasant ambiance, and promoting your business through social media and word-of-mouth, you can attract meat lovers and build a loyal customer base.
11. Football Kibanda
With 500k, you can set up a small kibanda (food stall) near a local football field. Football matches attract a large crowd, creating a steady customer base. Offer breakfast and simple lunch options such as chapati, rolex, or local dishes. Provide quick service and focus on quality to attract loyal customers.
12. Fruits or Greens Stall( is a unique business to start with 500k in Uganda)
Uganda’s fertile soil and abundant agricultural resources make it an ideal location for selling fresh fruits or greens. Invest in a small stall or cart and purchase a variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables. Set up in a busy market or near offices to capture both working professionals and casual shoppers.
13. Secondhand Clothing Business
The Owino and Nabugabo markets in Uganda are well-known for their thriving secondhand clothing trade. With 500k, you can start a small stall or online store to sell good quality used clothes. Curate a diverse collection and offer competitive prices to attract customers who appreciate affordable fashion.
14. Photocopying and Printing Services is also a business you can 100k
Even though you start can need 500,000 Ugandan shillings to start this business, it also a business you can start with 100k so capital should not be your limiting factor to start this business.
In today’s digital age, there is still a demand for photocopying and printing services. Invest in a small photocopying machine and printer, and offer services such as document printing, scanning, and photocopying. Target nearby businesses, schools, and individuals who require these services regularly.
15. Office Movie Supply
Consider supplying movies to offices as a unique business idea. Create a collection of popular movies and TV series on DVDs or USB drives. Approach offices and offer a rental service or sell the movies directly. This idea can be especially lucrative during lunch breaks or after work hours.
16. Fish Farming
If you have access to a small piece of land or a pond, fish farming can be a profitable venture. Start with a few fish tanks, purchase fingerlings, and provide proper feeding and care. As the fish grow, you can sell them to local restaurants, hotels, or individuals who appreciate fresh fish.
17. Salon Services
The beauty industry is thriving in Uganda, and offering salon services can be a lucrative business opportunity. Invest in basic salon equipment, such as hairdryers, hair clippers, and beauty products. Set up your salon or offer mobile services to cater to customers’ convenience.
18. Dress Designing(another unique business to start with 500k in Uganda)
If you have a passion for fashion and sewing skills, starting a dress designing business can be a great choice. Purchase a sewing machine and materials, and offer custom-made dresses or alterations. Advertise your services online and through word-of-mouth to attract clients.
19. Bakery
Ugandans love freshly baked goods, making the bakery business a promising option. Invest in baking equipment and ingredients to start small-scale production. Offer a variety of baked goods like bread, cakes, pastries, and cookies. Focus on quality and unique flavors to stand out from the competition.
In conclusion, starting a business with 500k in Uganda is possible if you choose the right business idea and execute it well.
Consider your interests, skills, and target market when deciding which business to start. With dedication, hard work, and effective marketing strategies, you can turn your small investment into a successful and profitable venture.
Remember to conduct thorough market research, provide excellent customer service, and constantly innovate to stay ahead.
