10 profitable businesses you can start in Uganda with UGX 1,000,000

Starting a business can be challenging, especially when working with limited capital. However, with UGX 1,000,000, you can launch a profitable business in Uganda.

Here are ten business ideas you can start with this amount.

1. Chapati Stall

A chapati stall is one of the simplest and fairly profitable businesses to start. With around UGX 600,000, you can buy ingredients, a charcoal stove, frying pans, and other essentials.

The remaining amount can be used for rent and miscellaneous expenses. Given the high demand for chapati, this business can quickly turn into a stable income source.

2. Nail Clinic

If you have an interest in beauty, a nail clinic is a great option. You can learn nail art and pedicures from a friend or a professional for about UGX 50,000.

You will need a chair (UGX 300,000) and a table (UGX 150,000). The remaining amount can be spent on rent and buying nail polish, files, and other consumables.

3. Salon Business

Starting a small salon for men, women, or both is possible with UGX 1,000,000. You can purchase hair-cutting machines, mirrors, chairs, and other basic salon equipment.

The rest of the capital can go towards rent and additional supplies. Over time, you can reinvest in expanding the business.

4. Cosmetics Business

Selling cosmetics is a profitable venture because people use these products daily. With as little as UGX 3,000, you can buy wholesale cosmetic items and start selling them.

To succeed, find a strategic location and set up a small shop. Alternatively, you can start online through social media platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook.

5. Selling women’s hair & Synthetics

Women’s hair products, including synthetic wigs and braids, are in high demand. You can buy synthetic hair at UGX 8,000 – 10,000 per piece and start selling at a small stall or online.

A good location in busy areas like downtown Kampala can help your business grow quickly.

6. Boda Boda business

If you are interested in transportation, you can use UGX 1,000,000 as a down payment to get a boda boda on loan.

Most boda boda financing companies allow flexible weekly or monthly payments. In about two to three years, you can fully own the bike while making daily income from rides.

7. Selling Wi-Fi services

Internet is a necessity, and many people are willing to pay for reliable access. You can buy a mobile router or install fiber internet at home, then resell the connection to your neighbors.

With up to 50 devices connected, you can charge UGX 2,000 – 4,000 per day per person. After paying the monthly subscription, the rest of the money remains as profit.

8. Home laundry business

With UGX 850,000, you can buy a basic Hisense washing machine and start a laundry business. Offer affordable rates for washing clothes, beddings, and curtains.

Market your services in your neighbourhood and among friends. Your expenses will mainly be electricity and detergent, while the rest is profit.

9. Making liquid soap

Soap-making is a low-cost business with high demand. You can spend UGX 200,000 to learn the process and another UGX 200,000 on raw materials.

The best part is that you can operate this business from home, eliminating rent costs. Sell your soap to households, restaurants, and schools to grow your customer base.

10. Selling perfumes

Perfumes are an untapped business opportunity in Uganda. You can start by buying perfume oils in bulk and small bottles for repackaging.

Depending on the bottle size, you can sell for UGX 5,000 – 15,000. Marketing through social media can help attract customers quickly.

Start small, reinvest your profits, and expand over time.