Starting a business is often portrayed as something that requires a huge capital injection, high-end equipment, and a fully furnished office space. But here’s the truth: some of the most successful businesses started with nothing more than a mobile phone, a social media account, and a determined mind.
At BoostHer, we believe that women can build thriving businesses—even on a shoestring budget. Here’s how you can start where you are, with what you have.
1. Shift Your Mindset: Resourcefulness Over Resources
The first asset you need isn’t money—it’s mindset. You don’t need to wait until everything is “perfect” to start. Focus on what’s already in your hands: skills, knowledge, a network, or even a smartphone. Instead of asking, “What do I need?” ask, “What can I do with what I have?”
2. Start with a Problem, Not a Product
You don’t need a fancy inventory or a high-cost prototype. Look for real problems in your community or network. Ask yourself:
- What are people complaining about?
- What services are lacking?
- What do people already come to me for?
Solving a problem with a simple, low-cost solution is the fastest way to test a business idea without big investment.
3. Use Free and Low-Cost Tools
There are dozens of tools available that can help you start your business with little to no cost:
- Marketing: Canva (for design), Mailchimp (email), Instagram & WhatsApp (free promotion)
- Finance: Wave or Google Sheets (track expenses and income)
- Sales: Paystack, Flutterwave, or simple mobile money transfers
- Operations: Google Docs, Zoom, Trello (team collaboration & planning)
Your smartphone can be your entire office.
4. Go Lean: Test Before You Scale
Don’t buy 100 units of product if you haven’t sold one. Start small:
- Offer a pilot service to friends or family.
- Run a pre-order campaign to test interest before spending.
- Host a pop-up sale or a soft launch via Instagram stories.
Validate your idea with real people and real feedback before investing big.
5. Monetize Your Skills Before Products
If capital is truly limited, consider starting with what you already know how to do:
- Can you braid hair? Offer mobile hair services.
- Are you good at writing? Try freelance copywriting or resume editing.
- Do you bake? Start with custom orders via WhatsApp or Instagram.
Service-based businesses often require less startup capital and can generate income quickly.
6. Build a Community Before You Sell
Don’t wait until you have a full business plan before talking to people. Start sharing your journey online, talk about your idea, and engage your potential customers.
You can:
- Create content around your niche
- Educate or entertain your audience
- Join communities like She Leads Africa or BoostHer cohorts to connect and learn
Your early supporters can become your first customers—or your first investors.
7. Reinvest Your Profits Wisely
Once you begin earning, resist the urge to splurge. Reinvest in areas that can help you grow sustainably—like better packaging, a new tool, or skill development.
Remember, every naira counts. Track your spending, stay lean, and focus on creating value.
Final Thoughts
Starting small doesn’t mean staying small. Many successful women entrepreneurs started with less than ₦10,000 and turned it into thriving businesses.
You don’t need to wait. You don’t need permission. You can start your business today, with what you already have. And as you grow, BoostHer and communities like She Leads Africa are here to support you every step of the way.
Are you a woman ready to launch or grow your hustle? Applications for the SLA BoostHer cohort is open soon—Apply Here