Running a small business in the Philippines is an excellent idea due to the country’s growing economy, supportive government policies, and a large, young population eager for innovative products and services. Filipinos have a strong entrepreneurial spirit, making the environment ripe for small business ventures.
Additionally, the low cost of living and affordable labor make starting and sustaining a business easier. Whether you want to supplement your income or pursue your passion, starting a small business can offer financial stability and personal fulfillment. Here are some small business ideas you can explore.
21 Patok na Negosyo Ngayong 2024
Laundry Shop Business
Photo from E&J Laundry
Start-up cost: ₱250,000 – ₱500,000
Things that you need: Commercial washing machines, dryers, detergents, fabric softeners, and a rental space.
A laundry shop offers washing, drying, and sometimes ironing services. It’s a staple in busy urban areas where residents lack time or space for laundry. Putting up a laundry business in the Philippines is a good venture. With the rise of condominiums and apartments, the demand for laundry services is consistently high. Laundry shops can cater to individual customers, small businesses, and even local hotels.
Sari-Sari Store
Start-up cost: ₱20,000 – ₱50,000
Things that you need: Shelving, basic inventory of goods, and a small space, preferably at home.
A sari-sari store is a small neighborhood convenience store that sells everyday essentials, from snacks to household items. It is a one-stop-shop for community members, making it an essential part of Filipino culture. Start your sari-sari store in the Philippines now, as this requires capital as low as ₱20,000. Sari-sari stores thrive in residential areas, providing convenience and fostering community relationships.
Cellphone Loading Business
Start-up cost: ₱5,000 – ₱10,000
Things that you need: A mobile phone, a load retailer SIM card, and initial load credits.
This business involves selling prepaid loads for mobile phones, a necessity in a country with a large mobile user base. With the widespread use of mobile phones for communication, social media, and online transactions, the demand for prepaid loads remains high. It’s a low-cost business that can be easily integrated with other small businesses.
Ukay-Ukay Business
Photo from Jomaira Collection Ukay Ukay
Start-up cost: ₱50,000 – ₱200,000
Things that you need: Second-hand goods supplier, display racks, and retail space.
An ukay-ukay store sells second-hand clothes, shoes, and accessories at affordable prices, catering to budget-conscious shoppers. With the growing awareness of sustainable fashion, ukay-ukay shops are becoming more popular. These stores can source products from various suppliers, including imports from other countries.
Reseller Business
Start-up cost: ₱10,000 – ₱100,000
Things that you need: Reliable suppliers, an online platform, and marketing skills.
Reselling involves buying products in bulk at a lower price and selling them at a profit, typically online. This flexible business model can cater to various niches like fashion, electronics, and beauty products. Resellers often use social media platforms and e-commerce websites to reach a broader audience.
Carinderia Business
Start-up Cost: ₱30,000 – ₱100,000
Things that you need: Cooking utensils, ingredients, and a small dining area.
A carinderia is a small eatery that offers affordable Filipino home-cooked meals, ideal for busy individuals. Carinderias are commonly found in urban areas, serving workers and students who prefer budget-friendly and quick meals. The variety of dishes and the homey atmosphere make carinderias a local favorite.
Lugaw Business
Start-up Cost: ₱10,000 – ₱30,000
Things that you need: Cooking equipment, rice, meat, and condiments.
Selling lugaw (rice porridge) is popular in the Philippines, especially during rainy seasons and cold weather. Lugaw is a versatile dish served plain or with toppings like chicken, pork, and boiled eggs. It’s a comforting and affordable meal that appeals to all ages.
Palamig Recipe for Business
Start-up cost: ₱5,000 – ₱20,000
Things that you need: Ingredients, large containers, and a stall or mobile setup.
Palamig, or chilled drinks, are a hit in tropical climates. They include sago’t gulaman, buko juice, and other sweet beverages. These refreshing drinks are popular in public markets, schools, and busy streets, especially during hot weather.
Milk Tea Business
Photo from I Love Milk tea
Start-up cost: ₱150,000 – ₱500,000
Things that you need: Tea leaves, milk, flavorings, cups, and a storefront.
Milk tea shops have become increasingly popular, offering various flavors and customizable options. This trend, driven by younger consumers, shows no signs of slowing down. Milk tea shops often become social hubs where people gather to enjoy their favorite drinks and socialize. Put your plan into action now and start your milk tea business.
Meat Shop Business
Start-up cost: ₱100,000 – ₱300,000
Things that you need: Freezers, weighing scales, and a consistent supply of meat products.
A meat shop sells fresh and frozen meats, catering to daily household needs. Meat shops are essential in every community, providing a convenient source of protein for families. They often offer a variety of meats, including pork, beef, chicken, and seafood.
Bakery Business
Photo from ST Lucido Bakery
Start-up cost: ₱50,000 – ₱200,000
Things that you need: Ovens, baking ingredients, and a display area
A bakery offers a variety of breads, pastries, and cakes, a staple in Filipino households. Bakeries can cater to both everyday needs and special occasions, making them a versatile business. The aroma of freshly baked goods often attracts customers, creating a loyal customer base.
Salon Business
Start-up cost: ₱100,000 – ₱500,000
Things that you need: Salon chairs, styling tools, and beauty products.
A salon provides haircuts, styling, and beauty treatments for both men and women. It is a go-to place for personal grooming and self-care, often offering additional services like nail care and massages. With the right skills and marketing, a salon can build a strong reputation and customer loyalty.
Bike Shop Business
Start-up cost: ₱100,000 – ₱300,000
Things that you need: Bicycles, repair tools, and a display area.
A bike shop sells bicycles and related accessories, catering to fitness enthusiasts and eco-conscious commuters. Biking has become a popular activity with the growing emphasis on health and sustainability. Bike shops can also offer repair services, further increasing their revenue streams.
Food Cart Franchise Business
Start-up cost: ₱30,000 – ₱300,000
Things that you need: Franchise agreement, cart, and initial inventory.
Food cart franchises offer popular snacks and meals in high-traffic areas, providing brand recognition and support. This business model is appealing due to its low start-up cost and the backing of an established brand. Food carts are versatile and can be placed in malls, schools, and busy streets.
Ice Candy Business
Start-up cost ₱5,000 – ₱15,000
Things that you need: Freezers, molds, and flavoring ingredients.
Selling ice candy and frozen treats in various flavors is an affordable business in high demand, especially among children. Ice candy is easy to make and can be sold in schools, parks, and neighborhoods. This business is trendy during the summer months.
Water Refilling Station Business
Photo from MB WATER REFILLING STATION
Start-up cost: ₱500,000 – ₱1,000,000
Things that you need: Filtration equipment, water containers, and a refilling station.
A water refilling station sells purified drinking water, addressing the need for safe, clean water. This business is crucial in areas where tap water quality is not reliable. Water stations often offer home delivery services, adding convenience for customers.
Rice Retailing Business
Start-up cost: ₱50,000 – ₱200,000
Things that you need: Rice storage bins, weighing scales, and a reliable rice supplier.
Rice retailing involves selling various types of rice, a staple food in the Philippines. This business is essential in every community, providing different rice varieties to meet customer preferences. It requires minimal space and can be easily managed.
Hardware Business
Start-up cost: ₱500,000 – ₱1,500,000
Things that you need: Inventory of tools and materials, shelving, and retail space.
A hardware store sells construction materials and tools, catering to homeowners and contractors. This business is essential in areas experiencing development and construction. Offering a wide range of products and knowledgeable staff can set a hardware store apart from competitors.
Carwash Business
Start-up cost: ₱100,000 – ₱500,000
Things that you need: Pressure washers, cleaning agents, and a location with a water supply.
A carwash provides cleaning services for vehicles, a necessity for car owners. Carwashes can offer various services, from basic washing to complete detailing. They can be set up in busy areas or near residential communities to attract regular customers.
Tshirt Printing Business
Start-up cost: ₱50,000 – ₱200,000
Things that you need: Printing equipment, blank t-shirts, and design software.
This business involves printing custom designs on T-shirts and catering to individuals and businesses. T-shirt printing is popular for events, marketing campaigns, and personal use. With the right equipment and creative designs, this business can tap into a broad market.
Ihaw-Ihaw Business
Start-up cost: ₱20,000 – ₱100,000
Things that you need: Grill, skewers, and marinated meats.
Ihaw-ihaw stalls sell grilled meats, a popular street food in the Philippines. These stalls are a favorite among Filipinos for their flavorful and affordable grilled dishes. They thrive in busy streets, markets, and night bazaars, attracting locals and tourists.
Final Thoughts
Starting a small business in the Philippines can be both rewarding and profitable. With a range of options to suit various budgets and interests, aspiring entrepreneurs have numerous opportunities to explore. There is something for everyone, from essential services like laundry shops and sari-sari stores to trendy ventures like milk tea shops and t-shirt printing businesses. Choose a company that aligns with your passion and skills to ensure long-term success. Investing time in market research, planning, and understanding your target audience will significantly increase your chances of thriving in the competitive landscape.
