Starting a business while you’re young is not just about making money — it’s about gaining experience, building networks, and learning how to solve problems. These ten business ideas are affordable, easy to start, and suit the lifestyle of young South Africans who want to hustle smartly and build something of their own. They’re inspired by the “100 Most Profitable Businesses to Start in South Africa” list by Dream Team Capital, and tailored for the youth who are ready to take initiative.
1. Tutoring Services
If you’re good at school subjects like Maths, Science or even isiZulu, you can start tutoring learners or fellow students. Many parents are willing to pay for extra lessons, especially in communities where school classrooms are overcrowded. It’s flexible, pays well, and requires almost no startup costs. All you need is knowledge, patience, and good communication. You can even offer lessons online through Zoom or WhatsApp.
2. Laundry Services
This is one of the easiest services to start in student areas, res zones, or inner-city neighbourhoods. Many young people don’t have time to do laundry, or access to machines. If you can offer quick, reliable washing and ironing, people will gladly pay for the convenience. You can start small — even with your own washing machine — and expand by hiring friends when demand grows.
3. Digital Content Creation
South African businesses are constantly looking for help with TikTok videos, Instagram posts and YouTube content. If you’re creative, know how to use your phone camera, and can edit videos or design posts, this is a strong business path. Many brands want young voices that understand trends. You don’t need expensive equipment to start — just talent, consistency, and basic editing apps like CapCut or Canva.
4. Event Planning for Youth Functions
From parties and picnics to baby showers and fashion shows — young people love events. If you’re organised and know how to put things together (venue, décor, sound, invites), you can start offering event planning services. You’ll need good people skills and an eye for detail. Start with birthday parties in your community and promote your work on social media.
5. Second-Hand Textbook Sales
New textbooks are expensive, and many students struggle to afford them. That’s why selling second-hand textbooks is a solid business. You can collect used books at the end of the semester and resell them when the new term starts. It works well in universities, colleges, and even high schools. You can advertise your stock on WhatsApp groups, Facebook Marketplace, or Gumtree.
6. Freelance Graphic Design
Every small business — from hair salons to spaza shops — needs posters, logos, menus and flyers. If you’re good at design or willing to learn tools like Canva or Adobe Express, you can offer affordable design services. You can even learn for free on YouTube. Start by designing for your friends or local businesses, then grow through referrals and social media marketing.
7. Personalised Merchandise
People love custom T-shirts, hoodies, mugs and phone covers, especially for birthday gifts, events, or business branding. You can design these items and work with local print shops to produce them. The key is to offer unique designs and promote them on Instagram or TikTok. This business works because it combines creativity, gifting and personal branding — all things young people love.
8. Campus or Community Delivery Service
This works very well in townships, campus areas and inner cities. You offer to fetch food, medicine, documents or even parcels and deliver them by foot, bicycle or scooter. It’s low cost to start, and the only thing you need is trust and reliability. This business helps solve the “last mile” delivery problem in areas where big delivery apps don’t operate.
9. Photography Services
People are always looking for a photographer for birthdays, matric dances, graduations or even business profile pics. If you own a decent camera or even a good smartphone, and you can edit photos, you’re already halfway there. Promote your work on Instagram and tag your clients. You can also sell photo sessions for couples or offer budget-friendly event packages.
10. Mobile Car Wash
This is one of the top side hustles in townships and suburbs. You don’t need a fixed location, just buckets, sponges, car shampoo and elbow grease. You go to people’s homes or work and clean their cars on-site. It’s profitable because many car owners don’t want to wait in long queues at traditional car washes. It’s physical work, but it’s easy to start and expand.
