Thinking of starting a portable business in Ghana and working as your own boss? With a diverse economy and a growing middle class but still high rates of unemployment, sometimes the best decision is to start your own business and possibly create employment for one or two people.
Whether you’re a local resident, a Ghanaian in the diaspora, or an aspiring entrepreneur from a different country, Ghana offers a wide range of business ideas that are profitable and sustainable.
In this comprehensive guide, we unveil some of the most profitable businesses to start in Ghana. From agriculture to technology, services to manufacturing, and more, you’ll find an array of options to match your passion, skills, and resources.
Let’s dive in!
Agriculture and Agribusiness
Poultry Farming
Poultry farming in Ghana involves the breeding, raising, and selling of chickens and guinea fowl and their products. It’s a versatile venture that can focus on egg production, meat production, or both. You’ll need to invest in suitable housing, quality feed, and proper healthcare for your birds. Poultry farming is particularly profitable due to the high demand for poultry products in Ghana.
Fish Farming
Fish farming, especially tilapia and catfish farming, is on the rise in Ghana. You can set up fish ponds or tanks and provide the right conditions for fish growth. Successful fish farming requires good water quality management, regular feeding, and disease control. It’s a sustainable business with great market potential.
Crop Farming
Crop farming offers various options, depending on the type of crop you choose. Cassava, maize, yam, and cocoa are some of Ghana’s staple crops. Each crop requires specific care and expertise. For instance, cocoa farming, while profitable, demands close attention to fermentation, drying, and post-harvest processes. Research and planning are crucial to succeeding in crop farming.
Food and Beverage
Restaurant or Eatery
A restaurant business provides a diverse range of opportunities. You can specialize in local cuisine and international dishes, or even focus on niche markets like vegan or fast food. Location and ambience are key factors when it comes to opening a restaurant. Marketing your restaurant effectively to attract and retain customers is also essential.
Chop Bar
Operating a chop bar is a cost-effective way to enter the food industry. Ghana has an appetite for its local foods, and you can offer popular local dishes such as fufu, banku, fried rice, or jollof. Ensure quality, consistency, and quick service to build a loyal customer base.
Catering Services
The catering industry is thriving, especially for events like weddings, corporate functions, and parties. To succeed, offer diverse catering options and customizable menus. Focus on presentation, punctuality, and exceptional customer service to stand out in the competitive catering market.
Bar & Grill
Opening a bar and grill is a popular and profitable venture in Ghana. It combines the lively atmosphere of a bar with the delectable offerings of a grill. Offer a menu that includes a variety of grilled dishes, appetisers, and a selection of beverages, including local and international drinks. Create a welcoming and entertaining ambience with live music or themed nights to attract patrons.
Retail and Wholesale
Grocery Store
A neighbourhood grocery store is a fundamental business with steady demand. It’s essential to stock a variety of products, including fresh produce, household items, and packaged goods. Build customer loyalty through competitive pricing, quality products, and excellent service. Also, maintain consistency in your opening hours and working days so customers can trust you to deliver.
Fashion Boutique
Starting a fashion boutique allows you to curate and sell clothing, accessories, or a specific style of fashion. To succeed, stay updated on fashion trends, maintain a visually appealing store, and provide personalized customer service. You can also consider offering tailor-made clothing for a unique touch.
Fabrics Business
The fabric business is a vibrant industry in Ghana, given the cultural significance of local textiles. You can source and sell a wide range of fabrics, including traditional African prints, imported textiles, and modern designer fabrics. Establish relationships with suppliers, tailors, and fashion designers to supply high-quality materials.
Electronics and Appliance Store
Selling electronic gadgets and appliances is a profitable business, as technology adoption is on the rise. Ensure that you offer the latest devices and have knowledgeable staff to assist customers with their choices. Establish good relationships with suppliers to secure quality products.
Services and Consultancy
Real Estate Agency
Ghana’s real estate market is currently booming, making real estate agencies lucrative ventures. As an agent, you connect buyers, sellers, and renters. It’s essential to build a network, stay updated on market trends, and understand the legal aspects of real estate transactions. You will first need to take a real estate course and get licenced before you can offer this service.
Digital Marketing Agency
As businesses in Ghana increasingly move online, digital marketing services are in high demand. Offer services such as social media marketing, search engine optimization (SEO), content creation, and online advertising. Tailor your services to the specific needs of your clients and stay updated on the latest digital marketing trends.
Health and Wellness
Pharmacy or Drugstore
Operating a pharmacy or drugstore provides access to essential medicines and healthcare products. Ensure compliance with pharmaceutical regulations, stock a wide range of medications, and offer professional advice to customers. Building trust and maintaining high ethical standards are paramount.
Spa and Wellness Centre
Ghanaian consumers are increasingly prioritizing wellness and relaxation. Establishing a spa and wellness centre can cater to this demand. Offer a range of services, including massages, facials, body treatments, and wellness programmes. Create a serene and tranquil atmosphere that promotes relaxation and rejuvenation.
Fitness Centre
As Ghanaians become more health-conscious, the fitness industry is booming. Running a fitness centre involves providing exercise equipment, classes, and wellness programmes. Consider offering personal training services to cater to clients’ individual fitness goals.
Nutritional Counselling
Nutritional counselling is an emerging service, offering dietary advice and nutritional guidance. Help individuals and organizations make informed choices about their diets. Promote healthy eating habits and overall well-being, and consider specializing in areas like weight management or sports nutrition.
Education and Training
Private Home Tutoring
Private tutoring is a flexible business that can focus on various subjects or skills. Identify your areas of expertise, target your ideal audience (kids or adults), and create a structured and personalized learning experience.
Language School
Language schools offer language courses to individuals looking to learn or improve their language skills. You can teach local languages, foreign languages, or both. Develop comprehensive language programs and consider offering certification or proficiency exams.
IT Training Institute
With the growing importance of technology, IT training institutes are in high demand. Offer courses on computer skills, software, and programming. Keep your curriculum up-to-date with the latest technological advancements to attract both individual and corporate clients.
Arts and Crafts
Art Gallery
Opening an art gallery allows you to showcase the work of local artists and artisans. Consider featuring a mix of paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and other forms of art. Building a network with artists and hosting regular art exhibitions can draw in art enthusiasts and collectors. Promote the cultural and artistic heritage of Ghana while supporting local talent.
Handmade Jewellery
Handmade jewellery businesses offer a platform for creativity and craftsmanship. Design and craft unique jewellery pieces using a variety of materials, including beads, gemstones, and metals. You can sell your creations at local markets, online, or through partnerships with boutiques and gift shops.
Furniture Making
Furniture making is a rewarding business that allows you to create custom furniture pieces. Offer products ranging from tables and chairs to cabinets and beds. Ensure quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, as well as personalized design options. Collaborate with interior designers or architects for potential projects.
Technology and E-commerce
E-commerce Store
E-commerce is growing in popularity in Ghana. Launch your online store, specializing in a particular niche or a range of products. Choose an e-commerce platform that suits your needs, optimize your website for user-friendliness and security, and establish reliable logistics and payment methods. Marketing and customer service are vital for e-commerce success.
Dropshipping
Dropshipping is an online retail model that allows you to sell products to customers without stocking inventory. Partner with suppliers and wholesalers to list their products in your online store. When a customer makes a purchase, the supplier ships the product directly to the customer. This business model minimizes upfront investment and inventory management.
Mobile Money Services
The adoption of mobile money services is increasing in Ghana. Start a business offering mobile banking, money transfer, and payment services. Collaborate with local banks and mobile network operators to facilitate seamless transactions. Focus on providing secure, convenient, and user-friendly services to gain customer trust.
Transportation and Logistics
Taxi or Ride-Sharing Service
Taxi and ride-sharing services remain in high demand, especially in urban areas. You can start a taxi or ride-sharing company with a fleet of vehicles or enlist with companies like Uber or Yango. Use technology to facilitate bookings and improve customer experiences. Ensure the safety and professionalism of your drivers to build a strong reputation.
Alternatively, you can invest in buses that run long journeys, like Accra to Kumasi or Takoradi to Kumasi.
Delivery and Courier Service
The rise of e-commerce has created opportunities for delivery and courier services. Cater to businesses looking for reliable and efficient delivery options. Focus on timely deliveries, package tracking, and communication with clients. Form partnerships with e-commerce companies to provide last-mile delivery solutions.
Trucking and Haulage Business
Transporting goods across Ghana is a crucial service for various industries. Starting a trucking and haulage business involves investing in a fleet of trucks and ensuring efficient logistics. Offer cargo transportation services for businesses, construction projects, and industrial facilities. Building strong relationships between your drivers and clients is key to success.
Tourism and Hospitality
Guesthouse or B&B
Operating a guesthouse or bed-and-breakfast is a hospitality business that caters to travellers and tourists. Given that Ghana is a place that attracts tourists from all over the world, the tourism industry performs quite well, hence, this will be a very lucrative business idea. Provide comfortable and affordable accommodations, and create a welcoming atmosphere for guests. Emphasize personalized service, cleanliness, and amenities to earn positive reviews and repeat business.
Tour Guiding Services
If you have a passion for helping travellers find their way around, then this is a business you can start. As a tour guide, offer guided tours of historic sites, wildlife reserves, and cultural landmarks. In-depth knowledge of Ghana’s history, culture, and geography is essential. Tailor tours to the interests and preferences of your clients, whether they are tourists or school groups.
Travel Agency
As a travel agency, you can assist individuals and groups in planning and booking their vacations and travel experiences. Research and stay updated on tourist destinations, accommodations, and attractions. Provide expert advice, handle bookings, and create customized itineraries to offer memorable travel experiences.
Personal Care & Beauty
Beauty Salon/Barber Shop
Beauty services remain in constant demand everywhere across the globe. Opening a beauty salon or barber shop allows you to offer haircuts, styling, manicures, pedicures, and more. Choose your target market—men, women, or both—and create a comfortable and inviting space. Quality service, skilled staff, and attention to hygiene are crucial for building a strong client base.
Cosmetics and Skincare Products
The cosmetics and skincare industry is very lucrative in Ghana. You can enter this market by creating and selling your own beauty products. Develop unique formulations that cater to different skin types and beauty preferences. Consider offering natural and organic products, which are gaining popularity among health-conscious consumers. You can also retail cosmetics from top and popular brands.
Manufacturing and Production
Sachet/Bottled Water Production
The demand for clean and safe drinking water is high. Bottled water or sachet water production offers a profitable business opportunity. Invest in water purification, bottling equipment, and quality control processes to ensure the safety and quality of your bottled water. Building a strong brand and ensuring distribution to various regions will be keys to your business growth.
Soap and Detergent Manufacturing
Soap and detergent products are daily essentials. Starting a soap and detergent manufacturing business can be a profitable venture. Produce a variety of soaps, detergents, and cleaning products for both household and industrial use. Pay attention to quality, packaging, and marketing to stand out in this competitive market.
Candle Making
Candle making is a creative and profitable business idea. You can craft and sell decorative, scented, or plain candles. Candles are in demand for religious, decorative, and practical purposes. Offer a range of designs, scents, and sizes to cater to different customer preferences.
Cleaning Services
Washing Bay
A washing bay business focuses on car washing and detailing services. Offer options such as exterior cleaning, interior cleaning, and full detailing packages. Eco-friendly and water-efficient practices can make your washing bay stand out. Regular maintenance of equipment and providing a comfortable waiting area for customers are essential.
Laundry Services
Laundry services cater to individuals and businesses seeking convenient and reliable laundry solutions. Consider offering services for various types of laundry, including clothing, linens, and uniforms. Ensure efficient washing and drying processes, and provide pickup and delivery options for added convenience.
Cleaning Business
Cleaning services encompass a wide range of options, from residential cleaning to commercial and industrial cleaning. Tailor your services to meet your client’s specific needs, which could include routine cleaning, deep cleaning, and special cleaning projects. Invest in eco-friendly cleaning products and equipment to appeal to environmentally conscious customers.
Entertainment and Events
Event Planning and Management
Organizing events like weddings, parties, and corporate events can also be a lucrative way of making money. Events like weddings tend to be stressful to plan, hence, brides usually hand it over to event planners.
Photography
Photography is one of the most creative and rewarding businesses to start in Ghana. Offer photography services for a variety of occasions, including weddings, family portraits, corporate events, and product photography. Invest in high-quality equipment and build a strong portfolio to attract clients.
Conclusion—Profitable Businesses To Start In Ghana
Starting a business in Ghana can be a profitable venture. However, most entrepreneurs rush into starting their businesses without careful business planning, which is the differentiating factor between successful businesses and failed businesses.
It is therefore crucial for aspiring business owners to create detailed business plans and consult with experts for ideas on how best to navigate the market and stay on top of the competition to ensure they build a sustainable business.
It is also crucial to register your business to ensure smooth operations without any interference from the government.
Read also on How to Start a Business in Ghana with Little or No Money.
