Starting a business in India no longer requires crores of rupees or fancy offices. In today’s digital era, ₹10 lakhs or less is enough to build a profitable and scalable business — if you choose the right idea and execute it smartly.
Whether you’re a working professional dreaming of independence, a homemaker looking for income opportunities, or someone ready to leave the 9-to-5 grind behind — these business ideas under ₹10 lakhs can set you on the path to financial freedom.
Let’s explore some realistic, high-potential, and beginner-friendly business ideas you can start today.
💼 1. Franchise Business (Food, Education, or Retail)
If you want a proven business model with built-in brand recognition, starting a franchise is one of the safest investments under ₹10 lakhs. From food and beverages to education and retail, there are many low-cost franchise options available in India.
Popular examples:
- Tea or coffee café (e.g., Chai Sutta Bar, Tea Post, or Chai Point)
- Preschool franchise (e.g., Kidzee, EuroKids)
- Ice cream or snacks outlet (e.g., Giani’s, Cream Stone)
Why it works:
- Proven business model and marketing support
- Quick returns due to established brand name
- Minimal business risk
Investment: ₹5–₹10 lakhs
👕 2. Garment Manufacturing or Boutique
Fashion never goes out of style — and India’s love for clothes ensures a constant demand. You can start a small garment manufacturing unit or a designer boutique with a modest investment.
Focus on niche segments like ethnic wear, women’s fashion, or customized clothing. Selling online through platforms like Amazon, Meesho, or your own website can help you scale faster.
Why it’s profitable:
- Huge domestic and export market
- Creative and scalable
- Low manufacturing cost, high margins
Investment: ₹4–₹8 lakhs
☕ 3. Café or Cloud Kitchen
Food is one business that never goes out of demand. With a ₹10 lakh budget, you can open a small café, food truck, or cloud kitchen. Cloud kitchens (delivery-only setups) are especially profitable since they save on rent and interiors.
Popular niches:
- Fast food and snacks
- Healthy meals
- Regional specialties (e.g., South Indian, Punjabi, or street food)
Pro Tip: Partner with Swiggy and Zomato for online delivery orders.
Investment: ₹5–₹10 lakhs
Profit Margin: 25–35%
🏠 4. Real Estate Broking or Property Consultancy
You don’t need to own property to profit from real estate. Becoming a real estate broker or consultant can earn you excellent commissions by helping people buy, sell, or rent properties.
All you need is strong communication skills, basic legal knowledge, and good local connections.
Why it works:
- High commissions per deal (2–5%)
- No heavy investment
- Can start from home
Investment: ₹1–₹3 lakhs (for licensing, marketing, and website)
🌞 5. Solar Product Dealership or Installation
India’s renewable energy sector is booming, and solar energy is at the heart of it. You can start a solar panel dealership, installation service, or solar product business (selling solar lights, pumps, or heaters).
Why it’s a great choice:
- Government subsidies boost adoption
- Increasing demand in rural and urban areas
- Future-focused and eco-friendly
Investment: ₹5–₹10 lakhs
💻 6. Digital Marketing Agency
In the age of social media, every business needs an online presence. If you’re tech-savvy or willing to learn digital skills, starting a digital marketing agency can be a low-investment, high-return business.
You can offer services like:
- Social media management
- SEO and Google Ads
- Website design and branding
Why it works:
- Can start from home
- Minimal overhead costs
- Recurring monthly clients
Investment: ₹1–₹3 lakhs (mainly for software, marketing, and branding)
🏭 7. Small-Scale Manufacturing Business
If you’re looking for something tangible, consider small-scale manufacturing. With ₹10 lakhs, you can start making items like candles, paper plates, detergents, agarbattis, or packaging materials.
These businesses require basic machinery, a small workspace, and consistent demand.
Why it’s profitable:
- Low raw material cost
- Growing domestic market
- Ideal for Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities
Example products: Soaps, spice powder, handmade bags, or snacks
Investment: ₹5–₹10 lakhs
🧘 8. Fitness Studio or Yoga Center
Health awareness in India has skyrocketed, creating huge demand for fitness centers, yoga studios, and wellness spaces. You can rent a small studio and offer yoga, Zumba, or fitness classes.
Pro Tip: Combine offline and online classes for better reach.
Why it’s great:
- Growing health-conscious audience
- Community-driven and low overhead costs
- Can expand with merchandise or online coaching
Investment: ₹6–₹10 lakhs
📦 9. E-commerce Reselling Business
Starting an e-commerce reselling business requires minimal investment and no inventory if you go for a dropshipping model. You can sell clothes, accessories, gadgets, or handmade crafts through online platforms or your own store.
Why it works:
- Flexible, work-from-home model
- No need to manufacture products
- Scalable and global reach
Investment: ₹2–₹5 lakhs
Pro Tip: Focus on niche markets — such as eco-friendly products, regional crafts, or pet accessories.
🚜 10. Organic Farming or Agri-Products
With rising demand for chemical-free food, organic farming or organic product trading is a profitable long-term venture. You can lease land, grow high-demand crops like herbs, fruits, or vegetables, and sell them to urban organic stores or directly online.
Alternatively, start an organic food supply business by sourcing from farmers.
Investment: ₹6–₹10 lakhs
Why it’s smart:
- Growing awareness about healthy living
- Government support and subsidies
- High-margin niche
💡 Final Thoughts
Starting a business under ₹10 lakhs in India isn’t just possible — it’s practical and powerful. The key is to choose an idea that matches your skills, interests, and local demand.
Don’t wait for the perfect time or big investors. Many successful entrepreneurs in India started small — from their homes, garages, and small shops. What mattered was their consistency, customer focus, and courage to take the first step.
So, pick your idea, plan your budget wisely, and start weaving your entrepreneurial story today. Remember, even a ₹10 lakh idea can turn into a ₹1 crore success with the right mindset.
