Where can i get a business loan for a start-up?. we understand having a good business plan alone isn't enough. You need capital to make things move. So which are the best top business loans options available in Zambia?
Top business loans
If you're looking to access business loans in Zambia, here are the main options—organized by type:
1. Commercial Banks
Most of Zambia’s major banks offer business loans for SMEs, large enterprises, and startups with collateral or solid financials.
- Zanaco – SME loans, overdrafts, and asset financing
- Stanbic Bank Zambia – Tailored SME loans and flexible working capital products
- Absa Bank Zambia – Business loans, overdrafts, and invoice discounting
- Standard Chartered Bank Zambia – Focus on corporate and commercial lending
- FNB Zambia – Business overdrafts, term loans, and revolving facilities
These often require collateral, audited financial statements, and a good credit history.
2. Microfinance Institutions (MFIs)
Good for startups or small businesses without heavy assets.
- FINCA Zambia
- Bayport Financial Services
- Entrepreneurs Financial Centre (EFC)
- MicroLoan Foundation Zambia
Less paperwork than banks, but interest rates may be higher.
3. Development Finance Institutions (DFIs)
These are designed to fund growth, especially in agriculture, manufacturing, and green energy.
- Development Bank of Zambia (DBZ) – Long-term loans for infrastructure and SMEs
- Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission (CEEC) – Targeted funding for Zambian entrepreneurs, especially women and youth
- NATSAVE (National Savings and Credit Bank) – Affordable SME and agri-business loans
4. Government and NGO Grants/Loans
Look for programs with lower interest rates or partial grants.
- Youth Empowerment Fund – Run through the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts
- Women Empowerment Fund
- Agribusiness and Industrialisation support through Zambia Development Agency (ZDA)
5. Startup Hubs and Accelerators
Some provide seed funding or connect you to investors.
- BongoHive (Lusaka) – Accelerator and innovation hub with access to funding
- Nyamuka Zambia – Business plan competition with cash prizes and support
- WeCreate Zambia – Focused on women entrepreneurs
6. Digital/Online Lending Platforms
These are emerging in Zambia and may offer fast-tracked loans.
- PremierCredit Zambia
- Jumo (via MTN and Airtel)
- Twalumba Online
Top small business ideas in Zambia
Here are 5 top small business ideas in Zambia (2025) that offer solid potential for growth, require relatively low startup capital, and are aligned with current market needs:
1. Mobile Money & Agency Banking
- Why it works: Over 70% of Zambia’s population is unbanked or underbanked. There’s strong demand for Airtel Money, MTN MoMo, and Zanaco Xpress agents.
- Startup costs: K3,000–K10,000 (for booth, branding, float)
- Profit model: Earn commissions per transaction, bill payment, and mobile wallet services.
- Tip: Combine with basic retail (e.g., talk time, sweets, water) to boost walk-in revenue.
2. Poultry Farming (Broilers or Layers)
- Why it works: Chicken is Zambia’s most consumed protein; local demand always outpaces supply, especially around holidays.
- Startup costs: K5,000–K20,000 (for 100–500 broilers, feed, shelter)
- Profit model: Sell live chickens or dressed meat to homes, hotels, and butcheries.
- Tip: Start with broilers for quicker turnover (6–8 weeks); scale into layers for consistent egg income.
3. Used Clothing (“Salaula”) or Thrift Fashion
- Why it works: Secondhand clothing is a mainstay in Zambian markets; young people now push for curated thrift fashion.
- Startup costs: K2,000–K8,000 (for a bale or curated bundles + stall)
- Profit model: Mark up 100–300% per item; increase margins with social media reselling.
- Tip: Focus on quality and niche (vintage jeans, kid’s wear, branded shoes).
4. Home-Based Catering or Food Delivery
- Why it works: Demand for local meals (nshima, chicken, beef stew, rice) is strong in towns and among office workers.
- Startup costs: K1,000–K5,000 (utensils, cooking gas, packaging)
- Profit model: K10–K30 profit per meal; extra from bulk orders, events, or offices.
- Tip: Use WhatsApp for daily menus, offer delivery via motorbike riders or own delivery.
5. Phone Accessories & Tech Repair
- Why it works: Smartphones dominate, but parts/accessories are expensive; repair demand is constant.
- Startup costs: K3,000–K7,000 (inventory of chargers, earphones, cases, plus tools)
- Profit model: Accessories = fast turnover; repairs = higher margin
- Tip: Learn basic phone repair (YouTube, local courses) and offer unlocking, screen replacement.
Bonus Ideas Worth Watching
- Solar installation or trading – demand is up due to power cuts.
- Agribusiness supply (feed, seeds, fertilizer) – rural markets are wide open.
- Laundry services – huge need in college areas and cities.
- Internet café / printing + typing – still relevant near schools and gov’t offices.
