How to Grow a Business from Scratch (10 Practical Ways)

Building a business from scratch can feel overwhelming, but growth becomes manageable when you break it down into actionable steps. Whether you’re starting small or looking to scale, here’s how to grow a business in 10 practical ways, with specific steps you can implement immediately.

10 Ways to Grow a Business From Scratch

1. Create a One-Page Business Plan

Write down the answers to these questions:

What problem are you solving?
Who are your target customers?
How will you make money?
What’s your marketing strategy?

Use free templates like those from HubSpot or Canva to get started. This step would help you focus on the essentials without overcomplicating things.

2. Start Small and Test Your Idea

Sell a basic version of your product or service to a small group of people (friends, family, or local community).

Use platforms like WhatsApp or Instagram to showcase and collect feedback.

For example, if you’re selling skincare products, start with one or two items and expand based on demand.

3. Build a Basic Online Presence

Create a free Instagram page or Facebook business profile.

Use website builders like Wix or Squarespace to create a simple website (you can do this in a day).

Add clear contact information and a call-to-action like “Shop Now” or “Message Us.”

Customers need to find you online before they trust or buy from you.

4. Leverage Free and Affordable Marketing

Post consistently on social media using free tools like Canva to create professional designs.

Join Facebook and WhatsApp groups where your target customers hang out, and engage with them authentically.

Use referral incentives like “Get 10% off your next purchase for every friend you refer.”

Leveraging free marketing is a low-cost way to attract and retain customers without spending heavily on ads.

5. Network to Build Relationships

Attend local business meetups or events (check Eventbrite or LinkedIn for free events).

Partner with complementary businesses to cross-promote your products or services.

Example: A baker can team up with an event planner to offer package deals for parties.

6. Offer a Unique Value Proposition (UVP)

Identify what sets your business apart from competitors.

Highlight this in your marketing materials. For example: “We deliver fresh pastries to your doorstep within 30 minutes.”

Customers need a reason to choose you over others.

7. Invest in Customer Retention

Create a loyalty program (e.g., “Buy 5, Get 1 Free”).

Send personalized thank-you messages after purchases using tools like Mailchimp.

Example: If you run a grocery delivery service, offer free delivery for customers who order more than three times a month.

8. Learn from Your Competitors

Research similar businesses on social media.

Note their pricing, promotions, and customer engagement tactics.

Use their weaknesses to improve your offering.

Competitor analysis helps you position your business more effectively.

9. Track Your Finances From Day One

Use free tools like WAVE or QuickBooks to track income and expenses.

Set aside at least 10% of your profit for reinvestment.

Example: If you made ₦100,000 from sales this month, reinvest ₦10,000 into social media ads or packaging upgrades.

10. Automate Repetitive Tasks

Use apps like Buffer or Hootsuite to schedule social media posts.

Automate follow-up emails to customers using platforms like Mailchimp.

Outsource tasks that takes your time. You can find freelancers on platforms such as LinkedIn, Upwork, Facebook groups , Fiverr among others.

Automation and outsourcing saves time and lets you focus on growing your business.

Frequently Asked Questions About Growing a Business

1. What is the secret to growing a business?

The secret lies in understanding your customers’ needs, consistently delivering value, and reinvesting profits to scale operations. Building relationships and adapting to market changes are equally important.

2. What is the fastest way for growth of a business?

The fastest way is to combine strong digital marketing (e.g., targeted ads) with excellent customer service. This ensures you attract new customers while retaining the existing ones.

3. How to get more customers?

Run targeted ads on Facebook or Google to reach your ideal audience.

Offer irresistible deals for first-time buyers.

Encourage word-of-mouth referrals through discounts or freebies.

4. Which type of business grows the fastest?

E-commerce, technology-driven services, and logistics tend to grow the fastest due to their scalability and increasing market demand.

Conclusion

Learning how to grow a business requires focus, adaptability, and consistent effort. Start with these actionable steps and watch your business move from an idea to a thriving enterprise. Are you ready to grow? Share your progress or challenges in the comments below!