If you’re looking for companies to start up in Hampshire with a low budget, you’re not alone. Many people across the county want to run a business of their own but feel held back by money, planning, or knowing where to begin. The good news is, not all businesses need a big spend to get going, some can be started from home or with just a few tools and a bit of know-how.

This article shows you eight simple, proven company types that people are starting in Hampshire right now, all without a big budget.

Here are 8 companies you can start up in Hampshire with low upfront costs:

1. Cleaning Services Company

2. Gardening or Handyman Services

3. Online Tutoring or Coaching

4. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking Business

5. Freelance Admin Support Company

6. Home-Based Baking or Catering Company

7. Personal Fitness or Yoga Instructor Company

8. Content Writing or Social Media Management Business

Each of these options is flexible, in-demand, and suitable for someone who wants to work locally, part-time, or even build a full-time income over time. They’re ideal for people who want to use skills they already have or can learn quickly without needing a shop, office, or large team.

You’ll learn what the job involves, what tools or costs are needed, and why it works well in Hampshire today.

1. Cleaning Services Company

Starting a cleaning services company is one of the easiest and most affordable companies to start up . It doesn’t need an office, stock, or lots of equipment. Most clients will already have the supplies in their homes or workplaces, and many are happy for you to use their tools though having your own can help you appear more professional.

Domestic cleaning, end-of-tenancy cleans, and small office cleaning are all in demand across Hampshire. With a growing number of rental properties and busy working families, there’s steady need for trusted cleaners who show up, do a good job, and stay reliable.

The costs to get started are low. You might need a vacuum, cleaning sprays, cloths, and transport. Insurance is also a good idea, and you can get public liability cover for as little as £5–£10 per month. Most of the money goes into your time, not into setting up a fancy business.

You don’t need a website to begin. Many new cleaning companies grow through word of mouth, local Facebook groups, and leaflet drops. As you build regular clients, your name will spread. A simple online presence helps later on, but you don’t need it from day one.

What really matters in this kind of business is trust. If people like your work and know they can count on you, they will rebook and recommend you. That repeat business is where you can grow steadily without overspending.

For anyone who’s reliable, practical, and wants steady income without too much risk, a cleaning services company is a smart place to start.

2. Gardening Or Handyman Services

Gardening and handyman services are some of the most practical companies to start up in Hampshire, especially in areas with older properties or busy households. Many homeowners don’t have the time or tools to fix things or look after their garden, but they’re happy to pay someone local who does.

The start-up costs are low. You may already own tools like a lawnmower, spade, or screwdriver set. If not, you can buy basics second-hand or build your toolkit over time. Many clients also provide what’s needed or pay extra for materials.

This type of work is perfect for people who enjoy working outdoors or solving practical problems. It’s flexible too, you can take on jobs around your area, work part-time, or go full-time once word spreads.

To get your first clients, you only need a phone number, a social media page, and a clear list of what you can do. Local Facebook groups, leaflets, and word of mouth all work well in Hampshire. Building trust is more important than a flashy brand.

Jobs might include lawn cutting, hedge trimming, painting, shelf fitting, small repairs, or flat-pack assembly. As long as you’re honest about what you can and can’t do, clients will value your help.

Many people start out alone and later grow into a team. Others keep it simple and enjoy steady income on their own. Either way, this is a service people always need and it gives you control over your time and income.

If you’re hands-on, trustworthy, and enjoy variety, gardening or handyman work could be a strong way to build a business that fits your life.

3. Online Tutoring Or Coaching

Online tutoring or coaching is one of the smartest companies to start up in Hampshire for anyone with skills to share. You can teach from home, over video call, and work with clients anywhere, not just in your local area. It’s a growing field with more demand every year.

If you’ve worked as a teacher, trainer, or coach, or even just have strong knowledge in a subject like maths, English, languages, or wellbeing, you can build a business around it. People want support with schoolwork, exams, confidence, careers, and even personal growth.

You don’t need a classroom or fancy setup. A laptop, good internet connection, and quiet space are enough to begin. Zoom, Skype, or Google Meet are free to use, and you can create lesson plans or coaching sessions that suit your style.

This type of work gives you complete control over your time. You choose your hours, your prices, and your clients. You can also build extra income by offering group sessions or downloadable materials once you grow.

Promotion is simple. You can start by sharing your offer in local Facebook groups, LinkedIn, tutoring directories, or by asking friends to spread the word. Parents, students, and professionals are always looking for help especially from someone they can relate to.

The key is clarity. Make it clear who you help, how you help them, and what they’ll get from working with you. People want results and reassurance.

If you enjoy helping others learn or grow, this is a great fit. It’s low-cost, high-impact, and completely flexible. Online tutoring and coaching are excellent companies to start in Hampshire for those who want to work from home and make a real difference.

4. Pet Sitting Or Dog Walking Business

If you love animals, this is one of the most enjoyable companies to start up in Hampshire. Pet sitting and dog walking are always in demand, especially in towns and villages where people commute, travel, or work long hours. Many pet owners want someone they can trust with their furry friends.

You don’t need much to get started. A strong lead, pet waste bags, insurance, and good walking shoes might be all you need. Some people add pet transport, feeding visits, or even overnight sitting to their services as they grow.

Start-up costs are very low, and your main asset is trust. People won’t just hand over their pet to anyone. That’s why being reliable, friendly, and honest goes a long way. Over time, happy clients will tell others, and your diary will fill quickly.

This kind of work suits people who enjoy the outdoors, like routine, and want to feel useful. It’s also great if you’re building a business around school hours, part-time work, or other commitments.

You can begin by offering services in your local area, using flyers, local Facebook groups, and pet-owner communities. Once you have a few reviews or happy customers, your reputation will carry you forward.

Many people in Hampshire prefer small, independent services over big pet care apps. This gives you a real chance to stand out just by being yourself.

You can even grow the business over time by teaming up with others or offering extras like pet taxi, grooming help, or feeding while people are away.

If you’re kind, consistent, and good with animals, this could be the start of something you love doing every day and it’s one of the most rewarding companies to start up in Hampshire.

5. Freelance Admin Support Company

For anyone with good organisation skills, a freelance admin support company is one of the best low-cost companies to start in Hampshire. It suits people who like working quietly, handling tasks like inbox management, data entry, scheduling, or client follow-ups, all from home.

Small businesses often need help with admin but can’t afford to hire staff. That’s where you come in. You can offer your time by the hour or by the task, and build long-term relationships with clients who trust you to keep their back-office ticking over.

To get started, you need a computer, reliable internet, and basic software like Microsoft Office or Google Docs. Many platforms are free to use. You don’t need an office, just a quiet space and a clear plan.

You can market yourself as a virtual assistant, admin support, or back-office help. What matters most is how clearly you explain what you offer. Can you help them save time? Keep things organised? Stop tasks from piling up? That’s what people are looking for.

Start by offering help to local businesses, sole traders, or consultants. Many will be glad to free up their time. You can also find work on freelance sites, but local relationships often lead to better long-term work.

This type of business can grow with you. You might start part-time and expand into full-time work. You might even take on more freelancers and build a small team.

If you’re calm, reliable, and like ticking things off a list, this is a great way to earn without needing lots of gear or risk. Freelance admin support is one of the most flexible and stable companies to start up today.

6. Home-Based Baking Or Catering Company

If you enjoy baking, cooking, or preparing meals, this is one of the tastiest companies to start up in Hampshire. From home-baked cakes to lunch platters or grazing boxes, people love fresh food made locally especially when it’s personal, reliable, and delicious.

The start-up costs depend on what you make. You may already own most of the tools. You’ll need a clean kitchen, basic equipment, and access to ingredients. You must register your kitchen with the local council and complete a food hygiene certificate, which is low-cost and done online.

Popular options include birthday cakes, cupcakes, biscuits, afternoon tea sets, or event catering for small groups. People often order for birthdays, school events, business meetings, or gifts.

You can take orders through Facebook, WhatsApp, or Instagram, and build up your client base by showing your work and offering good service. Word of mouth spreads fast with food and happy customers come back.

The key is to start small and keep things manageable. Choose a few items you make really well. You can add more later once your rhythm is steady.

Packaging, pricing, and clear communication matter too. People want to know what they’re getting, when it will be ready, and what it costs. Be clear and kind, that’s what brings repeat orders.

This kind of business fits around other life duties and can grow with you. You might start baking in your spare time and later offer event catering or run a stall.

If you have a love for food, and people enjoy what you make, there’s no reason not to turn that into income. It’s one of the most joyful companies to start up in Hampshire.

7. Personal Fitness Or Yoga Instructor Company

For people who enjoy movement, health, and helping others, this is one of the most meaningful companies to start in Hampshire. With people more health-aware than ever, there’s strong demand for fitness instructors, yoga teachers, and wellness coaches.

You don’t need to own a gym or studio. Many successful instructors run sessions from community halls, outdoor spaces, or even online. You can start small, with one or two classes a week, or offer 1-to-1 sessions by appointment.

You’ll need a recognised training certificate, which can be done online or in person, depending on your area of focus. Once qualified, insurance and a basic kit (mat, weights, timer, speaker) will help you get going.

Marketing is local and personal. Flyers, community Facebook groups, and word of mouth all work well in Hampshire. People want to work with instructors they trust, especially for health-related goals.

You can choose your niche, general fitness, yoga for beginners, over-60s strength training, or post-natal movement. Specialising helps people know you’re right for them.

This is a business built on trust, encouragement, and real connection. If clients feel better after working with you, they’ll stick around and tell others.

You can work solo or team up with other wellness pros. You might run classes, offer online videos, or build a package of services over time.

It’s low-cost to start, highly rewarding, and gives you control over your schedule. It’s also a business that makes a real difference in people’s lives.

If you want to build a business that moves you and your community forward, this is one of the best companies to start up in Hampshire.

8. Content Writing Or Social Media Management Business

If you’re good with words or enjoy being online, this is one of the fastest-growing companies to start in Hampshire. Small businesses need help with their content, blog posts, email newsletters, or social media pages and most don’t have the time or skill to keep up.

You can start as a freelance content writer or social media assistant, working from home and building a list of clients over time. You don’t need fancy tools, just a computer, internet connection, and good writing or scheduling skills.

Start-up costs are almost nothing. You can work from your kitchen table or a quiet room, and you don’t need a website right away. A simple social profile showing what you do is enough to get started.

Businesses need help writing about their services, planning posts, replying to messages, or simply keeping their pages alive. That’s where you come in.

The key is being clear about what you offer and how you can save them time. You don’t have to be a marketing expert. Just helping with ideas, grammar, and scheduling makes a big difference.

Local businesses in Hampshire often prefer working with someone nearby rather than a big agency. That’s your edge.

If you like writing, helping others, and using social media in a useful way, this could be your ideal start. It’s flexible, in-demand, and one of the most realistic companies to start up right now.

We Help You Start The Right Companies To Start Up In Hampshire

At Howard Smith & Co, we’ve helped many people take their first steps towards building the right kind of business even with a small budget. We know how easy it is to keep waiting for the “right time” or get stuck trying to work it all out alone. But the truth is, the best way forward is to start simple, with a clear plan and the right kind of support.

These eight company ideas to start up in Hampshire show that you don’t need a huge investment to build something steady and rewarding. Whether you love animals, enjoy baking, have a skill to share, or want to support others with admin or fitness, there’s a path that can work for you.

What makes the difference is having someone by your side who understands where you are now, what you need next, and how to avoid wasting time or money. That’s what we do.

We don’t just offer advice — we help you build a business that fits your life. No jargon, no pressure. Just honest support from people who’ve worked with business owners across Hampshire and beyond.

If you’re ready to stop overthinking and start doing, we’re here for that. Call us on 01730 893333 or book a free discovery session online. Let’s have a proper chat about what you want to build and how we can help you get there.

You don’t have to do this alone. Let’s build your business the right way, together.