Manipur has the advantage of acting as India’s Gateway to the East through Moreh and Tamu towns. It is bounded by the Indian states of Nagaland to the north, Mizoram to the south and Assam to the west. It also borders two regions of Myanmar, Sagaing Region to the east and Chin State to the south. The economy of Manipur is based on agriculture, forest products, industries, mining, and tourism sectors. Here in this article, we have listed the most profitable business ideas in Manipur that can be started with low investment.
Handlooms are the largest cottage industry in Manipur. The various kinds of crops grown in Manipur are rice, maize, pulses, and wheat including a wide range of fruits and vegetables. The state has an immense opportunity in the food processing sector. The Government of Manipur is also promoting the Industrial Policy to meet the requirements of private investors in the State.
15 Small Business Ideas in Manipur
#1. Handicrafts Business
Manipur boasts a rich tradition of handloom and handicrafts. Artisans skillfully craft intricate designs passed down through generations. Products like Manipuri shawls, phaneks (traditional wrap-around skirts), and handwoven textiles are highly sought after for their exquisite craftsmanship.
Establishing a handloom and handicrafts business can tap into this heritage, providing employment opportunities for local artisans while catering to domestic and international markets through online platforms and retail outlets. Not only can this venture be started and run from a home-based location, but this business is also very inexpensive to initiate. Creative home and office decoration products are always in high demand.
Learn More: How to Start Bamboo Crafts Making Business
#2. Open a Diagnostic Center in Manipur
A small diagnostic center with some allied services is one of the perfect business ideas in Manipur. An individual having experience in laboratory science can initiate a diagnostic center business with substantial capital investment.
The diagnostic center with pathology is one of the most profitable businesses in the medical and pharma industry. Heightened physician awareness and the increasing patient requirements to avail of high-quality care have increased the demand for a good-quality diagnostic center.
#3. Ecotourism Business in Manipur
The scenic beauty of Manipur includes hills, valleys, lakes, and sanctuaries. The tourist season is from October to February when it is often sunny without being hot and humid. Keibul Lamjao National Park is an abode of the rare and endangered species of brow-antlered deer. This ecosystem contains 17 rare species of mammals. It is the only floating national park in the world. Ecotourism is one of the most lucrative business ideas in Manipur.
#4. Traditional Cuisine Restaurants
Manipur’s culinary heritage is as diverse as its cultural landscape. Traditional dishes like Eromba, Chamthong, and Singju are gaining popularity among food enthusiasts. You can open a restaurant specializing in authentic Manipuri cuisine can attract locals and tourists alike, offering a unique dining experience.
#5. Jewelry Business
Another crafts business that has a good earning potential in Manipur is jewelry making. In recent days, you can sell jewelry in online marketplaces also. Increasing awareness of fashion and style has made the jewelry-making business an immensely potential business opportunity for startup entrepreneurs.
A person having a creative mind, knowledge about current fashion trends, and a passion for jewelry can start a jewelry-making business.
#6. Music School
The music school business is perfect for those who are passionate about music and want to turn their love for music, into a profession. If you are music-inclined, have specialization in some specific instrument or vocal performance, and want to teach others, then the possibilities of making it a successful venture are much higher. You can initiate a music school business focusing on the local culture and music of Manipur.
#7. Bamboo Products Manufacturing
Bamboo is abundantly available in Manipur and is widely used in traditional crafts and construction. Setting up a bamboo products manufacturing unit can produce a range of eco-friendly products such as furniture, handicrafts, and sustainable packaging materials.
#8. IT and Digital Services
With the growing emphasis on digitalization, there is a demand for IT services in Manipur. You can provide services such as website development, digital marketing, software solutions, or IT consulting to local businesses and organizations.
#9. Real Estate and Property Management
Invest in real estate properties for rental income or start a property management business to help property owners manage their assets effectively.
#10. Freelancing and Remote Work
You can use your skills in fields such as writing, graphic design, programming, or digital marketing to work as a freelancer. Websites like Upwork, Freelancer, or Fiverr offer platforms to connect with clients globally.
#11. Soap Making
Soap-making business enterprise evolves from an individual’s craft hobby. The business can easily be set up and run from home and will not require very much startup capital investment to get rolling.
It is a wise idea to be well on the way to establishing a profitable and personally rewarding home-based specialty soap-making business. It all needs a creative mind and a true passion for crafts.
#12. Transportation Business
Imphal Airport is the second largest airport in the NE Region in India with postal air cargo services six days a week. Imphal is well connected with daily flights to Guwahati, Kolkata, Bangalore Delhi, and other destinations in and outside N.E Region. There is an immense opportunity to start a small-scale transportation business in Manipur.
#13. Vermicompost Organic Fertilizer Production
Agriculture plays an important role in the development of Manipur’s economy. The state produces a sizeable quantity of paddy, wheat, maize, pulses, oilseeds such as mustard, groundnut, soybeans, sunflower, ginger, turmeric, and fruits like pineapple, lime/lemon, banana, orange, papaya, plum, and vegetables like cauliflower, cabbage, tomato, peas, carrot, pumpkin.
Vermicompost organic fertilizer production is one of the most legitimate business ideas in Manipur to start with small capital.
#14. Educational Institutions
Tou can start educational institutions like schools, colleges, and vocational training centers. These will contribute to human resource development in Manipur. Providing quality education and skill development opportunities can empower the youth and drive socio-economic growth.
#15. Renewable Energy Solutions
You can use renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydroelectric power and help Manipur meet its energy needs. In addition, renewable energy initiatives, such as solar panel installation and wind turbine manufacture can create new jobs and help conserve the environment.
Is Manipur a Good Place to Start a Business?
Yes, Manipur can be a good place to start a business for several reasons. Some of them are listed below:
⇒ Rich Cultural Heritage
Manipur boasts a rich cultural heritage. It includes traditional arts, crafts, cuisines, etc. These sectors have the potential to provide unique business opportunities catering to both local and tourist markets.
⇒ Natural Beauty
The state is blessed with breathtaking natural beauty. It includes lush green valleys, serene lakes, and picturesque landscapes. These landscapes offer huge potential for eco-tourism and adventure tourism ventures.
⇒ Skilled Workforce
Manipur is home to a skilled workforce. Especially in sectors like handloom, handicrafts, and IT. This workforce provides ample opportunities for businesses requiring specialized skills. Manipur’s literacy rate stood at 79.85% as per the 2011 Census, indicating a skilled and educated workforce available for businesses.
⇒ Government Initiatives
The government of Manipur has been implementing various initiatives to promote entrepreneurship and investment in the state. Some of them are incentives, subsidies, and support programs for startups and small businesses. As per this report, the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) of Manipur for 2023-24 (at current prices) is projected to be Rs 45,145 crore,
⇒ Strategic Location
The state of Manipur is situated in the northeastern region of India. The state’s geographical proximity to Myanmar and other Southeast Asian countries offers trade and investment opportunities for businesses looking to expand into international markets.
⇒ Rising Consumer Market
Manipur boasts a growing population with increasing disposable income. As a result, the state offers a burgeoning consumer market for various products and services. Hence, retail, hospitality, and other sectors can make good profits here in the state.
⇒ Infrastructure Development
The state government has been focusing on improving infrastructure. It includes roads, airports, and internet connectivity.
⇒ Cultural Tourism
Manipur’s vibrant cultural festivals, traditional dances, and indigenous crafts attract tourists from across the globe. hence, there are wide business scopes in the hospitality, entertainment, and cultural sectors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key sectors for starting a business in Manipur?
Key sectors for starting a business in Manipur include agriculture, handloom and handicrafts, tourism, information technology, healthcare, and food processing.
Are there any government incentives available for startups in Manipur?
Yes, the government of Manipur offers various incentives and schemes for startups and entrepreneurs, including financial assistance, subsidies, tax benefits, and support for skill development and training.
What are the legal requirements for registering a business in Manipur?
To register a business in Manipur, entrepreneurs need to choose a suitable business structure (such as sole proprietorship, partnership, private limited company, etc.), obtain necessary licenses and permits, register with the Registrar of Companies, and comply with tax and regulatory requirements.
How can I access funding or financial assistance for my business in Manipur?
Entrepreneurs in Manipur can access funding and financial assistance through various sources, including government schemes, venture capital firms, angel investors, banks, and financial institutions. They can also explore options like crowdfunding and grants.
What infrastructure facilities are available for businesses in Manipur?
Manipur offers basic infrastructure facilities such as electricity, water supply, transportation networks, and telecommunications. However, entrepreneurs may need to assess specific infrastructure requirements based on their business needs.
Is there support available for marketing and promoting my business in Manipur?
Yes, entrepreneurs in Manipur can leverage government initiatives, business associations, and digital marketing platforms to promote their businesses. Additionally, networking events, trade fairs, and industry-specific conferences can provide opportunities for marketing and business development.
Are there any challenges or risks associated with doing business in Manipur?
Like any other region, doing business in Manipur may pose certain challenges such as infrastructure limitations, bureaucratic processes, availability of skilled manpower, and socio-political factors. However, with proper planning and strategic management, these challenges can be mitigated.
Editorial Team at 99BusinessIdeas is a team of experts led by Rupak Chakrabarty with over 25 years of experience in starting and running small businesses. Started in 2010, 99BusinessIdeas is now one of the largest free small business resources in the industry.