From Salon Tea to a Thriving Business with Kenya SBDC’s Support

Kick and Spice, a spice business with humble beginnings, was born from a single, unassuming moment—a cup of homemade tea at a local salon. The tea flavours sparked an idea in the founder (Karimi Millicent): to share unique spice blends with the world. As the enterprise grew, managing essential business functions proved difficult. The founder struggled with sales tracking, client management, and maintaining proper financial records.

That’s when the USAID-supported Kenya Small Business Development Centers (Kenya SBDC) project became a turning point for the business. At a local business event held at D&D House in Nakuru county, the founder met George Makau, the Nakuru County Coordinator for Kenya SBDC, who initiated business advisory and training to transform the enterprise.

Through Kenya SBDC’s targeted support, Karimi Millicent gained essential business skills, particularly in record-keeping, sales, and marketing. Learning to manage financial records through tools like Microsoft Excel helped streamline the business. The program also provided invaluable advice on tracking sales and engaging clients more effectively and advised on best practices in marketing through business pitches.

One of the most impactful outcomes of the partnership with Kenya SBDC was developing a comprehensive business plan, which has guided her in navigating the complex business environment. The training and mentorship from Kenya SBDC provided her with technical skills, such as photography and videography for marketing and the confidence to approach larger institutions and pursue growth opportunities.

The business began to experience notable milestones. Kick and Spice was formally registered, ensuring the operation had a solid legal foundation. With guidance from the Kenya SBDC advisor, the founder secured a physical shop location in Nakuru, expanding the customer base and providing a more professional platform for business operations. Participation in trade expos further boosted visibility, and a shift to digital platforms such as WhatsApp Business, Instagram, and TikTok opened new avenues for reaching customers.

The business also took on a new role in the community as a trusted source of health information, advising clients on how certain spices could help manage conditions like ulcers, arthritis, and diabetes.

Looking to the future, the founder envisions Kick and Spice expanding its product range to include cereals, with plans to create employment opportunities within the community. “The guidance and support from Kenya SBDC have given us a clear path forward,” the founder shared.

Kick and Spice’s story is just one example of how USAID’s Strategic Partnership Program, under the Kenya Small Business Development Centers,  empowers small businesses across Kenya. Through its emphasis on  customized, one-on-one advisory, capacity building, and practical training, the program helps entrepreneurs turn challenges into opportunities and build sustainable businesses that can thrive in the long term.

Written by Joy Kamau,

Market Research Associate,

Nakuru Small Business Development Center.