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India’s growing entrepreneurial spirit has opened the door for countless business opportunities, and franchising is one of the most accessible ways to enter the market. For aspiring business owners with limited capital, a low-cost franchise is the ideal way to start without taking on significant financial risk.
In this blog, we’ll explore the top 10 low-cost franchise opportunities in India for 2025—perfect for first-time entrepreneurs, side hustlers, and anyone looking to start a franchise in India with low investment.
Why Choose a Low-Cost Franchise?
Before diving into the list, let’s understand the benefits of low-cost franchising.
✅ Advantages of Low Investment Franchises
- Affordable Entry Point: Startup costs are usually under ₹10 lakhs—many under ₹5 lakhs.
- Proven Business Model: Franchises have training, branding, and ongoing support.
- Faster ROI: Smaller investments can lead to quicker break-even.
- Flexibility: Many low-cost franchises are home-based or require minimal space.
Now, let’s get into the top picks!
1. Patanjali Ayurved
Investment: ₹5 – ₹7 lakhs
Industry: FMCG / Ayurveda / Retail
Patanjali has become a household name in India. Known for its wide range of Ayurvedic and natural products, it’s a trusted brand with colossal customer loyalty. As a franchise in India with low investment, Patanjali offers distributors and franchisees an opportunity to sell everything from personal care to health supplements.
Why it stands out:
- Massive brand recognition
- Fast-moving consumer goods
- Support for rural and semi-urban areas
2. DTDC Courier & Cargo
Investment: ₹1.5 – ₹5 lakhs
Industry: Logistics / Courier Services
India’s e-commerce boom has increased the demand for logistics solutions. DTDC, one of the leading courier service providers, offers low-cost franchise models nationwide.
Why it stands out:
- Low setup costs
- Growing demand in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities
- Strong backend support
- Giani’s Ice Cream
Investment: ₹5 – ₹10 lakhs
Industry: Food & Beverage
Giani’s is one of India’s oldest and most popular dessert chains. It offers kiosk, takeaway, and dine-in models, making it a flexible option for various budget ranges.
Why it stands out:
- Seasonal and year-round demand
- Premium yet affordable brand
- Comprehensive training and marketing support
4. Kidzee Pre-School
Investment: ₹5 – ₹8 lakhs
Industry: Education / Preschool
Kidzee, part of the Zee Group, is a leader in India’s early education segment. As a low-cost franchise, it offers a highly impactful business model focusing on child development.
Why it stands out:
- Strong brand equity
- Growing demand for early education
- Detailed curriculum and operational support
5. Domino’s Pizza (Mini Outlets / Kiosks)
Investment: ₹10 – ₹15 lakhs
Industry: Food & Beverage
Although traditional Domino’s outlets require significant investments, the brand has started offering smaller kiosk models for Tier 2 and 3 cities with lower setup costs.
Why it stands out:
- Iconic international brand
- High footfall and repeat customers
- Proven operational systems
6. Lenskart Franchise
Investment: ₹10 – ₹12 lakhs
Industry: Retail / Eyewear
Lenskart is India’s fastest-growing eyewear brand, offering stylish yet affordable eyeglasses. It provides offline stores and “Lenskart Lite” options for lower capital investments.
Why it stands out:
- High margins on products
- Free eye test service adds customer value.
- Tech-driven customer experience
7. Wow! Momo
Investment: ₹5 – ₹8 lakhs
Industry: QSR / Fast Food
Wow! Momo specializes in momo-based snacks and has grown rapidly over the last few years. With mini outlets and food court options, it qualifies as a franchise in India with low investment.
Why it stands out:
- Unique product niche
- Youth-focused brand
- Quick service format ensures high turnover.
8. FirstCry
Investment: ₹4 – ₹6 lakhs
Industry: Baby Products / Retail
India’s leading baby and maternity products retailer, FirstCry, has online and offline models. The franchise model focuses on cities with rising disposable incomes and young families.
Why it stands out:
- High brand trust among parents
- Easy inventory and POS system
- Expanding market for baby care
9. Jumbo King
Investment: ₹5 – ₹7 lakhs
Industry: Food & Beverage (QSR)
Jumbo King offers Mumbai-style vada pavs and snacks in a modern QSR format. It’s an ideal low-cost franchise for urban areas with high foot traffic.
Why it stands out:
- Indian fast food brand
- Low overheads
- Scalable kiosk models
10. Amul Parlour
Investment: ₹2 – ₹6 lakhs
Industry: Dairy / Retail / Food
Backed by the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation, Amul offers one of India’s most affordable and reliable franchise models. The brand sells everything from milk to ice creams and cheese.
Why it stands out:
- Iconic Indian brand
- Consistent demand for dairy
- Low-risk and government-backed trust
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right low-cost franchise can be a game-changer, especially in a market as dynamic as India. Whether you’re looking to start small in a tier-3 city or bring innovation to an urban market, there’s a franchise in India with low investment out there for you.
📝 Key Tips Before Investing:
- Research the brand thoroughly.
- Talk to existing franchisees.
- Understand the ROI timeline.
- Ensure the franchisor offers training & support.
Franchising is not just about money—it’s about mindset, effort, and consistency. Pick a brand that aligns with your values and your community’s needs.
Ready to leap? Which of these franchises interests you the most? Drop your thoughts or questions in the comments!
James 001
