Business Categories for Registering a Business in Kenya (BRS)

When filling out official forms or exploring sector-based opportunities in Kenya, you’re often asked to pick your business type.

That simple dropdown menu might seem unimportant — but understanding these categories is essential if you’re registering a business, applying for a license, or launching a professional service.

This guide breaks it all down for you.

You’ll get a clear picture of what each business type means, what kind of work falls under it, and how it might relate to your profession or industry.

What Is a Business Type?

A business type (or sector classification) is simply a label used to identify what kind of work you do. It tells regulators, customers, investors, and partners what your business or professional service is all about.

Think of it like choosing a category on YouTube — you’re just letting the world know where your work fits.

Why This Matters for You

Here’s why knowing your business type matters:

Legal and tax registration: The government uses this to classify businesses for compliance, licenses, and taxes.
Funding and tenders: Some grants and contracts are available only to specific sectors.
Marketing and visibility: Being listed correctly helps customers and clients find you easily.

The Full List of Business Types

Below is a balanced and cleaned-up list of common business types used in Kenya. The list is usually shown in dropdown menus when registering companies, applying for licenses, or listing in professional directories.

Medical facilities/hospitals/clinics	Sports/sports management
Medical imaging & diagnostic centers	Herbal clinics
Medical laboratories	Medical nutritionists
Chemists/pharmacy	Conservation/wildlife
Engineering: civil works	Credit/micro-credit facilities
Occupational therapy clinics	EPZ
Physiotherapy clinics	Dental lab
Eye/optical clinics	Universities
Agrovet	Special economic zone
Betting	Other
Surveyors	Schools
Architects	City/town planners
Company secretaries	Legal consultancy/law firm
Accountants	Colleges/institutes/polytechnics
Employment agency

Breaking Down Complex Categories

Let’s break down some of the less obvious categories for clarity.

Occupational therapy clinics

These offer therapy services focused on helping people develop or recover everyday life skills. It’s not the same as physiotherapy — here, the focus is on things like coordination, daily routines, and coping strategies.

EPZ

EPZ stands for Export Processing Zone. These are special areas where companies manufacture goods mainly for export, often enjoying tax breaks and streamlined processes.

Conservation / wildlife

This covers businesses and organizations working in wildlife protection, tourism, park management, and environmental conservation.

Credit / micro-credit facilities

These are financial institutions that give small loans, often targeting low-income individuals or small businesses — think SACCOs, village banks, or mobile lending platforms.

Tips When Choosing Your Business Type

Here’s how to approach it smartly:

Go specific over generic: Pck a category that truly reflects your core work.
Think ahead: Choose the category that aligns with your long-term business vision — even if your current operations are still expanding.
Match to compliance requirements: Some types (like medical or engineering) require special licenses or board certifications. Be sure you match what’s required.
Check how you’re listed online: On platforms like eCitizen, KRA’s iTax, and eRegulations Kenya, your category might affect your application outcomes.

Final Thoughts

The list of business types isn’t just bureaucracy — it’s a powerful tool. It defines how your business interacts with the state, your market, and even your future.

So choose wisely.

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