How to Start and Run a Successful Chicken Growing Business

On this site, I love exploring topics related to making money online, something I’m passionate about and rely on as my main source of income. Today, however, I want to shift gears and dive into a business opportunity that many people might be overlooking. It could very well be the game-changer you’re searching for.

As the title suggests, we’re talking about how to make money by growing chickens. This venture, when approached correctly, can be incredibly lucrative. The demand for chicken is practically endless and after all, who doesn’t love chicken? With dedication and the right strategy, you might even find yourself supplying major brands like KFC one day!

Types of Chicken

I know it might seem a bit unusual to start by talking about different types of chicken, but understanding this is key to deciding which type you should invest in. Whether you choose one to begin with or both in the future. In this article, I'll focus on just two types, and by "types," I’m not referring to breeds but the products you can get from them. The first type is the meat chicken (broiler), and the second is the egg-laying chicken (layer).

Broiler chickens are specifically raised for meat production, growing rapidly and typically ready for sale within 6 to 8 weeks. This fast growth comes with its own set of advantages and challenges. On the other hand, layers are chickens raised for egg production, as the name implies. The advantage of layers over broilers is that once they’re no longer productive for egg laying, they can still be used for meat, offering an additional revenue stream.

How to Get Started

If you’re a pet owner, you know how challenging it can be to take care of one, especially if you’re truly invested in their well-being. Now, imagine raising 10-50 animals at once! It’s no easy task, and it requires a significant investment in time and effort. Before diving into your chicken business, ask yourself: Are you mentally and physically prepared for the challenges ahead? If you plan on managing the operation yourself, ensure you're ready for the demands. If you're hiring help, your main concern will shift to managing wages and ensuring efficient labour.

Doing thorough research is essential. Each type of chicken has specific needs, including food, shelter, vaccinations, and other care requirements. Just like any pet, chickens need proper care to grow healthy and be suitable for sale. I strongly recommend conducting extensive research and, if possible, connecting with local farmers for guidance and mentorship. Their experience can provide valuable insights and help you avoid common pitfalls.

Running a chicken business requires careful budgeting, which we will explore in more detail later in this article. However, one of the first things to consider is the shelter for your chickens. If you're running the business from home, ensure that you have adequate space to house your birds safely and comfortably. If you don't have enough room, you may need to rent a suitable shelter, either from a neighbour or another location. Keep in mind that renting space will likely increase your budget, so it’s important to plan accordingly and ensure that the cost of rent is factored into your overall financial plan.

Budgeting

Starting this business requires a solid budget, which means you may need to consider taking out a loan or using your savings to cover the initial investments. Let’s take a look at an estimated budget for getting started. Keep in mind that these numbers are rough estimates, so it’s essential to conduct thorough research to determine the actual costs for your specific situation. By doing so, you’ll have a more accurate understanding of your financial needs and can plan accordingly to ensure you’re properly funded for the start of your chicken business.

Here’s a suggested breakdown for the budget of starting a chicken business, with rough categories and costs. These are estimates, so you’ll want to adjust based on your location and scale of operation:

• Shelter: If you’re renting space, the cost will vary depending on your location and the size of your operation. Rent can range from $50 to $2,000 per month.
• Chickens: Chickens are typically bought in bulk, and it's best to purchase day-old chicks from a reputable supplier. The cost per chick usually ranges from $1 to $5, so for 50 chicks, you could spend between $50 and $250.
• Feed: Chickens need a steady supply of food, and feed costs can average around $100 per month. This can fluctuate based on the number of chickens, how much they eat, and any wastage. Broilers, for example, typically last around 6 to 8 weeks.
• Watering: This category covers containers, pipes, or systems to ensure your chickens always have access to clean water. The setup could cost between $50 and $200.
• Health: Regular health checks are essential for the long-term success of your business. Veterinary costs can range from $50 to $150, depending on the type of care required.
• Equipment: You’ll need equipment for feeding, egg-laying, and keeping the environment clean. The cost for this equipment can be around $300.
• Labour: If you hire help, wages or salaries should be included in your budget. The cost for labour will depend on your location and the size of your operation, so this can vary.
• Utilities: Utility costs will depend on the size of your operation and whether you need heating or lighting for your coop. Chickens require light, especially during the shorter days of the year, so be sure to account for electricity and water costs.
• Miscellaneous Expenses: It’s always wise to budget for unexpected costs, such as equipment repairs or unforeseen issues. I recommend setting aside 10-20% of your total budget for these miscellaneous expenses.

The total cost can only be accurately determined once you establish a realistic budget tailored to the specific needs of your business.

Earning & Profits

Depending on the type of chickens you invest in, your earnings can vary. Demand also plays a significant role in your business’ success. You may have a large supply, but if demand is low, this can impact your profitability. It’s crucial to know your target market, whether you’re selling to businesses, butcheries, supermarkets, or directly to consumers.

This is the most exciting part of any business: the potential profits. However, it's important to remember that the money you can make depends on your initial investment. If everything goes well, your profits can be as rewarding as you expect. But if you face unexpected expenses or losses, don't be discouraged. Instead, view these challenges as opportunities for growth and further investment. If you're willing and able, consider trying again with the lessons you've learned.

Conclusion

Overall, this can be a very lucrative business if done right, but it requires careful preparation and commitment. If you found this article helpful and are considering pursuing this business venture, I wish you all the best. Feel free to share this article with anyone who might find it useful. Thanks for reading!.