Business is life and for Eric Kinoti, the figures must add up. With his impeccable business acumen, Eric ventured into entrepreneurship as a cashier while running a side hustle as an egg and milk distributor. As at now, he is one of the most promising African entrepreneurs and a knowledge philanthropist, running a multi-billion business empire.

He is the founder of  Shade Systems (EA) Ltd, one of the leading suppliers of tents in Kenya. He is also the proprietor of Alma Tents – a tent hiring company, Bag Base Kenya Ltd – manufacturer of bags through cutaway canvas that comes from the tent manufacturing process and Safi Sana Home Services – a professional cleaning services company. His entrepreneurial efforts have made him gain recognition all over the world.

He has been listed twice by Business Daily’s ‘40 leading men under 40’, and the Forbes’ ’30 most promising entrepreneurs from Africa’. He has also received a presidential recognition as an outstanding youthful businessman. Eric is a Youth Patron by the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and a mentor at Safaricom’s BLAZE BYOB. He shares a few tips of how his entrepreneurial journey has been.

What is your academic background?

I hold a Diploma in Business Management from Tsavo Park Institute.

What inspired you to go into business?

I wanted to be my own boss. The need to gain financial freedom and financial independence pushed me into business.

What businesses do you own and how did you choose these businesses?

I am the founder of  Shade Systems (EA) Ltd, one of the leading suppliers of tents in Kenya. I also own Alma Tents – a tent hiring company, Bag Base Kenya Ltd – manufacturer of bags through cutaway canvas that comes from the tent manufacturing process and Safi Sana Home Services – a professional cleaning services company. I saw a gap in the tent manufacturing market and saw an opportunity to venture into the business.

What are the 3 top things that aspiring young entrepreneurs need to know to become successful?

Lots of young entrepreneurs want to do so much at once entrepreneurs, some give up as soon as a challenge sets in while others, do not have the discipline it takes to be an entrepreneur. Focus, Resilience and Discipline are very key virtues in business.

What does GRIT (Greatness Requires Internal Toughness) mean to you as a business owner?

Nothing comes easy, I have to be tough enough to beat the struggles and keep my businesses operational.

Have you ever failed? How did you handle it?

I have failed in business very many times. Failure is part and parcel of success. I perceive it as a normal challenge, that has to be dealt with accordingly.

Who is your role model(s) and why?

SK Macharia. He is a great person with a lot to learn from. He came from a humble background and has built a business empire all by himself.

Do you believe in “Fake It Till You Make It?“

Yes. Many people do not believe in young entrepreneurs. They keep asking where will they get the capital to finance their big business ideas. But when you meet someone willing to give you a boost, you have to make them believe it’s the best decision they have made.

Whats your daily routine like?

I wake up at  4:30am. My mornings are scheduled for office meetings. I later meet with clients, network. I have to meet at least one  new person a day and talk about business.

What is your favourite car?

Lexus LX

What is your holiday destination?

Bahamas

BLAZE BYOB has been touted as the most trans-formative youth program in Kenya. What are your thoughts?

Young people need mentors and resources to be able to impact the society positively. From the challenges I faced, I recognise the importance of mentorship and how vital it is to inspire and guide young people venturing into business. Most of them want to be successful but they loathe the struggles.This program teaches them the value of patience, hard work and determination.

Now that you are a mentor at BLAZE BYOB what should young people expect?

One of my biggest goals is to help as many entrepreneurs as possible to succeed. We are expanding our networks for more inspiration from the entrepreneurship journey of mentors on board, knowledge skills and resources necessary to transform the young entrepreneurs’ ideas and businesses.

If you were the president of Kenya for 1 day what would you do for businesses and the youth? 

I would change the policies cause some are very costly. For the youths, I’d create a program transform the mindset of youth, cause that’s the heart of everything.

Parting shot?

There are no limits, we only limit ourselves.