Creative business ideas you can start for under C$1,000
8 ideas
These 8 creative business ideas keep startup costs low, so you can test your skills with real customers before investing more. They suit people who already have a craft or knack, such as writing, drawing, knitting or lettering, and want to turn it into income without a loan or a lease.
Knitting classes at local venues
Run beginner and improver knitting classes in yarn shops, libraries and community halls.
- C$200-1k
- Side hustle
- Own premises
Online knitting lessons and workshops
Teach knitting by video call to students anywhere, with a simple kit or pattern sent to them.
- C$100-800
- Side hustle
- Online
Online astrology readings
Offer birth chart readings and consultations by video call or written report to clients anywhere.
- C$100-800
- Side hustle
- Online
Online drawing lessons
Teach drawing live over video to students anywhere, with no room to rent and no commute.
- C$150-1k
- Side hustle
- Online
Online calligraphy lessons
Teach calligraphy by video call to students anywhere, one to one or in small live classes.
- C$150-800
- Side hustle
- Online
Side hustle copywriter for local businesses
Write web pages, emails and ads for small businesses in your area, fitting projects around your day job.
- C$0-500
- Side hustle
- From home
Online custom t-shirt store (print on demand)
Sell your own designs or custom orders online while a print partner prints and ships them.
- C$100-800
- Side hustle
- Online
Paid newsletter and digital guides
Publish a subscriber newsletter and ebooks on a topic you know, sold online.
- C$200-1k
- Side hustle
- Online
About these ideas
Options like online calligraphy lessons, side hustle copywriter for local businesses and Online custom t-shirt store (print on demand) need little more than a laptop, basic supplies and some time. Before you pick one, think about who will pay for what you make, how much time you can give each week, and how you will find your first customers. Check whether you need a business registration, a GST/HST account or a local licence, and price your work so it covers your time as well as your materials.
Questions
Can I really start a creative business in Canada for under C$1,000?
Many creative ideas can start small, especially online lessons, freelance writing or print on demand. List your likely costs first, such as supplies, software, a website and any registration fees, then check the total fits your budget.
Do I need to register my creative business in Canada?
It depends on your province, your business structure and the name you trade under. Check provincial or territorial registration rules, and whether a municipal licence applies. Also check the CRA's guidance on when to register for GST/HST.
How should I price creative work or lessons?
Start by working out your costs, the hours you spend and the income you want. Compare what similar local or online providers charge, and consider starting with a modest introductory rate. Review your prices after a few customers give feedback.