Small barber academy with a training floor

School leavers, career changers and people already working in shops who want formal training. Some students may be funded through provincial student aid or training programs, if your school is approved for them.

Tuition fees per course or programme, usually paid up front or in instalments. Extra income can come from starter kits, supervised student clinic cuts and product sales.

• Several years of professional barbering experience
• Teaching and giving clear feedback
• Organising schedules, records and student progress
• Running a clean, safe shop

• Many provinces require private career colleges to be registered or approved before you can enrol students or advertise, so check before spending money
• Check whether your graduates' hours count toward trade certification or licensing in your province
• Commercial general liability insurance, plus any student protection or bonding rules that apply to you
• Local health and sanitation rules for shops, and WCB/WSIB coverage once you hire instructors
• Student numbers can be slow to build, so plan enough cash to cover rent before the first intake

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $40,000 to $150,000, depending on your premises, chairs, equipment and fit-out. Plan enough cash to cover rent before your first intake of students.

Check before spending money. Many provinces require private career colleges to be registered or approved before you enrol students or advertise. Also check whether graduates' hours count toward trade certification, plus insurance, student protection rules and local sanitation rules.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue typically around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on student numbers and fees. Plan for at least about 30 hours a week. Student numbers can be slow to build, so allow time.