Small branding agency with a studio

Growing local companies, manufacturers, food and drink brands, franchises, non-profits and organizations that need a consistent identity and a bigger project scope.

Larger project fees, often from C$5,000 up and paid in stages, plus monthly retainers for ongoing design support and brand updates.

• Brand strategy and naming
• Design direction and quality control
• Project management and pricing
• Sales and client relationships
• Managing freelancers or staff

• Commercial general liability and professional liability (errors and omissions) insurance, check what suits agency work
• Contracts with freelancers should cover intellectual property transfer to your clients
• Check WCB/WSIB rules in your province before hiring employees, and whether freelancers count as contractors
• Check zoning and lease terms if renting commercial space, or consider a shared studio or co-working space first
• Cash flow can swing between projects, so ask for deposits and stage payments
• Register for GST/HST once you pass the small supplier threshold

Startup costs are typically around $5,000 to $25,000, depending on your studio space, equipment, software and how big a team you set up. These are estimates, so build your own budget before committing.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $5,000 to $25,000, depending on your project sizes, team and client mix. The estimates assume at least 35 hours a week, and income can swing between projects.

Check which commercial general liability and professional liability insurance suits agency work. Also check freelancer contracts for intellectual property transfer, WCB/WSIB rules before hiring, zoning and lease terms for studio space, and GST/HST registration.