Online advisor for small business owners

Owner-managers of small businesses, online sellers and professional practices who want steady guidance rather than a one-off project.

Monthly retainers for a set number of sessions and support, plus paid extras like workshops or a budget and forecast build.

• Strong grasp of cash flow and basic financial statements
• Coaching and questioning skills
• Comfort with video calls and online tools
• Self-discipline and follow-up

• Professional liability insurance, and check whether your policy covers clients in other provinces
• GST/HST and provincial sales tax rules for services sold to clients in different provinces, check with the Canada Revenue Agency
• Quebec clients may expect French-language materials and contracts, check the rules
• Keep clear that you give business advice, not regulated legal, tax or investment advice
• Client confidentiality and secure handling of financial files

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $300 to $2,500, depending on your website, video and dashboard tools, and insurance. Check whether your professional liability policy covers clients in other provinces.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on your retainer fees, niche and how many clients you sign. Retainers can give steadier income than one-off projects, but building a client base takes time.

Check GST/HST and provincial sales tax rules for services sold to clients in other provinces, and whether Quebec clients expect French-language materials and contracts. Keep clear that you give business advice, not regulated legal, tax or investment advice.