Glass awards and trophy engraving studio

Businesses, schools, sports leagues, associations, event organizers and walk-in customers needing personalized gifts.

Per-piece pricing with discounts for bulk orders, plus art setup fees and rush charges. Regular corporate and association clients provide steady work.

• Operating engraving equipment
• Design software such as vector artwork tools
• Quoting, invoicing and managing deadlines

• Check the municipal business licence and zoning rules for a workshop or retail unit
• Sandblasting and laser equipment need ventilation, dust control and safety training, so check workplace safety rules in your province
• Commercial general liability insurance and cover for your equipment and stock
• WCB/WSIB coverage rules apply by province once you hire staff
• Rent and equipment costs mean slow months can hurt, so plan for seasonal peaks like awards season and the holidays

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $8,000 to $40,000 CAD, depending on your premises, whether you choose a laser engraver or sandblasting equipment, and how much stock you carry. Rent and equipment choices drive most of the range.

Check your municipal business licence and zoning rules for a workshop or retail unit. Sandblasting and laser equipment need ventilation, dust control and safety training, so check workplace safety rules in your province, plus insurance and WCB/WSIB coverage once you hire.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $3,000 to $15,000 CAD, depending on order volume and customer mix. Seasonal peaks such as awards season and the holidays matter, and slow months can hurt when rent is a fixed cost.