Small graphic design studio with rented premises

Small and mid-sized companies, franchises, non-profits and local organizations that need ongoing marketing and brand materials.

Brand package and project fees, monthly retainers for ongoing design, and margin on managed print jobs such as signage and packaging.

• Strong design and brand strategy skills
• Client management and pitching
• Pricing, quoting and project management
• Managing freelancers or junior designers

• Check zoning and any municipal business licence needed for commercial premises
• Commercial general liability and professional liability insurance
• WCB/WSIB coverage when you hire, with rules that vary by province
• Lease commitments while client work can be uneven, so keep a cash buffer
• Software licences for each team member add up

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $4,000 to $20,000, depending on your premises, equipment and team. Software licences for each team member add up, so factor them in.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $4,000 to $20,000, depending on your client base and team size. Client work can be uneven, so keep a cash buffer, especially with lease commitments.

Check zoning and any municipal business licence needed for commercial premises. Also check commercial general liability and professional liability insurance, and WCB/WSIB coverage once you hire, as rules vary by province.