On-site microscope servicing for schools and labs

School boards, colleges, small research labs, veterinary and dental clinics, and other organizations that own several microscopes or similar instruments.

A per-visit or per-instrument fee, plus parts. Annual service agreements with institutions give steadier, repeat income.

• Optics and instrument repair know-how
• Organizing schedules and service records
• Professional manner with institutional buyers

• Commercial general liability insurance, which institutions often ask to see proof of
• Public bodies may require a supplier registration or tendering process, check their procurement rules
• Some labs expect calibration traceable to recognized standards, check what they need before promising this
• Clinical or medical-use equipment may fall under extra rules, check with Health Canada and the customer
• Site access requirements such as police checks for schools, check with each school board
• Winter driving and carrying fragile equipment, plan for seasonal travel

Startup costs are typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on your tools, vehicle and insurance. Monthly revenue is typically around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on how many schools, labs and clinics you service. These are estimates, not guarantees.

Check commercial general liability insurance, which institutions often ask to see. Also check supplier registration or tendering rules for public bodies, police checks for school sites, calibration standards labs expect, and Health Canada rules for clinical or medical-use equipment.

You need optics and instrument repair know-how, organized scheduling and service records, and a professional manner with institutional buyers. Estimates suggest at least around 12 hours a week to get started, depending on how many customers you take on.