Local sign shop with print and cut equipment

Local businesses, tradespeople, schools, community groups, event organizers and some individuals.

Priced per job, usually by size and materials plus design time. Repeat business customers, such as tradespeople who need vehicle lettering and contractors who need site signs, give steadier income.

• Graphic design software
• Eye for layout and lettering
• Customer service and quoting
• Hands-on production and installation

• Municipal sign permits and bylaws that customers may need for outdoor signs, so check with the municipality
• Electrical or illuminated signs may need certified products or installers, so check your provincial rules
• Commercial general liability insurance and safe work at height
• Ventilation and handling of inks and solvents in an enclosed space
• Customer logos and artwork may be protected, so confirm clients have the right to use them
• Quebec businesses should check French-language requirements for signage
• Equipment is a big upfront cost, so test demand before you buy new

Estimates typically put startup costs at around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on the printer, cutter and laminator you choose and whether you buy new. Equipment is a big upfront cost, so test demand before you buy.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $4,000 to $18,000, depending on your customer base and the mix of signs, banners and vehicle lettering. The estimate assumes at least about 30 hours a week of work.

Check municipal sign permits and bylaws your customers may need for outdoor signs, and provincial rules for illuminated signs. Also check insurance, safe work at height, ventilation for inks and solvents, and French-language signage rules in Quebec.