Home-based boutique talent agency

Casting directors, ad agencies, production companies and brands pay the talent's fee. The agency takes a commission from that fee.

A commission on each booking, commonly a percentage of the talent's fee. Rates and what you may charge vary, so check local norms and any rules in your province.

• Spotting talent and presenting it well
• Negotiating and contracts
• Building relationships with casters and producers
• Organised, with good follow-up

• Talent agency rules differ by province. In British Columbia, for example, talent agencies generally need a licence from the Employment Standards Branch, so check with your province's employment standards office before you start trading
• Never charge talent upfront fees for representation. It is a common scam signal and may be prohibited under provincial employment standards rules, so check what you are allowed to charge
• Check whether a home-based business licence is needed from your municipality
• If you plan to represent union performers (ACTRA members, for example), check with the union whether it has any requirements for agents who book its members
• Income can be slow and uneven at first, with no bookings until your roster gains credits
• Register for GST/HST once you pass the small supplier threshold

Estimates typically run around $500 to $3,000 to start, depending on your setup, website and how you promote your roster. Also check whether your municipality requires a home-based business licence.

Talent agency rules differ by province. In British Columbia, for example, agencies generally need a licence from the Employment Standards Branch, so check with your provincial office. Also check what fees you may charge talent, as upfront fees may be prohibited.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $500 to $2,500, depending on the size of your roster and the work you book. Income can be slow and uneven at first, with no bookings until your talent gains credits.