Independent tennis coach on public courts

Parents of children and teens, adult beginners and returning players who want lessons without a club membership.

A set rate per private lesson, or a lower per-person price for a multi-week group course. Packages of 5 or 10 lessons help with steady bookings.

• Strong playing ability across all strokes
• Patient, clear teaching for different ages
• Organizing a schedule and booking courts

• Some municipalities require a permit or fee for commercial coaching on public courts, so check with your parks department
• Commercial general liability insurance, often expected by clubs and councils
• A vulnerable sector check is commonly expected when coaching children, so check what applies in your province
• The outdoor season is short in much of Canada, so plan for winter income
• Rain and weather cancellations affect income, so set a clear cancellation policy

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $300 to $1,500, depending on the equipment, insurance and coaching materials you choose to buy.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $300 to $2,500, depending on how many lessons you teach and your client base. The estimate assumes at least about 5 hours a week.

Check whether your municipality requires a permit or fee for commercial coaching on public courts. Check commercial general liability insurance, and what vulnerable sector check applies in your province when coaching children.