Small career training centre for one trade or skill

Career changers, recent graduates and newcomers to Canada paying their own fees, plus employers and local agencies that sponsor trainees.

Course fees per student, usually paid up front or in instalments. You can add extra income from short refresher courses, exam prep and employer group bookings.

• Deep knowledge of the trade you teach
• Teaching and coaching adults
• Organising schedules, equipment and paperwork

• Private career colleges are often regulated by the province (rules and fees vary, and Quebec has its own system), so check before you advertise or take fees
• Some regulators require student fee protection, such as a bond or tuition protection fund, so check what applies
• Commercial general liability insurance, plus a lease and fit-out costs for classroom or workshop space
• Check whether your course can lead to recognized certification, since students will ask
• Enrolment can be seasonal, so plan cash flow for slow months

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on your lease, fit-out for classroom or workshop space, equipment and insurance. Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $4,000 to $20,000.

Check before you advertise or take fees. Private career colleges are often regulated by the province, and Quebec has its own system. Also check whether a regulator requires student fee protection, such as a bond or tuition protection fund.

Estimates suggest at least 25 hours a week. You need deep knowledge of the trade you teach, skill at coaching adults and good organisation. Enrolment can be seasonal, so plan cash flow for slow months.