If you’re interested in starting your own small business in Canada, you’re not alone – every year in Canada, people create about 100,000 new small businesses. Going into business for yourself is a great way to gain financial freedom while having more control over your own schedule. But where do you even start when you’re trying to come up with a small business idea?
It’s usually best to start by thinking of what you’re already good at – maybe you’re a great cook or you have a magic touch with dogs. Or, you might be a natural leader and you dream of running a large-scale operation. Maybe you even have a side hustle you’re ready to give your full-time attention.
We’re bringing you the best ideas of businesses to start in Canada in 2025, from launching a mobile car wash to starting your own consulting company.
Key Takeaways
- Start by thinking about what you’re best at when you’re trying to decide what kind of business to start.
- Find success by focusing on fast-growing industries like mobile services, eco-friendly products, and e-commerce.
- If you don’t have much to invest, look for businesses with lower startup costs.
- If you have a sizeable startup investment, you might do well in the food and beverage, tech, or manufacturing sectors
- Franchises can be a good opportunity to build on an established business.
What is the best business to start in Canada in 2025?
The best business to start in Canada is different for everyone. When you’re trying to figure out what business to start, take some time to think about your own skills and talents, as well as the needs of the market where you plan to operate.
It can also help to narrow down the type of work you want to do. Start by choosing a business category that’s interesting to you, but also one that’s thriving and poised to grow in the future.
Fast-growing small business categories in Canada
Here are some of the industries where small businesses might be especially likely to thrive in Canada in 2025:
- Green/sustainable businesses: Whether your company has a unique take on sustainability (like a snack made from a fast-growing native vegetable) or you’re offering an eco-friendly service like installing solar panels, the green sector is booming right now in Canada, and there’s plenty of room for growth.
- Mobile services: People are busier than ever, and you’re more likely to fit into your customers’ hectic schedule if you can bring your services to them. Popular mobile services include mobile car washes, delivery services, food trucks, mobile tanning, and mobile pet grooming.
- E-commerce: According to the International Trade Administration, an estimated 77.6% of Canadians are expected to shop online in 2025. You may be able to snag some of that traffic if you open an e-commerce store with unique products, like local crafts, artisanal goods, or eco-friendly offerings.
- Health and fitness: Being healthy is in. Help your customers be their best selves by opening a business geared towards wellness, like a gym, health food store, or Pilates studio – or start your own fitness app for a mobile option.
- Remote work: Working from home as a contractor is a great way to get a flexible schedule while doing something you love. Work-from-home careers include writing and editing, design, website development, IT, or customer service. Or, cater to remote workers by offering flexible co-working spaces.
- Food and beverage: People are always on the hunt for the newest restaurant, bar, or coffee shop. If you have a unique menu idea – Instagram-worthy soup dumplings, anyone? – or you know the perfect place to put a coffee stand, you might be the next hot spot.
- Childcare and senior care services: Busy professionals can sometimes feel overwhelmed balancing careers with caring for young children or aging parents. Services like daycare centers, meal delivery, and home assistance can help ease day-to-day stress.
- Skilled trades: If you’re handy, going into a trade can be a great way to put your skills to use. Repair and restoration shops are in high demand, or you might opt for building custom furniture or creating one-of-a-kind artwork.
- Real estate and property management services: Investing in real estate can be a great way to gain financial freedom. But even if you don’t have much to invest, consider a business that helps other people care for their property, like a cleaning, lawn care, or security company.
- Hospitality: Work hard, play hard – consider starting a business that helps people get away from it all. Hotels and short-term rentals are great options if you have property, or you might start a company that offers guided tours or fun outdoor activities like hiking or skiing.
What are the best at-home businesses to start in Canada?
Whether you’re looking to ditch the commute or you live in a remote area without many career opportunities, working from home can give you unparalleled flexibility.
If you’re hoping to start a business based out of your home, these businesses might be a good place to start:
1. Freelance writer/editor
Average start-up cost: $0 if you already have a computer and internet connection
Who it’s good for: If you’re great at distilling complex topics into everyday language, your skills might be in high demand as a contract writer or editor.
How to get started: The startup costs are minimal, and in some cases, you won’t need to spend anything to get started freelance writing. You’ll just need a computer and a reliable internet connection. Then, use freelance job boards to start finding work.
Some companies will prefer candidates who have a college degree, but you may be able to establish yourself by blogging, writing product reviews, or taking small freelance gigs. Once you build up a solid history, you can leverage your experience to get higher-paying clients.
2. Social media influencer or content creator
Average start-up cost: Nothing, if you have the equipment
Who it’s good for: If you have a solid social media presence, great on-screen charisma, and an eye for the latest trends, you might find success as a social media influencer or content creator.
How to get started: All you really need to get started is a camera, decent lighting, and a good internet connection. You’re more likely to build up a devoted following if you pick a consistent topic to post about, like videos exploring haunted locations or Insta posts showing off your travels.
It can take a long time to build up your online presence to the point that it’s a full-time job, but in the meantime, it can be a fun passion project or even a lucrative side hustle.
3. Virtual assistant
Average start-up cost: Nothing, if you have a computer and internet connection
Who it’s good for: If you’re an organized self-starter, you might do well as a virtual assistant.
How to get started: As more and more companies turn to remote work, there’s often a gap left by in-person interns and secretaries who previously handled administrative tasks like scheduling, research, and internal communications. That’s where virtual assistants come in.
If that sounds like the kind of work you’d be interested in, browse freelance sites, like Upwork and Fivver, for virtual assistant openings. When you’re first starting out, you may have the most luck landing one-off or short-term gigs, but as you build experience, you may be able to find longer-term, higher-paying opportunities.
4. In-home childcare
Average start-up cost: As little as a few hundred dollars
Who it’s good for: If you’re good with children, starting an at-home daycare can be a natural choice. A recent study showed that 46% of Canadian parents who use child care had difficulty finding a space, so there’s definitely a need in the market.
How to get started: To start an at-home daycare, your start-up costs could be minimal. Check the requirements for your province – depending on where you live, you’ll probably need a license, which usually costs around $100 to $200. Licenses don’t cost anything in some provinces, including British Columbia and Manitoba.
That said, you may have additional fees, like background checks. You’ll also need to ensure your space is safe and appropriately furnished for young children.
5. Dropshipper
Average start-up cost: About $150
Who it’s good for: Dropshipping is a good option if you’re interested in breaking into e-commerce but you don’t want to store inventory.
How to get started: The startup costs for dropshipping are pretty low – you just need to purchase an e-commerce website and set up your socials. When a customer places an order with your shop, you send the order to your supplier, and your supplier ships the goods directly to your customer.
Drop-shipping is a fast-growing industry in Canada, but it’s also competitive. You may have the best chance of success if you work in a niche market, like curating fair-trade accessories or vintage albums.
6. Designer
Average start-up cost: A few hundred to a few thousand dollars
Who it’s good for: If you have a passion for perfect websites, graphic design, or other artistic endeavors, being a designer could be a good path for you.
How to get started: You’ll usually need some type of education in design to start working in the field. A college degree is probably the most traditional path, but if you’re on a limited budget, online courses can be a good way to start – they can cost as little as a few hundred dollars.
You may also need to invest in design software. Free open-source softwares can be a good way to get started, but having a licensed copy of an in-demand professional software may give you an edge when you’re talking to potential clients.
7. Bookkeeping or payroll
Average start-up cost: A few hundred dollars for courses and software
Who it’s good for: You might do well working as a remote bookkeeper or payroll assistant if you have a solid head for numbers and you’re quick at the keyboard.
How to get started: Canada is facing a shortage of skilled accountants. As more and more companies turn to remote work for tasks like these, working from home as a bookkeeper is becoming an increasingly viable career option.
You’ll probably need relevant education or experience to get started, so consider signing up for an online course if you haven’t worked in the field before. You’ll also need to license an accounting software like QuickBooks or TurboTax before you start marketing your skills to customers.
8. Consulting
Average start-up cost: Up to $1,500 for a consulting license
Who it’s good for: You might be able to offer your skills as a consultant if you have valuable experience in a field like marketing, social media, IT, or online dating.
How to get started: To get started working as a consultant in Canada, you’ll need a significant amount of industry experience and relevant education. Depending on your industry, you may also need to complete a Certified Management Consultant (CMC) course, which typically costs between $1,000 and $1,500.
Once that’s established, reach out to your network or local businesses and offer to share your experience with them. If you’re an experienced social media manager, for instance, you might work with local retail shops to help them expand their reach and bring in more customers.
9. Tailoring
Average start-up cost: A few thousand dollars for a quality sewing machine and fabric
Who it’s good for: If you love making and altering clothing, you may be able to start a business making custom fashions and altering clothing for customers.
How to get started: You’ll need a reliable sewing machine and top-notch tailoring skills to get started. Consider making or altering garments for friends and family as a way to advertise your skills. You can also show off your creations on social media to attract new customers.
10. Tutoring
Average start-up cost: Some fields may require professional certification
Who it’s good for: If you’ve mastered a certain skill and you love passing your knowledge on to others, being a professional tutor might be a good fit.
How to get started: Research the requirements for your field. In most cases, if you’re tutoring high-school students or younger, you won’t need any certifications – just advertise your skills in local online groups or through an online tutoring platform.
However, if you’re tutoring in a subject like nursing, law, or engineering, you may be required to have a professional certification that verifies you understand the subject well enough to teach it to other people.
What is the best business to start in Canada with a low investment?
Most businesses involve some start-up costs, but you don’t necessarily have to have a big investment to start working for yourself. These are some of our favorite business ideas that you can start with $15,000 or less.
1. House sitter or pet sitter
Average start-up cost: Typically nothing
Who it’s good for: You may do well as a house sitter or pet sitter if you’re reliable and good with animals.
How to get started: Word of mouth is the best way to get started as a house sitter or pet sitter. Reach out to your friends and family and let them know you’re interested in helping out the next time they go out of town. Over time, as you prove yourself reliable, they’ll be likely to recommend you to people they know.
Once you’ve established some experience and have a few quality references, you can start advertising on social media.
2. Handyperson or painter
Average start-up cost: You may need a business license in some places
Who it’s good for: If you’re always fixing things around your house, consider taking those skills to the public as a professional handyperson or painter.
How to get started: Check the laws in your area – you’ll probably need to be licensed and insured to work as a painter or handyperson. If you don’t have tools or a reliable work truck, you might need to invest in those to get started as well.
Once you’re ready, print up business cards or advertise on social media to start getting customers.
3. On-demand delivery driver
Average start-up cost: You may need a permit or license to get started
Who it’s good for: If you love being on the road and you know all the best ways through your city, you might enjoy working as a delivery driver.
How to get started: The easiest way to get started is to sign up as a delivery driver through a freelance service like Uber Eats – you get to choose your own hours and only accept the jobs you want.
If you want to start your own delivery company, you’ll have higher costs – you may want to invest in one or more professional delivery trucks, and you may need permits or licenses, depending on where you live.
4. House cleaner or professional organizer
Average start-up cost: Basic cleaning or organizing supplies, plus licenses and insurance
Who it’s good for: If you love making spaces look neat and tidy, consider a career as a professional organizer or cleaner.
How to get started: Research the requirements where you live to see if you’ll need to be licensed and insured to work as a cleaner or organizer. Once any required paperwork is in order, you’ll just need basic cleaning supplies, like towels, mops, brooms, sanitizers, and scrubbing brushes.
If you’re working as an organizer, you may also want to have storage totes and bins, wall hooks, labels, and some basic tools like a hammer or screwdriver in case you need to install shelving or other storage solutions.
5. Event planner or travel planner
Average start-up cost: You may need to be licensed and insured
Who it’s good for: Consider working as an event planner if you’re always throwing the best parties – or go into travel planning if you’re known for designing amazing vacations.
How to get started: Help your family and friends plan parties or once-in-a-lifetime trips to build your portfolio. Then, lean into your network and use social media to showcase your skills and find new clients.
6. Baker or personal chef
Average start-up cost: Cost of supplies and access to a professional kitchen
Who it’s good for: If you love making delicious treats for friends and family, consider expanding into a culinary career.
How to get started: In most provinces in Canada, you need to prepare food in a professional kitchen to legally offer it for sale. Fortunately, you may be able to rent a commercial kitchen for as little as $10 an hour, especially if you live in or near a large city.
You can also create a recipe and have it prepared and packaged by a professional co-packer.
7. Web developer or IT consultant
Average start-up cost: At least a few hundred dollars for courses
Who it’s good for: You might enjoy working in the tech field if you’re obsessed with the cutting edge of digital news.
How to get started: You’ll need professional education or experience to get started doing freelance web development or IT work, so it’s worth investing in the relevant courses and certifications for the type of work you want to do.
You may also want to donate time building websites or troubleshooting tech issues for your family or friends, or even local charities or businesses while you’re getting started.
8. Personal trainer
Average start-up cost: $1,000 to $1,500 for certification, plus insurance and supplies
Who it’s good for: If you’re passionate about fitness and making other people feel good about themselves, you might thrive as a personal trainer.
How to get started: You’re not required to be certified to work as a personal trainer in Canada. However, you’ll have more professional authority if you’re a Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) through the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology (CSEP). This certification includes a theory exam and a practical exam, covering subjects like anatomy and physiology and how to build an exercise program.
You’ll also need a space to train – if you don’t have your own space, you may be able to lease space at a local gym, or you can work with clients in their homes.
9. Landscaping
Average start-up cost: $5,000 to $10,000
Who it’s good for: A landscaping business can be a great option if you have a green thumb and love being outdoors
How to get started: To get started as a landscaper, you’ll need to invest in a quality riding lawnmower, trimmers and edgers, a leaf blower, and other equipment like rakes and shovels.
If you don’t have any experience, volunteer to do yard work for your family and neighbors, and give them business cards to pass out to their friends. You can also advertise your services on social media.
10. Photographer or videographer
Average start-up cost: Up to $10,000 to $15,000 for professional camera and lighting equipment
Who it’s good for: You might enjoy starting your own photography or videography business if you enjoy composing and taking high-quality photos and videos. The professional photography industry in Canada has grown at about 2.9% each year for the last 5 years, and there’s plenty of room for newcomers.
How to get started: Borrow or invest in a decent camera to get started – you may be able to find a good one secondhand if you don’t have one already.
What is the best business to start in Canada with a larger investment?
If you’ve been saving for years or you’ve recently cashed out your 401K or received an inheritance, investing in your own business could be a dream come true! These ideas all require a higher initial investment, but the potential for returns is higher, too.
1. Mobile car wash
Average start-up cost: $5,000 to $25,000
Who it’s good for: If you don’t mind getting soapy and you love the flexibility of being on the road, running a mobile car wash and detailing service can be a great option.
How to get started: The mobile car wash industry grew 2.2% between 2019 and 2024, so it’s a career path with steady growth opportunity. To get started, you’ll need a truck or van that can carry your mobile car wash equipment.
In some areas, you’ll also need a way to catch the water you use for recycling, and you might need a business license or certain permits.
2. Pet grooming salon
Average start-up cost: $20,000 to $50,000
Who it’s good for: Consider opening a pet grooming salon if you’re passionate about making pets look their best.
How to get started: You’ll probably need training and certification to start a pet grooming salon, and you may need certain permits depending on where you live. And you’ll need to invest in the right insurance in case you or a pet are injured.
You’ll also need a physical space – either a building or a mobile truck – and the proper pet-grooming equipment, including tubs, sprayers, dryers, clippers, and more.
3. Manufacturing company
Average start-up cost: $100,000 or more
Who it’s good for: Start your own manufacturing if you have the location and means and you see a gap in the industry.
How to get started: To start manufacturing, your biggest startup costs will probably be the facility and equipment, but you’ll also need to pay for incorporation fees, licenses, and permits. You’ll also need to hire staff and invest in inventory.
However, if you can find a niche that needs to be filled or you manufacture a unique product that really takes off, your potential returns could be huge.
4. Retail shop
Average start-up cost: $50,000 to $500,000, depending on where you live
Who it’s good for: If you love curating beautiful things and you’d prefer in-person interactions to e-commerce, a physical retail shop could be a good option for you.
How to get started: Start by figuring out what you want to offer – big-box stores cover most of the basics, so you’re more likely to be successful if you can fill a niche need in your community. Get creative, like focusing on unique gifts, vintage goods, or local art.
Once you have your business plan in order, find a physical location and purchase the inventory, then spread the word about your shop via social media.
5. Food truck, coffee shop, or restaurant
Average start-up cost: $75,000 to $500,000 or more
Who it’s good for: If you love cooking or brewing the perfect cup, you might enjoy owning your own food truck, food stand, coffee shop, or restaurant.
How to get started: Start by nailing down your concept, then write out a detailed business plan. If you’re planning on a food or coffee truck, you’ll need to find a vehicle, and if you’re opening a restaurant, locate and equip the space.
Working in the food and beverage industry can be grueling and the competition can be intense, but if you love what you’re doing, the reward can very much be worth the risk.
6. Repair shop
Average start-up cost: $50,000 to $100,000 if you need a physical space
Who it’s good for: If you’re handy at repairing things like electronics, automobiles, bikes, or antique furniture, consider opening up your own repair shop.
How to get started: Find a location, apply for any necessary business permits and licenses, purchase your license, and get set up with any equipment you need. Depending on what you’re repairing, there may be local regulations you need to be aware of.
Once your repair shop is ready, it can help to invest in marketing – the more professional your business looks, the more likely people will be to trust you with their prized possessions.
7. Tech startup
Average start-up cost: $50,000 to $500,000
Who it’s good for: If you think you have the next great app, device, or SaaS idea, consider forming your own tech business.
How to get started: There’s no magic bullet to succeeding in the tech space, but the tech industry in Canada is growing rapidly, so if your idea is solid enough, there’s a big opportunity for success here. In 2023, Canada’s tech sector hit around $281 billion, with software and computer service companies growing by about 4.6%.
Once you know what your tech offering will be, build a business plan, find an office space, and hire the best talent you can afford. Then, start building and troubleshooting your product.
8. Hair or nail salon
Average start-up cost: $60,000 to $200,000
Who it’s good for: Running your own hair or nail salon can be a great business if you love helping others look and feel glam.
How to get started: To open your own hair or nail salon, you’ll need to get any required licenses and permits. These can vary based on where you live, so be sure to research the requirements for your province or territory.
Once your paperwork is in order, you’ll need to find a physical location, purchase any necessary equipment, and hire qualified staff. It may also be worth investing in professional marketing – image is everything in the beauty industry.
9. Real estate investing
Average start-up cost: At least $200,000–$250,000
Who it’s good for: If you’re interested in flipping properties, maintaining rental homes, or hosting short-term rentals, the real estate field might be a good option for you.
How to get started: You’ll need to invest in a property to start. If you don’t have the cash to pay for the home outright, you’ll need to put down about 20–25% of the sale price for an investment property.
The initial investment is pretty steep, but real estate prices in Canada have gone up 77% over the last 10 years, so there’s a huge potential for profit if you time it right.
10. Construction
Average start-up cost: $50,000 to $500,000
Who it’s good for: If you’re experienced and skilled in construction work, you might enjoy owning your own construction business.
How to get started: Write up a business plan and apply for the licenses, permits, and insurance required in your area. You’ll also need to be familiar with the building codes and regulations where you live, and it’s a good idea to consult an attorney to ensure your contracts are airtight.
Once you’re ready to start building, invest in the equipment and help you’ll need. Bid for jobs – you might have luck landing smaller contracts at first, like building additions or outdoor sheds. As your reputation grows, so will the size of your contracts.
What is the best business to start in Canada for immigrants?
If you moved to Canada from somewhere else, starting your own business can be a great way to earn a living and feel like you’re a part of the community. Here are a few unique ideas with a lower barrier to entry for Canadian immigrants.
1. Crafts or homemade wares
Average start-up cost: Cost of supplies
Who it’s good for: If you’ve honed a craft like knitting or building artisanal furniture, you may find success selling your wares in Canada. The barrier to entry is fairly low – you just need to find buyers.
How to get started: Find something unique to sell, like homemade candles, handmade blankets, or unique crafts from your country of origin.
Craft or build enough inventory, then set up a display table at a farmers market or trade show. Or, build a website and upload pictures of your goods so you can sell them online.
As more people discover your unique, handmade goods, your business could grow into a self-sustaining career.
2. Agriculture
Average start-up cost: As little as a few thousand dollars
Who it’s good for: If you’re an immigrant in Canada and you own property (or you rent and you have your landlord’s okay), you may find success selling produce, livestock, or plants that you grow at home.
How to get started: You’ll need at least a little plot of land and some know-how, but mostly, agriculture is a blend of hard work and good luck.
Try raising chickens so you can sell the eggs at local farmers markets, or build a greenhouse and grow some of the beautiful flowers that are native to Canada, like peonies, carnations, bunchberry, and gladiolas.
3. Guided tours and outdoor tourism
Average start-up cost: $5,000 to $20,000, depending on your business
Who it’s good for: Guided tours and outdoor adventures are a great way to share your passions with others. And there’s a low barrier to entry, making this a good option if you’re new to Canada.
How to get started: The tourism industry is filled with nearly endless opportunities, so first, figure out what you want to offer. Maybe it’s kayaking trips or ski lessons, or maybe you want to offer tours through the historic district in your town.
Once you know what you want to do, check whether there are any special licenses, permits, or equipment you’ll need to invest in. Then, advertise through social media or word of mouth.
4. Vending machine company
Average start-up cost: $2,000 to $10,000 per machine, plus supplies
Who it’s good for: If you have a little money to invest and a good location, a vending machine company can be a good business. And because there’s little face-to-face, this is an especially good option if you’re still learning English (or French, if you live in a primarily French-speaking province).
How to get started: First, you’ll need to find a location with great foot traffic – vending machine purchases are primarily impulse buys, so it needs to be somewhere eye-catching. You’ll also need to get permission from the property owner to put a vending machine there, and you may need special permits.
Once your location is approved and you own the machine, purchase your inventory. Do your market research, since your customers’ taste might vary by location.
5. Bed and breakfast host
Average start-up cost: $50,000 to $200,000 or more
Who it’s good for: Open a bed and breakfast if you dream of creating a unique getaway for guests.
How to get started: Typically, a great bed and breakfast is all about the property, so you’ll need to invest in that if you don’t already own it. If the property needs to be renovated or updated, factor that into your costs.
As an immigrant in Canada, this can be a unique way to showcase your culture. For instance, if you’re from the UK, you might fill your home with the cozy fabrics and eclectic patterns common to English cottages.
Once everything is ready down to the last pillow, advertise on social media and short-term rental sites to start attracting guests.
6. Translation or tutoring
Average start-up cost: You may want to invest in textbooks or learning software
Who it’s good for: If you’re multilingual, you can find reliable, steady work as a translator, or tutor students who are trying to learn your native language.
How to get started: Advertise your services online or talk to friends to let them know you’re interested in tutoring. Work with your clients to help them learn the basics of your language – having textbooks, workbooks, or language software can be a good way to develop a learning program if you’re new to education.
This can be a great side-hustle, but if you get enough clients, you could turn it into lucrative employment.
Best franchises to start in Canada
If you want to be your own boss but you’re not sure where to start, consider opening a franchise with an already-established company. Here are some of the most popular franchises in Canada, plus an estimate of how much you’ll need to buy in.
- Tim Hortons: $170,000–$2,900,000
- Subway: $102,000–$234,000
- Pizza Pizza: $150,000
- Mary Brown’s Chicken: $300,000–$500,000
- Sabai Thai Spa: $500,000–$750,000
- Academy for Mathematics & English: $100,000
- SWTHZ (SweatHouz): $500,000
- THE TEN SPOT: $300,000–$450,000
- MaidPro: $115,000–$130,000
- The UPS Store: $200,000–$300,000
- JDI Cleaning Services: $15,000–$75,000
- Massage Addict: $300,000–$450,000
- Menbow Ramen: $100,000
- ComForCare: $80,000–$185,000
- Deka Lash: $220,000–$500,000
- Canadian Tire: $125,000
- Booster Juice: $300,000
- Freshii: $500,000
- Pizzaville: $300,000
- Midas: $200,000–$900,000
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What are the best businesses to start in Canada in 2025?
While the best business to start will be different for everyone, you may find the most success by focusing on a fast-growing Canadian industry, like eco-friendly products, technology, food and beverage, or health and fitness.
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