Starting a business in Canada with just $10,000 is not only possible but also a smart way to enter the entrepreneurial world.
If you can carefully plan, get a solid business idea, and focus on low startup costs, you can turn your $10,000 into a thriving venture.
And it doesn’t really matter whether you’re passionate about services, e-commerce, or creative pursuits, there’s a business model that fits your skills and budget.
Below, we explore the 11 best businesses to start with $10,000 in Canada, tailored to market trends, scalability, and profitability in 2025.
Why Start a Business with $10,000 in Canada?
Canada’s diverse economy, supportive government programs, and growing digital landscape make it an ideal place for small businesses.
With $10,000, you can cover essential startup costs like equipment, marketing, and licensing while keeping overhead low.
Many of these businesses can be run from home or online, reducing the need for expensive office space.
Plus, Canada’s small business grants and loans can stretch your budget further—check out resources like CanadaStartups.org for funding advice.
1. E-Commerce Store
Online shopping continues to boom in Canada, with e-commerce sales expected to grow steadily through 2025. An e-commerce store allows you to sell products globally without a physical storefront.
Startup Costs:
- Website setup (domain, hosting, platform like Shopify): $1,000–$2,000
- Initial inventory or dropshipping setup: $3,000–$5,000
- Marketing (ads, social media): $2,000–$3,000
How to Start: Choose a niche (e.g., eco-friendly products, pet accessories) and use platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce. Dropshipping eliminates inventory costs by partnering with suppliers who ship directly to customers.
Profit Potential: $50,000–$100,000 annually with effective marketing and scaling.
Tip: Focus on SEO and social media ads to drive traffic. A professional website is key—more on that later!
Read also: How to Start an Online Clothing Business in Canada
2. Freelance Digital Services
Businesses across Canada need digital expertise, from writing to graphic design to social media management. Freelancing leverages your skills with minimal investment.
Startup Costs:
- Laptop and software (if not already owned): $1,000–$2,000
- Website/portfolio: $500–$1,000
- Marketing (business cards, LinkedIn ads): $500–$1,000
How to Start: Identify your strongest skill (e.g., copywriting, web design) and create a portfolio on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or your own website. Network locally in cities like Toronto or Vancouver for higher-paying clients.
Profit Potential: $30,000–$80,000 in the first year, depending on client volume.
Tip: Specialize in high-demand niches like SEO content or Instagram marketing to stand out.
3. Mobile Pet Grooming
This is another easy business to start with 10K in Canada.
Why?
Well, over 60% of Canadian households own pets, creating steady demand for grooming services. A mobile setup eliminates the need for a salon.
Startup Costs:
- Grooming equipment (clippers, shampoos): $2,000–$3,000
- Vehicle upgrades (if needed): $3,000–$5,000
- Licensing and insurance: $1,000–$2,000
How to Start: Get certified through a pet grooming course (online options available) and outfit a van for mobile services. Market to pet owners via local Facebook groups and flyers.
Profit Potential: $40,000–$70,000 annually, with $50–$100 per session.
Tip: Offer subscription plans for regular clients to secure recurring revenue.
4. Lawn Care and Landscaping
Canada’s suburban and rural areas have consistent demand for lawn maintenance, especially in spring and summer.
Startup Costs:
- Equipment (mower, trimmer, tools): $4,000–$6,000
- Licensing and insurance: $1,000–$2,000
- Marketing (flyers, Google Ads): $1,000–$2,000
How to Start: Purchase reliable second-hand equipment and obtain a business license. Target homeowners’ associations or suburban neighborhoods in cities like Calgary or Ottawa.
Profit Potential: $50,000–$100,000 annually, with $50–$150 per job.
Tip: Expand into snow removal in winter to maintain year-round income.
5. Online Tutoring
Education is a priority in Canada, and parents are willing to invest in tutoring for their kids, especially in STEM subjects or languages.
Startup Costs:
- Computer and webcam: $500–$1,000
- Website or platform fees: $500–$1,000
- Marketing (social media, local ads): $500–$1,000
How to Start: Use platforms like TutorOcean or create your own website to offer virtual lessons. Leverage credentials (e.g., teaching experience) to attract students in urban hubs like Montreal.
Profit Potential: $20,000–$60,000 annually, charging $30–$50 per hour.
Tip: Offer group classes to increase earnings without adding hours.
6. Cleaning Services
Both residential and commercial cleaning are in demand, especially in post-COVID Canada, where hygiene remains a priority.
Startup Costs:
- Cleaning supplies and equipment: $1,000–$2,000
- Licensing and insurance: $1,000–$2,000
- Marketing (website, flyers): $1,000–$2,000
How to Start: Register your business and target busy professionals or small offices. Build a reputation through word-of-mouth and Google reviews.
Profit Potential: $40,000–$80,000 annually, with $20–$50 per hour.
Tip: Focus on eco-friendly cleaning products to appeal to environmentally conscious clients.
7. Personal Chef or Meal Prep Service
Canadians are seeking healthier, convenient meal options, especially in busy cities like Vancouver and Toronto.
Startup Costs:
- Kitchen equipment (if needed): $2,000–$3,000
- Food safety certification: $500–$1,000
- Marketing and website: $1,000–$2,000
How to Start: Get certified in food safety and start small by offering meal prep for families or fitness enthusiasts. Use Instagram to showcase your dishes.
Profit Potential: $30,000–$70,000 annually, charging $10–$20 per meal.
Partner with local gyms to tap into the fitness market.
8. Photography Business
From weddings to corporate headshots, photography services are always needed, especially in Canada’s vibrant event scene.
Startup Costs:
- Camera and lenses: $3,000–$5,000
- Editing software: $500–$1,000
- Website and marketing: $1,000–$2,000
How to Start: Build a portfolio with free or low-cost shoots to attract clients. Market on Instagram and local event boards in cities like Halifax or Winnipeg.
Profit Potential: $40,000–$90,000 annually, with $500–$2,000 per event.
Offer drone photography for real estate or weddings to diversify income.
9. Dropshipping Business
Dropshipping lets you sell products online without holding inventory, making it a low-risk e-commerce model.
Startup Costs:
- Website setup: $1,000–$2,000
- Marketing (ads, influencers): $3,000–$5,000
- Supplier partnerships: $1,000–$2,000
How to Start: Research trending products (e.g., fitness gear, home decor) and partner with reliable suppliers via platforms like Oberlo. Focus on niche markets to reduce competition.
Profit Potential: $30,000–$100,000 annually with strong marketing.
Use analytics tools to track ad performance and optimize campaigns.
Read also:
- 7 Powerful Tips for Dropshipping in Canada (Beginners Must-See)
- 11 Best Selling Products Online in Canada + Niches
10. Bookkeeping Services
Small businesses in Canada need affordable bookkeeping to manage finances, especially during tax season.
Startup Costs:
- Software (QuickBooks, FreshBooks): $500–$1,000
- Training or certification: $1,000–$2,000
- Marketing and website: $1,000–$2,000
How to Start: Take an online bookkeeping course and market to local businesses like cafes or retail shops. A professional website builds trust with clients.
Profit Potential: $40,000–$80,000 annually, charging $20–$50 per hour.
Tip: Offer tax preparation add-ons to increase revenue.
Read also: How To Start A Bookkeeping Business From Home In Canada
11. Event Planning
Canada’s wedding and corporate event industries are rebounding, creating opportunities for creative planners.
Startup Costs:
- Website and portfolio: $1,000–$2,000
- Vendor relationships (no cost, just time): $0
- Marketing and licensing: $2,000–$3,000
How to Start: Build relationships with local vendors (caterers, venues) and create a portfolio with mock events or small gigs. Market via social media and wedding expos.
Profit Potential: $50,000–$100,000 annually, with $1,000–$5,000 per event.
Tip: Specialize in niche events like eco-friendly weddings to stand out.
Read also: How to Start a Business with No Money in Canada
Tips for Success with a $10,000 Budget
- Create a Business Plan: Outline your goals, budget, and marketing strategy. Resources like CanadaStartups.org emphasize the importance of a solid plan for funding and growth.
- Leverage Free Tools: Use free marketing channels like social media and Google My Business to save costs.
- Start Small, Scale Smart: Focus on one service or product initially, then reinvest profits to grow.
- Explore Government Funding: Look into grants like the Pitch Perfect Grant (up to $5,000 for Canadian entrepreneurs) to boost your capital.
- Invest in a Professional Online Presence: A website is critical for credibility, especially for e-commerce, freelancing, or tutoring businesses.
The Role of a Strong Online Presence
Many of these businesses—e-commerce, freelancing, tutoring, bookkeeping—rely on a professional website to attract clients and showcase services. A website acts as your digital storefront, open 24/7 to Canadians from Vancouver to St. John’s. But building one doesn’t have to break the bank.
That’s where Truehost.ca comes in. Truehost.ca offers affordable, reliable web hosting services tailored for Canadian entrepreneurs. With plans starting as low as a few dollars a month, you get fast servers, free SSL certificates, and 24/7 support to keep your business online and secure.
Whether you’re launching an e-commerce store or a portfolio for your photography business, Truehost.ca ensures your site loads quickly and ranks well on Google—crucial for driving traffic and sales.
Why choose Truehost.ca?
Their Canadian-based data centers mean better performance for local customers, and their user-friendly control panel makes setup a breeze, even for beginners.
Plus, with scalable plans, you can grow your site as your business expands. Start your entrepreneurial journey with a strong digital foundation—visit Truehost.ca/web-hosting today to explore their hosting solutions and take your business online!
Final Thoughts
Starting a business with $10,000 in Canada is an exciting opportunity to turn your passion into profit. From e-commerce to event planning, these 11 ideas offer flexibility, scalability, and strong earning potential. By keeping costs low, leveraging digital tools, and building a professional online presence with partners like Truehost.ca, you’re setting yourself up for success in 2025 and beyond.
Ready to leap?
Pick one of these ideas, draft a business plan, and start today. Your entrepreneurial dream is closer than you think!
Disclaimer: Profit estimates are based on averages and depend on factors like location, marketing, and effort. Always consult a financial advisor before investing.
Read also:
- 15 Best Businesses to Start with $20,000 in Canada
- 12 Profitable Business Ideas to Start with $200K in Canada (No One Is Talking About These)
