Connected computers have opened up a world of home-based business opportunities for the average Canadian who wants to start an easy business on a tight budget. Any service or product that can be distributed online, can be turned into a virtual company. Whether you’re considering a full time business or an easy side hustle, affordable options are literally at your fingertips.
While there is a learning curve, it’s easy enough for most people to get started with a little self-study. If you’re comfortable with using a computer and social media, you have the learning capacity to start a home-based business. If you intend to do it all yourself to stay within a small budget, it will take longer. Hire some help once you start making money to speed things up.
Home Business Ideas for Canadians
Most of these suggestions are self-explanatory, but we’ve added information and links to resources as required. Get started with our checklist, How to Start a Profitable Online Business in Canada. You can also check out our ebook, 7 Recession Proof Online Businesses to Start From Home, for a more thorough guide.
If you need more info on something in particular, head to your local library or visit reputable websites on the topic. I don’t recommend investing in courses or memberships until you have a solid base of information. That way, you can better judge the value of the information or resource being offered. When you’re ready, start with the large selection of affordable courses on Udemy.
According to my research and experience (25 years), the following home businesses have proven to be the most successful in Canada and are a good bet for this year.
Accounting and other financial services will always be in demand, including:
- Bookkeeping
- Accounts payable, receivable & collections
- Tax preparation
- Investment consulting
- Financial planning
Writing services have never been more popular than they are today, such as:
- Business plans
- Reports
- Grant proposals
- Resumes
- Ebooks & lead magnets
- Editing
- Website & blog content
- Content translation
- Copywriting
- Technical writing
Stock Photos (there’s a great need for cultural diversity and more realistic, natural shots)
Product photography that’s suitable for online sales.
Customer relationship management (CRM) covers a range of services that can involve maintaining a database of customers, customer support and managing communications.
Database management may include data entry, storage and use of data, using a database management system.
Data management and analysis is one of the hottest services to provide, as more data is harvested and applied to business improvement and lead generation.
Website, blog or eCommerce design
Ecommerce store management
Open an online store and/or sell on marketplaces like Amazon
Digital design services can be a flexible and profitable home business that offers:
- Graphics design
- Architectural, interior or landscape designs
- Computer presentations (such as slide decks & graphics)
Online education, tutoring & printables for children or adults.
Online security services for businesses
IT support
Online Marketing:
- Social media
- Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
- Influencer
- Sales funnel design and management
Digital content production and strategy
Podcast production, editing and transcription
Video production, editing and transcription
Voice over and audio book production
Desktop publishing niches are often overlooked as printing gives way to digital, but many services are still in demand for both print or digital versions:
- Sales collateral
- Catalogues
- Stationery & business cards
- Labels
- Leaflets
- Signs
- Menus
- Craft patterns
- Illustrations
Recruiter (tech-related positions continue to be in high demand)
Research services can be provided for everything from content to competitive intelligence.
App development – there is software to assist in app development, you no longer need to be able to code from scratch to create an app.
Programmer
Phone or email customer support
Develop online courses of your own or as a service
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Buy & sell domains and/or websites through platforms like Buy Domains.
Travel agent
Consulting or coaching for individuals or businesses
A lot of these home business ideas can be “niched down” if you have a specialty in mind. Combine them if you’re qualified to offer a range of services or a good selection of related products.
Canada’s widespread population and volatile weather makes it perfect for home-based businesses and remote services. It allows businesses and individuals to choose the best provider from a larger pool, and makes it possible for Canadians to work from home (or anywhere). Starting a business can help you overcome obstacles to working outside the home, or be a stepping stone to bigger opportunities. Choose your business wisely and use the internet as an affordable tool to grow it.
Please share your experience or questions in the comments below, or join us in the Online Business Canada Facebook group.
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7 Recession Proof Online Businesses To Start From Home
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Melody McKinnon is an internet entrepreneur with 25 years of experience in a wide range of online business models, backed by a formal business/marketing education and enhanced by training and mentorship. She has owned or managed both educational and ecommerce websites. Her book, 7 Recession Proof Online Businesses to Start From Home, is available from all major ebook retailers.
Melody has worked with many businesses in a multitude of capacities. She can often be found on CanadianDigitalMedia.com, CanadiansInternet.com, CanadianFamily.net, and AllNaturalPetCare.com, as well as other quality digital publications. Her content has earned reference links from highly-respected websites, magazines and university textbooks.
Such an inspiration! My mind is running a million miles a minute with ideas and when I got here I was frustrated trying to think of what kind of home biz to start online. The first step is the hardest right? Thanks a mil!
won’t be long & almost everything will be done outside an office and in the house. meanwhile this is a lots of ideas to get started on. i’ve always wanted a small business!!!