Teen Entrepreneurs: Best Side Hustles for Teens in Canada

As teenagers in Canada look for ways to earn money and gain valuable work experience, side hustles have become increasingly popular. These flexible, often self-directed ventures allow young people to explore their interests, develop entrepreneurial skills, and make money outside of traditional part-time jobs. Whether you’re saving for college, looking to fund a personal project, or simply want some extra spending money, there are numerous side hustle opportunities available to Canadian teens.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best side hustles for teenagers in Canada, considering factors such as flexibility, earning potential, and skill development. From leveraging technology to utilizing traditional service-based models, these opportunities cater to a wide range of interests and abilities. Let’s dive into the exciting world of teen side hustles and discover how young Canadians can start building their financial future today.

1. Online Business Opportunities

The digital world offers Canadian teens exciting ways to earn money from home. These opportunities allow you to develop valuable skills while generating income on your own schedule.

Survey Sites

Answering paid surveys can be an easy starting point for teens looking to make money online. Platforms like Swagbucks allow users as young as 13 to participate. You can earn points by completing surveys, watching videos, and playing games.

These points can then be converted into gift cards or cash via PayPal. While not highly lucrative, survey sites provide a flexible way to earn some pocket money in your spare time. Remember to use reputable sites and be cautious about sharing personal information. Set aside dedicated time each week to maximize your earnings from surveys.

Freelancing Basics

Freelancing offers a great opportunity to showcase your skills and earn money online. Popular platforms like Fiverr and Upwork connect you with clients worldwide. As a teen, you can offer services such as:

  • Writing and editing
  • Graphic design
  • Social media management
  • Virtual assistance
  • Basic programming

Start by creating a strong profile highlighting your skills and any relevant experience. Begin with lower-priced gigs to build a positive reputation and client base.

Gradually increase your rates as you gain more experience and positive reviews. Freelancing not only provides income but also helps you build a professional portfolio for future opportunities.

Becoming an Influencer

Social media platforms offer teens a unique opportunity to become influencers and monetize their online presence. Choose a niche you’re passionate about, such as gaming, fashion, or technology. Consistently create engaging content on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube. Build a loyal following by interacting with your audience and collaborating with other creators.

As your audience grows, you can earn money through:

  • Sponsored posts
  • Affiliate marketing
  • Brand partnerships
  • Ad revenue (on platforms like YouTube)

Remember to always disclose sponsored content and maintain authenticity to keep your audience’s trust. Building a significant following takes time and effort, but can lead to substantial income.

Affiliate Marketing Insights

Affiliate marketing allows you to earn commissions by promoting products or services. As a teen, you can start by joining affiliate programs for products you already use and love. Create content around these products through:

  • Blog posts
  • YouTube videos
  • Social media posts

Share your honest opinions and experiences with the products. Include your unique affiliate links in your content. When someone makes a purchase through your link, you earn a commission. Popular affiliate programs for teens include Amazon Associates and ShareASale. Always disclose your affiliate relationships to maintain transparency with your audience.

Start with a few products and gradually expand your portfolio as you gain experience and grow your audience.

Test Websites

Website testing is a simple yet valuable side hustle for tech-savvy teens. Companies need feedback on their websites and apps, and they’re willing to pay for your opinions.

Platforms like UserTesting and TestingTime offer opportunities for teens to participate in usability tests. You’ll typically need to record your screen and voice as you navigate a website or app, sharing your thoughts aloud. Tests usually take 15-20 minutes and pay around $10-$15 each. Some platforms have age restrictions, so check the requirements before signing up.

To succeed in website testing:

  • Practice articulating your thoughts clearly
  • Be honest and detailed in your feedback
  • Complete tests promptly to maintain a good rating

This side hustle not only pays well but also gives you insights into web design and user experience.

2. Local Service-Based Options

Teens in Canada have excellent opportunities to earn money through local service-based side hustles. These options allow you to leverage your skills and time to help others in your community while gaining valuable work experience.

Lawn Care and Snow Removal

A young woman in a red hat, red mittens and a black jacket cleans snow in the yard in snowy weather.

Lawn care and snow removal are perfect seasonal side hustles for teens. In summer, offer lawn mowing, weeding, and garden maintenance services. During winter, switch to snow shoveling and de-icing driveways and walkways.

Start by asking neighbors if they need help with yard work. You can charge competitive rates, typically $20-$30 per hour. Invest in basic equipment like a lawnmower, rake, and snow shovel to get started.

Create flyers to distribute in your neighborhood or post on community boards. Consider offering package deals for regular maintenance to secure steady income.

Pet Sitting and Dog Walking

Pet sitting and dog walking are fun and rewarding side hustles for animal-loving teens. You can earn $15-$20 per hour walking dogs or $30-$50 per day for pet sitting. Sign up on platforms like Rover to connect with pet owners in your area. Build a reputation by asking satisfied clients for reviews and referrals.

Offer additional services like feeding, playtime, or administering medication to increase your value. Always prioritize the pets’ safety and follow owners’ instructions carefully.

Tutoring Subjects You Excel In

If you’re strong in certain academic subjects, consider tutoring younger students. You can charge $15-$25 per hour, depending on the subject and your expertise. Start by tutoring siblings or family friends. As you gain experience, expand your client base through word-of-mouth or by advertising at local schools.

Read more: 24 Tips & Jobs for How to Start Tutoring as a Teenager

Create engaging study materials and practice tests to enhance your tutoring sessions. Stay up-to-date with curriculum changes to provide the most relevant help.

Babysitting and Child Care

Babysitting is a classic side hustle for teens. You can earn $12-$18 per hour, with rates increasing for multiple children or late-night assignments. Take a CPR and first aid course to increase your credibility and potentially charge higher rates. Create a “babysitting kit” with games and activities to keep children entertained.

Build trust with families by being punctual, responsible, and engaging with the children. Ask parents for references to help you secure more babysitting gigs in your community.

3. Creative and Artistic Ventures

Artistic teens can turn their talents into profitable side hustles. These creative ventures allow you to express yourself while earning money.

Custom Artwork and Commission

You can start creating custom artwork for clients as a teen artist. Offer your services on social media platforms or local community boards. Specialize in portraits, landscapes, or digital illustrations to attract specific clients.

Consider designing logos for small businesses. Learn to use tools like Adobe Illustrator or free alternatives such as Canva. This skill can lead to ongoing work with companies needing branding materials.

Explore print-on-demand services to sell your artwork on various products. Design t-shirts, mugs, or phone cases featuring your unique creations. This allows you to earn passive income from your art.

Handmade Crafts and Jewelry

Turn your crafting hobby into a profitable side hustle by creating and selling handmade items. Start with simple projects like friendship bracelets or beaded jewelry. As your skills improve, expand to more complex pieces.

Set up an online shop on platforms like Etsy or Shopify to reach a wider audience. Take high-quality photos of your products to attract potential buyers. Offer customization options to make your items more appealing.

Consider participating in local craft fairs or farmers markets to sell your creations in person. This gives you valuable experience in customer service and marketing your products face-to-face.

4. Earning Through Education

Education-based side hustles offer teens valuable opportunities to share knowledge while earning money. These ventures can be both intellectually stimulating and financially rewarding.

Creating Online Courses

You can leverage your academic strengths by creating online courses. Identify subjects you excel in and develop engaging content for platforms like Udemy or Coursera. Focus on in-demand topics such as coding, language learning, or study skills.

Break down complex concepts into easy-to-understand modules. Use a mix of video lectures, quizzes, and assignments to keep students engaged. Consider offering beginner-level courses in popular subjects to attract a wider audience.

Pricing your courses competitively can help you stand out. Start with a lower price point to gather positive reviews, then gradually increase as you build a reputation.

Educational YouTube Channel

Starting an educational YouTube channel allows you to reach a global audience while monetizing your content. Choose a niche that aligns with your interests and expertise, such as math tutorials or science experiments.

Consistency is key. Aim to upload new videos regularly, even if it’s just once a week. Use eye-catching thumbnails and titles to attract viewers. Incorporate visuals, animations, and real-world examples to make your content engaging.

Encourage viewers to subscribe and leave comments. Respond to questions to build a community around your channel. As your subscriber count grows, you can earn money through ads and sponsorships.

E-Book Writing and Selling

Writing and selling e-books is an excellent way to share your knowledge and earn passive income. Choose topics you’re passionate about and have expertise in. This could range from study guides for specific subjects to how-to books on teen-friendly topics.

Research your target audience to ensure your content meets their needs. Use clear, concise language and include helpful illustrations or diagrams where appropriate. Proofread thoroughly or consider hiring an editor to polish your work.

Platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing make it easy to self-publish your e-books. Price your books competitively and use social media to promote them. Consider offering a free sample chapter to attract potential buyers.

5. Reselling and Flipping

Reselling and flipping items can be a lucrative side hustle for Canadian teens. This strategy involves buying products at low prices and selling them for a profit. You’ll need a keen eye for deals and market trends to succeed.

Flip Trading Cards

Trading cards offer excellent flipping potential. Look for rare or limited edition cards from popular franchises like Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering, or sports teams. Research current market values using online platforms or local card shops.

Buy card packs or individual cards at retail prices, then sell valuable finds for a profit. Attend card trading events to network and find good deals. Learn to grade cards accurately, as condition greatly affects value.

Read more: A comprehensive guide to making money flipping sports cards

Store your cards carefully in protective sleeves and cases. Consider getting valuable cards professionally graded to increase their worth.

Thrift Store Flipping

Thrift stores are treasure troves for teen flippers. Visit local shops regularly to spot underpriced items with resale potential. Focus on branded clothing, vintage items, electronics, and collectibles.

Clean and repair your finds if needed to increase their value. Take clear, well-lit photos of your items for online listings. Research similar sold items to price competitively.

Sell your flipped items on platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or local buy-and-sell groups. Build a reputation for quality items and honest descriptions to attract repeat customers. Here are 6 Dos and 6 Don’ts of Reselling from Thrift Stores.

Online Marketplace Selling

Leverage online marketplaces to reach a wider audience. Create appealing listings on platforms like Amazon, Etsy, or Shopify. Specialize in a niche market to stand out from competitors.

Source products from wholesalers, liquidation sales, or by creating handmade items. Calculate your costs carefully to ensure profitability. Offer excellent customer service and prompt shipping to build positive reviews.

Use social media to promote your online store. Learn basic SEO techniques to improve your listings’ visibility. Consider dropshipping to minimize upfront inventory costs.

6. Seasonal and Event-Based Activities

Canadian teens can capitalize on various seasonal opportunities and events to earn extra money. These activities offer flexibility and align with specific times of the year, allowing you to balance work with school and other commitments.

Holiday Decorations Setup

During the holiday season, you can offer decoration services to homeowners and businesses. Many people lack the time or ability to decorate their properties for holidays like Christmas, Halloween, or Canada Day. You can help set up Christmas lights, hang decorations, or create festive displays.

Start by practicing on your own home or offering free services to neighbors to build a portfolio. Advertise your services on local community boards or social media platforms. Be sure to learn about safety precautions, especially when working with electrical decorations or at heights.

Pricing can be based on the size of the property or the complexity of the decorations. Remember to factor in the cost of any equipment you might need, such as ladders or extension cords.

Event Photography

If you have a keen eye for photography, consider offering your services for various events. This can include birthday parties, weddings, or local community gatherings. Start by practicing at family events or volunteering for school functions to build your portfolio.

Invest in a good quality camera and learn basic editing skills. You can offer packages that include a set number of edited photos or hourly rates. Consider creating a simple website or social media page to showcase your work and attract potential clients.

Remember to communicate clearly with clients about their expectations and deliver the photos in a timely manner. As you gain experience, you can expand your services to include video recording or specialized photography like pet portraits.

Gift Wrapping Services

During the holiday season, many people are pressed for time and struggle with gift wrapping. You can offer your gift wrapping services at local malls, community centers, or even from home. Develop your skills by practicing different wrapping techniques and styles.

Offer a variety of wrapping paper, ribbons, and gift tags to cater to different preferences. You can charge per gift based on size or offer package deals for multiple items. Consider creating themed wrapping options for specific holidays or events.

To stand out, learn unique folding techniques or offer eco-friendly wrapping options using recyclable materials. You can also provide add-on services like personalized gift tags or custom bows to increase your earnings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Students can balance a side job with school by carefully managing their time, prioritizing tasks, and maintaining a strict schedule. It’s crucial to communicate with employers about academic commitments and potentially seek flexible work hours that accommodate study needs.

Online tutoring is an excellent option if you excel in a particular subject. You can also try freelance writing, graphic design, or social media management for small businesses. Virtual assistant roles and participating in online surveys are other ways to earn money from home.

Be aware of age restrictions for certain jobs. Some provinces have specific rules about the types of work minors can do and the hours they can work. If you’re earning significant income, you may need to report it on your taxes. Consider talking to a parent or guardian about any legal requirements for your specific situation.

House cleaning is a great option in urban areas. You can also try food delivery services or babysitting for families in your neighborhood. Participating in local events as an assistant can be fun and profitable. Look for opportunities to help at concerts, festivals, or sports events in your city.

Side Hustle Resources for Canadian Teens

Maurice

About the author

Maurice

Maurice (Moe) Muise learned the ins-and-outs of government while an employee of the Government of Canada in Ottawa for 10 years. His current focus is helping small businesses in Canada to identify and maximize funding to grow their business.

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