Low-Effort, High-Reward: Easiest Online Side Hustles in Canada

As the gig economy continues to grow and remote work becomes increasingly common, Canadians looking to earn extra income from the comfort of their homes. Whether you’re a student, a full-time employee seeking to supplement your salary, or someone looking for flexible work options, online side hustles offer a convenient way to boost your earnings.

This article explores some of the easiest and most accessible online side hustles available to Canadians. We’ll focus on opportunities that require minimal initial investment, can be started quickly, and offer flexibility in terms of time commitment. From freelance writing and virtual assistance to online tutoring and e-commerce, we’ll cover a range of options suitable for various skills and interests.

1. Freelancing Opportunities

Freelancing offers flexible ways to earn money online using your skills and expertise. You can choose from various fields and work on projects that suit your schedule and interests.

Writing and Editing Services

As a freelance writer or editor, you can offer your services to clients worldwide. Content writing, copywriting, and proofreading are in high demand. You can specialize in areas like blog posts, website content, or technical writing.

Start by creating profiles on platforms like Upwork or Freelancer.com. Showcase your best work in a portfolio to attract potential clients. Consider niches that align with your expertise or interests.

Rates vary depending on your experience and the project complexity. As you build your reputation, you can increase your rates and take on more lucrative assignments.

Graphic Design and Illustration

If you have a creative flair, graphic design and illustration can be profitable freelancing options. You can create logos, social media graphics, or book covers for clients.

Begin by setting up an online portfolio to showcase your work. Platforms like Behance or Dribbble are great for this purpose. You can also join freelance marketplaces specifically for designers, such as 99designs or DesignCrowd.

Marketplaces like Upwork tends to be a race to the bottom on rates and thus client quality. Once you have an established portfolio, you can reach out to clients directly and look at more specialized sites to find higher paying work.

2. Selling Products Online

Selling products online has become an increasingly popular and accessible side hustle for those looking to earn extra income from the comfort of their own home. With the rise of e-commerce platforms like Amazon, Etsy, and Shopify, anyone can start their own online store with minimal upfront investment.

A business woman is working online and traing to reply customer at home office packaging on background.

This flexible business model allows entrepreneurs to choose from a wide range of products to sell, from handmade crafts and vintage items to dropshipped goods and digital downloads. The low barrier to entry means that even those with limited business experience can quickly learn the ropes and start generating sales.

By leveraging social media marketing, search engine optimization, and targeted advertising, online sellers can reach a global audience and scale their business at their own pace. With the right strategy and dedication, selling products online can evolve from a simple side hustle into a lucrative full-time venture, offering financial freedom and the ability to work on your own terms.

3. Digital Content Creation

Creating digital content offers Canadians exciting opportunities to earn money online. You can leverage your skills and interests to build an audience and generate income through various platforms and mediums.

Starting a YouTube Channel

YouTube provides a platform for you to share your expertise and creativity with the world. Start by choosing a niche that aligns with your passions and knowledge. Invest in basic equipment like a decent camera and microphone to ensure good video quality.

Consistency is key – aim to upload videos regularly to grow your audience. Engage with your viewers through comments and community posts. As your channel grows, you can earn money through ad revenue, sponsorships, and merchandise sales.

Remember, most YouTubers earn between $1.50-$3.00 per 1,000 views. While it takes time to build a following, perseverance can lead to a substantial income stream.

Blogging and Writing eBooks

Blogging allows you to share your thoughts and expertise on topics you’re passionate about. Choose a niche, set up a website, and start creating valuable content for your readers. Monetize your blog through affiliate marketing, sponsored posts, and display advertising.

Writing and self-publishing eBooks is another lucrative option. Identify popular topics in your niche and create comprehensive guides or engaging stories. Platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing make it easy to reach a global audience.

To succeed, focus on creating high-quality, original content that provides value to your readers. Promote your blog and eBooks through social media and email marketing to build a loyal following.

Podcasting and Online Courses

Podcasting and online courses have emerged as popular and potentially lucrative side hustles in the digital age. Many podcast guests are now using their platforms to sell online courses, leveraging their expertise to create additional income streams. For those with specialized knowledge or skills, creating and selling online courses can be a highly profitable venture, with some entrepreneurs reporting earnings of up to $17,000 per month alongside their full-time jobs.

Podcasting itself can also be a viable side hustle, with opportunities ranging from hosting your own show to editing podcasts for organizations and corporations. The key to success in both areas lies in creating engaging, actionable content delivered in short, digestible lessons, which can inspire progress and keep audiences coming back for more. With the right approach and dedication, podcasting and online courses can provide a flexible and rewarding way to supplement your income while sharing your passion and expertise with a global audience.

4. Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing has become an increasingly popular and accessible online side hustle, offering individuals the opportunity to earn passive income by promoting products or services they believe in. This business model allows affiliates to earn commissions by referring customers to companies through unique tracking links.

With low startup costs and the flexibility to work from anywhere, affiliate marketing can be an attractive option for those looking to supplement their income. Success in this field often comes from choosing the right niche, building a strong online presence, and providing valuable content that resonates with your audience. Many affiliates find success by leveraging social media platforms, blogging, or creating YouTube content to reach potential customers.

While it may take time to build a significant income stream, some successful affiliate marketers report earning anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per month. With dedication, strategic planning, and consistent effort, affiliate marketing can evolve from a simple side hustle into a substantial source of income for many entrepreneurs.

5. Online Surveys and Micro Tasks

Online surveys and micro tasks have gained traction as accessible side hustles in Canada, offering a way for people to earn some extra money in their spare time. Canadians can participate in various survey sites and microtask platforms that pay for simple tasks like answering questions, data entry, or small online jobs. However, it’s crucial to understand that these opportunities typically don’t pay much, with some users reporting earnings as low as $1 per hour.

For instance, committing 40 hours a week to such tasks might only translate to an average weekly income of $40. Despite the low pay, these options can still be attractive for those looking to earn money online without committing to a traditional job. The flexibility and ease of access make online surveys and micro tasks a viable option for Canadians seeking a simple, low-commitment way to supplement their income, albeit with modest financial returns. It’s important for participants to manage their expectations and consider these activities as a small supplement rather than a primary income source.

6. Virtual Assistance

Virtual assistance offers a flexible way to earn money online in Canada. You can provide valuable support to businesses and entrepreneurs from the comfort of your home, utilizing your administrative and organizational skills.

Services Offered by Virtual Assistants

Virtual assistants handle a wide range of tasks for their clients. You might manage social media accounts, schedule appointments, or organize emails. Data entry, customer service, and bookkeeping are also common responsibilities.

Some virtual assistants specialize in specific areas like graphic design or content creation. Others offer general administrative support. You can tailor your services based on your skills and interests.

Consider developing expertise in tools like project management software or customer relationship management systems. This can make you more valuable to potential clients.

Finding Virtual Assistant Jobs

To start your virtual assistant side hustle, create a professional online presence. Build a website showcasing your skills and services. Use LinkedIn to network and find opportunities. Freelance platforms like Upwork and Fiverr are great places to find virtual assistant jobs. You can also reach out directly to small businesses or entrepreneurs in your network.

Join virtual assistant groups on social media to learn about job openings and industry trends. Consider offering a free trial or discounted rate for your first few clients to build your portfolio and gain experience.

Set clear boundaries with clients regarding your availability and scope of work. This helps maintain a healthy work-life balance as you grow your virtual assistance business.

7. Stock Photography and Videography

Stock photography and videography offer a creative way to earn money online. You can turn your passion for visual content into a profitable side hustle by capturing and selling high-quality images and videos.

Selling Photos to Stock Websites

Selling photos offers a flexible way to monetize your skills and creativity without the need for a significant upfront investment. The best way to sell photographs online is by offering them as stock images on third-party websites like iStock, Shutterstock, or Alamy.

These platforms provide a marketplace where photographers can upload their work and earn royalties each time their images are downloaded. Income can vary greatly depending on the quality and marketability of your photos. With dedication and a keen eye for marketable subjects, selling photos to stock websites can evolve from a casual side hustle into a substantial supplementary income for Canadian photographers.

Tips for Aspiring Stock Creators

To succeed in stock photography and videography, focus on quality over quantity. Invest in good equipment and hone your skills through practice and online tutorials. Pay attention to lighting, composition, and post-processing techniques to create professional-looking content.

Collaborate with brands and participate in photo contests to gain exposure and expand your portfolio. Stay up-to-date with current visual trends and anticipate future ones to create content that buyers are seeking.

Consider specializing in a niche to stand out from the competition. This could be anything from food photography to drone videography. Consistency in style and subject matter can help you build a recognizable brand within the stock content community.

8. Online Tutoring and Language Teaching

Online tutoring and language teaching offer flexible ways to earn money from home. These opportunities allow you to leverage your knowledge and skills to help students learn various subjects or languages.

Platforms for Online Tutoring

There are many online tutoring platforms available in Canada:

  • Superprof: A versatile platform connecting students with tutors across various subjects and skill levels.
  • Skooli: An on-demand tutoring service offering instant help for K-12 and college students.
  • TutorOcean: A Canadian-based platform providing a marketplace for tutors and students to connect.
  • Tutor.com: A pioneer in online tutoring, offering 24/7 access to expert tutors in various subjects.
  • Preply: A global platform specializing in language tutoring but also covering other academic subjects.
  • Varsity Tutors: A comprehensive tutoring service known for its rigorous tutor selection process.
  • Chegg: A platform providing both on-demand tutoring and textbook solutions for college students.
  • Wyzant: A tutoring marketplace that allows students to find and book private tutors for personalized lessons.

To become an online tutor, focus on your educational background and experience. If you’re new, consider volunteering or offering low-cost sessions to build your portfolio.

Teaching English as a Second Language

Teaching English online is a popular side hustle in Canada. You can earn up to $22 per hour, with potential bonuses for short-notice classes. To get started, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree, TEFL certification (in most cases), a reliable internet connection , a quiet workspace.

Many platforms provide lesson materials, making it easier for you to focus on teaching. As you gain experience, you can increase your rates and build a loyal student base.

Frequently Asked Questions

Taking online surveys is an easy way to start earning money on the side. You can sign up for survey platforms and begin almost immediately. Another option is to become a virtual assistant, helping businesses with administrative tasks remotely.

Students can tutor online in subjects they excel at. This flexible option allows you to set your own schedule. Content writing or social media management are also great choices, letting you leverage your digital skills.

Renting out your computer’s storage and bandwidth is a simple way to earn passively. You can also try pet-sitting or dog-walking through apps, which offer flexibility and the joy of working with animals.

Creating and selling digital products like e-books, printables, or online courses can generate ongoing income. You can also start a blog or YouTube channel and monetize it through ads and affiliate marketing.

Resources for Starting a Side Hustle in Canada

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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