7 side hustle ideas to boost your income in Canada.
Who couldn’t use a little extra cash these days? Whether you call it inflation or stagflation, Canada’s high cost of living has made it harder than ever to stay afloat.
Cue the “side hustle.” Up to nine million Canadians are doing gig work to boost their incomes, and you can too! If you’re looking to save money when it seems impossible, here are seven ways to channel your inner entrepreneur and hustle your way to financial freedom.
Start freelancing
Are you a creative type? Graphic design is one of the most in-demand niches on the freelance job market. In addition to logos, flyers and websites, just think of all the eye-catching social media posts you scroll through every day. There’s also no shortage of remote writing jobs. If you can fact-check, research, edit and have a basic understanding of Search Engine Optimization (SEO), you can pretty much work from anywhere and set your own hours.
Explore e-commerce
Do you have a hobby you can transform into passive income? If you enjoy making handmade crafts, jewellery, candles or other unique products, it’s never been easier to start an e-commerce business. You could also consider selling items you no longer use online – it’s a win-win as you declutter your home while generating extra cash flow.
Deliver the goods
Whether you enjoy being behind the wheel or just like getting out of the house, think about delivering groceries, packages or other items in your spare time. A side hustle as a delivery driver offers a flexible schedule and easy earning potential that will quickly jumpstart your savings. If you suddenly find yourself with a little extra cash, consider these strategies to pay down your debt and/or start building an emergency fund to help you through any unexpected situations that may pop up.
Get a side gig that’s a walk in the park
Pet ownership in Canada is steadily on the rise. With more Canadians headed back into the office post-pandemic, the demand for pet care services is surging. If you have a passion for animals, dog walking and pet sitting can be lucrative side hustles. And don’t worry, you don’t need to hang up flyers all over the neighbourhood. New digital platforms make it simple to connect with pet owners and their furry friends.
Share your knowledge
Are you a math whiz, fluent in a certain language or really good with a particular musical instrument? Tutoring is one of the most rewarding side hustles, because you get to share your knowledge with others and watch your students improve every week.
Become a virtual assistant
In today’s digital world, many businesses are turning to virtual assistants for help with administrative support tasks, customer service, project management, digital marketing and more. While some positions require specialized skills, you’ll be able to find a flexible side gig if you’re tech-savvy and proficient in key software applications.
Flex your athleticism
When it comes to looking and feeling their best, Canadians are always seeking encouragement, motivation and advice with their fitness regimens. If you have a coaching mindset, consider offering fitness classes or online personal training in your free time. Cardio workouts, weight-training, yoga classes – whatever your preference, getting paid to workout is a great way to strengthen your financial situation.
Remember, securing a side hustle is all about leveraging your existing skills and knowledge. Whether you want to be behind a desk or on a walk in the park, selling products online or sharing expertise face-to-face, it’s key to find an opportunity that fits your schedule and financial goals.
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