✅ 1. Mobile Car Detailing Service
Why It Works: Calgary’s long winters and busy commuters create strong demand for mobile services.
Startup Costs: $10,000–$25,000
Needs: Van or car, pressure washer, cleaning supplies, marketing
Bonus: Can operate year-round with heated garages or enclosed tents.
✅ 2. Home Cleaning or Airbnb Turnover Service
Why It Works: High rental turnover and busy professionals in the city.
Startup Costs: $5,000–$10,000
Needs: Cleaning supplies, liability insurance, website or booking system
Target: Residential homes, condos, short-term rentals
✅ 3. Niche Food Stall or Ghost Kitchen
Why It Works: Calgary’s growing interest in diverse food options and delivery.
Startup Costs: $20,000–$40,000
Examples: Bubble tea, ethnic snacks, keto meals, hot dog stand
Bonus: Operate from commercial shared kitchens to avoid high rent.
✅ 4. Pet Services (Grooming, Walking, Sitting)
Why It Works: Pet ownership in Calgary is high, and many services are underserved.
Startup Costs: $3,000–$15,000
Options: Mobile grooming, dog walking, in-home sitting, pet taxi
Flexibility: Home-based and scalable
✅ 5. Landscaping and Snow Removal
Why It Works: Seasonal demand is high, especially in residential suburbs.
Startup Costs: $10,000–$30,000
Equipment: Lawn mowers, snow blowers, trailer, shovels
Clients: Homeowners, townhouses, and small business buildings
✅ 6. Digital Marketing or Social Media Agency
Why It Works: Many small businesses in Calgary lack in-house digital marketing expertise.
Startup Costs: $2,000–$8,000
Skills: SEO, Facebook/Google Ads, branding, content creation
Work from: Home or coworking spaces
✅ 7. Personal Fitness Trainer or Yoga Coach
Why It Works: Increasing wellness trend and flexible, low-cost operations.
Startup Costs: $2,000–$10,000
Setup: Rent studio hours or offer in-home/online classes
Certifications: Preferred but not always mandatory
✅ 8. Custom Printing & Embroidery (Apparel or Promo Items)
Why It Works: Demand from local schools, sports teams, businesses
Startup Costs: $15,000–$40,000
Tools: Heat press, vinyl cutter, DTG or embroidery machine (basic)
Sales: Online store, event booths, or business contracts
✅ 9. Tutoring or Educational Services
Why It Works: High demand for academic and language support for children and immigrants.
Startup Costs: $1,000–$5,000
Subjects: Math, science, ESL, university prep
Mode: Home-based or virtual
✅ 10. Specialty Reselling or Thrift Flipping
Why It Works: Low barrier to entry, trendy among younger buyers
Startup Costs: $500–$5,000
Platforms: Facebook Marketplace, Etsy, eBay
Items: Vintage clothing, collectibles, electronics, refurbished furniture