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Start a new business under $50,000 in Calgary?

Start a new business under $50,000 in Calgary?

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

Data is supplied by Pillar 9™ MLS® System. Pillar 9™ is the owner of the copyright in its MLS®System. Data is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed accurate by Pillar 9™.
The trademarks MLS®, Multiple Listing Service® and the associated logos are owned by The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and identify the quality of services provided by real estate professionals who are members of CREA. Used under license.