Side hustle 101: What to know to get started

Canada is witnessing a quiet revolution—one that’s reshaping how we think about work, income, and entrepreneurship. The side hustle, once an alien concept, has become a defining feature of the modern Canadian economy. It’s no longer just about earning extra cash; it’s about reclaiming passion, testing ideas, and building something of your own.

Recent data from a 2024 Harris poll reveals that nearly 90 per cent of Canadians have engaged in a side hustle, with 29 per cent currently managing one alongside their primary job. We’re seeing a cultural shift. Among Gen Z and millennials, side hustling is even more prevalent, with 41 per cent and 47 per cent, respectively, actively participating in the gig economy. These numbers reflect a growing appetite for autonomy, creativity, and financial resilience.

As traditional employment models evolve, Canadians are increasingly turning to side hustles not just out of necessity, but out of aspiration. Whether it’s selling handmade goods, offering freelance services, or launching a pop-up shop, the barriers to entry have never been lower, and the opportunities, never more abundant.

Why side hustles matter more than ever

Side hustles are more than economic lifelines—they’re incubators of innovation. They allow individuals to test business ideas, build communities, and develop skills that often translate into full-time ventures. For small and micro business owners, side hustling is often the first step toward sustainable entrepreneurship.

Three key forces are driving this movement:

Getting started with your side hustle

If you’re ready to turn your passion into profit, here’s what you need to know:

1. Clarify your value proposition

Start by identifying what you’re offering and why it matters. Ask:

2. Register your business (if applicable)

Depending on your income and business type, you may need to:

This step ensures you’re operating legally and sets the foundation for future growth.

3. Sell on the go

Selling in person is simpler than you think. You only need your smartphone. With solutions like Tap to Pay on Android with the Moneris Go app, you can accept debit and credit card payments on your smartphone. This works anywhere you go—at markets, pop-ups, or events. No setup. No extra equipment. You stay mobile. You take digital payments on the spot. You keep your business moving.

4. Build your brand

Your brand is more than a logo—it’s your story, your voice, and your vision. Utilize tools such as email marketing and social media to establish your brand personality and build awareness and trust.

5. Track your finances

Financial discipline is key. Use accounting tools to:

Thoughtful hustling: A new era of entrepreneurship

Side hustling is where creativity meets commerce, and where passion meets purpose. For small and micro business owners, it’s a proving ground for ideas, a source of income, and a path to independence.

As we move into a future shaped by flexibility and innovation, the side hustle culture will continue to play a pivotal role. With the right tools and a clear strategy, anyone can turn a side hustle into a sustainable business.

Your hustle, your legacy