15 Online Side Hustles For Canadian Teens To Make Money And Boost Skills In 2024

Hey there, future tycoons! Ready to earn some cash and amp up your skills this 2024? You’re in for a treat because we’re about to explore the exciting world of online side hustles. Whether you’re saving for a big purchase or college or just want some extra spending money, an online side hustle can be a flexible way to reach your financial goals. Regardless if you’re a beginner with absolutely no experience or if you’ve got some tricks up your sleeves, we’ve got something for everyone. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get started!

Dive Right In:

SIDE HUSTLES WITH NO SKILL REQUIRED (ENTRY-LEVEL)

Embarking on a journey as a beginner doesn’t have to weigh down your pocket. Imagine stepping into the world of side hustles where the only investment is your time and passion.

Here’s the fantastic news: There are several creative ways to make money for free in Canada that require no more than your internet connection charges. Yes, you read it right – zero financial burden!

ONLINE SURVEYS: Ever thought your opinions could be worth something? Well, they are! Websites like Swagbucks and Survey Junkie are willing to pay for your thoughts. The best part? It’s free to start, and you can kick off right away. As you fill out those surveys, you’ll find your critical thinking and attention to detail sharpening – a great bonus.

FREELANCE WRITING: Got a knack for words? Why not turn it into cash? Platforms like Textbroker are beginner-friendly and only require a computer and internet connection. As you write more, you’ll notice your research skills and writing prowess improving. Who knows, you might even unleash your inner Hemingway!

SELLING HANDMADE CRAFTS: Are you a crafty one? Sites like Etsy can be your new playground. While the initial investment varies based on your craft, the thrill of selling your first handmade item is priceless. Plus, you’ll pick up some business acumen and creative skills along the way.

DATA ENTRY JOBS: If you’re detail-oriented and have a decent typing speed, data entry jobs on sites like Clickworker could be your golden ticket. With only a computer and internet connection, you’re good to go. This gig is a great way to boost your typewriting skills and attention to detail.

PET SITTING: If you’re an animal lover, pet sitting through apps like Rover could be your dream side hustle. With zero investment and an opportunity to make furry friends, what’s not to love? Plus, you’ll develop responsibility and caregiving skills.

SIDE HUSTLES WITH MEDIUM SKILL REQUIRED (INTERMEDIATE LEVEL)

Let’s move forward to hone your abilities and put more money into your pockets. These intermediate-level side hustles are like stepping onto a grand stage where your talents take center stage and the best part? The investment required won’t break the bank. Let’s explore how you can dive into this exciting passive world:

BLOGGING: Got stories to tell? Got stories to tell? Platforms like WordPress give you a voice. With a minimal investment in hosting and domain, you can start reaching out to the world. As your blog grows, you’ll master writing, SEO, and digital marketing skills – all while sharing your passions.

Cost estimation for Blogging:

  • Hosting: $3 to $10 per month (varies based on hosting provider and plan)
  • Domain: $10 to $20 per year (average cost)
  • Total Minimal Investment: $13 to $30 initially

VIRTUAL TUTORING: Knowledge increases when you share it. If you are a whiz in a particular subject, why not share your knowledge on sites like Tutor.com? The start-up cost is low – it costs you the fee you paid at school. Plus, you’ll develop communication and teaching skills as you guide your students.

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGEMENT: If you’re always on top of the latest TikTok trends or have a way with Instagram aesthetics, businesses on Fiverr may need your expertise. With a solid understanding of social media platforms, you can help brands grow online. In the process, you’ll refine your marketing and communication skills.

Cost estimation for Social Media Management:

  • No specific entry cost is required, but consider investing in social media scheduling tools for efficiency (optional cost, typically starting at $10 per month).
  • Total Minimal Investment: $10+ per month (optional)

AFFILIATE MARKETING: Ever convinced a friend to buy something? That’s affiliate marketing in a nutshell! Websites like Amazon offer affiliate programs where you earn a commission on sales. You only need a platform (website, blog, social media) to share product links. As you grow in this role, you’ll develop skills in marketing and sales.

Cost estimation for Affiliate Marketing:

  • Creating a platform (website, blog, social media): Varies, but can start for free on platforms like Blogger or Medium.
  • Total Minimal Investment: $0 to $20 initially (depending on platform choice)

FREELANCE GRAPHIC DESIGN: If you’ve got an eye for visuals and a handle on design software, websites like Upwork have tons of opportunities for you. As you create stunning designs for various clients, you’ll enhance your design skills and learn to manage client expectations.

Cost estimation to start Freelance Graphic Design:

  • Total Minimal Investment: $20.99 per month initially

NOTE: Keep in mind actual costs may vary based on individual choices and circumstances. Additionally, ongoing costs may be incurred for tools, marketing, or other optional expenses to enhance your side hustle.

SIDE HUSTLES WITH PRO SKILL REQUIRED (EXPERT LEVEL)

Ready to turn your expertise into income? These pro-level side hustles aren’t just about making a living; they’re about mastering your craft and stepping into a world where skills speak louder than words. These skills are about the exhilarating adventure of turning your passion into a paycheck. Let’s dive into the world where your skills take center stage, and success becomes a byproduct of your expertise!

WEB DEVELOPMENT: Got the coding bug? Websites like Freelancer are ripe with opportunities for web developers. As you build websites that solve real-world problems, you’ll sharpen your programming and problem-solving skills.

  • Cost: Varies based on tools and resources; potential expenses include development tools, software subscriptions, and project management platforms.
  • Pro Tip: Invest in quality resources to enhance your development process and create robust websites that stand out in the competitive market.

SEO CONSULTANCY: If you know the ins and outs of SEO and can navigate Google Analytics with your eyes closed, businesses will pay for your expertise. You’ll refine your marketing and data analysis skills as an SEO consultant.

  • Cost: Minimal to substantial, depending on the tools and software you choose for in-depth analytics and SEO optimization.
  • Pro Tip: Consider investing in premium SEO tools to stay ahead in the dynamic world of search engine optimization, ensuring your consultancy services remain top-notch.

STOCK PHOTOGRAPHY: If you have a camera and an eye for the perfect shot, websites like Shutterstock could be your gold mine. As you capture and sell high-quality images, you’ll refine your photography skills and learn to market your work.

  • Cost: Camera equipment, photo editing software, and potential expenses for attending photography workshops or courses.
  • Pro Tip: Invest in high-quality camera gear to produce stunning images that appeal to stock photo platforms and enhance your skills through continuous learning in photography.

FREELANCE TRANSLATION: Are you fluent in two or more languages? Websites like Gengo need your skills. As you translate documents, you’ll improve your language proficiency and gain a deeper understanding of different cultures.

  • Cost: Minimal, potentially limited to language learning resources and translation software.
  • Pro Tip: While the monetary investment is low, dedicate time to perfecting your language proficiency and understanding cultural nuances, which can be equally valuable in this profession.

APP DEVELOPMENT: Code-savvy teens, this one’s for you! Platforms like Toptal have opportunities for app developers. As you build apps that people love, you’ll enhance your programming skills and unleash your creativity.

  • Cost: Potentially high, involving development tools, software subscriptions, and hardware upgrades for efficient app creation.
  • Pro Tip: Invest in top-tier development tools to streamline your app creation process, ensuring your applications are innovative and user-friendly in a competitive market.

FAQs

Q: How can I know if an online side hustle is legit?

A: Do your homework. Research the company, read reviews, and if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Q: How much time should I spend on a side hustle?

A: It’s up to you and the nature of the side hustle. Some gigs might require just a few hours a week, while others might need more. Remember, it’s a “side” hustle, not your life!

Q: Do I need to pay taxes on what I earn from my side hustle?

A: Yes, you must report all income from side hustles on your tax return in Canada. The tax man cometh!

CONCLUSION

Whether you’re just starting, looking to level up your skills, or ready to dive into expert territory, an online side hustle is waiting for you. Remember, the secret sauce to a successful side hustle is passion, dedication, and an insatiable curiosity to learn. So, what are you waiting for? Get hustling and make 2024 your year!