Start Your Trades Business the Right Way
You have the licence. You have the skills. Now turn them into a business that pays you what you're worth — without the 3-year learning curve that costs most contractors $40,000 in lost margin.
We work with tradespeople launching their first contracting company in BC. Licensing roadmap, pricing strategy, first clients, Google presence, and a quoting system — in 90 days.
Which trades do we work with?
Don't see your trade? Book a call — if you hold a BC licence, we can build a startup plan for you.
The 90-Day Trades Startup Roadmap
A structured sequence — not a checklist. Each step builds on the last.
Licensing & Compliance
We map out every licence, permit, and registration you need before taking your first job: SafeBC / Technical Safety BC, WCB, GST/HST number, business registration, liability insurance ($2M minimum). No surprises.
Brand & Positioning
Your trade name, logo, value proposition, and niche. Trying to serve every client is a race to the bottom. We help you pick the position that lets you charge premium rates and attract your ideal client from day one.
Pricing Strategy
Most new contractors underprice by 30–40%. We build you a cost-plus pricing model with flat-rate service menus, commercial quoting frameworks, and the confidence to hold your numbers.
Google Presence
Your Google Business Profile is your most important marketing asset in year one. We set it up completely, get it verified, and build a system that generates reviews from your first 10 jobs.
First 10 Clients
Who to call, what to say, and how to close — starting with your existing network. Every early job is a marketing asset: photos, a Google review, and a repeat-client relationship.
Website & Quoting System
A clean website with contact form, service area map, and licence display. Quoting software (Jobber / Housecall Pro / ServiceTitan) so you stop writing quotes on paper.
90-Day Revenue Target
We set a specific revenue target for your first 90 days and reverse-engineer the lead count, conversion rate, and job mix needed to hit it. Accountability built in.
What's included
Cities we serve in BC
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a business licence to start?
Yes. At minimum: a business registration (BC Registry), a Business Number (CRA) for GST, a WorkSafeBC (WCB) account, and your trade-specific licence. For HVAC/electrical/gas, SafeBC/Technical Safety BC contractor registration is mandatory before taking direct-client work.
How much money do I need to start a trades business?
Depends on the trade and whether you already own tools and a vehicle. Minimum realistic startup in BC: $5,000–$15,000 (insurance, licensing, website, basic marketing). If you need a truck and tools, add $15,000–$60,000. Most trades can start lean and reinvest revenue.
How quickly can I get my first client?
Most tradespeople land their first 2–3 clients within 2 weeks of starting from their existing network. First organic Google lead typically comes within 60–90 days with a properly built GBP. First Google Ads lead within 1–2 weeks of launching a campaign.
What if I have no clients yet?
Everyone starts at zero. The fastest path is: (1) text every colleague and homeowner you know, (2) post on local Facebook/NextDoor groups, (3) put your truck decal up, (4) ask your first 3 clients for a Google review. That foundation compounds fast.
What trade licences are required in BC?
Varies by trade. Electricians need a BC Certificate of Qualification + SafeBC Electrical Contractor Licence. Plumbers: BC Plumber Certificate + contractor registration. Gasfitters: BC Gas Ticket + SafeBC Gas Contractor Licence. HVAC contractors without gas/electrical: business registration + insurance is the minimum. We provide a full checklist at our first session.
Ready to launch?
Book a free 30-minute startup session. We'll map out your licensing, pricing, and first-client strategy — at no cost.