Megan Franco – contributor

At Bishop’s University, a growing number of students are launching businesses without spending a dollar upfront. Instead of traditional startups that require funding, inventory or loans, these ventures are built using free digital tools and social media platforms. The result is what some students are calling the “$0 business model” which is low risk, flexible and increasingly common on campus.

Platforms like Canva, TikTok and Instagram are at the centre of this shift. Students are using them to design digital products, market services and build audiences, all without upfront investment. “I didn’t have the money to start something traditional,” said one Bishop’s student who sells social media templates online. “So I just started with what I had… which was my laptop and time.”

Image courtesy of Pickpic

Common $0 businesses include social media management, tutoring, reselling items online and selling downloadable products like planners or budgeting templates. Many rely on skills students are already developing in class, such as marketing, design and communication. The appeal is clear. Without financial risk, students can experiment with business ideas while balancing school and part-time jobs. For some, it’s a way to earn extra income. For others, it’s a first step toward entrepreneurship.

But while the barrier to entry is low, success is not guaranteed. The rise of these businesses has also led to increased competition. Social media platforms are saturated with similar offerings, making it harder to stand out. Building an audience takes time, consistency and a strong understanding of trends. “There’s a perception that it’s easy money, but it’s not,” another student said. “You still have to put in a lot of work to actually make sales.”

There are also questions about long-term sustainability. Many $0 businesses depend heavily on algorithms and trends, which can change quickly. What works one month may not work the next. Despite these challenges, the model reflects a broader shift in how young people approach work and entrepreneurship. Rather than waiting until after graduation, students are testing ideas now, using accessible tools to create income streams on their own terms.

For universities, this trend highlights the growing importance of digital skills and entrepreneurial thinking. For students, it offers a new kind of opportunity, one that doesn’t require capital, but does demand creativity and persistence. As the $0 business model continues to grow, one thing is clear: at Bishop’s, entrepreneurship is no longer limited to those with money to invest. It’s becoming something anyone with an idea and a Wi-Fi connection can pursue.