Build a Thriving Freelance Business Without Wasting Months on Trial and Error!
Start earning from home with a proven 5-step system
“The amount of material available at Freelance University is phenomenal! The return on my investment is off the charts!”
- Wanda Cox (Freelance University Student)
Which Best Describes You?
- You're nearing or beyond retirement and feel like you're running out of time to live life on your terms - working from home, being your own boss, and having the flexibility to travel.
- You don’t want to (or can’t) work 9 to 5 in an office because of health reasons
- You’ve tried offering your services as a freelancer but you do not have any clients to show for your efforts. At best a few minimum wage jobs doing what you don't necessarily like.
- You want to earn a little extra and contribute to the family income. But you don’t want to spend hours every day commuting. Instead, you want to stay at home and be with your family.
Working as a highly sought-after, well-paid freelancer could be the solution!
How Do I Start and Grow My Freelance Business?
This is the big question, isn’t it?
You have valuable skills and a desire to contribute. You want to get started with freelancing. But you just don’t know how or where to begin!
You might be asking yourself:
- How do I get started at my age?
- What am I good at that I can offer and people will pay for?
- What work will complement my existing skills and personality that I will enjoy doing?
- How can I learn and compete in this rapidly changing, AI-driven tech world?
- How to get clients?
- How to price myself?
- How to set up my business?
- Can I really make a consistent income working from home?
- What if I fail…
Doing It Without a System Can Be Overwhelming!
Getting started all by yourself takes a lot of work. The fear of the unknown can make you feel like a deer in headlights.
Just the idea of learning new skills or diving into unknown waters might make you feel tired before you even start.
But then, staying stuck in the same routine would mean missing out on the freedom you desire.
Whether it’s the dream of traveling during retirement or earning extra income while being at home with the kids, the life you want may seem out of reach…
This Is Why We Built Our 5-Step Success System!
Imagine not having to take this leap all by yourself.
Imagine having someone to help you along the way as you make this major life transition.
Imagine a step-by-step system that not only teaches you freelancing skills but also teaches you how to set up your business, systems, processes and how to find and retain clients.
Unlike generic one-off courses or brain-dump training websites, Freelance University provides you with a five-step system to take you from where you are to where you want to be.
Step 1 - Identify What You Are Good At
- Find your perfect freelance niche: We’ll help you identify the ideal path for you by aligning your unique strengths and passions with the right freelance career.
- Start with clarity: Whether you’re great at design, project management, or virtual assistance, we’ll help you discover the best freelance fit to build a career around what you do best.
- Do work you love, not just work for pay: With our guidance, you won’t just earn money—you’ll enjoy the work you do, leading to more satisfaction, and greater long-term success.
Step 2 - Learn a New Skill
- After discovering your ideal freelance niche, choose from 37 in-depth courses across 7 career tracks to match your freelance goals.
- Dive into high-demand fields like Virtual Bookkeeping, Email Marketing, or Podcast Production, and unlock new opportunities.
- Gain expert-level training without the high price tag—our courses offer premium content that would typically cost hundreds or even thousands elsewhere.
- Learn at your own pace with easy-to-follow video lessons you can revisit anytime to reinforce your skills and knowledge.
Step 3 - Launch Your Business
- Get step-by-step guidance on setting up your business, from securing your business name to building your online presence.
- Create service packages that showcase your skills and set competitive pricing with confidence.
- Learn how to send proposals and land your first client so you can start earning quickly.
- Develop the right freelancer mindset so you can keep your business thriving long-term.
Step 4 - Keep Learning and Keep Growing
- Stay on top of the fast-changing freelance world with continuous access to new and updated courses on important topics like Artificial Intelligence.
- Access regularly updated courses that cover the latest trends and tools to help you grow your business.
- Expand your horizons by exploring all our courses, even in areas you might not be interested in yet—your next opportunity could be just around the corner.
Step 5 - Connect and Build Network
- Get connected in our student network to exchange ideas and even find clients who need complementary services.
- Attend live monthly events to sharpen your skills, ask questions, and grow your network.
- Get support anytime by posting your questions and tapping into the experience of seasoned freelancers.
We've Helped Over 2000 Students Achieve Freelance Success. Are You Next?
'Within a few months of joining FreelanceU, I have picked up so many jobs that I have had to reject some. It gave me the confidence and the right business mindset. Joining FreelanceU has made me more professional to the extent that one client hired me as I sounded more professional than others who applied for her job."
- Rivky C
"After taking some courses last year with Freelance University I was able to set up my business which has since grown exponentially! I'm back because I love the amount of content and courses on offer, not to mention the amazing community, and want to really perfect my services for my existing clients (namely social media management) and business is going so well that I have the financial stability to do so! Thanks Craig, Kelly & the team!!"
- Gemma Wilson
"Being a part of the Freelance University community has given me the confidence to make my dream a reality! The courses are fantastic, relevant and are constantly being upgraded with new content introduced.
I appreciate the support, knowledge and positive feedback from the Facebook community. You are not alone! The community is very welcoming and supportive as you work towards your Freedom dream."
- Linda Mae Olgivie
"I've been freelancing for almost four years now and have found Freelance University invaluable in developing my skills and building my confidence. The courses and workshops I've taken so far have been packed full of the information I need with no 'fluff'. The tutors are engaging and friendly and are passionate about supporting everyone to succeed. The Facebook group is an invaluable support and learning tool too as worldwide, even with varied experiences, freelancers face similar issues and can offer each other suggestions and advice from different perspectives.
Being a country girl from England and working with small businesses in the UK rural sector, I thought that Freelance University would not be appropriate for me as it's a Canadian/American company. However, I was wrong and should have joined earlier in my freelance journey."
- Sarah Liddle
"Freelance University has it all - courses, support, job listings, community. Even when I don't use it for a while, I know it's there and pretty much anything I need to learn is at my fingertips should I need it. I love the certifications and think they provide a true value for our LinkedIn and resume. It's really one of the best programs out there for anyone interested in online/remote work."
- Sherry Rickmeier
Imagine How Life Will Be if You Can Earn While Working From Home
- Imagine approaching your retirement with the confidence that you can work when you want, from where you want and still make a good living.
- Imagine telling your family that you can afford that vacation through your freelance earnings without dipping into family savings.
- Imagine moving to a warmer part of the world because now you can take you source of livelihood with you.
- Imagine waking up on your own body clock because you do not have to make the mad dash out the door to clock in before 9!
- Imagine working with enthusiasm and excitement because you are doing what you love and not what the corporate machinery needs you to.
Imagine the possibilities...
Start Building Your Secure Financial Future Today!
A future that does not depend on the whims of a boss or an organization that may not value (or even realize) your skills. Or the whims of a fickle economy that can turn on a dime.
A future where you can earn what you are worth while working from home or from anywhere else in the world!
And Freelance University can get you started on the path of flexibility, financial independence and location freedom.
We have helped more than 2,000 students walk this path before you. Today, it is your turn.
What Are Our Students Saying About Us?
“Freelance University has taken my business to another level.”
Last week a client told me: I don’t know what you’ve been doing for the past couple of months, but you’re killing it”.
You know the only thing that changed? I registered for Freelance University! Since then, my clients have been giving me more responsibilities!
Every time I have a question about how to handle a situation with a client, or a task, I am confident that I can get the answers in one of the University classes.
I can genuinely say that Freelance University has expanded what I believed was possible. You need to sign up!
- Eugenia Woo
"Freelance University really is the best option out there!"
Freelance University has the best model for online training that I have ever seen for VA's. Craig & Kelly raise the bar every year by keeping up with the technology and presenting it to their clients in a clear and concise manner. l love that for a yearly fee, I can take all of the courses offered in the comfort of my office at home or wherever I happened to be.
My motto is “Have laptop, will travel”. Being a VA allows me to live in FL during the winter and the rest of the year in NH. The courses I have taken and added to my skill set are invaluable and the information is up-to-date. The support system is excellent. I can honestly say that I get 100% plus ROI with this program."
- Anne Bole
You Are Unique. We Help You Find Work That Fits Your Unique Strengths.
You have special strengths. And some superpowers that even you might not know. And it is more than likely that the current work that you do does not utilize those super skills.
It is only natural that you will enjoy your work and earn more if you align what you do to what you are good at.
And that is precisely the first step you will take when you join Freelance University. Based on your personality (for which, we have an effective test), you will be able to choose from seven different freelance paths.
Maybe you are super organized at home. You can be an in-demand virtual assistant.
Or maybe the written word is your jam. Copywriting can be a fulfilling and very lucrative career.
Or maybe you are the person who everyone turns to when a team effort needs to be coordinated at the church. Project Management or Online Business Management can be your real calling.
Here is a quick glimpse of the seven in-demand and well-paying career paths that we will help you choose from (based on your personality strengths) when you get started with us.
1. Virtual Assistance
If you're an organizer at heart, this is a great path to consider. Our training equips you to be proficient in tasks like bookkeeping, preparing spreadsheets, and managing clients' calendars. Take any or all of the following courses to become a successful Virtual Assistant:
- Virtual Assistant Foundations
- Virtual Customer Support
- Virtual Bookkeeping
- Email & Calendar Management
- Digital Research Skills
- CRM Support
2. Digital Marketing
Naturally creative with great communication skills? Digital marketing might be most suited to you. The following courses are available as a part of this track.
- Digital Marketing Management
- Social Media Management
- Keyword Research & SEO
- Product Launch Management
- Marketing Funnels & Automation
- Email Marketing
- Content Marketing
3. Writing and Editing
Love the written word? Your clients will love you too in this niche. Our courses below set you up to explore all the freelancing options available to you in this track.
- Writing Foundations
- Copywriting
- Blogging
- Email Writing
- SEO Content Writing
- AI Prompt Writing
- Proofreading
4. Project Management
If you love to manage teams, tasks and deadlines, then being a Virtual Project Manager can be fulfilling and lucrative. You will build and implement project plans in a remote context, learn to develop strong teams and effectively communicate and negotiate with your clients!
These courses will help you on the way.
- Virtual Project Manager
- Business Systems & Processes
- Client Communication & Management
- Virtual Team Building
- Email & Calendar Management
5. Consulting
People seek your advice when making decisions? A freelance career in consulting is right up your alley. Discover how to implement four primary consulting frameworks and develop proven consulting skills.
The courses below will help you achieve breakthroughs for your clients, all while building a fulfilling career for yourself.
- Consulting Niche Selection
- Consulting Frameworks
- Consulting Skills
- Consulting Technology Tools
6. Virtual Events and Media
You can't have enough of all the multimedia that social media has to offer, be it YouTube or TikTok videos, Instagram Reels or even podcasts? You will love this track.
Discover how to produce and manage podcasts, set-up virtual events and build an effective YouTube channel for your client with these courses:
- Virtual Event Management
- Podcast Production
- Online Video Production
- Digital Content Management
- Multi-Media Editing & Production
7. Online Tutor and Trainer
If you have a knack for teaching or a background in training, then this track has excellent virtual opportunities for you.
Discover how to build a thriving tutoring business, faciliate effective online workshops and design and deliver high quality online education and training using these courses that you can access in Freelance University:
- Virtual Training
- Online Tutoring
- Course Design
Freelance University = Ongoing Support
Just like Mr Miyagi teaches and then mentors Daniel in The Karate Kid, sometimes with unconventional methods (remember "Wax on... Wax off...), we guide you every step of the way until you become a successful freelancer.
As you change career paths, we understand that you will need support until you are comfortable with your new career.
That is why we have built Freelance University as a place that you can come to whenever you have a doubt or are stuck somewhere.
We are not a one-and-done course that you take to learn some skills. But then you are left to your own devices, trying to figure things out when you face real-world problems.
The following resources in Freelance University make sure you have continuous, ongoing support when you need it.
Monthly Skills Workshops
Attend live monthly workshops to learn new skills. All workshops are recorded and posted to the University so you don’t miss a session.
You also get access to our archived library of 40+ relevant workshop sessions on key topics to help you build your business, sharpen your skills and find clients including:
- The Healthy Freelancer Mindset
- Pricing Your Freelance Services
- Finding Clients using LinkedIn
- Creating Winning Proposals
- Client Onboarding Success
- Writing Success in an AI Age
- Canva Design Foundations
- And so much more!
Private Student Group
Access our private Facebook group of current Freelance University students where you can get support not only from us but also from your colleagues!
This is your go-to place to ask questions as you work through courses, plan out your business, and navigate any hurdles along the way.
Freelance Career Days
Join us for our popular Freelance Career Days and discover some of the hottest careers in the freelance industry right now.
While we teach you, learning from those a couple of steps ahead of yo can be immensely powerful.
Meet successful freelancers across niches to learn about their roles and services and what has helped them grow their businesses.
Freelance Professional Directory Listing
Create a visually appealing Professional Profile listing in our popular Freelance Directory! This is an excellent opportunity for you to showcase your skills and get connected with a wave of entrepreneurs in need of your services.
Technology Tutorials
Every month, we dive into a tool, app, or technology feature relevant to your freelance business. Keep your technology skills sharp and current in such areas as project management, email marketing, AI, graphic design, video production and so much more.
What Are Our Students Saying About Us?
Meet the Co-Founders of Freelance University
Hi There!
When we started freelancing online in 2003, there was virtually no support or training for freelancers. We had to figure everything out and learn the hard way. It was tough, but we got there in the end.
We decided to create Freelance University to make things a whole lot easier for you! It’s our mission to help our students create a flexible business, define their work-life balance, and pursue a career aligned with their passions.
At Freelance University, we provide a one-stop learning platform to help freelancers like you develop the right skills to build a thriving freelance business on your terms!
Over the past 8 years, we have had the privilege of training over 2,000 freelancers and we feel like we are just getting warmed-up!
We’re excited to connect with you and we'll see you on the inside!
To Your Success,
Craig & Kelly Cannings
Freelance University: Here's What You Get On the Inside
This quick preview shows you exactly what it is like to be a student at Freelance University. You will know exactly what you will get when you sign up.
Your Best Tax Write Off, Ever!
We are not accountants. But our CPA tells us that the training we take to develop our business normally is categorized as a tax write-off.
Time and again, many of our students have come back to tell us that Freelance University subscription is their best tax write off!
“I LOVE the priceless information and training along with the Facebook community. To me Freelance University is almost a “necessary business expense” (which is tax deductible 😊) and worth every penny. Especially for a new freelance startup, there’s a lot of other “schools” out there, but none compare with this one.”
Paula H.
Freelance University Student
“No matter your industry, Freelance University offers something for you. I work full-time as a digital project manager as well as manage a side hustle as a course creator and etsy shop owner. The courses offered are not only beneficial for up-leveling my personal business, but also as a full-time employee. Even better - these courses are not just theory but actual practical applications.
The community is also amazing. If there are questions everyone is so supportive. Of all my "business expenses", Freelance University is one that is absolutely worth every penny!”
Anabeth Wilson
Freelance University Student
Once again, this is not tax advice. We are just sharing what we have heard from others. Please speak to an experienced professional for your specific case.
So, What Does It Cost to Get into Freelance University?
Many online courses for freelancers cost up to $5,000 and those courses only teach ONE skill. And often there is no support or community. So, you’re left struggling, trying to figure things out on your own.
And, you will likely not have access to expert guidance or ongoing education and learning like with Freelance University!
Top Quality Freelance Training, Affordable Monthly or Annual Plan!
At Freelance University, we have been training people like you to become successful freelancers for a very affordable monthly or annual price.
We now have training that takes you right from your first step to identifying your niche, to helping you choose from 37 different freelancing options, to setting up your business, to getting clients!
Phew, quite the mouthful wasn't it?
Here are your options to sign up for Frelenace University.
Monthly Plan
Get all the training you need to change the direction of your career for a low monthly cost. You can cancel anytime.
- Five-Step Freelance Success System
- Over 35 In-Demand Certifications
- Monthly Skill Workshops & Events
- Technology Tutorials
- Private Student Community
- 24/7 Access to Freelance Mentors
- Freelance Directory Listing
- Hassle-free 15-day money-back guarantee
- Cancel anytime
$89/month
Annual Plan
Save $211 by subscribing to the annual plan. Annual members are 7x more likely to reach their goals.
- Five-Step Freelance Success System
- Over 35 In-Demand Certifications
- Monthly Skill Workshops & Events
- Technology Tutorials
- Private Student Community
- 24/7 Access to Freelance Mentors
- Freelance Directory Listing
- Hassle-free 15-day money-back guarantee
- Cancel anytime
$790/year
(Save $278 over paying monthly)
Iron Clad 100% Money Back Guarantee
We are absolutely confident that your enrollment at Freelance University will be an immensely valuable step forward for you, and will help you build a rewarding and profitable freelance business this year!
Still, we want to be absolutely sure it is the right fit for you. So take 14 days to check out and evaluate the University.
If for some reason, you decide the University is not right for you, then please contact our team at [email protected] and we will cancel your enrollment and refund your initial payment right away.
Our Students Love Us (And We Love Them Back!)
"I’ve spent thousands on courses, ranging from inexpensive to gut-punch level expensive, and I’m impressed with the quantity and quality of education on this platform. With the emphasis on practical knowledge, you get what you need to practice your skills right away."
- Karen Mackenzie
"I would encourage anyone who is on the fence or interested in learning new skills to start a business and/or wanting to supplement their income to take a look at the courses and certifications that Freelance University has to offer and go for it!
I would recommend Freelance University to anyone who is ready to learn new skills to enhance or start their freelance business."
- Robbie Curtis
"There is a nice atmosphere in the learning community. The courses are very well structured and easy to follow. I am very happy with the content of the courses. I have learnt a lot, including areas I already knew very well. Freelance University is a perfect choice for me and, I believe, for anyone who would like to learn a lot in the freelance remote work. I love their way of doing things and, above all, I value their deep professional and personal understanding."
- Mercedes Guerrero
"The Online Freelancer Industry wouldn’t be where it is today without Freelance University. Craig makes sure that the “mystery” around digital marketing and Social Media disappears and that it is possible to learn the material quickly and easily."
- Heike Hunscher
"Freelance University consistently delivers high-quality training programs for Freelancers and Online Professionals. Craig’s genuine love of training and interest in helping participants results in top-notch presentations and quality resources. The support team is efficient, interactive and very helpful. I highly recommend Freelance University. This is the place to go for learning and growth as an online freelancer."
- Janice Mcleod
"I love all the courses, it's the perfect site to learn new skills, to stay on top of new tools and to stay in touch with colleagues from all over the world. I know that if I need help with anything related to my business and services, someone from the Freelance University community will be there to help out."
- Alejandra Onu
"Craig has been providing exceptional training for a number of years. When I was first building my virtual business, I was drawn in by both Craig’s incredible energy, knowledge, and ability to connect, while delivering first-rate material. As my business has evolved, I have continued to take new courses, or upgrade my skills through Freelance University. Thank you for providing such an incredible service!"
- Tracey Ehman
FAQs
What experience do I need to join Freelance University?
You do not need any prior experience to begin training at Freelance University as our courses provide you with the necessary foundation and skills to start freelancing. We take you right from being a complete beginner to a successful freelancer.
How does it work? How do you take me from being an absolute newbie to a successful freelancer?
We take you from being an absolute newbie to a successful freelancer in five steps:
- Identify what you will be good at: We help you identify the freelance niche your personality is best suited to.
- Learn a new skill: Next you learn a new skill. Depending on Step 1, we help you choose the freelance career track that will help you become a well-paid freelancer and also enjoy your work at the same time.
- Launch Your Business: Once you are ready, we help you launch and build your business. We train you how to get into the weeds of determining you rate and billing method, business formation, invoicing, project tracking and everything that relates to running a successful freelance business.
- Keep Learning, Keep Growing: As you move through different stages of freelancing, our training keeps helping you scale up by adding better systems and processes and learning how to hire sub-contractors.
- Connect and Build Network: The world of freelancing is dynamic and ever-changing. We help you stay on the cutting edge with our monthly live training sessions. You also have networking opportunities so that you can stay abreast of what other successful freelancers are doing.
Is there a pathway to take when starting the training?
Yes, we provide a clear pathway to get started, an outline of freelance career options and niches, and their corresponding specialized tracks of training or learning pathways.
How long does it take to complete a training program?
Our Certification training programs have approximately 4-6 hours of video training, but the time it takes you to work through the material varies depending on how comfortable you are with the material. Other courses have approximately 2-4 hours of video training. We also offer other events that run between 60 min–2 hours in length.
Are the training programs self-directed?
Yes, our training is self-directed and on-demand, so you can begin at any time and work at your own pace. We do offer LIVE events, but all are recorded and added to the University for you to access on your own time.
I barely have any time—how much time do I need to invest in this to see it work?
We get your concern. It’s why we designed Freelance University to be as easy as possible for you to go from absolutely starting out to an earning freelancer in as little time as possible. The training is provided to you step by step. The modules are broken into easy-to-digest chunks that you can consume at your own pace. You can work on your skills from anywhere, on any device, on your own time. You have total control.
I don't have computer skills, will this work for me?
Yes. As long as you have a computer and an internet connection and can follow basic, step-by-step instructions, this program will work for you. The tech skills you need will depend on the service you want to provide as a freelancer. And whatever career path you choose, we have step-by-step training within the membership for you to follow along.
Is there any tool or software I need to buy to be able to use this product?
No, you don’t need to purchase anything else to be able to use Freelance University. The only tools or software that you would need will depend on the service you decide you want to provide.
When will I get access? When can I get started?
As soon as you click the purchase button, you’re on your way to becoming a successful freelancer. Everything in Freelance University is available to you on the click of a button. You can get started immediately.
Are LIVE events recorded?
YES, all events that we run LIVE, are recorded and added to the University to access at any time. Everything we do in the University is to support a flexible lifestyle including our learning.
Is there a money back guarantee?
Yes, you can try Freelance University risk-free for 15 days. If you’re not happy with the value we provide, within this time, you are welcome to send us an email and ask for your money back.
Do you sell individual courses or a-la-carté?
Freelance University is a one-stop learning community for ALL your training needs. When you enroll in the University you get access to everything including training and community. We do not sell individual courses.
I don’t have the money to get started.
For the value we provide, Freelance University is the most economical way for you to become a successful freelancer. For a low monthly or annual membership fee, you get access to an array of training programs and you can pick and choose from what works best for you. As you embark on the path of becoming a business owner, this will probably be the best tax write off* that you will make for your business.
*We are not accountants. Please consult your accountant for any taxation advice.
Can I join at any age?
Absolutely! We truly believe age is just a number, so don’t get hung up on it. We do focus on “second careers” or “your next act”, so if you find yourself in transition or considering your next career, you’ll feel right at home!
Do you help me find a job?
Freelance University is a training center. We provide skill-based training to help you freelance and keep your skills current and up-to-date. In addition, we do provide extensive resources on finding and attracting your ideal clients, but we do not provide direct job/client placement. We are not a job referral agency. We will provide you with the tools and skills necessary to secure clients on your own.
I need HELP! Who do I contact?
We are here to HELP!! Contact us anytime at [email protected].
LAST CALL!
Ready for an Exciting Next Career?
If you've made it this far, congratulations! You have it in you to launch your freelancing career.
Join Freelance University today, and start your journey towards setting up a work-from-home, well-paying and meaningful career.
We will see you on the inside...
They've Done It. Now It's your Turn!
You receive clear cut knowledge on subjects needed to succeed in your business. Not sure how to do something or set up something? All you have to do is ask in the community. They work with you to get the answers you need. Courses are always updated and current with what is needed. You will not be disappointed in the knowledge you will gain with all the courses offered, plus all the extra perks of FB Lives, and Virtual Office Hours. It's an investment that is 100% worth it.
- Sharon Gilbert
"The training is the best, and offers so many opportunities for learning new skills. It is my one-stop shop for creating a sustainable profession. Aside from all of the great training and resources, it's a place of community, collaboration and encouragement."
- Tina Stringfellow
"You are an amazing community and the amount of tremendous support from the mentors/teachers are absolutely tremendous and beyond anything I have ever experienced in any other learning environment. Thank you!"
- Mariam Abdi Rowhani
