Side Hustle School Ep. 3305 - STORY: Engineer Makes $80,000/Year Handing Out Free Maps
Jan 18, 2026
A former sound engineer turns his passion into profit by creating local maps for hotel guests. These colorful guides feature advertisements from local businesses, generating around $80,000 a year. The model not only helps travelers but also boosts hotels and local merchants, creating a win-win situation. Plans for franchising the map business are in the works, allowing for broader expansion. This story highlights the creativity and financial potential of turning a simple idea into a thriving side hustle.
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Engineer Builds Hotel Maps Business
- Tom Schott created Front Desk USA Maps by producing free custom maps for hotels to give guests.
Free Maps Funded By Local Ads
- Selling advertising on free, widely distributed physical items can generate steady recurring income.
Per-Map Revenue Math
- A single map produces about $10,000 annually by selling 18 ad spaces at roughly $700 each.