Risk: Moderate

I’d rate the risk a 2 out of 5 because starting a mascot side hustle can involve several potential losses. 1. Money: Initial costs can include purchasing or renting a mascot costume, marketing expenses, and transportation. If gigs are not secured, these costs may not be recouped. 2. Time and Energy: Considerable time and energy are required to find clients, perform at events, and manage logistics. If the business doesn't take off, this investment may not yield returns. 3. Confidence: Failure to secure gigs or negative feedback can impact confidence, especially for beginners. Many beginners have reported spending money on costumes and marketing without securing enough gigs to cover their expenses. Online discussions often highlight the difficulty in breaking into the market and the competition from established performers. Overall, while it's possible to succeed, the risk of not recovering initial investments is significant if not managed carefully.