You Don’t Need a Ton of Money to Grow a Successful TFSA: Here Are 3 Ways to Get Started

These TSX stocks have a higher likelihood of delivering returns that outpace the broader market, making them top bets for a TFSA.

| More on:
Start line on the highway

Source: Getty Images

Key Points

  • Growing a TFSA does not require a significant upfront investment. Instead, it requires patience and the selection of high-quality TSX stocks.
  • Canadian stocks that combine strong fundamentals, growth potential, value, and income can help improve long-term returns.
  • The TFSA’s tax-free treatment of capital gains and dividends allows returns to compound more efficiently over time.

Growing your Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) does not require a ton of money. One of the most effective approaches is simply choosing the right kinds of investments and allowing time to do the heavy lifting. Even with a modest budget, investors can improve their long-term outcomes by focusing on quality TSX stocks.

Canadian growth stocks with strong fundamentals can be particularly attractive in this context. These are businesses that consistently expand their revenues and earnings at a solid pace. Value also plays an important role. For TFSA investors with a long-term mindset, value stocks present opportunities to buy solid businesses at a discount. Another effective approach is to look for companies that offer both growth and income. Over time, companies with these characteristics are more likely to deliver returns that outpace the broader market, making them well-suited for long-term wealth creation in a TFSA.

The TFSA structure further amplifies this opportunity. Because both capital gains and dividend income are completely tax-free, every dollar of return remains invested and continues to compound.

Against this background, here are three TSX stocks to enhance your TFSA portfolio’s returns.

TFSA growth stock: Aritzia

Aritzia (TSX:ATZ) is a top Canadian growth stock to add to your TFSA portfolio. The fashion retailer has consistently delivered solid growth, driven by strong product demand, frequent new collections, a deeply loyal customer base, and the expansion of its physical and digital footprint.

Since fiscal 2020, Aritzia has posted double-digit growth in both revenue and earnings. Aritzia’s top line has increased at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 23%, while earnings have grown at a 19% CAGR. Its strong operating performance has translated into strong shareholder returns, with the stock up about 365% over the past five years.

While the recent rally has stretched its valuations, Aritzia stock has further upside potential. Its expanding footprint and brand momentum are likely to accelerate its growth. Aritzia plans to expand its U.S. boutiques at a healthy pace. Moreover, its digital business is performing well. Although tariffs and logistics costs pose near-term challenges, operational efficiencies and supply-chain improvements should help protect margins, supporting the company’s growth in the long term.

TFSA value stock: MDA Space

MDA Space (TSX:MDA) offers significant value near the current price levels. Shares of this space technology company pulled back sharply after a major satellite order was cancelled. The headline spooked investors, but the underlying business remains intact, creating an entry point for long-term investors.

MDA is a leader in satellite systems, robotics, and geointelligence, markets supported by rising global data demand and increasing defence budgets. As space becomes a core national security priority and NATO renews its focus on space capabilities, MDA stands to benefit from long-term structural tailwinds.

Its strength in advanced satellite communications for broadband and 5G, along with growing demand for earth observation and robotics, supports future growth. A solid backlog and balance sheet further provide a solid platform for future growth.

TFSA growth and income stock: Hydro One

TFSA investors could add Hydro One (TSX:H) stock for stability, income, and growth. The company operates a regulated electricity transmission and distribution business, which helps insulate earnings from economic swings and commodity price volatility. As a result, Hydro One generates predictable cash flows that support both its share price and dividends.

Its steadily expanding rate base has driven consistent dividend growth, rising at about 5% annually from 2016 to 2022 and about 6% in recent years. With the rate base expected to grow roughly 6% per year through 2027, the company is expected to deliver steady earnings growth.

Moreover, expansion of transmission capacity, investments in grid modernization, and integration of renewable sources position Hydro One to benefit from increasing electricity demand and reward long-term investors with solid total returns.

Fool contributor Sneha Nahata has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Aritzia. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

More on Stocks for Beginners

Nurse talks with a teenager about medication
Dividend Stocks

A Perfect January TFSA Stock With a 6.8% Monthly Payout

A high-yield monthly payer can make a January TFSA reset feel automatic, but only if the cash flow truly supports…

Read more »

warehouse worker takes inventory in storage room
Tech Stocks

Boost the Average TFSA at 50 in Canada With 3 Market Moves This January

A January TFSA reset at 50 works best when you automate contributions and stick with investments that compound for years.

Read more »

where to invest in TFSA in 2026
Stocks for Beginners

TFSA 2026: The $109,000 Opportunity and How Canadians Should Invest It

Here's how to get started investing in a TFSA this year.

Read more »

top TSX stocks to buy
Stocks for Beginners

The Best TSX Stocks to Buy in January 2026 if You Want Both Income and Growth

A January TFSA reset can pair growth and “future income” by owning tech compounders that reinvest cash for years.

Read more »

A Canada Pension Plan Statement of Contributions with a 100 dollar banknote and dollar coins.
Dividend Stocks

Retirees, Take Note: A January 2026 Portfolio Built to Top Up CPP and OAS

A January TFSA top-up can make CPP and OAS feel less tight by adding a flexible, tax-free income stream you…

Read more »

Happy golf player walks the course
Tech Stocks

The January Reset: 2 Beaten-Down TSX Stocks That Could Stage a Comeback

A January TFSA reset can work best with “comeback” stocks that still have real cash engines, not just hype.

Read more »

A plant grows from coins.
Dividend Stocks

Start 2026 Strong: 3 Canadian Dividend Stocks Built for Steady Cash Flow

Dividend stocks can make a beginner’s 2026 plan feel real by mixing income today with businesses that can grow over…

Read more »

Senior uses a laptop computer
Dividend Stocks

Below Average? How a 70-Year-Old Can Change Their RRSP Income Plan in January

January is the perfect time to sanity-check your RRSP at 70, because the “typical” balance is closer to the median…

Read more »